Call Mr. Fortune by H.C. Bailey
The narrative follows Mr. Reginald Fortune, a medical practitioner with a penchant for solving mysteries, as he becomes embroiled in a series of complex murder cases. The story begins with the death of the Archduke Maurice, who is found dead after being struck by a car. Fortune, who is temporarily managing his father's medical practice, is called to the scene and discovers that the victim is not the Archduke but a man with a striking resemblance. This incident sets off a chain of events that leads to the investigation of the Archduke's life and the people surrounding him, including his wife, the Archduchess Ianthe, and his brother, Archduke Leopold. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the Archduke's life is fraught with tension, particularly between him and his wife, who is portrayed as passionate and temperamental. Fortune's practical approach to medicine and his lack of reverence for nobility allow him to navigate the complexities of the royal family with a level of detachment. He uncovers a series of clues, including a hatpin found in the Archduke's chest, which suggests foul play. The narrative shifts to the Charlecote family, where the patriarch, Stephenson Charlecote, is found murdered. His son Geoffrey, who has a tumultuous relationship with his father, becomes a suspect. The story explores themes of family dynamics, inheritance, and the impact of past grievances on present actions. Reggie Fortune's investigation reveals that the murder is not as straightforward as it seems, with multiple characters having motives and opportunities. Throughout the story, Fortune's character is developed as someone who is observant, analytical, and somewhat cynical about human nature. He grapples with the moral implications of his findings and the societal expectations placed upon him as a medical professional. The narrative culminates in a series of revelations that challenge the characters' perceptions of loyalty, love, and justice. In the end, the story weaves together the various threads of intrigue, betrayal, and the quest for truth, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of human relationships and the darker aspects of ambition and desire.
By H.C. Bailey · First published 1920 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Thriller · 6 chapters · 71,047 words
First lines
Mr. Reginald Fortune, M. A., M. B., B. Ch., F. R. C. S., was having a lecture from his father.
"You only do just enough," Dr. Fortune complained. "Never brilliant. No zeal. Now, Reginald, it won't do. Just enough is always too little. Take my word for it. And do be attentive to the Archduke. God bless you!"
What this Textopian page supports
Call Mr. Fortune is listed on Textopian as a novel by H.C. Bailey, 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: H.C. Bailey
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Thriller, Crime Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Length: 71,047 words
- Structure: 6 chapters, 1,880 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Call Mr. Fortune by H.C. Bailey
- 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 Call Mr. Fortune?
- How does this novel by H.C. Bailey fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Mystery — The plot revolves around solving a crime, which is central to the narrative.
- Detective Fiction — Features a detective character, Mr. Fortune, who investigates and solves cases.
- Thriller — Contains suspenseful elements and tension throughout the investigation.
- Crime Fiction — Focuses on criminal activities and the consequences surrounding them.
Tags
Mystery · Detective Fiction · Classic Novel · British Literature · 1920s Setting · Private Investigator · Whodunit · Plot Twist · Small Town Mystery · Gentleman Detective · Intelligent Plot · Psychological Thriller
Contents
- The Archduke's Tea
- The Sleeping Companion
- The Nice Girl
- The Efficient Assassin
- The Hottentot Venus
- The Business Minister