The Expressman and the Detective

The Expressman and the Detective Summary

The Expressman and the Detective by Allan Pinkerton is a semi-fictionalized account published in 1874, detailing the investigation of a significant embezzlement case involving Nathan Maroney, an express company agent suspected of stealing a substantial sum of money. The narrative showcases Pinkerton's innovative detective methods and the challenges faced during the pursuit of justice.

eBook download options

Format	Price	Download
azw3	Free
Mobi	Free
Epub	Free
pdf	Free

The Expressman and the Detective Excerpt

Short Summary: Allan Pinkerton recounts the investigation into Nathan Maroney, an expressman accused of embezzling funds. The story highlights the detective techniques employed to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrator to justice.

"In the year 1859, the city of Montgomery, Alabama, was the scene of a remarkable case of embezzlement, which, from the position of the parties implicated, and the amount of money stolen, caused great excitement throughout the entire country. The Adams Express Company was the sufferer to the extent of fifty thousand dollars, and the circumstances were such that suspicion at once fell upon Mr. Nathan Maroney, the agent of the company at Montgomery. Mr. Maroney was a gentleman of fine personal appearance, and prepossessing manners. He stood high in the community, and was considered one of its most honorable members. He moved in the best society, and was noted for his liberality and generosity. His wife was a lady of rare accomplishments, and their home was the center of a refined and cultured circle. When the news of the defalcation became public, it created a profound sensation. That a man occupying the position of Mr. Maroney, and enjoying the confidence of all who knew him, should be guilty of such a crime, was almost beyond belief. Yet the evidence against him was of such a character that his arrest followed as a matter of course. The case was placed in the hands of the celebrated detective, Mr. Allan Pinkerton, of Chicago, whose skill and experience in the detection of crime were deemed a sufficient guarantee that no effort would be spared to ferret out the guilty party, and bring him to justice. Mr. Pinkerton, upon receiving his instructions, proceeded at once to Montgomery, and commenced his investigations. He found the affairs of the express company in great confusion, and the evidence against Mr. Maroney entirely circumstantial. There was no direct proof of his guilt, and yet there were many facts which pointed strongly in that direction. The difficulty was to obtain legal evidence sufficient to convict him. Mr. Pinkerton saw that the case was one which required the utmost delicacy and caution in its management. He determined to place a watch upon the movements of Mr. Maroney and his associates, and to employ such other means as might be necessary to unravel the mystery."

This excerpt introduces the central figures and sets the stage for a detailed account of the investigative process, reflecting Pinkerton's methodical approach to detective work.