The Ransom of Red Chief by O. Henry

I first heard this story in the third grade; a substitute teacher read it to our class.

Two fugitives hoping for some easy money, kidnap the red-headed son of a wealthy man in an area of Alabama known for its love of children, and demand $2000 in ransom.

However, the kid, who fancies himself "Red Chief," believes he is camping with the two men and proceeds to pull them, against their will, into his games, which comes with a fair amount of pranks.

In desperation, the men attempt to return the lad to his father, only to discover that man appears none too eager to have the rascal back.

While not exactly Victorian--1910--it is absolutely hilarious.

Read for free online.