The Gadget had a Ghost

The Gadget had a Ghost

In Istanbul, a physics professor named Thomas Coghlan encounters a bizarre situation when two unexpected visitors, a frantic Frenchman named Duval and a composed Turkish police lieutenant named Ghalil, arrive at his apartment. They present him with an ancient book, the _Alexiad_, which contains fingerprints that match Coghlan's own, despite being dated to the thirteenth century. The book also features a mysterious message that suggests danger to Mannard, Laurie's wealthy father, and references a "gadget" at a specific address. As Coghlan grapples with the implications of the fingerprints and the message, he learns that the fingerprints were placed when the book was new, leading to the conclusion that he somehow has a connection to the past. Ghalil and Duval suspect time travel or some form of historical manipulation. The situation escalates when Coghlan discovers that Mannard's life is in danger, prompting him to take action. During a dinner with Mannard and Laurie, an assassination attempt occurs, further complicating the mystery. Ghalil's investigation reveals that Appolonius, a magician with a dubious past, may be involved in a scheme to kill Mannard for financial gain. As the narrative unfolds, Coghlan becomes increasingly entangled in a web of historical intrigue, potential time travel, and the supernatural. The story culminates in a series of revelations about the nature of the gadget, which appears to create a cold force field that connects different times. Coghlan realizes that the gadget's ghost may be influencing events in the present, and he must confront the implications of his own actions and the choices he makes. Ultimately, the narrative explores themes of fate, the intersection of past and present, and the nature of reality itself. As Coghlan writes a message that will send back to the past, he grapples with the weight of his decisions, knowing that the future hinges on his understanding of the gadget and its connection to history. The story concludes with a sense of ambiguity, leaving readers to ponder the nature of time, causality, and the impact of individual choices on the course of history.

By Murray Leinster · First published 1950 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 7 chapters · 32,259 words

First lines

This was Istanbul, and the sounds of the city -- motor-cars and clumping donkeys, the nasal cries of peddlers and the distant roar of a jet-plane somewhere over the city -- came muted through the windows of Coghlan's flat. It was already late dusk, and Coghlan had just gotten back from the American College, where he taught physics. He relaxed in his chair and waited. He was to meet Laurie later, at the Hotel Petra on the improbably-named Grande Rue de Petra, and hadn't too much time to spare; but he was intrigued by the unexpected guests he had found waiting for him when he arrived. Duval, the Frenchman, haggard and frantic with impatience; Lieutenant Ghalil, calm and patient and impressive in the uniform of the Istanbul Police Department. Ghalil had introduced himself with perfect courtesy and explained that he had come with M. Duval to ask for information which only Mr. Coghlan, of the American College, could possibly give.

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The Gadget had a Ghost is listed on Textopian as a novel by Murray Leinster, dated 1950 CE.

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Science Fiction · Fantasy · Mystery · Thriller · Adventure · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Technology · Ghost Story · Supernatural · Paranormal

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