'The Spider' Summary

The Spider is a mystery novel set in Melbourne, Australia in the late 19th century. The story follows Inspector Vernon, a police detective, as he tries to track down the mysterious blackmailer known as Nemo. Nemo is a master of disguise and manipulation, and he seems to be one step ahead of Vernon at every turn. As the case progresses, Vernon uncovers a web of corruption and blackmail that reaches to the highest levels of society.

The novel begins with the murder of a young woman named Lucy Corson. Vernon is called to the scene of the crime, and he quickly realizes that this is no ordinary murder. The victim has been strangled with a silken cord, and there is a cryptic message left at the scene: "The Spider has been here."

Vernon soon learns that Lucy was blackmailing a wealthy businessman named John Maunders. Maunders is a ruthless and unscrupulous man, and he is willing to do anything to protect his secrets. He hires a private detective named Reginald Vernon to find out who is blackmailing him, but Vernon is soon drawn into the web of intrigue that Nemo has spun.

As Vernon gets closer to the truth, he finds himself in danger. Nemo is a dangerous and unpredictable adversary, and he will stop at nothing to protect his secrets. Vernon must use all of his skills and cunning to catch Nemo and bring him to justice.

The Spider is a classic mystery novel that has been enjoyed by readers for generations. It is a gripping and suspenseful story that will keep you guessing until the very end. The novel is also a social commentary on the corruption and hypocrisy of the Victorian era.