The narrative follows Rudolf Kesselbach, a wealthy man who becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious events after he suspects someone has been entering his hotel suite while he is away. He contacts the police, leading to the involvement of Detective Sergeant Gourel. Kesselbach is anxious about a significant plan he is developing, which he believes is being spied upon. His fears are compounded when he finds a bent pin in his room, which he believes is evidence of someone’s presence. As the story unfolds, Kesselbach is confronted by a mysterious man who claims to be Arsène Lupin, a notorious gentleman burglar. Lupin holds Kesselbach at gunpoint, demanding information about a safe deposit box containing valuable diamonds and a secret related to a man named Pierre Leduc. Kesselbach refuses to divulge the cipher to his safe, leading to a tense standoff. Eventually, Kesselbach is murdered, and Lupin's card is found pinned to his body, implicating him in the crime. The investigation into Kesselbach's murder reveals a complex web of deceit involving multiple characters, including Kesselbach's secretary Chapman, who is also killed. The narrative shifts to the police's efforts to uncover the truth, with Detective Lenormand leading the investigation. He suspects that Lupin is not the true murderer but rather a pawn in a larger scheme involving Kesselbach's plans and the search for Pierre Leduc. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Kesselbach's death is linked to a conspiracy involving his associates and the mysterious Leduc. The tension escalates as the police race against time to prevent further murders and uncover the truth behind Kesselbach's plans. The narrative culminates in a dramatic confrontation between the police and the conspirators, with Lupin's true motives and identity remaining shrouded in mystery until the end. The work explores themes of identity, deception, and the moral ambiguities of crime, with Lupin portrayed as both a charming rogue and a cunning adversary. The intricate plot weaves together elements of suspense, intrigue, and the classic cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and a master criminal.
By Maurice Leblanc · First published 1910 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Adventure · 17 chapters