Thomas W. Hanshew (1857 - 1914) was an American actor and writer, born in Brooklyn, N. Y. He went on the stage when only 16 years old, playing minor parts with Ellen Terry's company. Subsequently he played important roles with Clara Morris and Adelaide Neilson. Later he was associated with a publishing house in London, where he resided at the close of his life. He used, among others, the pen name "Charlotte May Kingsley," and wrote more than 150 novels, some of which were co-authored with his wife, Mary E. Hanshew. Hanshew's best-known creation was the consulting detective Hamilton Cleek,...

Hamilton Cleek has a great talent for mimicry, using his ability at reproducing both the appearance and voices of his targets for criminal ends. Later, however, in exchange for immunity for his crimes, Cleek uses his extraordinary gifts to help the police solve mysteries. From the Golden Age of Detective Fiction comes a classic tale which introduces the character of Hamilton Cleek. The book's quirky atmosphere and mystery mix to produce a satisfying read.