A detective novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a murder case involving Major Richard Wigmore, whose lifeless body is discovered in his study, prompting a thorough investigation. The book introduces characters like Detective James Sullivan and Dorrit Evans, a skilled young detective trained under Sullivan, who work to unravel the mystery behind the murder and the strange elements surrounding it. The opening of the novel presents a tense and mysterious atmosphere as Detective Sullivan and his team respond to a call about the murder of Major Wigmore. Upon arriving at the crime scene, they find the major's body in his elaborately furnished office, indicating a violent struggle has taken place. Key details emerge, such as the presence of a strange word ''Waverghem'' written on a piece of paper found with the body and various unexplained circumstances surrounding the murder, including a late-night visitor. The narrative sets up the investigation, introducing suspense as Sullivan and his colleagues seek to discover not only the identity of the murderer but also the significance of the clues left behind.
