
A delightfully chaotic romp, this work opens with a jumble of absurd conversations and a self‑aware preface that pokes fun at the author’s own literary reputation. The narrator’s tongue‑in‑cheek commentary sets a tone of playful irreverence, inviting listeners to indulge in a world where logic takes a back seat to sheer imaginative excess.
At the heart of the story sits a flamboyant “Great Detective,” garbed in a green coat, armed with false whiskers, goggles, and even a half‑bucket of cocaine. When his nervous secretary bursts in with news of a “mystery” so staggering it could plunge nations into war, the detective springs into action, swapping disguises with theatrical flair. Their latest case? The sudden disappearance of a European prince, a caper that promises wild twists, baffling clues, and a parade of eccentric characters—all presented with a wink and a grin that keeps the absurdity rolling.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (172K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2003-11-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1869–1944
Best known for sharp, warmhearted comic writing, this Canadian author and professor turned everyday life, politics, and small-town manners into enduring satire. His humor is light on its feet but often carries a serious edge beneath the laughs.
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