Beadle's Half Dime Library No. 813

# Billy, the Bell-Boy Detective

This Beadle and Adams weekly (February 21, 1893) opens "Billy, the Bell-Boy Detective" by Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, known for adventure serials. The narrative begins with actor Henry E. Dixey (the "Adonis") discovering stolen diamonds entrusted to him by a friend. New York's police chief cannot solve the case and recommends Dick Doom, a renowned young detective from New Orleans whose identity is shrouded in mystery. When an elegantly veiled female visitor arrives at Dixey's hotel rooms, she claims to be a female detective. She reveals herself and produces a letter from Dick Doom—then astonishes Dixey by unveiling herself as Dick Doom, displaying multiple ornate badges of office including one suspended from miniature "Golden Fetters." Dixey, initially skeptical, accepts her expertise. Doom proposes to hear the full account of the theft, setting the stage for the investigation.