The narrative follows an inconspicuous American named Hurn, who, despite his shabby appearance, claims he can end World War I. In a bustling London bar, he overhears a conversation about the use of poisonous gas by the Germans, which prompts an inexplicable laugh from him, drawing the attention of others, including Lavendale, a young diplomat. Intrigued, Lavendale engages Hurn, who insists he possesses a method to stop the war, requiring Lavendale's assistance to connect with the British War Office. Hurn's eccentricity leads them to a meeting with General Bembridge, where he demonstrates a devastating chemical weapon using a simple catapult. The demonstration results in a desolate area devoid of life, showcasing the weapon's potential. However, the situation escalates when a woman, Miss de Freyne, unexpectedly appears, having been affected by Hurn's demonstration. As the story unfolds, Lavendale becomes increasingly entangled in Hurn's bizarre claims and the implications of his invention. The climax reveals Hurn's mysterious death in his hotel room, leaving Lavendale to grapple with the consequences of their encounter and the potential ramifications of Hurn's invention on the war. The work explores themes of ambition, the absurdity of war, and the unpredictable nature of human interactions.
By E. Phillips Oppenheim · First published 1906 · Genre: Spy Fiction, Political Thriller, Adventure · 10 chapters