The Arthur Conan Doyle Library

In which the author recounts his spirited yet ill-fated efforts to enter Parliament, contending with the rigours of Scottish political life, the vicissitudes of public opinion, and the formidable challenges of party loyalty and local antagonisms. Through these electoral adventures, he gains a sober understanding of the political arena’s thorny character and his own true vocation beyond its confine...

In which the chronicler navigates the tangled rivalries and harsh realities of military life amid the South African campaign, tending to both the physical wounds of war and the delicate wounds of morale. His journey leads him through tense railway travels, reflective encounters with commanders, and the quiet moments amid desolation that reveal the stubborn endurance of the human spirit.

In which the narrative traverses the vast veldt towards Brandfort, portraying the resolute advance of British forces punctuated by artillery duels, forays into looted farms, and the somber discovery of a fallen comrade's solitary end amidst the sprawling plain. Through vivid sketches of soldiers and civilians alike, the passage gently unfolds the stoic endurance, sporadic hardships, and grim reali...

In which the narrative unfolds amidst the serene landscape of Hindhead, where constructing a new home and engaging in literary pursuits occupy the author's days, while his contemplations drift between materialist reason and the enigmatic whispers of psychic phenomena. Through encounters with haunted houses and secret societies, he reveals a cautious curiosity towards the supernatural, all against...

In which the sombre and stirring climate of the South African War unfolds, as the author joins the Langman Hospital expedition to offer aid amid the tumult of battles, epidemics, and the austere vicissitudes of campaign life. The narrative paints a vivid tableau of the grim conditions at Bloemfontein, the challenges of military medical work, and the indomitable spirit of both comrades and patients...

In which the narrator finds himself drawn irresistibly to the shifting dramas of Egypt’s southern frontier, joining a motley company of soldiers, correspondents, and camels amidst the looming threat of conflict. Along the way, he encounters the curious habits of desert life, the indomitable spirit of British officers, and the quiet tension of a land poised on the brink of war.

In which the narrative unfolds amid the arid splendour of Egypt, recounting excursions up the Nile, a perilous ride on an unruly steed, and an exploration of an ancient Coptic monastery in the desolate desert, all whilst reflecting on the steadfast men who shaped the destiny of that historic land. The tale concludes with a sudden turn of events conveyed within the convivial walls of the Cairo Turf...

In which the reader is gently conveyed through a period marked by both literary vigour in London’s circles and the personal trials of a family beset by grave illness, prompting a move to the Alpine retreats of Davos and Maloja that blend healthful pursuit with creative endeavour. Amidst reflections on psychic inquiry and initial forays into American lecturing, the narrative captures a world of ear...

In which the author reflects on the many incarnations and parodies of his celebrated detective Sherlock Holmes, touches upon the intricacies behind his stories' construction, and shares curious correspondences and unsolved enigmas encountered beyond fiction. The narrative pleasantly meanders through theatrical ventures, critical observations, and genuine perplexities, giving us a glimpse of the in...

In which the author recounts a wintry sojourn in Vienna and his return to London where he establishes a modest medical practice and explores literary ventures, including the creation of a singular central character who becomes dear to many. Amidst reflections on professional struggle and artistic ambition, he also contemplates the manifold personae within himself, acknowledging the effort required...

In which the author recounts his initial scepticism towards Spiritualism, only to be gradually persuaded by experiments in telepathy and encounters with leading figures of psychic studies, while also exploring the intriguing phenomena of table-turning and Theosophy. Moreover, he describes a pivotal journey to Berlin to witness a medical demonstration, his growing engagement in literary and politic...

In which a young physician establishes a modest practice in Portsmouth, navigating the trials of poverty, peculiar patients, and the joys and sorrows of domestic life with a bright spirit and steadfast resolve. Amidst the quiet rhythms of his daily routine and the tender company of family, the seeds of his future literary and philosophical pursuits begin to quietly take root.

