The Arthur Conan Doyle Library

In which the gentleman reader is introduced to a distinguished collection of narratives penned by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, encompassing his most celebrated characters and tales. The volumes promise a rich tapestry of adventure, intellect, and historical romance, inviting one to partake in the varied exploits contained within.

In which the narrative tapestry of Arthur Conan Doyle’s world is briefly unfurled through the mention of his most celebrated works, inviting the reader into a realm of adventure and intrigue. This catalogue, though sparse in detail, suggests the breadth of tales that await exploration, each shimmering with the promise of gallantry, mystery, and historical splendour.

In which the foundation is laid for a series of thrilling recountings, introducing us to the distinguished and valiant Brigadier Gerard amidst the rich tapestry of the Napoleonic era. Though brief, this prelude kindles anticipation for the dashing exploits and witty narratives that are to follow.

In which we are introduced to the ever-valiant Brigadier Gerard, whose adventures promise an engaging blend of valour and wit in the Napoleonic era. The narrative unfolds with lively detail, setting the stage for exploits that are at once spirited and endearingly human.

In which the reader is first introduced to the valiant and spirited Brigadier Gerard, whose adventures promise a blend of wit and martial prowess amidst the turbulent times of Napoleonic France. With an engaging narrative style, the setting and character groundwork are carefully laid, inviting us into a world where honour and audacity intertwine.

In which the reader is introduced to the charming and resourceful Brigadier Gerard, whose adventurous spirit sets the stage for a series of daring exploits. The narrative begins in a tone both engaging and attentive, inviting one to accompany this gallant officer through the trials and triumphs of his military career.

In which the author recounts a memorable breakfast with the Prime Minister Lloyd George, reflecting on the complexities of war leadership and the resolve of the Allied forces, before embarking on a vivid journey to the Australian front in 1918, where he witnesses the solemnity and struggle of battle amidst the ruins and the courage of the soldiers. The narrative culminates in a poignant moment of victory as the author observes the aftermath of conflict and the celebrations of Armistice in London, capturing both the gravity and relief of the war’s end.

In which the author reflects upon his profound journey into psychic and spiritual investigations, detailing the compelling experiences and evidences that have transformed his scepticism into firm conviction, buoyed by the steadfast support of his wife and their shared mission to disseminate these revelations. He observes with keen discernment the trials faced by the movement amidst scepticism and misunderstanding, yet remains resolute that the ultimate impact of this spiritual knowledge will irrevocably reshape humanity’s understanding of life, death, and the hereafter.

In which the author traverses the Italian front during the Great War, witnessing the harsh realities of mountain warfare, the valour of Italian soldiers, and the relentless artillery duels that mark the frontier with Austria-Hungary. Alongside vivid encounters with war’s dangers and the quiet dignity of men in the trenches, he shares a curious experience of premonition that foreshadows a crucial turn in the conflict.

In which the author, returning to Paris amidst the somber tidings of Lord Kitchener's death, journeys to the French front lines near Soissons and the Argonne, encountering a vivid array of military figures and witnessing the resilience and resourcefulness of French soldiers amid the ravaged landscape and trench warfare. Alongside reflections on the courage, discipline, and varied personalities of French generals and troops, he observes the profound effects of the war on the men and the land, noting small but significant gestures of honour such as the introduction of wound stripes on British uniforms.

In which the author gains permission to visit the British front during the Great War, experiencing firsthand the grim realities and remarkable discipline of the troops amidst the devastated landscapes of Flanders and the Ypres Salient. He encounters generals and soldiers alike, contemplates the solemn grandeur of ruined cities, and reflects on the immense organisational efforts and steadfast spirit sustaining the war effort.

In which the author recounts the stirring inception and evolution of the Civilian Reserve amidst the tumult of war, weaving together personal experiences with reflections on the nation’s collective endeavour and the peculiarities of home front life. Alongside these narratives, he offers poignant glimpses of encounters with figures both eminent and obscure, revealing the layered fabric of courage, loss and innovation characterising the great conflict.

In which the author recounts a summer journey through the vast and varied landscapes of Canada and the northern United States, observing the interplay of nature, human endeavour, and history from the baseball diamond to the rugged Rockies and burgeoning prairie towns. Along the way, he reflects on the spirit of the people, the wild creatures still roaming preserved parks, and the political and social conditions shaping the continent’s future.

