Edgar Wallace
"Bones": Being Further Adventures in Mr. Commissioner Sanders' Country
"Bones": Being Further Adventures in Mr. Commissioner Sanders' Country by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in a fictional African territory, primarily focusing on the character of Mr. Commissioner Sanders and his dealings with local chiefs and societal tensions. The book offers a mix of adventure, intrigue, and humor, with the title character, Bosambo, playing a central role as a chief and a cunning figure in the political landscape of his people. The beginning of the story sets the stage for the complex dynamics between the native chiefs, the British colonial administration represented by Sanders, and the challenges arising from power disputes, such as the brewing conflict between the Ochori and Akasava tribes. The prologue introduces Bosambo, who cleverly manipulates local politics while Sanders grapples with the repercussions of his absence. Against this backdrop, we witness tensions rising as various factions vie for power, culminating in near-chaos as a high-profile kidnapping invites attention and excitement to the region. The opening chapters effectively establish the novel's tone, character motivations, and the interplay of colonial authority and indigenous politics.