The Black Mask by E.w. Hornung

Name: The Black Mask
Author: E.w. Hornung

The narrative follows a character who receives a telegram from a relative, prompting him to apply for a job as a male nurse for an elderly gentleman, Mr. Maturin, who is in poor health. The protagonist, who is struggling financially, sees this as an opportunity to escape his current living conditions. Upon arriving at Maturin's flat, he discovers that the elderly man is actually A.J. Raffles, a notorious gentleman thief and his former friend. Raffles has faked his own death to escape the law and is now living in hiding. As the story unfolds, Raffles reveals that he has been living under the radar, using a series of clever ruses to avoid detection. He enlists the protagonist's help in his schemes, and they engage in various escapades, including a heist involving stolen diamonds from wealthy individuals. Raffles's charm and cunning are evident as he navigates the criminal underworld, while the protagonist grapples with his own moral dilemmas and the consequences of their actions. The plot thickens as Raffles's past catches up with him, leading to a confrontation with members of the Camorra, a powerful criminal organization. Raffles's relationship with a woman named Jacques Saillard complicates matters further, as she becomes a source of tension between him and the protagonist. The story culminates in a series of dramatic events, including a near-fatal encounter with the Camorra, which tests their friendship and loyalty. Ultimately, the protagonist must confront the reality of Raffles's life of crime and the impact it has on their relationship. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and the consequences of one's choices are explored throughout the narrative, culminating in a poignant reflection on the nature of crime and the bonds that tie individuals together, even in the face of danger and betrayal.

By E.w. Hornung · First published 1895 · Genre: Mystery, Crime, Thriller · 16 chapters · 66,343 words

First lines

I am still uncertain which surprised me more, the telegram calling my attention to the advertisement, or the advertisement itself. The telegram is before me as I write. It would appear to have been handed in at Vere Street at eight o'clock in the morning of May 11, 1897, and received before half-past at Holloway B. O. And in that drab region it duly found me, unwashen but at work before the day grew hot and my attic insupportable.

"See Mr. Maturin's advertisement Daily Mail might suit you earnestly beg try will speak if necessary -- -- -"

What this Textopian page supports

The Black Mask is listed on Textopian as a novel by E.w. Hornung, dated 1895 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: E.w. Hornung
Date: 1895 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Crime, Thriller, Adventure, Fiction
Length: 66,343 words
Structure: 16 chapters, 1,218 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by E.w. Hornung fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around solving crimes and uncovering secrets, typical of the mystery genre.
Crime — The narrative focuses on criminal activities and the motivations behind them.
Thriller — The story contains suspenseful elements that keep readers on edge.
Adventure — The protagonist engages in daring escapades and challenges throughout the story.