[Prologue] The Mysterious Passengers Summary and Analysis

A short introductory section offers a tantalizing glimpse of the mystery at the center of the book, although the reader doesn't yet know exactly what crime will be committed or who will be involved. The reader is introduced here to the two main themes of the book: the expansion of wireless communication and its role in solving a crime that attracted worldwide attention.

It is July 20, 1910. Captain Henry George Kendall watches as passengers board his ship, the SS Montrose, which is due to depart soon from Antwerp for Quebec City, Canada. The Montrose is equipped with modern wireless apparatus and its crew includes a wireless operator. Captain Kendall is a thorough professional and devotes himself not only to expert navigation but also to making himself congenial to his passengers. He keeps abreast of the news...