Author
Fergus Hume
1859-1932
Fergus Hume (1859-1932) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Fergus Hume
The Green Mummy
"The Green Mummy" by Fergus Hume is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young couple, Archie Hope and Lucy Kendal, as they navigate romance against a backdrop filled with mystery and intrigue, particularly centering on a rare mummy that Lucy's archaeologist stepfather, Professor Braddock, is eager to acquire. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Archie and Lucy, who share a playful yet serious conversation about their engagement. Archie reveals the lengths he has gone to in order to gain Professor Braddock’s consent to marry Lucy, involving the purchase of a valuable Peruvian mummy from Malta. Their lighthearted banter is soon overshadowed by more foreboding concerns regarding the mysterious mummy, as Lucy expresses unease about her stepfather's obsession with archaeology. The opening establishes a combination of romantic elements and hints at darker, unforeseen complications, setting the stage for a larger mystery involving the disappearance of the mummy and the tragic fate of Braddock’s assistant, which subsequently unfolds.
Madame Midas
"Madame Midas" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century that explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of wealth. The story opens with vivid descriptions of a desolate Australian coastline and introduces two men, one a cunning Frenchman and the other his mute companion, who have escaped from a French prison. Their arrival on this inhospitable land sets the stage for their pursuit of fortune, particularly in the context of gold mining, highlighting the desperate and often treacherous nature of their ambitions. The opening of "Madame Midas" presents a dramatic and atmospheric setting, introducing the characters in two parallel narrative arcs. Initially, we follow the escapees as they arrive at the Australian shores, driven by dreams of wealth and freedom. This is juxtaposed with the backstory of Robert Curtis’s daughter, Mrs. Villiers, who has rebuilt her life and achieved respectability as a gold mine owner after a tumultuous marriage. The stage is set for conflict as her estranged husband returns seeking to reclaim power over her, while new characters enter her life, indicating the intertwined fates driven by their aspirations and the quest for fortune that defines their existence in the gold-rush era of Australia.
The Mandarin's Fan
"The Mandarin's Fan" by Fergus Hume is a novel written during the early 20th century. It centers around Rupert Ainsleigh, a young man burdened by his family's misfortunes, who is on a quest for a valuable jade fan that holds the promise of wealth and resolution to his financial woes. The story weaves themes of love, curses, and the supernatural, setting the stage for a mix of romance and mystery. At the start of the narrative, Rupert is engaged in a conversation with Major Tidman, revealing the tension of his financial troubles and an ancestral curse associated with the Ainsleigh family. He learns about a mysterious jade fan belonging to Mandarin Lo-Keong, which is said to bring fortune to its possessor, and he believes it could help save his estate. As Rupert expresses his determination to find the fan, discussions about his love for Olivia Rayner, the daughter of his aunt Sophia Wharf, introduce further complication, as Miss Wharf holds a mortgage on his estate. As Rupert navigates the intricate web of personal and familial conflict, hints of darker mysteries surrounding the fan begin to emerge, foreshadowing the challenges he will face in his quest.
The Mystery of a Hansom Cab
"The Mystery of a Hansom Cab" by Fergus Hume is a detective novel written in the late 19th century, likely during the Victorian era. The book centers around a mysterious murder that takes place in a hansom cab in Melbourne, drawing readers into the intricacies of crime, investigation, and human intrigue as various characters become entwined in the mystery, most notably the detective Mr. Gorby who is determined to uncover the truth. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the shocking murder of a man whose identity is unknown. The narrative excerpts details from a newspaper report discussing the circumstances surrounding the crime, including the key witness, cab driver Malcolm Royston, who recounts how the victim was assisted into the cab by a gentleman in a light coat. This mysterious figure quickly becomes a focal point for detectives as they search for clues leading to the murderer. As the investigation unfolds through a series of witness testimonies and newspaper articles, tensions rise, suggesting that the crime is entwined with personal vendettas and social rivalries, hinting at deeper motivations and connections among the characters involved.
