A Queen's Error

A fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a character named William Anstruther, who becomes involuntarily embroiled in a web of mystery and danger after an unexpected encounter with an enigmatic old woman in Bath. The tale delves into themes of trust, deception, and the unforeseen consequences of seemingly benign requests. The opening of the novel introduces William Anstruther as he wanders through a dreary street and meets an elderly lady who lives in a neglected house. She requests his help to open a hidden safe while hinting that he will be rewarded. Despite his reservations, he agrees to assist her. The narrative quickly escalates when Anstruther discovers her gravely injured, prompting a frantic sequence involving a mysterious key and an unknown assailant. The tension builds as he is drawn deeper into a conspiracy involving dangerous characters, leading to his eventual arrest and a harrowing encounter with potential torture.