In which the author recounts his gradual recognition of the looming conflict between Britain and Germany, prompted by observations during an international motor race and the study of military writings, leading to concerns about naval warfare and the strategic necessity of innovations like the Channel Tunnel. He also describes his efforts to improve naval safety measures and reflects on the poignant hopes expressed by an Irish nationalist for unity amid wartime divisions.

In which the author offers a series of personal recollections and character sketches of eminent figures from the realms of politics, literature, and society, revealing their peculiarities and human qualities behind the public mask. These intimate anecdotes, drawn from varied encounters with Roosevelt, Balfour, Kipling, Barrie, and others, gently illuminate the texture of their personalities and the subtleties of their minds.

In which the author reflects upon his diverse experiences in sport, spanning from football and cricket to boxing and skiing, offering candid opinions on the nature and morality of various games while recounting personal anecdotes and encounters with notable figures. He also shares musings on the virtues sport imparts, such as courage, fairness, and camaraderie, illustrating how these pastimes have enriched his life and shaped character across the years.

In which Sir Arthur Conan Doyle recounts his post-war literary endeavours and the complex engagement with two notorious legal cases, Edalji and Oscar Slater, revealing his deep concern for justice amidst official obstinacy. He also reflects on his views regarding modern warfare, personal loss, and a principled stand against religious intolerance in the King's Coronation Oath.

In which the author recounts his journeys to Constantinople during the Holy month of Ramadan, experiencing the grandeur of the Night of Power and witnessing scenes both curious and dramatic, alongside ventures in journalism and theatre that brought both triumph and financial peril. He also reflects upon his involvement in humanitarian causes, sporting affairs, and the complexities of psychic phenomena, divorce reform, and speculative enterprises, offering a candid glimpse into a varied and eventful middle life.

In which the author recounts his spirited yet ill-fated efforts to enter Parliament, contending with the rigours of Scottish political life, the vicissitudes of public opinion, and the formidable challenges of party loyalty and local antagonisms. Through these electoral adventures, he gains a sober understanding of the political arena’s thorny character and his own true vocation beyond its confines.

In which Arthur Conan Doyle undertakes the formidable task of composing and widely disseminating a pamphlet to counter the widespread misrepresentations of British conduct in the South African War, enlisting publishers, foreign translations, and public subscriptions with remarkable success. Through this enterprise, he observes the shifting tone of Continental opinion and the unexpected uses to which surplus funds are put, revealing much about the importance of clear and honest public discourse in the defence of national honour.

In which the narrative traverses the vast veldt towards Brandfort, portraying the resolute advance of British forces punctuated by artillery duels, forays into looted farms, and the somber discovery of a fallen comrade's solitary end amidst the sprawling plain. Through vivid sketches of soldiers and civilians alike, the passage gently unfolds the stoic endurance, sporadic hardships, and grim realities that underlie the campaign’s forward march.

In which the chronicler navigates the tangled rivalries and harsh realities of military life amid the South African campaign, tending to both the physical wounds of war and the delicate wounds of morale. His journey leads him through tense railway travels, reflective encounters with commanders, and the quiet moments amid desolation that reveal the stubborn endurance of the human spirit.

In which the sombre and stirring climate of the South African War unfolds, as the author joins the Langman Hospital expedition to offer aid amid the tumult of battles, epidemics, and the austere vicissitudes of campaign life. The narrative paints a vivid tableau of the grim conditions at Bloemfontein, the challenges of military medical work, and the indomitable spirit of both comrades and patients beneath the relentless African sky.

In which the narrative unfolds amidst the serene landscape of Hindhead, where constructing a new home and engaging in literary pursuits occupy the author's days, while his contemplations drift between materialist reason and the enigmatic whispers of psychic phenomena. Through encounters with haunted houses and secret societies, he reveals a cautious curiosity towards the supernatural, all against the sombre backdrop of looming conflict in South Africa that stirs a nation’s resolve.

In which the narrator finds himself drawn irresistibly to the shifting dramas of Egypt’s southern frontier, joining a motley company of soldiers, correspondents, and camels amidst the looming threat of conflict. Along the way, he encounters the curious habits of desert life, the indomitable spirit of British officers, and the quiet tension of a land poised on the brink of war.

