
A bustling country farm becomes the unlikely backdrop for a lively mystery when Uncle John, a genial retired millionaire, gathers his spirited nieces and a handful of local acquaintances for a weekend visit. Their conversations quickly turn from friendly banter to heated debates about the dubious loans Uncle John has been making to ambitious young men, hinting that not all of his charitable ventures end well.
As the nieces—each with her own sharp wit and curiosity—explore the farm’s creaky outbuildings, they stumble upon strange clues: a locked cupboard, whispered rumors about a mysterious “great trouble,” and a series of puzzling letters that suggest someone is hiding a secret. Determined to get to the bottom of the intrigue, the young detectives set up their own plans, turning the quiet countryside into a stage for amateur sleuthing and unexpected alliances.
The story blends gentle humor with a touch of suspense, inviting listeners to join the nieces as they untangle family loyalties, financial missteps, and a hidden mystery that promises plenty of twists before the final revelation.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (276K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2003-12-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1856–1919
Best known for creating the magical world of Oz, this American writer mixed fairy-tale wonder with humor, adventure, and a very modern sense of imagination. His stories have delighted children for generations and helped shape fantasy as we know it.
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