The Riddle of the Sands Preface

In which the narrator introduces the curious and delicate tale of a yachting adventure revealed to him by his friend “Carruthers,” involving a discovery of great national significance. He explains the careful decisions made to protect identities and preserve reputations while unfolding the narrative candidly, and sets the tone for a story told with an unvarnished honesty that mingles personal experience with sober reflection.