The Shadow of Malreward

# Catalog Entry: The Shadow of Malreward

This 1919 Borzoi Mystery Stories collection features works by J. B. Harris-Burland, E. R. Punshon, and J. S. Fletcher. "The Shadow of Malreward" by Harris-Burland is the featured selection excerpted here. The narrative follows two cyclists—writer Richard Loryat and author John Kentisbury—descending into the picturesque village of Norton overlooking the sea. Kentisbury exhibits marked emotional disturbance upon sighting Norton-Malreward, a grand estate crowning the opposite cliff, though denying previous familiarity with the area. At the Malreward Arms inn, the landlord reveals that Sir Philip Malreward died four months prior in Borneo from fever; his cremated remains are being transported home that evening. Kentisbury reveals detailed knowledge of Lady Malreward while refusing to visit the house. The text establishes mystery through Kentisbury's cryptic emotional responses and possession of a worn letter from a woman who chose wealth and social position over their relationship, possibly implicating Lady Malreward. Kentisbury attends the arrival procession alone while Loryat retires.