The Island of Fantasy: A Romance
"The Island of Fantasy: A Romance" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Maurice Roylands, a wealthy yet melancholic young man struggling with feelings of ennui and a sense of purposelessness in life. The narrative explores themes of despair, artistic ambition, and the complexities of human relationships, setting the stage for Maurice’s journey toward potential redemption. The opening of the book introduces us to Maurice Roylands, who is engrossed in his melancholic thoughts during a dinner with his friend, the rector, and eventually leads to deeper discussions about the nature of happiness and love. As the evening progresses, we learn of Maurice’s artistic aspirations and disillusionment with life as he grapples with his inability to enjoy the many comforts he possesses. The arrival of his aunt and cousin sets the stage for romantic entanglements, particularly revolving around Eunice, while the rector, concerned for Maurice’s well-being, suggests that love might be the cure for his existential malaise. The introduction of Crispin, a poet, hints at the intertwined relationships that are pivotal to the story, as Maurice begins to reflect on the importance of love and companionship in overcoming his struggles.
The Opal Serpent
"The Opal Serpent" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Paul Beecot, a young aspiring writer who leaves his oppressive home life behind to seek fame and fortune in London. As he navigates the city's literary scene, Paul's affections become entwined with Sylvia Norman, the daughter of a mysterious pawnbroker, Aaron Norman, who harbors secrets related to a peculiar brooch Paul wishes to sell. At the start of the novel, we meet Paul Beecot, who has just made the bold decision to leave his unsupportive family to pursue his writerly ambitions in London. His contentious relationship with his father hints at deeper family dynamics, particularly surrounding aspirations and control. As Paul explores the world of literature, he encounters Sylvia, and their mutual attraction unfolds against a backdrop of intrigue involving a jeweled serpent brooch owned by Sylvia's father. The opening establishes a sense of foreboding with Aaron Norman's peculiar behavior towards the brooch, suggesting that the story will explore themes of ambition, love, and the darker undercurrents of identity.
The Man with a Secret: A Novel
"The Man with a Secret: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The story centers on the character of Basil Beaumont, a morally ambiguous artist returning to his childhood village, Garsworth, to escape his creditors and indulge his vices. As he navigates the shadows of his past, we also meet Dr. Duncan Nestley, whose life Beaumont nearly ruined, setting up a complex relationship between the two men that embodies themes of friendship, betrayal, and the struggle for redemption. The opening of the novel introduces a grim and evocative setting, establishing the tone of melancholy and intrigue as it presents Beaumont at a scenic yet bleak location near Garsworth. Beaumont's character is fleshed out through introspective musings about his life and regrets, drawing the reader into his cynical worldview while hinting at the fragility of his current situation. An unexpected reunion with Dr. Nestley, who harbors resentment towards Beaumont for his past influence, further complicates matters, suggesting that both men are at the mercy of their intertwined fates. The narrative sets the stage for exploring the darker sides of human nature as well as the potential for change amidst moral dilemmas in this intriguing tale.
Lady Jim of Curzon Street: A Novel
"Lady Jim of Curzon Street: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The novel presents the life of Lady Jim Kaimes, whose struggles with societal expectations, financial troubles, and her tumultuous marriage form the heart of the story. The opening chapters introduce her husband, Jim Kaimes, as they navigate their precarious financial situation, revealing the complexity of their relationship through witty banter and stark realities. The opening of the narrative sets a tone of dark humor and social critique, rapidly establishing the characters' predicament. Lady Jim and Jim Kaimes face bankruptcy, with both characters displaying a mix of charm and frustration as they comment on their dire financial state and the constraints of their marriage. The dialogue highlights their differing perspectives: while Jim leans towards oblivion in his approach to solutions, Leah, known as Lady Jim, exhibits a resourceful yet selfish streak, considering various desperate measures to escape their situation. The portrayal of their relationship, layered with sarcasm and evident discontent, invites readers to delve deeper into their lives and the societal backdrop that shapes their motivations.
