In the present volume are related the particulars of a most puzzling mystery which at one time threatened to bring disaster to the whole school. How the mystery was at last solved I leave for the pages which follow to explain.
Again I thank both young and old for all the nice things they have said about my books. I hope the reading of the volumes affords all both pleasure and profit.
Affectionately and sincerely yours,
Edward Stratemeyer.
THE MYSTERY AT PUTNAM HALL
CHAPTER I
AN ENCOUNTER ON THE ROAD
"Here we are again, as the clown says in the circus!"