
In a modest laboratory, a meticulous bacteriologist demonstrates the terrifying power of a single sealed tube of living cholera germs. When a pale, nervous visitor—sent by a mysterious acquaintance—examines the lethal specimen, the conversation turns from scientific curiosity to the chilling notion of unleashing disease through a city’s water supply. Their uneasy dialogue hints at a dangerous intersection of science, ideology, and the temptation to weaponise the invisible, leaving listeners to wonder how far a single act of curiosity might go.
The collection continues with a variety of speculative tales that explore the uncanny consequences of emerging technologies and human ambition. From a charismatic inventor harnessing electricity to uncanny encounters with the natural world, each story blends sharp wit with a subtle warning about progress unchecked. Listeners will find a rich tapestry of early science‑fiction that entertains while prompting reflection on the moral choices hidden behind every breakthrough.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (240K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Etext produced by Elaine Walker, Josephine Paolucci and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. HTML file produced by David Widger
Release date
2004-06-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1866–1946
A pioneer of modern science fiction, this prolific English writer imagined time travel, alien invasion, and invisible men with a mix of suspense and sharp social insight. His stories still feel lively because they pair big ideas with very human fears and hopes.
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