The Green Mummy

The Green Mummy is a mystery novel written by Fergus Hume and first published in 1908.

Professor Braddock, an archaeologist devoted to his research, purchases a rare Peruvian mummy wrapped in green wool. However, when the shipping crate reaches his home, it contains the body of his murdered assistant instead of the mummy, beginning a strange and complicated investigation.

Archie Hope becomes involved in solving the crime while trying to secure permission to marry the professor’s stepdaughter, Lucy. The case grows more dangerous when it is revealed that the mummy once belonged to an Inca ruler and may conceal two emeralds of enormous value.

As the mummy changes hands and new suspects emerge, the investigation uncovers secrets, greed, false accusations, and hidden identities. The novel combines detective fiction, romance, and archaeological adventure in a mystery centered on murder and the search for a stolen treasure.

"“I am very angry,” pouted the maid.
“In heaven's name, why?” questioned the bachelor.
“You have, so to speak, bought me.”
“Impossible: your price is prohibitive.”
“Indeed, when a thousand pounds—”
“You are worth fifty and a hundred times as much. Pooh!”"