The Midnight Guest: A Detective Story

"The Midnight Guest: A Detective Story" by Fred M. White is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the murder of Louis Delahay, a famous artist, and the subsequent investigation into his death, which centers on his wife, Mrs. Delahay, and their friend, Lord Ravenspur. The narrative sets the stage for a complex web of intrigue involving secrets, mistaken identities, and the sinister machinations of the characters connected to the crime. The opening portion introduces a dramatic scene in which a veiled woman, later revealed to be Mrs. Delahay, urgently seeks out Lord Ravenspur to inform him of her husband's shocking murder. She describes her concerns and the events leading up to his death, revealing her distress and the mystery surrounding his final hours. As Ravenspur contemplates the implications of the murder and delves into an investigation alongside police inspector Dallas, questions arise about the true nature of Delahay's relationships and the circumstances of his demise, laying the groundwork for a gripping and suspenseful tale.