H Footner: 6 books

At a time when the crime of kidnapping was sweeping the country like a plague, my employer Madame Storey and I attended the first night of a Paul Vallorbe play at the Bijou Theatre. Lately the kidnappers had been soaring to unprecedented heights of boldness. Nearly every week the son or the daughter...

Mr. Amos Lee Mappin was breakfasting by the fire in the immense living room of his apartment. With the steam heat, a fire was not in the least necessary, but he enjoyed it. The date was November 4th. During the pleasant fall days it was Lee’s habit to turn off the steam, open the windows and toast...

Meanwhile Mme. Storey was gazing into Fay's face with searching kindness. Nervously pulling off one of her gloves, the girl mutely exhibited the third finger of her left hand. I caught a glimpse of an emerald that took my breath away. "Who is it?" asked Mme. Storey. "Darius Whittall," she murmured....

"He didn't care to tell me, sir. He apologized for coming so early. He appears to be extremely agitated, sir." "He's easily agitated. Why did you let him in?" "How could I avoid it, sir? He mentioned the name of his granddaughter, Miss Stannard. She seems to be lost, sir."

"What do you think of it, Bella?" asked my mistress with a thoughtful smile. "It's from a crook," I said. "Of course. One thoroughly familiar with the seamy side of life, and with 'bulls,' poor soul. That's what appeals to me. We have never had a crook for a client." "You don't mean to take it seriously?"...

"What is your salary?" I named it. "I shall double it, Miss Brickley. That is only fair, because I shall make great demands on you." I tried to stammer my thanks. "Haven't you got some questions to ask me?" she said. "What is the nature of your business?" I diffidently inquired. "You will soon see,"...