BASIL THOMSON

A rich but curmudgeonly old man dies suddenly, and there is evidence of murder. But what was he doing in the night, in a seldom visited part-ruined chapel in his country estate of Carfax Abbey? Who was the man seen racing from the scene in an Essex motor car?

None of the other guests could explain what she was doing in Crooked Lane during the nightBeautiful Margaret Gask, guest at Scudamore Hall, was shot to death on the driveway of the estate. The mink coat that she should have been wearing turned out to be the first clue Scotland Yard had to work on. Then a man she knew, a receiver of stolen goods, turns up dead. Soon more shady characters are drawn into the story: receivers, jewel thieves, confidence men and convicted felons on both sides of the Channel.Richardson, now Chief Constable, orchestrates the clues concerning a murdered French senator, the theft of a famous emerald, a fake Italian prince and a mysterious priest who sought sanctuary after perpetrating thefts and felonies all over France. The case ends back in Scudamore Hall, where an ecclesiastical robe replaces a mink coat as Exhibit A.The last and arguably most entertaining of all the Richardson novels, A Murder is Arranged (1937) has action, humour and a brilliant cast of major and minor characters. This new edition, the first in many decades, includes a new introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Few authors can claim such an intimate knowledge of Scotland Yard and criminals as Sir Basil Thomson, one-time Assistant Commissioner at the Yard. He provides subtle intrigue, clever deduction, and bright dialogue."Referee

First World War espionage was a fascinating and dangerous affair, spawning widespread paranoia in its clandestine wake. The hysteria of the age, stoked by those within the British establishment who sought to manipulate popular panic, meant there was no shortage of suspects. Exaggerated claims were rife: some 80,000 Germans were supposedly hidden all over Britain, just waiting for an impending (and imagined) invasion. No one could be trusted... Against this backdrop, as head of Scotland Yards Criminal Investigation Department, it was Basil Thomsons responsibility to hunt, arrest and interrogate the potential German spies identified by the nascent British intelligence services. Thomsons story is an extraordinary compendium of sleuthing and secrets from a real-life Sherlock Holmes, following the trails of the many specimens he tracked, including the famous dancer, courtesan and spy, Mata Hari. Yet his activities gained him enemies, as did his criticism of British intelligence, his ambition to control MI5 and his efforts to root out left-wing revolutionaries - which would ultimately prove to be the undoing of his career. Odd People is the insightful and wittily observed account of Thomsons incomparably exciting job, offering us a rare glimpse into the dizzying world of spies and the mind of the detective charged with foiling their elaborate plots. The Dialogue Espionage Classics series began in 2010 with the purpose of bringing back classic out-of-print spy stories that should never be forgotten. From the Great War to the Cold War, from the French Resistance to the Cambridge Five, from Special Operations to Bletchley Park, this fascinating spy history series includes some of the best military, espionage and adventure stories ever told.

In "Savage Island: An Account of a Sojourn in Niué and Tonga," Basil Thomson presents a captivating narrative that intricately weaves personal observation with rich historical context. Employing a vivid literary style, Thomson paints a detailed portrait of the islands cultures, geography, and social dynamics during the late 19th century. His work stands out within the tradition of travel literature, not only for its engaging prose but also for its critical reflections on colonialism and the clash of civilizations, offering readers a rare glimpse into the lives of the islanders. Basil Thomson was a British colonial administrator and a keen observer of the Pacific Islands, which informed his perspectives in this work. His experiences in the region and his interactions with the local populations provided a nuanced understanding of their customs and challenges. Thomsons background in natural history and anthropology led him to document not merely the picturesque but also the complexities of island life amidst colonial pressures, making his observations both timely and relevant. Readers are encouraged to delve into "Savage Island" for its compelling narrative and insightful commentary. This book is essential for those interested in Pacific history, anthropology, and the intricacies of cultural encounters, allowing for a profound appreciation of Thomsons insightful engagement with the enigmatic yet richly textured worlds of Niue and Tonga.

A BIG Sunbeam touring car was crawling along the concrete road of one of the new building estates bordering on Ealing. Its occupants were gazing at the fronts of the houses on either side of the road.I must explain that Christine is still under the spell of this new craze for modern houses, replete with all the gadgets which become your own property as soon as you have paid the first instalment to the building society, said Herbert Mitchell to his friend Jim Milsom, who had undertaken to cart them round in his car on their house-hunting expedition.They were friends of long standing. The Mitchells, who had been living in France from motives of economy, had lately been driven out by the persistent adherence of the French to the gold standard and the consequent high cost of living as compared with the cost in England.Im not under the spell of these long rows of houses all exactly alike, protested Christine. I was thinking of a detached bungalow somewhere

"What are you looking for, sir?" he said."Bloodstains." Scotland Yard is concerned with the murderer, or murderers, of the mysterious Bernard Pitt. The dead man is discovered with a false identity, courtesy of the many forged papers and documents found with him.The trail leads to France, where we discover why a French milliner chose to ride in a laundry basket, why the two American men are so interested in their wives hat trimmings, and why it is so difficult for the French police to touch a criminal with high political connections. But Richardson discovers that the murder of Bernard Pitt was only an incident in the diabolical plot linking a network of criminals on both sides of the Channel.The Milliners Hat Mystery, a novel which inspired Ian Fleming, was first published in 1937. This new edition, the first for many decades, includes an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Sir Basil Thomson is a past-master in the mysteries of Scotland Yard."Times Literary Supplement

