The Wyvern Abbey Formula Operation

This thread tracks the attempt to steal Eberhard’s invention, from political preparations through a staged assault and the recovery of the papers.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Warning to Lomax

A Warning to Lomax An alarming invitation George Lomax receives a warning letter bearing the Seven Dials address and seeks assistance from Scotland Yard. He nevertheless proceeds with a politically sensitive gathering at Wyvern Abbey. A useful opportunity The warning makes the house party a likely target and provides Superintendent Battle with a credible reason to be present. The guests include officials, Sir Oswald Coote, and Herr Eberhard, whose invention gives the gathering strategic importance.

The Invention’s Value

The Invention’s Value A steel breakthrough Herr Eberhard’s steel-strengthening invention promises lighter, stronger aircraft materials. Sir Oswald Coote has tested the process at his works, while government figures consider its national and commercial consequences. A tempting target The meeting makes the formula valuable to more than its inventor. The Seven Dials council discusses it as a prize worth substantial risk, giving the apparent criminal plot an international and political dimension.

The Night Watch

The Night Watch A divided vigil Jimmy Thesiger and William Eversleigh agree to watch the corridor near Sir Stanley Digby and Terence O'Rourke. Jimmy Thesiger takes the first watch, while Bundle Brent is told to remain out of danger. A suspicious absence Jimmy Thesiger hears movement, leaves his post, and finds the library apparently empty. Bundle Brent later sees a room handle move and discovers the watch post deserted, suggesting that events are unfolding beyond the agreed plan.

A Parcel on the Terrace

A Parcel on the Terrace The apparent attack Loraine Wade reaches the grounds and sees a package fall from an upper window as a man climbs down the ivy. A struggle and gunshots draw the household toward the library. The formula secured The package contains the missing papers, which Loraine Wade has recovered. The supposed thief appears to escape, but Superintendent Battle quickly notices that the physical evidence and the witnesses’ accounts do not settle the matter.

A Staged Victory

A Staged Victory Apparent recovery The papers are returned, and the household initially accepts that an outside thief has been thwarted. Sir Oswald Coote directs suspicion toward John Bower, whose absence appears to fit the story. A second reading Superintendent Battle recognizes signs that the supposed assault was staged and that the pistol was thrown from the terrace. The recovery becomes bait in a larger operation designed to expose the person who arranged the apparent theft.

Before the Wyvern Abbey house party

During preparations for the Abbey gathering

The night of the attempted theft at Wyvern Abbey

Shortly after two o’clock that night

The morning after the Abbey incident