Beadle's Half Dime Library No. 767

# The Diabolical Three: The Exposé of the Baffling Barret Mystery

This serialized mystery by Dan Dunning concerns Robert Barret, a wealthy man incapacitated by a deliberate torture plot. The villain Mr. Fulton schemes to render Barret mad by having his valet Herman torment Barret's feet with an oil-soaked feather while he is restrained to his bed with iron bonds, driving him toward insanity through psychological and physical anguish. The plan succeeds in deceiving three physicians into certifying Barret insane. One young physician, Doctor Lewis, becomes suspicious upon discovering oil on Barret's feet but reluctantly concurs with his elder colleagues. Barret is committed to Goodheart's Asylum, where he recovers and regains his senses. Upon discharge, Fulton hastily retrieves him. The narrative suggests Fulton's scheme involves seizing control of Barret's property and business affairs during his supposed madness, with further treachery anticipated.