Craig Kennedy Stories · Chapter
The Diamond Maker explained
Craig Kennedy is consulted by Mr.
What happens
Craig Kennedy is consulted by Mr. Andrews of the Great Eastern Life Insurance Company about the suspicious death of Solomon Morowitch, a wealthy jeweller, and the bizarre robbery of his safe, which had a hole burned through its chrome steel. Kennedy investigates, discovering a connection to a chemist named Poissan and a potential deal involving a diamond-making secret. He plans a demonstration at Poissan's laboratory, setting up a trap with Andrews and his men to catch the culprit.
Themes in this chapter
Science in Crime Detection
Kennedy uses scientific knowledge, such as electric furnaces and diamond synthesis, to investigate the case.
Greed and Criminal Motivation
The potential purchase of a diamond-making secret and the large insurance policy highlight greed as a motive.
Trust and Betrayal
Mrs. Morowitch's evasiveness and the possible involvement of Kahan suggest betrayal within close relationships.
Characters to notice
- Craig Kennedy
Takes on the Morowitch case, investigates the safe robbery and the connection to Poissan, and sets up a trap at the laboratory.
- Walter Jameson
Accompanies Kennedy to the Morowitch residence and to Poissan's laboratory, assisting in the investigation.
- Mr. Andrews
Third vice-president of the Great Eastern Life Insurance Company, hires Kennedy to investigate the suspicious death and robbery.
- Mrs. Morowitch
Widow of Solomon Morowitch, beneficiary of the insurance policy, questioned about her husband's dealings.
- Henri Poissan
Chemist and manufacturer of electric furnaces, suspected of being involved in a diamond-making secret.
- Doctor Thornton
Family physician who attended Morowitch, initially reluctant to share information but later agrees to talk.
Key passages
“I have communicated with Andrews, and he will be ready. The demonstration will take place at half-past eight at Poissan’s laboratory.”
Kennedy has arranged for Andrews to be prepared, and the demonstration is scheduled for 8:30 PM at Poissan's lab.
Kennedy sets up the trap for the demonstration.
“I felt sure of it the moment I looked up Poissan and found that he was a manufacturer of electric furnaces.”
Kennedy was convinced when he discovered Poissan made electric furnaces, linking him to diamond-making.
Kennedy's deduction connects Poissan to the diamond-making secret.
“Doctor Thornton was an excellent specimen of the genus physician to the wealthy—polished, cool, suave.”
Doctor Thornton was a typical wealthy physician, smooth and composed.
Description of Doctor Thornton's demeanor.