The Argosy, Vol. 75

This September 1901 issue of *The Argosy* contains Chapter XXIII of "Malicious Fortune" by Stella M. Daring. In this serial's legal drama, protagonist Helen has testified under false identity to protect Major Carstairs from murder charges; the jury convicts him instead of manslaughter, sentencing him to three years' penal servitude. Helen learns that Dickie Tiark's well-intentioned disclosure of her secret marriage to opposing counsel Anstruther ruined their defense strategy. Denisthorne, their lawyer, furiously realizes he lacked preparation to counter this revelation, leaving Helen vulnerable to perjury prosecution. Devastated yet unable to help Carstairs, Helen is summoned by Clutterbuck, a cottager, who cryptically indicates a young man at his home awaits her—someone departing with fishing boats that evening. The mystery visitor's identity remains unrevealed as Helen prepares to depart secretly that night.