A diamond merchant, Oscar Brodski, is found dead on the railway tracks after being struck by a goods train. The circumstances surrounding his death raise suspicions of foul play rather than an accident or suicide. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a medical professional, who, along with a detective, investigates the case. The story begins with Silas Hickler, a seemingly amiable man who leads a double life as a burglar. He is preparing for a trip to Amsterdam with a stash of diamonds when he encounters Brodski, who is lost and seeking directions to the station. Hickler invites Brodski into his home, where he contemplates robbing him. The tension escalates as Hickler's criminal instincts take over, leading to a violent confrontation. He ultimately kills Brodski, suffocating him with a tablecloth after a struggle. After disposing of the body near the railway, Hickler attempts to cover his tracks by cleaning the scene and burning evidence, including Brodski's hat. Meanwhile, Brodski's absence is noted, and a search ensues. The investigation is led by a doctor and a police inspector who piece together the clues left behind. As they examine the body and the scene, they discover various pieces of evidence, including broken spectacles, a cigarette, and a bar of iron that Hickler had used as a weapon. The doctor deduces that Brodski was murdered in Hickler's home, and the investigation leads them to a nearby house where they find more incriminating evidence, including fragments of a glass tumbler and fibers that match those found on Brodski. The narrative culminates in Hickler's arrest as he attempts to flee to Amsterdam. However, he evades capture during the return journey, leading to his eventual demise. The case highlights the importance of forensic science in solving crimes and the consequences of criminal actions. The meticulous investigation reveals the interconnectedness of seemingly trivial details, ultimately leading to the resolution of the murder mystery.
By R. Austin Freeman · First published 1930 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Crime · 2 chapters