The Bishop's Secret
"The Bishop's Secret" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century. This intriguing work is set in the ecclesiastical society of a small English cathedral city and revolves around Bishop Pendle, a central character whose life becomes entangled in mystery. An exploration of personal and societal dynamics, the book promises to reveal secrets and unexpected plots within the confines of the church and its community. The opening portion introduces various characters and sets the stage for a story filled with intrigue and social commentary. We are first introduced to Miss Daisy Norsham, a spinster seeking a husband, and the imposing Mrs. Pansey, an archdeacon's widow known for her domineering social presence. Their discussion reveals insights into the ecclesiastical hierarchy and the personal lives of those within it, especially surrounding the Bishop of Beorminster. Alongside them, we are introduced to the mysterious elements surrounding the bishop's recent encounter with an unknown visitor, which leaves him visibly disturbed. The stage is thus set for unfolding drama, characterized by social maneuvering, potential scandals, and the exploration of the bishop's hidden troubles, promising readers an engaging narrative ahead.
The Indian Bangle
"The Indian Bangle" by Fergus Hume is a mystery novel written in the late 19th century. The story intertwines the themes of romance and intrigue, revolving around the characters of Olive Bellairs, who is caught in an arranged marriage with Angus Carson, and Laurence Mallow, a journalist with unrequited feelings for Olive. The narrative is steeped in mystery, particularly surrounding a murder case that seems to have connections to the characters' lives. The opening of the work introduces readers to the unfolding drama beginning with Mrs. Purcell's letter, which announces her husband's death and her intentions to return to England while contemplating her daughter Olive's future. It details Olive's arranged engagement to Angus Carson, a man she has never met, which is tied to a sizable inheritance and her father's dying wish. As the characters grapple with these arrangements, a separate narrative thread emerges concerning a gruesome murder, hinting at ties to Angus Carson and raising questions of identity and fate. The scene is set for both romantic entanglement and the dark intrigue surrounding the murder mystery that will likely intertwine further as the story progresses.
The Amethyst Cross
"The Amethyst Cross" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against a backdrop of romance and mystery, the book revolves around the complex relationships and conflicts experienced by its main characters, particularly Lesbia Hale and her love interest, George Walker. Their engagement faces challenges from Lesbia's stern father, Walter Hale, whose mysterious connections and desires complicate their romance, as well as the significance of a peculiar amethyst cross that appears to hold deeper secrets. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Lesbia and George as they share a romantic moment by the Thames. However, their idyllic scene is disrupted by Walter Hale's unexpected arrival, revealing his disapproval of their engagement and a strange obsession with a cross that Lesbia has inherited from her late mother. Following this confrontation, the plot thickens with George being assaulted under mysterious circumstances, and an exploration of the theft of the cross from his home leads to further intrigue. Lesbia's inner turmoil about her father's behavior and George's predicament sets the stage for a convoluted tale of love, familial obligations, and hidden truths.
The chronicles of Fairy land
"The Chronicles of Fairy Land" by Fergus Hume is a collection of children's stories that appears to have been written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the enchanting realm of Faeryland, where magic, adventure, and morality intertwine. The stories promise to offer delightful tales filled with imaginative characters and moral lessons, likely presented in a captivating style suitable for young readers. The opening of the book sets the tone as the narrator describes an intriguing evening by the fire, sparking curiosity about the realm of faeries. The protagonist, who appears to be a regular person, is drawn into a captivating experience where he encounters the faery librarian of King Oberon. This sets the stage for a magical adventure as the narrator describes witnessing ordinary objects transform into extraordinary sights within Faeryland. The reader is introduced to themes of curiosity, belief in magic, and the importance of storytelling, which suggest that the stories to follow will engage the imagination and moral sensibilities of young listeners.
