Circumstantial Evidence
The narrative unfolds around Colonel Chartres Dane, a man with a troubled past and a complex relationship with his niece, Ella Grant. The story begins with Dane's visit to a doctor, where he reflects on a childhood incident involving Ella that left him scarred. Ella, a student at a technical school, is entangled in a financial crisis due to her friend Stephanie's debts, which she inadvertently guaranteed. As Ella navigates her troubles, she learns that her wealthy uncle has made her his sole heiress, a fact that complicates her feelings towards him. When she visits his home seeking help, she encounters a gamekeeper who confronts her. In a moment of panic, she accidentally injures him while trying to escape, leading to a series of events that culminate in Dane's mysterious death. Dane is found dead in his study, and circumstantial evidence points to Ella as the prime suspect. She possesses cyanide of potassium, and her recent visit to Dane's home raises suspicions. Jack Freeder, Ella's love interest and a young lawyer, becomes embroiled in the case as he grapples with the implications of the evidence against her. The trial captures public attention, with Jack serving as a junior to a prominent barrister. The prosecution builds a case based on circumstantial evidence, detailing Ella's financial motives and her presence at the scene. However, the narrative takes a turn when new evidence emerges from Dr. Merriget, revealing that Dane had intended to take his own life due to an incurable illness. This revelation shifts the focus of the trial, leading to the conclusion that Ella is innocent. The story explores themes of guilt, the weight of familial relationships, and the impact of circumstantial evidence in the justice system. Ultimately, Jack's experience in the case alters his perspective on his legal career, leading him to refuse future prosecutions in similar circumstances, prioritizing his personal life over professional ambition.
By Edgar Wallace · First published 1920 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime · 5,790 words
First lines
Colonel Chartres Dane lingered irresolutely in the broad and pleasant lobby. Other patients had lingered awhile in that agreeable vestibule. In wintry days it was a cozy place; its polished panelled walls reflecting the gleam of logs that burnt in the open fireplace. There was a shining oak settle that invited gossip, and old prints, and blue china bowls frothing over with the flowers of a belated autumn or advanced spring-tide, to charm the eye.
What this Textopian page supports
Circumstantial Evidence is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edgar Wallace, dated 1920 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Edgar Wallace
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Drama, Legal Fiction
- Length: 5,790 words
- Structure: 1 section, 159 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Circumstantial Evidence by Edgar Wallace
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Circumstantial Evidence?
- How does this novel by Edgar Wallace fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Strike Of The Fireworks by Carolyn Wells
- The Puzzle by Samuel Warren
- Again The Three by Edgar Wallace
- The Case Of Joe Attymar by Edgar Wallace
- The Daffodil Mystery by Edgar Wallace
- The Vanished Messenger by E. Phillips Oppenheim
Genres
- Mystery — The plot revolves around a murder case and the investigation of circumstantial evidence, which is central to the mystery genre.
- Thriller — The tension and suspense surrounding the trial and the protagonist's predicament create a thrilling atmosphere.
- Crime — The narrative focuses on criminal acts, legal proceedings, and the implications of crime on the characters.
- Drama — The emotional struggles and interpersonal relationships of the characters, particularly Ella and Jack, highlight dramatic themes.
Tags
mystery · crime · detective · suspense · thriller · investigation · evidence · courtroom · justice · intrigue · plot twist · narrative