The Billions of Arsène Lupin
| Industry | Publishing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | Books |
The Billions of Arsène Lupin is a detective novel authored by Maurice Leblanc that centers on the charismatic thief Arsène Lupin. Initially, it appeared as a serial in 29 daily parts, accompanied by illustrations from Jean Oberle, published in Auto between 10 January and 11 February 1939. Later, it was released as the 16th volume by Hachette within the Collection "The Enigma" No. 13 in November 1941, featuring artwork by André Pécoud.
The 1941 edition issued by Hachette represents the sole version prior to the story’s inclusion in Francis Lacassin's anthology (Volume 4, 1987), but this edition remains incomplete—probably due to the author’s declining health and subsequent passing. To protect the writer’s reputation, his family withheld any further editions for nearly half a century. It is important to note that one installment (L'Auto, no. 23, February 3, 1939) was inadvertently left out both in the original publication and the 1987 reprint.
Summary
Patricia works as an American assistant to James Allermy Mac, who founded the crime-focused newspaper "Hello-Police" and highly values her contributions. After being deceived and deserted by Mac’s son—who later married into affluence—Patricia becomes a single mother raising her son Rudolph. Her circumstances take a sudden turn when she is attacked at her workplace by an individual known only as "The Rough," but she is rescued by an enigmatic man suspected by her assailant to be Arsène Lupin.
What brings Lupin to America? Following a clandestine gathering of eleven men, both Mac Allermy and his lawyer are assassinated. A brown leather briefcase stolen from Mac, currently in possession of "The Rough," is rumored to hold a vast fortune. Motivated by revenge and mystery, Patricia travels to France—Mac’s intended destination and Lupin’s domain. Before she departs, Lupin entrusts her with a silver whistle to call for assistance if necessary, indicating his involvement in this intricate and perilous quest for wealth.
References
↑ Volume 4 de la Collection « Arsène Lupin » de Francis Lacassin (Bouquins, 1986). ↑ Francis Lacassin, note d'édition