Nick Carter Stories No. 131, March 13, 1915: A fatal message; or, Nick Carter's slender clew

"A Fatal Message; or, Nick Carter's Slender Clew" is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the iconic detective Nick Carter, who uses his keen intellect and skills to unravel a mystery involving a suspicious telegram that hints at a potential crime. Set against a backdrop of intrigue and crime, the narrative promises a captivating journey filled with suspense as Nick Carter works to thwart a robbery. At the start of the story, Nick Carter is in a restaurant booth where he overhears two men discussing a peculiar telegram addressed to a stranger named John Dalton. The unusual content of the telegram piques Nick's interest, leading him to investigate further. He discovers that the telegram may be linked to a crime involving money being transported by the Southern Limited train. Nick quickly assembles his assistants, Chick Carter and Patsy Garvan, to intercept a special-delivery letter and to thwart the impending robbery. The opening sets a tone of urgency and intelligence, establishing Nick Carter as a formidable detective on the verge of unraveling a dangerous scheme.