[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Please wait while flipbook is loading. For more related info, FAQs and issues please refer to DearFlip WordPress Flipbook Plugin Help documentation.
“The Dorrington Deed-Box”
is a collection of short detective stories by Arthur Morrison, first published in 1897. The book consists of twelve stories featuring the exploits of the private detective, Horace Dorrington, who is often referred to as the “cheapest detective in the trade.” Dorrington is a complex character, who is both a brilliant detective and a morally dubious figure, often resorting to blackmail and deception to achieve his goals.
The stories in the collection are all standalone mysteries, each with its own unique setting and cast of characters. Some of the most notable stories in the collection include “The Affair of the “Avalanche Bicycle and Tyre, Co., Ltd.”, “The Case of Janissary”, and “The Ivy Cottage Mystery.” In each story, Dorrington uses his intelligence, resourcefulness, and unscrupulous tactics to solve the case at hand, often at the expense of his clients or other innocent parties.
One of the most memorable stories in the collection is “The Affair of the “Avalanche Bicycle and Tyre, Co., Ltd.”, which involves a young woman named Miss Mabel Chiffinch, who seeks Dorrington’s help in recovering some stolen letters. Dorrington quickly deduces that the letters were stolen by one of Miss Chiffinch’s suitors, but he uses this knowledge to blackmail the young man into buying shares in a failing bicycle company. As always, Dorrington’s motivations are as much financial as they are moral.
Another intriguing story is “The Case of Janissary”, in which Dorrington is hired by a wealthy art collector to recover a valuable Turkish weapon known as a janissary. Dorrington manages to track down the weapon, but rather than returning it to his client, he keeps it for himself, claiming that he needs it for “professional purposes.” The story offers a fascinating glimpse into Dorrington’s character and motivations, revealing him to be a man who is as interested in acquiring valuable objects as he is in solving mysteries.
Throughout the collection, Morrison presents a vivid picture of late nineteenth-century London, with its bustling streets, smoky pubs, and seedy back alleys. The characters in the stories are all vividly drawn, from the hapless victims to the cunning criminals, and Morrison’s writing style is both engaging and entertaining. The stories are full of twists and turns, and readers will be kept on the edge of their seats until the final reveal.
Overall, “The Dorrington Deed-Box” is a classic work of detective fiction, featuring a memorable and complex protagonist, a range of intriguing mysteries, and a vividly evoked historical setting. Whether you are a fan of classic detective fiction or simply enjoy a good mystery, this collection is sure to delight and entertain.
One of the most impressive aspects of “The Dorrington Deed-Box” is the character of Horace Dorrington himself. Unlike many other famous detectives of the time, such as Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot, Dorrington is not a figure of unimpeachable virtue. He is frequently depicted as dishonest, greedy, and even cruel, using his wits to take advantage of others rather than to serve justice.
Despite this, however, Dorrington is a deeply fascinating character, and his antics make for thrilling reading. Morrison does an excellent job of balancing Dorrington’s more unsavory qualities with moments of genuine heroism and intelligence, making him a complex and multifaceted figure. In this way, Dorrington is a sort of antihero, who is as likely to work against the interests of his clients as he is to work for them.
Another noteworthy aspect of the collection is its depiction of London’s criminal underworld. In many of the stories, Dorrington interacts with characters from the city’s seedy underbelly, including pickpockets, con artists, and even murderers. Morrison’s portrayal of these figures is vivid and convincing, painting a picture of a city rife with danger and intrigue. At the same time, however, the stories never glamorize or romanticize criminal behavior, instead presenting it as a harsh and often brutal way of life.
One final aspect of note is the collection’s use of humor. While many of the stories are quite dark and suspenseful, Morrison also injects a fair bit of levity into the proceedings. Dorrington himself is often a source of amusement, with his clever quips and cunning schemes. Meanwhile, some of the supporting characters, such as the hapless journalist Mr. Spicer, are almost comic in their cluelessness. This use of humor helps to balance out the book’s more serious themes and makes for an enjoyable read.
In conclusion, “The Dorrington Deed-Box” is a classic work of detective fiction that continues to captivate readers over a century after its initial publication. Its memorable protagonist, intriguing mysteries, and vividly evoked setting all contribute to a thrilling and entertaining reading experience. Whether you are a fan of classic detective fiction or simply enjoy a good mystery, this collection is not to be missed.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
2 thoughts on “The Dorrington Deed-Box Book by Arthur Morrison”