The Herapath Property

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25388

Title

The Herapath Property

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A gripping mystery set in early 20th-century London, *The Herapath Property* follows the disappearance of Jacob Herapath, a wealthy MP and eccentric estate owner. When his body is discovered, a complex web of suspects emerges, ranging from his ambitious cousin to a seemingly innocent employee. Detective Triffitt and his team must unravel the clues hidden in the victim's study and the city's shadows to solve the murder and locate the missing will.

Summary up to 500 words

In J. S. Fletcher's *The Herapath Property*, the narrative begins with the alarming disappearance of Jacob Herapath, a prominent Member of Parliament and property developer. Despite evidence that he entered his Portman Square home late at night, having eaten a meal and drunk whiskey, he vanishes without luggage or note. His niece, Peggie Wynne, and her secretary, Selwood, face immediate legal threats as Herapath's cousin, Barthorpe, files a caveat to invalidate the will, suggesting a motive rooted in inheritance greed. Detective Triffitt leads the investigation, initially suspecting the household staff but quickly expanding the scope to include Frank Burchill, a solicitor with a history of conflict with Herapath, and James Frankton, a property manager. Triffitt employs meticulous surveillance, tailing Burchill and monitoring Frankton's movements. The investigation takes a critical turn when a specific banknote found in Frankton's possession matches one Herapath received shortly before his death. Combined with testimony from a slow-witted landowner who witnessed Herapath's final business dealings, this evidence points toward a robbery-murder rather than a simple disappearance. Triffitt arrests Frankton, who confesses to killing Herapath for the cash and valuables left on his desk. As the case nears resolution, the story explores themes of greed, the danger of assuming innocence based on social standing, and the necessity of thorough detective work. The climax involves the arrest of conspirators Barthorpe and Burchill for attempting to obstruct justice regarding the will. The novel concludes with the identification of the true murderer, the recovery of stolen assets, and the restoration of order, showcasing Fletcher's skill in weaving a satisfying conclusion to a tale filled with red herrings and suspenseful twists.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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2026-07-05 08:20 UTC

Categories

• Mystery