Thomas F. Anderson and Herman Daniel Umbstaetter

Summary

Thomas F. Anderson and Herman Daniel Umbstaetter ''The Black Cat'' (1896)

To the amazement of both officers and passengers, however, in spite of every effort, the Oklahoma failed to gain a single inch on the other vessel. Before they had time to attempt an explanation of this remarkable fact, amazement gave way to consternation. For just a moment a third vessel hard appeared on the horizon like a messenger of hope; but no sooner had she been sighted than with the swiftness of lightning the mysterious companion craft turned, half around and darted away to the southeast, with the Oklahoma following as helplessly as though she were in tow.
Source: Wikisource

Thomas F. Anderson and Herman Daniel Umbstaetter ''The Black Cat'' (1896)

Business men wondered why such a large amount was intrusted to one steamer. Suppose she should collide in the fog and sink, as one great ship had done only a few weeks before—what would become of the insurance companies then?
Suppose some daring Napoleon of crime should hatch a startling conspiracy to seize the steamer, intimidate the crew and passengers, and possess himself of the huge treasure?" It would be a stake well worth long risks,” thought some of the police officials, as they read the headlines in the evening papers.
The Oklahoma was a fast sailer.
Source: Wikisource

Thomas F. Anderson and Herman Daniel Umbstaetter ''The Black Cat'' (1896)

Langwood is probably the only criminal in the country who would ever conceive and try to execute such a stupendous under taking, and it is something more than a suspicion on the part of the New York police that he has smuggled on board a couple of dozen well-armed desperadoes, who could easily hold the entire crew and passengers in check and make them do their bidding, for a time, at least. The idea is so replete with thrilling possibilities that the entire community stands aghast at it.
Source: Wikisource

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