Chicago Charlie, the Columbian Detective

# Chicago Charlie, the Columbian Detective

This 1893 dime novel by Lieutenant A. K. Seems follows Chicago Charlie Clingstone, a sharp detective investigating the murder of John Malcomb, a broker found stabbed in his office during the World's Fair. The killer has attempted to write a message in blood on the wall but dies before completing it. Evidence includes a woman's footprints and finger-prints in dust, a stolen ring, and the testimony of an English visitor, Walesey. Chicago Charlie becomes personally invested when he discovers his promised wife, Daisy Malcomb, the victim's daughter, was seen near the office the night of the murder. Fearing she'll fall under suspicion, he requests assignment to the case and pledges his honor to the inspector that he'll report any evidence of her guilt impartially.