The Sexton Blake Library #76: A Convict By Proxy

A Convict by Proxy This *Sexton Blake Library* serial detective story, told in three parts by different narrators, concerns a mysterious American golfer named Edwin Blenkers with a distinctive "convict crop" hairstyle who befriends the Hon. John Lawless at an English golf resort. When Lawless recognizes Blenkers's companion, the elegant criminal mastermind Vanley (also known as James Vanley), operating under aliases, he launches a solo investigation. Vanley, a card-sharper and organizer of elaborate schemes, has been tracked internationally by police. Lawless strategically separates from Blenkers to pursue Vanley while Tinker, the narrator of Part I, keeps Blenkers occupied. Upon returning to their hotel, they discover Vanley has been arrested—found, the manager reveals, in Blenkers's room—creating an ambiguous situation that shocks Blenkers with both satisfaction and doubt.