Author
Old Sleuth
1837-1898
Old Sleuth (1837-1898) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Old Sleuth
The "Dock Rats" of New York; Or, The Smuggler Band's Last Stand
"The 'Dock Rats' of New York; Or, The Smuggler Band's Last Stand" by Old Sleuth is a piece of early pulp fiction written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Spencer Vance, a government detective, who finds himself embroiled in the dangerous world of smugglers along the New York coast. As he navigates the treacherous waters of deceit and betrayal, he encounters a mysterious young woman named Renie, who warns him of a deadly trap awaiting him that night. The narrative quickly escalates into a web of intrigue surrounding Renie's past and the sinister plans of her supposed father, Tom Pearce. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Spencer Vance, who is preparing to go out on a yacht under suspicious circumstances when he is suddenly warned by Renie, a beautiful girl clothed in rags, that he faces imminent danger—not from the sea but from those aboard the yacht. Vance learns that he is being targeted because he is a government officer investigating a smuggling operation. In a twist, Renie reveals that she inadvertently betrayed Vance to the smugglers but has come to warn him. This dynamic sets the stage for a series of thrilling encounters with Renie's potential kidnappers, the complexities of her background, and Vance's determination to thwart the smuggling operation, all while navigating the treacherous loyalties intertwined in this underworld.
Nimble Ike, the Trick Ventriloquist: A Rousing Tale of Fun and Frolic
"Nimble Ike, the Trick Ventriloquist: A Rousing Tale of Fun and Frolic" by Old Sleuth is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Ike, who is a skilled ventriloquist, as he navigates a world filled with mystery and adventure following the abrupt departure of his mentor, Uncle Andro. The narrative hints at themes of courage, deception, and the quest for identity, suggesting a thrilling escapade ahead. The opening of the book introduces us to Ike and his mentor in a tenement room, where a tense dialogue unfolds regarding money and Ike's uncertain future. Uncle Andro, possessing a secretive past, leaves Ike with a mysterious box and a few parting words of wisdom before disappearing without a trace. Afterward, Ike helps a struggling widow and her daughter, demonstrating his compassionate nature. However, the storyline quickly escalates into action when he discovers a plot involving abduction and criminal schemes. Curiosity leads him to eavesdrop on criminals, ultimately resulting in his kidnapping, setting the stage for a gripping story filled with suspense and wit, showcasing Ike's determination to survive and outsmart those who threaten him.
The Twin Ventriloquists; or, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler A Tale of Strategy and Jugglery
"The Twin Ventriloquists; or, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler" by Old Sleuth is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers on two talented ventriloquists, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler, who find themselves engaging in various adventures as they use their remarkable vocal skills to outsmart others and uncover mysteries. With a mix of humor and strategy, the story is set against a backdrop of deception and intrigue, promising an entertaining read for fans of clever escapades. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Nimble Ike, a skilled ventriloquist known for his pranks and ability to mimic voices with impressive accuracy. During a visit to the Metropolitan Museum, an unexpected occurrence leads him to suspect that another ventriloquist is in his presence, igniting a competitive spirit in him. Through a series of amusing interactions, including a mock duel of ventriloquism with a mysterious youth nearby, the stage is set for adventures that intertwine the lives of Ike and Jack as they encounter strange characters and comedic situations steeped in the art of ventriloquism. The opening chapter establishes not only the protagonists but also hints at the playful and unpredictable nature of their journey ahead.
Cad Metti, The Female Detective Strategist; Or, Dudie Dunne Again in the Field
"Cad Metti, The Female Detective Strategist; Or, Dudie Dunne Again in the Field" by Old Sleuth is a detective novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two young detectives, Oscar "Dudie" Dunne, who often adopts a refined appearance as part of his tactics, and Cad Metti, a skilled female detective. Together, they take on a dangerous criminal organization involved in counterfeiting and other illegal activities, showcasing their courage, wit, and abilities in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. At the start of the narrative, an intriguing plot unfolds at Coney Island beach, where Dunne and Metti become embroiled in a confrontation with a trio of criminals. After meeting with a government special agent, Dunne is tasked with infiltrating the organization to uncover its leaders. The opening sets the stage for their clever disguises and strategies as they work to shadow the villains and unravel the web of crime in New York City. With sharp dialogue and a mix of suspense and action, the stage is set for the duo's thrilling adventures in detection and strategy.
