The Secret of the Old Clock

The Secret of the Old Clock is a mystery novel by Carolyn Keene, first published in 1930. It is the first book in the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories series and introduces the resourceful young amateur detective.

Nancy becomes involved in a dispute over the estate of Josiah Crowley, whose fortune has been left to the wealthy Topham family. Several of his struggling relatives and friends believe that he intended to provide for them, leading Nancy to suspect that another will may exist.

Following a series of clues and facing dangerous criminals, Nancy discovers that the missing document is hidden inside an old clock. Her courage and determination help expose the truth, restore the rightful inheritance, and establish her reputation as a clever and fearless detective.

"“It would be a shame if all that money went to the Tophams! They will fly higher than ever!”
Nancy Drew, a pretty girl of sixteen, leaned over the library table and addressed her father who sat reading a newspaper by the study lamp.
“I beg your pardon, Nancy. What were you saying about the Tophams?”"