He flung open a drawer and took from it a heavy dagger in a sheath with blood-stains upon it. On the blade were engraved the words, "Blut und Ehre!" Frank Everett was a rising young press attaché at the British Embassy in Paris - until he was found dead in his Rue St. Georges apartment, a knife wound to the throat. Was it a political assassination, a crime passionnel, or possibly even suicide?The foreign office call in the redoubtable Detective Inspector Richardson, who travels to Paris and must work with the French police in solving the case. He soon discovers that a mysterious coded number is one of the primary clues - if only he can decipher its meaning and unmask Everetts assassin.The Case of the Dead Diplomat was originally published in 1935. This new edition, the first in many decades, features an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Good entertainment as well as a perfectly sound detective story."Daily Telegraph"The story is remarkably well writtenhighly entertaining reading."Birmingham Gazette

In "The Fijians: A Study of the Decay of Custom," Basil Thomson meticulously examines the intricate tapestry of Fijian society in the late 19th century, as it grapples with the dual tides of colonial influence and cultural transformation. Employing a blend of ethnographic observation and historical analysis, Thomson illustrates the complexities of indigenous customs, rituals, and social structures while revealing how external forces have precipitated their gradual decline. His literary style is both accessible and scholarly, weaving narrative storytelling with rigorous ethnological documentation, reflecting the broader context of Victorian-era attitudes towards imperialism and cultural evolution. Basil Thomson, a British colonial administrator and explorer, was significantly influenced by his extensive travels in the South Pacific, where he observed the confluence of tradition and modernization. His firsthand experiences in Fiji inform his nuanced perspective, allowing him to present a compassionate yet critical examination of the Fijians plight amidst colonial encroachment. Thomsons engagement with the cultures he studied was characterized by a mix of fascination and a desire to document the rapid changes he witnessed, making his insights invaluable both then and now. This book is a compelling read for scholars of anthropology, history, and cultural studies alike. Thomsons evocative prose and deep understanding of Fijian customs offer invaluable insights into the impact of colonialism, making it essential for anyone interested in the dynamics of cultural change and resilience in the face of external pressures.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

"Savage Island: An Account of a Sojourn in Niué and Tonga" by Basil Thomson. Published by e-artnow. e-artnow publishes a wide range of titles that encompasses every genre. From well-known classics &a

In the hall he found the body of his maidservant, Helen Dunn, aged about fifty, lying on the floor near the telephone. She had bled profusely from a wound in the head and her body was cold.Richardsons second case begins with a murder and robbery at a quiet house in Laburnum Road, and goes on to include an escaped parrot and a seemingly perfect crime which threatened a scandal to shock all England.Follow with Detective-Sergeant Richardson the fantastic story of an antiquarians nephew, a pseudo policeman, and a stolen carsearch with him for a man wanted for murderanother who fainted at a political meetingthe Treasury note which, because of the name written on it, was a warrant of death. Packed with clues, excitement and humour, this mystery will be certain to thrill and satisfy even the most ardent devotee of detective fiction.Richardson Scores Again was first published in 1934. This new edition, the first in many decades, includes a new introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Sir Basil Thomsons tales are always good reading, and he has the knack of being accurate about Scotland Yard. His book is full of agreeable people, and his case is neatly put together." Dorothy L. Sayers, Sunday Times"Few authors can claim such an intimate knowledge of Scotland Yard and criminals as Sir Basil Thomson, one-time Assistant Commissioner at the Yard. He provides subtle intrigue, clever deduction, and bright dialogue, and the whole combines to make easily the best mystery yarn that has come my way in recent weeks. No words are wasted in the fast-moving plotThis book must not be missed."Referee

"Theres one thing which I daresay you noticedthat pair of slippers half kicked under the bath were of mens size.""Yes, I noticed that, too, and they were sprinkled with blood." A man went calmly about his work while his wife lay dead in the house. After he is arrested and accused of the murder, doubt is cast regarding his guilt. Richardson is assigned the case.Richardson delves into the murdered womans strange background, and becomes convinced that the law is holding an innocent man. With dogged persistence and courage he pursues the sinister figure who dominated the terrible business. Will he, in the end, with the aid of an initialled handbag and an initialled hammer, bring the case to a successful end and find the guilty person?Who Killed Stella Pomeroy? was originally published in 1936. This new edition, the first in many decades, features an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Sir Basil Thomsons tales are always good reading, and he has the knack of being accurate about Scotland Yard." Dorothy L. Sayers

