
Set against the bustling streets of early‑20th‑century London, the story follows Peter Harding, a seasoned Harley‑Street physician whose mornings begin with a mix of coffee, witty letters, and the gentle banter of his wife, Molly. Through his correspondence with an old friend, the narrative reveals a world where medical practice intertwines with social expectations, genteel domestic life, and the subtle humor of a man who prefers “the art of lingering” to hasty decisions. As the day unfolds, Peter’s routine is interrupted by a seemingly ordinary patient whose case hints at something more unsettling beneath the surface.
The novel balances the intimate portrait of a doctor’s household—complete with lively conversation, lingering doubts, and the occasional melodrama of the era—with the emerging mystery that draws Peter into the hidden corridors of Harley Street. Readers are invited to experience the clash of professional duty and personal curiosity, all narrated in a voice that is both reflective and gently sardonic. The first act sets the stage for a compelling investigation that promises to test his seasoned judgment without sacrificing the charm of his everyday world.
Full title
The Corner of Harley Street Being Some Familiar Correspondence of Peter Harding, M.D.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (286K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Annie McGuire. This book was produced from scanned images of public domain material from the Internet Archive.
Release date
2012-05-12
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1880–1961
Best known for the sly comic novel Augustus Carp, Esq., this English doctor-writer balanced a serious medical career with a sharp gift for satire. His books often mix wit, observation, and an insider's feel for Edwardian and early 20th-century British life.
View all books