The New Catacomb

Two archaeologists, Kennedy and Burger, engage in a conversation about a significant discovery made by Burger—a new catacomb in Rome. Kennedy, a wealthy Englishman, is eager to learn more about this find, which he believes could be groundbreaking. Burger, a diligent German scholar, is hesitant to share details, fearing competition. Their relationship is complex, marked by rivalry and a budding friendship, as both men respect each other's expertise in their field. As they discuss their work, Kennedy is drawn into a personal matter when Burger inquires about his past romantic involvement with a woman named Mary Saunderson. Kennedy reluctantly reveals details of a brief affair that ended poorly, leading to a scandal. Burger uses this information to challenge Kennedy's character, suggesting that he treated Mary unfairly. The conversation shifts back to the catacomb, and Burger eventually agrees to take Kennedy to see it. They meet at the Appian Way and embark on a journey through the dark, winding passages of the catacomb. Burger leads the way, using a lantern and a ball of string to navigate the labyrinthine tunnels. As they explore, Kennedy is captivated by the ancient relics and the historical significance of the site. However, Burger's demeanor becomes increasingly unsettling as he toys with the idea of leaving Kennedy in the dark, both literally and metaphorically. In a moment of cruel jest, Burger extinguishes the lantern, plunging Kennedy into complete darkness. He taunts Kennedy, suggesting that he must find his way out of the catacomb alone, while also revealing that he had been engaged to Mary. This revelation shocks Kennedy, who realizes the depth of Burger's betrayal. The darkness becomes a physical manifestation of Kennedy's panic and despair as he frantically searches for a way out. Ultimately, Kennedy's fate is sealed as he becomes lost in the catacomb. His body is later discovered, having succumbed to the dangers of the labyrinthine tombs. The narrative concludes with a report highlighting Burger's successful discovery of the catacomb, overshadowed by the tragic demise of his former friend. The story explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions, set against the backdrop of ancient Rome's rich archaeological history.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1898 · Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 7,495 words

First lines

"Look here, Burger," said Kennedy, "I do wish that you would confide in me."

What this Textopian page supports

The New Catacomb is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1898 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Short story
• Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• Date: 1898 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Mystery, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Drama, Suspense
• Length: 7,495 words
• Structure: 1 section, 125 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

• Work identity for The New Catacomb by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
• Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
• Readability and classroom-planning context
• Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

• What should a reader notice first when entering The New Catacomb?
• How does this short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
• Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

• The Secret Of The Sandhills by Arthur Gask
• The Calendar by Edgar Wallace
• The Poisoned Goblet by Arthur Gask
• The Shadow Of Larose by Arthur Gask
• The Sweizer Pump by Edgar Wallace
• The Strike Of The Fireworks by Carolyn Wells

Genres

• Mystery — The plot revolves around the discovery of a new catacomb, involving secrets and the unknown.
• Adventure — The characters embark on a journey into the catacombs, facing physical and intellectual challenges.
• Historical Fiction — The story is set in Rome and incorporates elements of archaeology and ancient history.
• Drama — The narrative explores personal relationships and moral dilemmas, particularly regarding love and betrayal.

Tags

mystery · adventure · suspense · detective · historical · crime · underground · catacombs · London · secrets · darkness · exploration

More by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

• The Parish Magazine (1914)
• The Great Brown-Pericord Motor (1914)
• The Holocaust of Manor Place (1901)
• The Debatable Case of Mrs. Emsley (1901)
• The Love Affair of George Vincent Parker (1901)
• The Disintegration Machine (1927)
• The Bully of Brocas Court (1914)
• The Brown Hand (1914)
• All works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle