The Frame-Up

Name: The Frame-Up
Author: Richard Harding Davis

The narrative unfolds around District Attorney Wharton, who is embroiled in a politically charged murder investigation following the death of Hermann Banf, a key witness against corrupt police officials. Wharton, a self-made man, grapples with the shadow of his influential brother-in-law, Hamilton Cutler, as he seeks re-election amidst Tammany Hall's machinations to undermine him. The plot thickens when Wharton receives a mysterious phone call promising to reveal Banf's murderer. The call leads to a note delivered by a messenger, instructing Wharton to meet a woman named Ida Earle at Kessler's Cafe, where he is promised crucial information. Despite concerns about a potential trap, Wharton decides to go, believing the information could be pivotal for his campaign and the investigation. As Wharton arrives at the cafe, he is met by Earle, who reveals a violent incident involving a man and a woman, both of whom have been shot. The woman, Rose Gerard, claims that the man, who is later revealed to be Cutler, attempted to kill her. Earle suggests that Wharton should hush up the incident to protect Cutler, but Wharton, committed to justice, refuses to comply. The tension escalates when Rose demands money in exchange for her silence, threatening to expose Cutler's involvement. Wharton, realizing the gravity of the situation, contacts the police to arrest all parties involved, including Cutler and Rose. He understands that his duty as district attorney supersedes familial loyalty, and he must uphold the law, even at the cost of his brother-in-law's reputation and his own political future. The story culminates in a confrontation between Wharton and Earle, where he asserts his commitment to justice. Earle, realizing Wharton's integrity, becomes frustrated as her plans unravel. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, corruption, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in power, ultimately highlighting the conflict between personal relationships and professional responsibilities.

By Richard Harding Davis · First published 1906 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime Fiction · 9,573 words

First lines

When the voice over the telephone promised to name the man who killed Hermann Banf, District Attorney Wharton was up-town lunching at Delmonico's. This was contrary to his custom and a concession to Hamilton Cutler, his distinguished brother-in-law. That gentleman was interested in a State constabulary bill and had asked State Senator Bissell to father it. He had suggested to the senator that, in the legal points involved in the bill, his brother-in-law would undoubtedly be charmed to advise him. So that morning, to talk it over, Bissell had come from Albany and, as he was forced to return the same afternoon, had asked Wharton to lunch with him up-town near the station.

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The Frame-Up is listed on Textopian as a novel by Richard Harding Davis, dated 1906 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Richard Harding Davis
Date: 1906 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama
Length: 9,573 words
Structure: 1 section, 206 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around a murder investigation and the search for the truth behind Hermann Banf's death, which is central to the narrative.
Thriller — The story contains elements of suspense and tension, particularly surrounding the district attorney's dangerous situation and the potential for scandal.
Crime Fiction — The narrative explores themes of corruption, legal battles, and the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement in a criminal context.
Political Fiction — The story delves into the intersection of politics and crime, highlighting the influence of powerful figures and the implications of public service.