The Mardi Gras Mystery is an interesting novella by H. Bedford-Jones that appeared in Short Stories in the August 1920 issue. I got the edition reprinted by Steeger Books in its H. Bedford-Jones Library.
Set in New Orleans shortly after the start of Prohibition during Mardi Gras, we don’t have parades, but there are a variety of balls, or masques, held by various clubs and prominent citizens. We also learn there is a masked thief called the “Midnight Masquer” who has been hitting these events, stealing from the attendees, and getting away. But he is only part of the mystery going on.
We meet our main characters early on.
First is Jachin Fell, a prominent, if somewhat mysterious, individual. He is a lawyer who does not practice, a member of several prominent clubs, and a chess master, but what he does for a living is unclear. Henry Gramont is a recent resident to the city. The son of a French prince, he tries to avoid the title, wanting to be an American like his mother. His reasons for coming to New Orleans are unclear.
Lucie Ledanois is a young lady being pursued by two men, but only one does she favor. Banker Joseph Maillard and his son Bob are both involved. Are both of them scoundrels, or only one? And there seems to be a gang of criminals operating in the area, led by Memphis Izzy Gumberts. Are they connected to the Midnight Masquer?
And what is the Midnight Masquer after? Wealth, or something more? Things get complicated when Joseph Maillard is murdered. Is it his son, or the Masquer? Everyone seems to have secrets, and it all doesn’t come out until the end.
This was a very interesting mystery. Just when I thought we had gotten the full story, things take a turn, but in a good way. Bedford-Jones never fails to create an exciting story with some very interesting characters.
Add Comment