Arsène Lupin Versus Herlock Sholmes

This 1910 American edition of Arsène Lupin Versus Herlock Sholmes is a significant early volume in the history of detective fiction. Published in Chicago by M. A. Donohue & Co. and translated by George Morehead, the book brings together two of the era's most famous literary archetypes. The narrative consists of two interconnected adventures, "The Blond Lady" and "The Jewish Lamp," which follow the French gentleman thief as he orchestrates complex heists and escapes across Paris. When local authorities prove unable to capture him, they enlist his brilliant English rival, sparking an intense game of cat-and-mouse defined by clever disguises, hidden traps, and competitive intellectual duels.

The character of Lupin was created by Maurice Leblanc (1864–1941), a French journalist and novelist who authored over sixty mysteries during his career. Leblanc designed Lupin as a direct counterweight to the rigid, rule-following detectives popular in British fiction at the time. Instead of defending the establishment, Lupin is a charming rogue and a master of disguise who operates under his own chivalrous moral code, often targeting the corrupt wealthy. Leblanc’s creation became a massive European cultural phenomenon, establishing a lasting legacy that continues to inspire modern mystery novels, films, and international streaming adaptations today.

Historically, this specific translation is notable for its connection to an early, famous copyright dispute. When Leblanc first published these stories, he explicitly used the name Sherlock Holmes. Following immediate legal protests from Arthur Conan Doyle’s lawyers over unauthorized character use, Leblanc transposed the letters to create the anagram "Herlock Sholmes" and changed Dr. Watson to "Wilson." This 1910 George Morehead printing serves as a fascinating physical artifact of that early transatlantic publishing dispute, making it a highly compelling piece for collectors of vintage crime fiction.

Green canvas binding with white lettering to cover and spine. Some minimal fading to spine and points. Handwritten inscription to final page and slightly frayed lower hinge but fully intact. Very good condition.