Lord Lister No. 0398: Duister New-York

by Kurt Matull

"Lord Lister No. 0398: Duister New-York" by Matull, Blankensee, and Hageman is a suspenseful crime novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a wealthy New Yorker, Albert Clapham, amidst rising criminality in the city. The plot unfolds through the actions of the notorious gentleman burglar, John Raffles, who becomes entwined in the city’s dark underbelly as he seeks to combat the criminals plaguing New York. The opening of the narrative introduces the public's fascination with Clapham's case, as sensational reports flood the newspapers. Soon, Raffles and his allies, Charly Brand and James Henderson, learn of Clapham’s connections with infamous criminals while navigating through New York's secretive underworld. As Raffles continues his battle against crime, he unexpectedly encounters Canny, referred to as the "Meisje met de Madonna-Oogen." This sets the stage for a complex web of deception and intrigue, showcasing Raffles' strategic mind and the thrilling atmosphere of a city rife with danger and excitement. The engaged conversation and character dynamics suggest a multifaceted approach to crime-solving, layering the narrative with tension and suspense.