Author
Melville Davisson Post
1869-1930
Melville Davisson Post (1869-1930) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Melville Davisson Post
The Sleuth of St. James's Square
"The Sleuth of St. James's Square" by Melville Davisson Post is a detective novel that likely dates back to the early 20th century. This engaging mystery revolves around a scientist named Rodman and the intriguing circumstances of his death, intertwined with elements of supernatural occurrences and Oriental mystique. Central to the story are the enigmatic influences surrounding Rodman, including a peculiar servant and a significant scientific breakthrough that has the potential to upend the world's understanding of gemstones. The beginning of the novel introduces us to the astoundingly intelligent and mysterious Rodman, who, while pursuing his work on synthetic gemstones, becomes embroiled in a bizarre tragedy. An Oriental companion brings a gift to Rodman, a remarkable carpet with hidden significance, marking the onset of extraordinary events. As the narrative unfolds, Rodman becomes increasingly entranced by this gift, leading to a fateful encounter with supernatural forces, evidenced by a chilling footprint found on his hearth. The tension builds as the reader ponders whether Rodman's genius will protect him from the dark influences at play, setting the stage for a thrilling exploration into the interplay between ambition, mysticism, and eventual doom.
The Man of Last Resort; Or, The Clients of Randolph Mason
"The Man of Last Resort; Or, The Clients of Randolph Mason" by Melville Davisson Post is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a mysterious lawyer, Randolph Mason, known for his keen legal mind yet morally ambiguous approach to the law. It explores themes of justice and morality amidst a backdrop of societal and legal imperfections, particularly through Mason's interactions with various clients. At the start of the novel, the preface sets a philosophical tone that highlights the inadequacies of the legal system and the power of public sentiment in shaping laws. The opening chapters introduce the youthful Governor Alfred Capland Randal, who grapples with the consequences of his political machinations and personal obligations. Faced with a challenging situation involving a strike and personal relationships, he reflects on his past hopes, ambitions, and the hefty burden of loyalty and responsibility to his friends, particularly the flawed yet loyal Secretary of State, Ambercrombie Hergan. Through vivid characterization and intricate dialogue, the narrative sets the stage for tension and conflict rooted in ideals of honor, duty, and the murky ethics within political and legal frameworks.
The Mountain School-Teacher
"The Mountain School-Teacher" by Melville Davisson Post is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young and idealistic schoolteacher as he navigates life in a remote mountain community, facing challenges and forming bonds with its residents, including a small boy named David. The narrative seems to highlight themes of innocence, community, and the contrast between civilization and the wilderness. The opening of the novel introduces the setting through a description of a rugged mountain landscape, where a path has been nearly reclaimed by nature. A young man, who is the schoolteacher, is seen traversing this landscape, embodying the youthful vitality and optimism as he approaches the mountain road. Meanwhile, a small boy named David struggles with a sack of corn on an ancient ox, showcasing the simplicity and struggles of rural life. The schoolteacher's encounter with David, as he helps the boy with his burden, establishes a warm connection that hints at the nurturing relationships he will develop within this mountain community. The chapter effectively sets the stage for the themes of mentorship and community that are likely to unfold throughout the story.
Walker of the Secret Service
"Walker of the Secret Service" by Melville Davisson Post is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures of a young man who becomes deeply involved with a gang of train robbers, led by the clever and resourceful Mooney. The narrative offers a thrilling glimpse into the world of crime during that era, focusing on their daring endeavors against the law and their attempts to make a significant heist. At the start of the book, the protagonist finds himself in a small town, drawn into a life of adventure when he encounters a mysterious little man named Mooney, who is part of a circus crew but has ulterior motives. The opening narrative details the young man's curiosity and willingness to embrace risk, leading him to accept a mission involving a significant robbery. Mooney, maintaining an air of cunning and danger, recruits the young man for a plan to intercept and rob a train carrying valuable Mexican government money. The intrigue builds as the young man learns the ins and outs of Mooney's schemes, setting the stage for an engaging tale of ambition, crime, and surprising twists.
The Strange Schemes of Randolph Mason
"The Strange Schemes of Randolph Mason" by Melville Davisson Post is a collection of legal-themed short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories revolve around the central character, Randolph Mason, a cunning and morally ambiguous lawyer who cleverly exploits the loopholes of the law to achieve his ends. It promises readers a blend of suspense, drama, and intellectual puzzles that challenge both the characters and the audience's understanding of justice. The opening of the book introduces readers to the enigmatic character of Randolph Mason through a conversation among members of a club who discuss his peculiar manner and intellect. Mason is depicted as a brilliant strategist who has returned to New York after a mysterious absence, drawing intrigue and admiration from those around him. Two members, Samuel Walcott and Marshall St. Clair, highlight Mason's exceptional legal skills that have allowed him to craft ingenious defenses for his clients. As they ponder over Mason's past notable achievements, the narrative sets the stage for his involvement in complex legal situations and ethical dilemmas, hinting at the dark and thrilling explorations of crime and justice that await in the ensuing stories.
The Gilded Chair: A Novel
"The Gilded Chair: A Novel" by Melville Davisson Post is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. This novel centers around the character Marchesa Soderrelli, an intriguing woman with a complex past, who embarks on a journey across the Scottish landscape, encountering social dynamics and personal struggles that reveal her depth and determination. The narrative suggests themes of social standing, romantic entanglement, and cultural interactions. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Marchesa as she travels by train from London to Stirling, where her arrival at an inn emphasizes her status as a significant foreign visitor. After receiving exceptional service from the inn staff, her curiosity leads her to inquire about the new Duke of Dorset, suggesting that she has a particular interest in his whereabouts. As she interacts with the innkeeper and learns more about the Duke, we see her intelligence and ambition surface, hinting at a deeper connection and purpose for her visit. The chapter concludes with her setting off to seek the Duke, laying the groundwork for an intricate exploration of identity and aspirations against the backdrop of Scotland's rich history.
Dwellers in the Hills
"Dwellers in the Hills" by Melville Davisson Post is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a rural setting among the hills, following the life and perspectives of young Quiller and his interactions with various characters, including his older brother Ward and the local horsemen, as they navigate themes of rivalry, affection, and the complexities of rural life." "The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the landscape and its inhabitants through the eyes of Quiller, who is engaged in the everyday task of fixing his horse's equipment. Accompanied by his brother Jud and the character Ump, they share a light moment watching a horse and horseman below. Quiller's thoughts meander between his youthful bravado about riding and his growing emotions tied to a girl named Cynthia, whose association with another man stirs feelings of rivalry and jealousy. The narrative starts to delve into Quiller's internal struggles as he grapples with youthful innocence, personal loss, and the uncertainties of changing relationships amid the backdrop of a rich, natural environment."