In which the narrative unfolds amid the arid splendour of Egypt, recounting excursions up the Nile, a perilous ride on an unruly steed, and an exploration of an ancient Coptic monastery in the desolate desert, all whilst reflecting on the steadfast men who shaped the destiny of that historic land. The tale concludes with a sudden turn of events conveyed within the convivial walls of the Cairo Turf Club, where unexpected news hints at stirring times ahead.

In which the author reflects on the many incarnations and parodies of his celebrated detective Sherlock Holmes, touches upon the intricacies behind his stories' construction, and shares curious correspondences and unsolved enigmas encountered beyond fiction. The narrative pleasantly meanders through theatrical ventures, critical observations, and genuine perplexities, giving us a glimpse of the interplay between imagination and reality.

In which the reader is gently conveyed through a period marked by both literary vigour in London’s circles and the personal trials of a family beset by grave illness, prompting a move to the Alpine retreats of Davos and Maloja that blend healthful pursuit with creative endeavour. Amidst reflections on psychic inquiry and initial forays into American lecturing, the narrative captures a world of earnest friendships, professional challenges, and glimpses of wider imperial tensions with graceful candour.

In which the author recounts his initial scepticism towards Spiritualism, only to be gradually persuaded by experiments in telepathy and encounters with leading figures of psychic studies, while also exploring the intriguing phenomena of table-turning and Theosophy. Moreover, he describes a pivotal journey to Berlin to witness a medical demonstration, his growing engagement in literary and political circles, and the momentous decision to leave provincial practice for London with a new sense of purpose and adventure.

In which the author recounts a wintry sojourn in Vienna and his return to London where he establishes a modest medical practice and explores literary ventures, including the creation of a singular central character who becomes dear to many. Amidst reflections on professional struggle and artistic ambition, he also contemplates the manifold personae within himself, acknowledging the effort required to summon the analytical mind of his celebrated detective.

In which the author reflects upon the gradual development of his literary career, from early modest short stories to the creation of his celebrated detective, Sherlock Holmes, alongside his ventures into historical novels and encounters with notable literary figures of the day. These experiences are interwoven with recollections of the challenges and encouragements he faced, as well as a brief engagement with military medical service that marked a turning point in his life.

In which a young physician establishes a modest practice in Portsmouth, navigating the trials of poverty, peculiar patients, and the joys and sorrows of domestic life with a bright spirit and steadfast resolve. Amidst the quiet rhythms of his daily routine and the tender company of family, the seeds of his future literary and philosophical pursuits begin to quietly take root.

In which a young medical graduate embarks upon a challenging voyage aboard the Mayumba to the West African coast, contending with fierce storms, tropical diseases, and the stark realities of colonial life in regions where death and hardship are ever-present. Through vivid encounters with native customs, perilous waters, and the trials of shipboard existence, the author reflects on the formidable and often harsh conditions that shape both the land and its visitors.

In which I recount my attempts to establish a medical practice alongside a singular and tempestuous companion whose eccentric methods yield both notoriety and success in the seaside towns of Plymouth and Portsmouth. Amidst a peculiar friendship tested by misunderstandings and righted by resolute independence, I also describe the humble beginnings of my own practice and the challenges of furnishing and settling into a new life.

In which a young man returns to Edinburgh with little to show for his time abroad and embarks upon the arduous study of medicine amidst family hardship and spiritual questioning, marked by encounters with notable professors and the early stirrings of literary ambition. Amidst this backdrop of trials, reflections on faith, and the practical struggles of a medical student’s life, a formative experience is recounted that heralds a more extraordinary adventure yet to come.

In which the young author recounts his seven months aboard the whaler Hope, under the seasoned captain John Gray, detailing the rugged life of the crew, the peculiar characters, and the raw experiences of sealing and whaling in the Arctic’s unyielding yet enchanting realm. He reflects upon the unique harshness and fascination of the polar environment, the camaraderie forged in isolation, and the profound impact of such a voyage on body and spirit.

In which the early life and distinguished ancestry of the author come vividly to light, tracing the artistic legacy of his grandfather "H. B." and the noble, if somewhat beleaguered, Irish and Scottish lineages of his parents. The narrative softly unfolds scenes of a Spartan childhood in Edinburgh, enlivened by youthful scrapes, literary awakenings, and the first glimpse of the stirring political moments of his time.

