The Red Triangle: Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28071

Title

The Red Triangle: Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this gripping collection of detective tales, Arthur Morrison introduces Martin Hewitt, a genial investigator who uncovers a sinister conspiracy centered on the mysterious Red Triangle. As Hewitt solves cases involving stolen diamonds, forged bonds, and a burnt barn, he gradually unravels the terrifying power of post-hypnotic suggestion wielded by a criminal mastermind. A compelling read that blends classic detective fiction with early psychological horror.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Red Triangle: Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator*, Arthur Morrison presents a chilling narrative that intertwines classic detective work with a terrifying exploration of the mind's vulnerability. The story follows the affable investigator Martin Hewitt and his chronicler, Brett, as they unravel a series of crimes linked by a mysterious symbol: the Red Triangle. The investigation begins with the theft of fifteen thousand pounds worth of diamonds from merchant Lewis Samuel. Hewitt discovers that the thief, Denson, was placed in the office by a hypnotist named Mayes. Denson attempted to flee with the loot but was murdered, his body marked with the Red Triangle. Through the deciphering of a cryptic message hidden inside a key, Hewitt locates the stolen bonds concealed in a ventilator. The plot intensifies when Hewitt is ambushed in a ruined barn at Throckham. Trapped by a trapdoor mechanism, he escapes only to witness the fatal confrontation between his enemy, Victor Peytral, and Mayes. Both men fall to their deaths. The true nature of the Red Triangle is subsequently revealed: it is an implement used by Mayes to induce a hypnotic trance. Mayes controls a gang of criminals, forcing them to commit crimes and appropriating the proceeds through post-hypnotic suggestion. He possesses the terrifying ability to induce lethargy or death in his victims at will. The narrative serves as both a thrilling detective story and a cautionary tale about the dangers of unregulated hypnotism. It exposes the hideous secret of a mastermind who turns ordinary people into his tools, stripping them of their free will. Hewitt ultimately exposes Mayes's gang, freeing the victims and ending the evil influence of the Red Triangle. The collection highlights the terrifying reality that even the most innocent individuals can be manipulated by those who understand the dark power of the human mind.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery