Contraband: A Tale of Modern Smugglers

by Erle Spencer

"Contraband: A Tale of Modern Smugglers" by E. R. Spencer is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging adventure story follows Dare Stanley, a young man eager to join his father, Captain Stanley, who has recently taken up the role of special inspector in the Revenue Service amidst rampant smuggling activities in the Newfoundland coastal region. The book delves into the challenges of combating smuggling and the dangers associated with it. At the start of the story, Dare is aboard the S.S. "Glenbow", sailing towards St. Lawrence. He yearns for adventure and is intrigued by conversations among the ship's passengers about the rampant smuggling taking place in Saltern Bay. As he arrives in Saltern, he learns of his father's recent injuries sustained during an encounter with smugglers, highlighting the treacherous environment they are in. The opening sections set the stage for the unfolding conflict, with Dare eager to help his father investigate the smuggling operations and discover the culprits involved. As the plot progresses, Dare's determination to protect his family's reputation and support his father becomes the primary motivation, promising an exciting journey filled with intrigue and peril.