Tracked by a Tattoo: A Mystery
"Tracked by a Tattoo: A Mystery" by Fergus Hume is a detective novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the character of Mr. Fanks, a detective from Scotland Yard, who leads a double life as both a law enforcer and a socialite. The narrative begins with the shocking murder of a gentleman named Sir Gregory Fellenger in a notorious area of London known for crime, setting off a chain of investigations that promise intrigue and dark secrets linked to the victim's mysterious past. At the start of the novel, the protagonist, Mr. Fanks, learns of the murder and promptly hurries to the scene of the crime, where he interacts with various characters, including a suspicious landlady and a nervous doctor. Fanks uncovers that the victim had been poisoned and discovers a tattoo on the deceased's arm, which connects to a series of cryptic messages hinting at a deeper conspiracy. The initial chapters unveil the peculiar circumstances surrounding the murder, hinting at the influence of a woman from the victim's past whose identity and connection to the crime remain shrouded in mystery, propelling Fanks into a complex investigation involving deception, identity, and the secrets hidden beneath society's surface.
The Secret Passage
"The Secret Passage" by Fergus Hume is a mystery novel written during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the sudden and mysterious death of Miss Selina Loach, who is found dead in her home shortly after hosting friends for a card game. The narrative follows various characters, including the newly hired parlor-maid Susan Grant, who finds the body, and Cuthbert Mallow, who becomes embroiled in the investigation surrounding the murder. At the start of the story, the reader is introduced to Susan Grant as she secures a position as a parlor-maid in the home of Miss Loach. The initial chapter captures the uneasy dynamics between Susan and her employer, revealing both women's secrets through their thoughts. The atmosphere shifts dramatically when Susan discovers Miss Loach's dead body shortly after her first evening's duty, which kicks off a series of events involving other characters like the lawyers and friends who had been present at the card game the night before. As various characters speculate and share their perspectives, the opening lays the groundwork for a complex web of relationships and motivations that will likely unravel as the mystery deepens.
The Gentleman Who Vanished: A Psychological Phantasy
"The Gentleman Who Vanished: A Psychological Phantasy" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into themes of crime, morality, and psychological transformation, exploring the strife of its central character, Adrian Lancaster, who becomes embroiled in a deadly confrontation that leads him to commit murder. As he grapples with the consequences of his actions, his journey of self-discovery unfolds against a backdrop of occult mystery and the quest for redemption. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Adrian Lancaster, who, in a fit of rage during a card game, fatally injures his friend Philip Trevanna. Overwhelmed with guilt and fear of arrest, he escapes into the stormy night of London. Seeking refuge, Adrian stumbles upon the enigmatic Dr. Michael Roversmire, whose knowledge of the occult presents a bizarre opportunity for Adrian: to swap souls and bodies in order to evade justice and find a new life. As the two men’s fates intertwine, tension builds between their identities, love interests, and moral dilemmas in a richly atmospheric setting that promises a blend of psychological depth and suspenseful intrigue.
Whom God Hath Joined: A Question of Marriage
"Whom God Hath Joined: A Question of Marriage" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story appears to delve into themes of marriage and the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the characters Angus Macjean and Eustace Gartney as they navigate their social circles and personal challenges. The narrative hints at the potential consequences of love and the responsibilities tied to marriage and friendship. The opening portion of the work introduces two friends, Angus and Eustace, on a train journey through the Alps. As they endure the sweltering heat, the chapter reveals their contrasting personalities: Angus is a passionate young man caught between duty and desire, while Eustace is a pessimistic philosopher seeking deeper meaning in life. Through their dialogue, we learn about Angus's background, his relationship with his father, and his apprehension about marriage, particularly to a woman he is not fond of. The interaction sets the stage for the central conflict of marital expectations and the exploration of personal happiness amidst societal pressures.
Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel (Sequel to Madame Midas.)
"Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Melbourne, Australia, featuring characters like Keith Stewart, a young man with literary aspirations, and Ezra Lazarus, a journalist. Their lives intersect with the complexities of the theatre scene and a woman known as "Caprice," who is both a celebrated actress and the mother of a child saved from danger by Keith. The opening of the novel introduces a dreary, rainy evening in Melbourne, emphasizing the discomfort felt by the characters but juxtaposing it with vibrant discussions between them. The beginning focuses on Keith and Ezra as they share insights into their ambitions and the women in their lives—particularly Caprice. The narrative presents their contrasting backgrounds: Keith's struggles and romantic ideals versus Ezra's more grounded perspective. As the two men contemplate their lives, a dramatic moment unfolds when Keith heroically saves a child, a pivotal event that brings him into the orbit of Caprice. This scene sets the stage for the exploration of themes like ambition, love, and the darker corners of society that the characters navigate.
The Fever of Life
"The Fever of Life" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens at Pinchler's Dockyard, a somewhat whimsical private hotel where people come to recuperate from various ailments. The central characters include Toby Clendon, a witty and charming journalist, Miss Kaituna Pethram, a strikingly beautiful girl of mixed Maori and European descent, and her fellow guests who engage in lighthearted yet insightful conversations about life, love, and cultural identity. The book likely explores themes of health, identity, and societal expectations within a whimsical framework. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Pinchler's Dockyard, where guests mix leisure with healing after ailments. Toby Clendon humorously critiques this "dockyard" and engages in playful yet deep conversations with Kaituna Pethram and others about their lives and backgrounds. As Kaituna shares her pride in her New Zealand heritage, the dialogue reveals the complexities of cultural identity amidst the backdrop of English society. This opening sets a light-hearted tone while foreshadowing deeper explorations of the characters' desires, societal norms, and the challenges they face in their lives. The dynamic interactions hint at the emotional entanglements that might develop, particularly between Kaituna and the charming Toby.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Fergus Hume
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Fergus Hume" by Fergus Hume is a comprehensive compilation of various works by the author, who was active during the late 19th to early 20th century. This book serves as an index listing his numerous literary contributions, primarily in the genres of crime fiction and mystery, reflecting the popular interests of that era. Hume's writing often intertwines themes of intrigue, suspense, and detective work, aligning with the cultural tastes of the Victorian and early modern periods. The book itself offers a detailed catalog of Hume's stories, which include titles such as "The Mystery of a Hansom Cab," "Madame Midas," and "The Green Mummy," among many others. Each entry lists chapters or contents, hinting at the plot and narrative elements explored in his works. For potential readers and researchers, this index not only serves as a guide to Hume's prolific output but also illustrates the rich tapestry of storytelling he created, filled with enigmatic plots and vivid characters that captivated audiences in his time and continue to intrigue readers today.
The Wooden Hand: A Detective Story
"The Wooden Hand: A Detective Story" by Fergus Hume is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Eva Strode, a young woman living in a gloomy cottage known as Misery Castle, as she anticipates the return of her estranged father, Mr. Strode, from Africa. The novel sets the tone for an intriguing exploration of familial tension, love, and the foreboding atmosphere surrounding Eva's relationship with her father and her budding romance with Allen Hill. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to Eva and her bleak existence with Mrs. Merry, her old nurse, who has a suspicious and pessimistic view of her father's character. Eva is uncertain about her father's return after years apart, and her worries are intensified by a horrific dream she has, which suggests her father may come to harm. As the opening unfolds, it becomes clear that the novel will weave between supernatural elements, the dynamics of Eva's romantic engagement, and the chilling prophecies surrounding her father's fate. The stage is set for a mystery that will undoubtedly intertwine the dreams with reality, as hints of danger loom.
