The Footsteps at the Lock

'The Footsteps at the Lock' is a classic mystery novel from the Golden Age of British detective fiction. Written by Ronald Knox, a founding member of the Detection Club, the story follows Miles Bredon, a sharp-witted investigator for the Indescribable Insurance Company. The narrative begins when two cousins, Derek and Nigel Burtell, embark on a canoeing trip along the River Thames. When only Nigel returns and Derek’s empty canoe is found near a lock, Bredon is dispatched to determine if a crime has been committed or if an elaborate insurance fraud is at play.As the investigation unfolds, the plot delves into themes of greed, sibling rivalry, and the complexities of inheritance. Knox utilizes a meticulous 'fair play' approach, providing readers with the same clues as the investigator to solve the puzzle of the missing cousin and the mysterious footsteps found at the scene. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the English waterways, 'The Footsteps at the Lock' is celebrated for its intricate plotting, clever alibis, and the dry wit of its protagonist. It remains a quintessential example of early 20th-century mystery writing, showcasing the literary craftsmanship that defined the golden era of the genre.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.