The Crimson Cryptogram

Name: The Crimson Cryptogram
Author: Fergus Hume

The story revolves around a mysterious cryptogram that holds the key to a hidden treasure. The protagonist, a young man named Harold, discovers the cryptogram in an old book and becomes obsessed with deciphering it. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a series of strange events and murders connected to the cryptogram. With the help of his friend, a detective, Harold must navigate a complex web of clues and suspects to uncover the truth behind the cryptogram and claim the treasure before it falls into the wrong hands.

By Fergus Hume · First published 1904 · Genre: Mystery, Crime, Thriller · 26 chapters · 74,269 words

First lines

"Poverty, naked and unconcealed! One can endure that, with some patience, as a beaten soldier in the battle of life. But genteel pauperism -- the semi-poverty of the middle-class, that lives a necessary lie at the cost of incessant worry and constant defeat -- there you have the true misery of life. Believe me, Cass, there is no torture like that of an ambition which cannot be attained for lack of money."

"I did not know you were ambitious, Ellis."

What this Textopian page supports

The Crimson Cryptogram is listed on Textopian as a novel by Fergus Hume, dated 1904 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Fergus Hume
Date: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Crime, Thriller, Drama, Literary Fiction
Length: 74,269 words
Structure: 26 chapters, 1,775 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for The Crimson Cryptogram by Fergus Hume
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Crimson Cryptogram?
How does this novel by Fergus Hume fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around a murder investigation, with elements of suspense and intrigue central to the narrative.
Crime — The story involves criminal activity, specifically murder, and the subsequent investigation by police and a doctor.
Thriller — The tension and urgency surrounding the murder and the characters' reactions create a thrilling atmosphere.
Drama — The emotional struggles of the characters, particularly regarding poverty and ambition, add depth to the narrative.