British Library Publishing have chosen to release a series of Crime Mysteries which were first published between the 1890, s to the 1960’s.( This book was first published in 1929.) They feel there are many aspects of these stories which will fascinate modern readers. They acknowledge that the language used, stereotyping and attitudes may not match publishing standard of today. However, this is an opportunity for the public to read some of the rare books in their collection, and to look back into the time the story is told.
The story begins with the main character, Will Harvell, who was born at sea. His father was a ship’s captain, and his mother followed him on his travels. When he was eight years old, Will’s ship was wrecked in a storm, and he survived but his parents drowned. He was discovered by a Spanish Priest, who cared for him until he was able to place him on a ship bound for England.
Will was reunited with his fiercely religious grandparents and lived with them for some time. Eventually he was sent to a school, however he ran away from there and was looked after by a mariner. His life after this is one of learning quickly, staying out of trouble and always being alert. He is taken on board a ship, and quickly learns his trade.
The writing in this book is detailed, “But you need not have made such haste,” said he. It suits the period and the story well and engages the reader. One is transported to such a time where people had stories to tell, and marvelous tales to translate. This is a rare opportunity to delve into stories and author from the past.
E. H. Visiak was the pen name of the British writer and critic Edward Harold Physick, an expert on Milton and celebrated Edwardian poet best known for Buccaneer Ballads (1910) and a handful of strange short stories. His novel Medusa (1929) is heralded as an important contribution to weird fiction.