"Im writing to you about the death of Mr. Dearborn. You bet the murderers laughing up his sleeve now that hes got away with it."An inquest is held in South Devon on the death of a man apparently killed in a motor accident on Dartmoor: the verdict is "Death from misadventure." But soon afterwards Scotland Yard and the Devon Chief Constable receive anonymous letters alleging that the verdict was wrong; that the death was caused by blows inflicted by a person, or persons, unknown.The Chief Constable asks for help from Scotland Yard. Richardson is detailed, as Chief Inspector C.I.D., to unravel the case. A discharged quarryman is suspected by the local police; Richardson clears him. He finds the writer of the anonymous letters, but he also finds that the dead man had shrouded his own past in mystery and was going under an assumed name. It looks like the most difficult case he has had to unravel, but Chance steps in to provide him with a clueThe Dartmoor Enigma was originally published in 1935. This new edition, the first in many decades, features an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Sir Basil Thomsons tales are always good reading, and he has the knack of being accurate about Scotland Yard." Dorothy L. Sayers

"The late Miss Clynes, sir? How dreadful. It must have been very sudden.""It was."Naomi Clynes was found dead, her head in the gas-oven. She left a suicide note, but Richardson, newly promoted to the rank of Inspector in the C.I.D., soon has cause to think this is a case of murder. With scarcely a clue beyond a postmark and a postage stamp, treasured by the deceased, he succeeds in bringing home the crime to a person whom no one would have suspected.The Case of Naomi Clynes was originally published in 1934. This new edition, the first in many decades, features an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."Sir Basil Thomson is a past-master in the mysteries of Scotland Yard, and this novel is a highly capable piece of workA brisk story, skilfully told."Times Literary Supplement"A first-class thriller. Written with lively vigour and a realism that can only come from an author who knows his subject, it can be wholeheartedly recommended as the best detective story of the week."Sunday Referee

In "Savage Island: An Account of a Sojourn in Niué and Tonga," Basil Thomson offers an insightful exploration of the islands of Niué and Tonga through a unique lens of adventure and ethnographic observation. Written in the late 19th century, the book is steeped in the literary style of travel narratives of its time, blending personal experience with meticulous observations of local customs, social structures, and the natural environment. Thomsons vivid prose invites readers into the islanders world, while also reflecting the periods colonial attitudes, striking a delicate balance between admiration and critique of the societies encountered. Basil Thomson, a distinguished British colonial administrator and writer, was deeply influenced by his extensive travels in the South Pacific. His experiences while serving in various capacities in the region inspired him to document the lives and cultures of the Pacific Islanders, offering a perspective that is both critical and appreciative. Thomsons background in anthropology and his keen observational skills enabled him to create a work that serves as both a captivating narrative and an important historical document. "Savage Island" is highly recommended for readers interested in travel literature, colonial studies, and Pacific history. Thomsons engaging storytelling coupled with his thoughtful analyses provides invaluable insights into the complexities of island life and the impacts of Western colonialism, making it a significant addition to the canon of travel writing.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

THE INGRAINED love of personal liberty inherent in the British people and their distrust in giving additional power to their governments made Great Britain one of the slowest countries in the world to institute police. Jurists were far in advance of public opinion. Jeremy Bentham (1747-1832) considered police necessary as a method of precaution to prevent crimes and calamities as well as to correct and cure them. Blackstone in his Commentaries (1765) wrote, "By public police and economy I mean the due regulation and domestic order of the kingdom, whereby the individuals of the State, like members of a well-governed family, are bound to conform their general behaviour to the rules of propriety, good neighbourhood and good manners; to be decent, industrious and inoffensive in their respective stations.

The D.D.I. recognized him and smiled. "That was a great case you brought us. Youll be interested to hear that it is a case of mur-r-der!"For eight years Basil Thomson headed the famous C.I.D., New Scotland Yard. He knew the Yard inside out. Now in this tale of mystery and detection we are taken behind the scenes. We are shown the greatest detection machine in the world in motion, and see how the Yard tracked down its man.Stand, then, with young P.C. Richardson on the misty corner of Baker Street, while the traffic of the city swings by, and fate lays at his feet the beginning of his career. Out of the fog brakes shriek, a big car jolts to a stop, and from beneath the wheels the crowd disentangles a bundle of old clothes, within which is a man quite dead; a man who had said to someone, "Very well, then; Ill call a policeman"and was killed. Work with him to the ingenious solution, when he takes from his pocket the clue holding the fate of a human life.Richardsons First Case was originally published in 1933. This new edition, the first in over seventy years, features an introduction by crime novelist Martin Edwards, author of acclaimed genre history The Golden Age of Murder."The story is a good one, with enough mystery in it to keep the reader wondering."Daily Telegraph

Inglaterra, 1935. El señor Dearborn fallece pocos días después de sufrir un accidente de tráfico. Se dictamina que la causa de la muerte ha sido motivada por el propio accidente. No obstante, una serie de cartas anonimas enviadas a Scotland Yard advierten del error que se esta cometiendo y piden que se posponga el entierro y se realice una investigacion mas profunda. El elegido para hacerse cargo del caso es el inspector jefe Richardson, famoso por su pericia para resolver casos dificiles. Con la inestimable ayuda del sargento Jago, Richardson comienza unas pesquisas que pronto le llevan a descubrir que por cada detalle resuelto en este misterio surgen nuevas intrigas, y todas ellas convergen en el enigma mas sorprendente de todos: el propio señor Dearborn.