In which the young Arthur Conan Doyle recounts his rigorous and often austere education under the strict regime of the Jesuits at Hodder, Stonyhurst, and later a German school, reflecting on both the harsh discipline and the unexpected awakening of his literary inclinations. He also describes a brief, humbling visit to his granduncle in Paris, setting the stage for his transition from boyhood to the wider world beyond school walls.

In which a cunning captain and his loyal companions seize control of a vessel with calculated resolve, steering towards the remote island of St. Helena under a veil of secrecy and subterfuge. There, amidst the shadow of great history, the narrator confronts a poignant moment of revelation that stirs the deepest sentiments of duty and remembrance.

In which the Brigadier, reflecting on the splendid yet solemn twilight of his life, recounts an extraordinary and secret adventure tied to the enduring loyalty of Napoleon's devoted followers during the Emperor’s exile. He finds himself drawn into a mysterious maritime mission to the Guinea coast, aboard a curious brig captained by the enigmatic Fourneau, amidst the hopeful but troubled company of erstwhile Napoleonic officers.

In which the intrepid Etienne Gerard finds himself ensnared by Prussian pursuers and embarks upon a desperate, skillful flight across the countryside, his courage and resourcefulness tested to the utmost. Despite grave peril and grievous wounds to his steed, he clings to hope and honour, determined to rally his comrades with the gallantry befitting a soldier of his renowned reputation.

In which a small, desperate band attempts to escort the Emperor along a lonely road, only to find themselves isolated and confronted by an imminent enemy cavalry. Through swift wits and daring horsemanship, a brave soldier adopts the guise of the Emperor to divert pursuers and secure a precarious escape.

In which the resolute Colonel Gerard braves the chaos of a shattered battlefield to deliver vital messages amid the tumult of retreat and valiant last stands. Amid sights of devastation and undaunted courage, he pursues the Emperor through the night, bearing witness to the profound cost of honour and defeat.

In which the formidable Marshal Blucher and his staff prepare to crush the English forces, while a daring young Dragoon named Count Stein is entrusted with a secret and perilous mission to capture the elusive Emperor amid the chaos of battle. Meanwhile, our gallant Etienne Gerard, caught behind enemy lines and disguised in enemy attire, steels himself to undertake a courageous quest through hostile terrain to fulfil a duty that may yet determine the fate of France.

In which our gallant narrator, seeking Marshal Grouchy amidst the turbulent march of Prussian troops, finds himself ensnared in a Belgian inn where loyalties are as tangled as the opposing armies’ movements. Concealed in the attic and observing the grim passage of the exhausted soldiers below, he contemplates the weight of his mission whilst fate holds him captive and offers unexpected encounters within the very heart of the enemy’s advance.

In which the ever-valiant Brigadier Gérard recounts the steadfast spirit and formidable presence of the French army on the eve of Waterloo, reflecting upon the glory and gravity that attended his final campaign under the Emperor’s gaze. Amidst the thunderous preparations and cautious manoeuvres, he is entrusted with a critical mission, urging him through dense woods towards Marshal Grouchy to deliver orders that may yet determine the fate of the day.

In which Colonel Gerard finds himself a prisoner in a Russian village, subjected to the unyielding whims of his captors and the conflicting sympathies of a Russian lady whose allegiance complicates his fate. Amidst cold confinement and haunting recollections, he navigates the delicate balance of honour, parole, and escape in the harsh theatre of war.

In which Colonel Gerard captures a Russian officer bearing a cryptic message, enlists the aid of a village priest's daughter to decipher its meaning, and discovers a perilous secret that leads him and his men into a treacherous ambush. Amidst the ensuing chaos and personal peril, Gerard reflects on the heavy cost of the mission and the bitter fortune of war.

In which Major Etienne Gerard reflects with poignant nostalgia upon his years of service and the passing of time as he attends a grand military review, before recounting his perilous mission during the harrowing retreat from Russia, where he is tasked with a critical raid to secure sustenance for the starving army. With the spectre of relentless Cossack attacks lurking in the winter wilderness, Gerard leads a small, determined band of cavalry through the snow towards Minsk, encountering unexpected dangers on their desperate quest.

In which Colonel Gerard becomes embroiled in a delicate and perilous family matter involving his friend Lord Rufton, the latter's sister Lady Jane, and her estranged husband Lord George Dacre, leading to an unexpected and tense encounter. With honour and skill, Gerard navigates a challenge to a duel, striving to protect the lady’s dignity whilst upholding the strictest codes of gentlemanly conduct.