The Harlequin Opal: A Romance. Vol. 1 (of 3)
"The Harlequin Opal: A Romance. Vol. 1 (of 3)" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds around a group of old school friends, particularly focusing on Sir Philip Cassim, who reflects on a long-ago promise to reunite with his companions. As they come together, their lives reveal a mixture of personal pursuits, romantic entanglements, and an overarching connection to a legendary gemstone—the Harlequin Opal. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Sir Philip Cassim as he prepares for a reunion with his old friends after fifteen years. He recalls their youthful vows and muses on the changes time has wrought in their lives. The narrative then shifts as one friend, Jack Duval, shares an intriguing tale about the Harlequin Opal, a precious gem with a storied past related to love and power struggles in Cholacaca. As the friends reconnect, a looming adventure begins to take shape—combining elements of romance, intrigue, and possible conflict as they set off to uncover the fortunes tied to the opal and navigate the complexities of their own relationships.
The Turnpike House
"The Turnpike House" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a grim setting, focusing on the troubled lives of its characters, particularly a woman and her son, who are haunted by the presence of the boy's recently released convict father. Themes of poverty, familial turmoil, and psychological instability are evident from the start, suggesting a narrative rich in emotional depth and moral complexity. At the start of the novel, we enter a desolate turnpike house, where a mother and her son, Gilbert, navigate the harsh reality of their existence. The mother is embroiled in a frantic sewing task, clearly overwhelmed by fatigue and memories of her husband. The atmosphere thickens with anxiety when the boy fears that his father might return, prompting a fraught conversation about the father’s abusive past and the mother’s desperation to shield her child. Their fears become palpable as footsteps are heard outside, indicating the potential return of the father, thereby escalating the tension. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that themes of hatred, survival, and familial loyalty intertwine, setting the stage for the unfolding drama centered around the dark legacy of the past.
A Woman's Burden: A Novel
"A Woman's Burden: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a work of fiction likely written in the late 19th century. The novel opens with a dramatic scene on Waterloo Bridge, where various characters are thrust into a dark and gritty narrative marked by themes of poverty, desperation, and crime. The central character introduced in this opening is Miriam, a woman of poverty who intervenes to save an elderly gentleman from an attempted robbery by a man named Jabez, setting off a chain of events that involves crime, survival, and complex human dynamics. At the start of the story, the atmosphere on Waterloo Bridge is thick with fog and foreboding, reflecting the struggles of the city's downtrodden. Miriam's selfless act of saving the gentleman from a dire fate reveals not only her physical bravery but also hints at deeper struggles and motivations tied to her relationship with Jabez. The gentleman, later revealed to be Mr. Barton, becomes intrigued by Miriam and offers her assistance, which introduces a tension-filled relationship filled with mutual reliance and latent conflict. This prologue sets the stage for a narrative woven around themes of social class, moral ambiguity, and the burdens carried by women like Miriam, suggesting her complex journey ahead in a world rife with challenges.
The Silver Bullet
"The Silver Bullet" by Fergus Hume is a mystery novel that appears to have been written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds through the experiences of two main characters, Robin Joyce and Dr. Jim Herrick, who embark on a walking tour that takes a dark turn when they discover a mysterious, well-lit mansion in a lonely pine wood, only to find a dead body inside upon their exploration. The interplay of their personalities, with Herrick's practicality contrasting with Joyce's more sensitive disposition, sets the stage for a deeper inquiry into the events surrounding the Colonel, a man whose violent death raises numerous questions. At the start of the book, two friends, Robin and Jim, are trudging through a desolate moor, where Robin's exhaustion leads them to stumble upon a strange, illuminated mansion. Their curiosity compels them to enter, where they find eerie grandeur but no inhabitants, only to uncover the lifeless body of Colonel Carr, shot and left to decay. The narrative hints at a web of relationships and secrets as they learn about the Colonel’s past, his enigmatic servant Frisco, and a family that may hold the key to understanding the motive behind the murder. This opening chapter paints a vivid picture of a haunting atmosphere and a brewing mystery, promising readers a blend of suspense and character exploration as the story develops.