Hornung, E.W.: Dead Men Tell No Tales. v1, 25 Sep 2008
 

1897 mystery story by E.W. Hornung. Ernest William Hornung (1866-1921) was an excellent Victorian author who is now mainly remembered for his Raffles stories (if he is remembered at all). Before Raffles, though, in 1897 Hornung wrote this wonderful story. This story is exciting, with a wonderful mixture of adventure and suspense that will leave you on the edge of your seat!

Mr. Cole's search for wealth in the 1851 gold rush in Australia leaves him dispirited and broke. Taking the next available ship back for England, the Lady Jermyn, he falls in love with Eva Denison, a beauty traveling with her exotic Portuguese stepfather. Disaster strikes when the ship catches fire, and Cole finds himself the sole survivor. Bereft after the loss of his true love, Cole seeks anonymity in London. But something is very strange; is he going mad, or is someone following him? If so, what do they want? Before the story is over, Cole with uncover a ghastly conspiracy, and propel him on an adventure that may cost him that which he loves the most.

Enjoy!