In which the author reflects upon the gradual development of his literary career, from early modest short stories to the creation of his celebrated detective, Sherlock Holmes, alongside his ventures into historical novels and encounters with notable literary figures of the day. These experiences are interwoven with recollections of the challenges and encouragements he faced, as well as a brief eng...

In which I recount my attempts to establish a medical practice alongside a singular and tempestuous companion whose eccentric methods yield both notoriety and success in the seaside towns of Plymouth and Portsmouth. Amidst a peculiar friendship tested by misunderstandings and righted by resolute independence, I also describe the humble beginnings of my own practice and the challenges of furnishing...

In which a young medical graduate embarks upon a challenging voyage aboard the Mayumba to the West African coast, contending with fierce storms, tropical diseases, and the stark realities of colonial life in regions where death and hardship are ever-present. Through vivid encounters with native customs, perilous waters, and the trials of shipboard existence, the author reflects on the formidable a...

In which the young author recounts his seven months aboard the whaler Hope, under the seasoned captain John Gray, detailing the rugged life of the crew, the peculiar characters, and the raw experiences of sealing and whaling in the Arctic’s unyielding yet enchanting realm. He reflects upon the unique harshness and fascination of the polar environment, the camaraderie forged in isolation, and the p...

In which a young man returns to Edinburgh with little to show for his time abroad and embarks upon the arduous study of medicine amidst family hardship and spiritual questioning, marked by encounters with notable professors and the early stirrings of literary ambition. Amidst this backdrop of trials, reflections on faith, and the practical struggles of a medical student’s life, a formative experie...

In which the early life and distinguished ancestry of the author come vividly to light, tracing the artistic legacy of his grandfather "H. B." and the noble, if somewhat beleaguered, Irish and Scottish lineages of his parents. The narrative softly unfolds scenes of a Spartan childhood in Edinburgh, enlivened by youthful scrapes, literary awakenings, and the first glimpse of the stirring political...

In which the young Arthur Conan Doyle recounts his rigorous and often austere education under the strict regime of the Jesuits at Hodder, Stonyhurst, and later a German school, reflecting on both the harsh discipline and the unexpected awakening of his literary inclinations. He also describes a brief, humbling visit to his granduncle in Paris, setting the stage for his transition from boyhood to t...

In which a cunning captain and his loyal companions seize control of a vessel with calculated resolve, steering towards the remote island of St. Helena under a veil of secrecy and subterfuge. There, amidst the shadow of great history, the narrator confronts a poignant moment of revelation that stirs the deepest sentiments of duty and remembrance.

In which the intrepid Etienne Gerard finds himself ensnared by Prussian pursuers and embarks upon a desperate, skillful flight across the countryside, his courage and resourcefulness tested to the utmost. Despite grave peril and grievous wounds to his steed, he clings to hope and honour, determined to rally his comrades with the gallantry befitting a soldier of his renowned reputation.

In which the Brigadier, reflecting on the splendid yet solemn twilight of his life, recounts an extraordinary and secret adventure tied to the enduring loyalty of Napoleon's devoted followers during the Emperor’s exile. He finds himself drawn into a mysterious maritime mission to the Guinea coast, aboard a curious brig captained by the enigmatic Fourneau, amidst the hopeful but troubled company of...

In which a small, desperate band attempts to escort the Emperor along a lonely road, only to find themselves isolated and confronted by an imminent enemy cavalry. Through swift wits and daring horsemanship, a brave soldier adopts the guise of the Emperor to divert pursuers and secure a precarious escape.

In which the resolute Colonel Gerard braves the chaos of a shattered battlefield to deliver vital messages amid the tumult of retreat and valiant last stands. Amid sights of devastation and undaunted courage, he pursues the Emperor through the night, bearing witness to the profound cost of honour and defeat.

In which our gallant narrator, seeking Marshal Grouchy amidst the turbulent march of Prussian troops, finds himself ensnared in a Belgian inn where loyalties are as tangled as the opposing armies’ movements. Concealed in the attic and observing the grim passage of the exhausted soldiers below, he contemplates the weight of his mission whilst fate holds him captive and offers unexpected encounters...