The Noser and the Note by Ambrose Bierce
"The Noser and the Note" is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1891. The story follows a man named John Noser, who is known for his exceptional sense of smell. One day, while working as a detective, Noser is hired to retrieve a note that has been stolen from its owner. Despite the challenges he faces, Noser is able to track down the thief and recover the note through his keen sense of smell. The story showcases Bierce's signature wit and humor, as well as his ability to craft engaging and suspenseful plots.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1891 · Genre: Fiction, Mystery, Thriller · 272 words
First lines
The Head Rifler of an insolvent bank, learning that it was about to be visited by the official Noser into Things, placed his own personal note for a large amount among its resources, and, gaily touching his guitar, awaited the inspection. When the Noser came to the note he asked,
"What's this?"
"That," said the Assistant Pocketer of Deposits, "is one of our liabilities."
"A liability?" exclaimed the Noser. "Nay, nay, an asset. That is what you mean, doubtless."
What this Textopian page supports
The Noser and the Note is listed on Textopian as a fable by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1891 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Fable
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Adventure
- Length: 272 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Noser and the Note by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Fiction — Without specific details of the book content, the most basic classification based on the author's known work - Ambrose Bierce, who primarily wrote fiction.
- Mystery — Assuming from the title, 'The Noser and the Note', it suggests an enigmatic or secretive tone, which is typical of mystery genres.
- Thriller — The title could indicate some thrilling plotlines involving secrets or curious incidents.
- Adventure — Possible interpretation of the title might indicate a story related to exploration or an adventurous journey.
Tags
mystery · thriller · detective · fiction · short story · supernatural · gothic · horror · literary fiction · classic · vintage · antique