The Mikado Jewel

"The Mikado Jewel" by Fergus Hume is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in London, it interweaves elements of mystery and drama centered around the sudden murder of a boarding house resident, Mrs. Pentreddle. The story prominently features Patricia Carrol, an Irish governess who, after being tasked with delivering a secretive package for Mrs. Pentreddle, finds herself embroiled in the ensuing investigation and the complexities surrounding the case. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to "The Home of Art," a shabby boarding house run by the cheerful Mrs. Sellars, where the aspiring young residents are encouraged to pursue their artistic ambitions. As the boarders leave to attend the premiere of a play, Patricia Carrol stays behind to help Mrs. Pentreddle, who has a sprained ankle. The setup takes a turn when Patricia agrees to go on a mysterious errand for the old woman, which involves retrieving a box from a man by the Serpentine bridge. However, when she returns, she discovers that Mrs. Pentreddle has been brutally murdered, thrusting her into a web of intrigue as she must unravel the events of the night and clear her name amidst the suspicious atmosphere.

The Mikado Jewel, by Fergus Hume. Republished by OpenStories from Project Gutenberg eBook #56243.