The Popular Magazine

The Popular Magazine, January 1, 1913 This issue contains *The Spellbinders*, a complete novel by Francis Lynde examining corruption and reform in state politics. The protagonist, Edward Van Horne, an ambitious young attorney in the "Mesquite State," navigates the problem of ousting a political boss without becoming one himself—an exploration of power's corrupting nature. The issue also features an extensive array of short fiction: Peter B. Kyne's "A Brave Man," about a military officer undone by hemophobia; B. M. Bower's "The Ghost of One Man Coulee," concerning a violinist's supernatural returns; Richard Washburn Child's "Pizen," a romantic adventure; and tales by Rupert Hughes, Hulbert Footner, Emerson Hough, and George Bronson-Howard. Burton E. Stevenson's mystery serial "The Mind Master" begins its run, describing a wealthy recluse's enigma. Additional serials include "Precious Water" (A. M. Chisholm), depicting ranching conflicts, and "The Inn of the Seven Sins" (Captain Hector Orme Blending), set in the Philippines. Stories span mining camps, naval life, newspaper offices, and lumberjack territories.