The Argosy, Vol. 39

This issue of The Argosy (February 1885) contains chapter five and six of "The Mystery of Allan Grale," a serialized mystery novel. In chapter five, "Misgivings," General Vivian grows irritated that his nephew George must leave for London to view a picture gallery, neglecting business at home. During breakfast, Maria mentions a suspicious stranger—a woman in a yellow cloak—who approached widow Massey about renting rooms without providing her name. Edgar recalls seeing a woman matching this description at the railway station, appearing to watch for someone covertly. The General expresses physical decline, and later confides to Maria that both George and Edgar seem secretive, withholding his confidence. Edgar, burdened by an unnamed secret, decides to visit Allan Grale for advice. Chapter six, "Searching the Desks," shifts focus. Mr. Grale has discovered systematic theft from his counting-house safe and the forging of cheques bearing his signature, which his bankers have cashed. He enlists his son Allan to help investigate, appointing him to search among the employees' desks.