A wealthy and brilliant American scientist, Rodman, is at the center of a mysterious tragedy that unfolds in a secluded house in the Berkshires. Rodman, known for his groundbreaking work in synthetic chemistry, has developed a formula that could revolutionize the production of precious stones, threatening the wealth of many in Asia. His life takes a dark turn when he is visited by a mysterious Oriental servant who claims to have come from a monastery in the Gobi Desert, bringing with him a valuable gift—a prayer carpet. As Rodman works on his formula, he becomes increasingly obsessed with the supernatural, leading to a series of strange occurrences in his home. The servant warns him of the dangers of succumbing to temptation, hinting at a dark fate that awaits those who seek to divide their devotion between the spiritual and the material. Despite the warnings, Rodman is drawn into a perilous engagement with forces beyond his understanding. The narrative shifts to a court trial following Rodman's death, where the circumstances surrounding his demise are scrutinized. The servant's testimony reveals that Rodman was lured by a supernatural voice, leading him to a confrontation with a spectral figure—a woman who appears to him in a vision. In a moment of desperation, Rodman attempts to destroy his work, believing it to be the source of his impending doom. However, the act of destruction only seals his fate, as he is found dead in his workshop, his body crushed. The trial reveals the complexities of Rodman's relationships and the motivations of those around him, including the servant, who is revealed to have a deeper connection to the supernatural forces at play. The court grapples with the inexplicable nature of Rodman's death, leading to a verdict that leaves many questions unanswered. Ultimately, the story explores themes of ambition, the consequences of scientific discovery, and the intersection of the material and spiritual worlds. The characters navigate a landscape filled with intrigue, betrayal, and the haunting presence of the unknown, culminating in a chilling conclusion that underscores the perils of human desire and the quest for knowledge.
By Melville Davisson Post · First published 1912 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Historical Fiction · 16 chapters