Oscar the Detective; Or, Dudie Dunne, The Exquisite Detective
"OSCAR THE DETECTIVE; OR, DUDIE DUNNE, THE EXQUISITE DETECTIVE" by Old Sleuth is a detective novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the main character, Dudie Dunne, a seemingly effeminate and gentle young man with hidden skills, as he navigates a series of dangerous encounters while uncovering criminal activities in New York. His adventures begin with a humorous incident involving a group of boys who mock him before leading to more serious dealings with thieves and criminals. At the start of the narrative, Dudie Dunne finds himself the target of a gang of rough boys who attempt to rob him, showcasing both his vulnerability and the light-hearted tone of the story. However, as the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Dunne is far more capable than he appears. His mission takes a dramatic turn when he confronts criminals at a bar, leads to an intricate game of deception and theft, and ultimately plunges him into a web of intrigue involving hired thieves and hidden identities. As the tale progresses, it becomes evident that Dunne is not only adept at outsmarting petty criminals but also has a formidable side that hints at greater confrontations to come.
A Desperate Chance; Or, The Wizard Tramp's Revelation, a Thrilling Narrative
"A Desperate Chance; Or, The Wizard Tramp's Revelation, a Thrilling Narrative" by Old Sleuth is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows Desmond Dare, a determined young man who seeks to save his impoverished family farm by entering a walking match and, along the way, becomes embroiled in a series of adventures alongside the enigmatic character known as the wizard tramp, Brooks. Their quest for fortune leads them to the rugged Rocky Mountains, where they encounter dangerous situations, valuable discoveries, and unexpected friendships. At the start of the narrative, Desmond and Brooks are found by a campfire in a secluded gulch, contemplating their misadventures and the uncertain future of their search for a gold mine. As they discuss their plans, they are approached by a solitary woodsman, who becomes another intriguing character in their story. Tension escalates when they realize Indian raiders are nearby. Desmond's determined spirit is highlighted when he refuses to abandon Brooks, even as they face risks and the daunting challenges of survival in the wilderness. The opening establishes an adventurous tone filled with suspense and camaraderie, setting the stage for the unfolding escapades of Desmond and his companions.
A Successful Shadow; Or, A Detective's Successful Quest
"A Successful Shadow; Or, A Detective's Successful Quest" by Old Sleuth is a detective novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the skilled detective Jack Alvarez as he embarks on a thrilling quest to find a missing young woman amidst a web of intrigues and potential heirship to a substantial fortune. Central to the story are Jack and his encounters with various characters, including a desperate mother seeking her lost daughter and a mysterious baron whose true intentions remain unclear. The opening of the tale introduces us to the protagonist, Jack Alvarez, who receives a heartfelt visit from a distraught woman searching for her missing daughter, Amalie. As Jack listens to her story, he learns not only of the girl’s disappearance but also discovers links to a substantial fortune and hints of connections between the mother and the mysteriously affluent baron. The detective's interest deepens as he begins to uncover clues, leading him on a chase entangled with the rich and powerful, ultimately revealing secrets that could either rescue Amalie or plunge everyone involved into danger. In seeking to unravel the mystery of her disappearance, Jack must navigate through deception, emotional turmoil, and the pressing threat of criminals, all while racing against time to reunite the mother with her lost child.
Two Wonderful Detectives; Or, Jack and Gil's Marvelous Skill
"Two Wonderful Detectives; Or, Jack and Gil's Marvelous Skill" by Old Sleuth is a detective novel written in the late 19th century. The book introduces twin detectives Jack and Gil Alvarez, who take on a peculiar case involving a vast fortune that has remained unclaimed for forty years. The narrative promises intrigue as the brothers navigate through a complex web of clues and enigmatic characters in their quest to solve the mystery. At the start of the story, Jack Alvarez is summoned by a retired banker, Richard Townsend, who reveals that he has been holding a substantial sum of money and securities belonging to an unknown individual for decades. The banker confesses his fears about potential negligence and the mystery surrounding the original depositor. As Jack delves into the details, he uncovers elements of the case that weave together themes of trust, crime, and identity, including his realization that the initial depositor may have had ulterior motives involving the protection of a granddaughter. This opening sets the stage for Jack's meticulous investigation, rekindling hope in resolving a long-standing mystery and bringing closure to the heir's identity.