Beadle's Dime Library No. 918

Catalog Note *Beadle and Adams Weekly*, No. 118 (May 27, 1896) features the opening installment of "The Double-Edged Detective: A Story of the Claim-Jumpers at Paradise Park" by Jos. E. Badger Jr. The narrative depicts two prospectors conducting a clandestine nighttime inspection of a remote mine, examining ore-laden walls by dark lantern in Paradise Park. Upon discovering substantial mineral wealth, they conspire to murder the mine's elderly owner, Reese Baker, and forge documents to claim ownership. One conspirator expresses unease about the scheme's risks, noting Baker's son—called Jacky or John—might present future complications. The other schemer dismisses such concerns and resolves to proceed with eliminating both Baker and his son if necessary to secure their prize. The installment ends with the protagonists surveying the cavern's glimmering metal deposits, confident in their criminal enterprise.