The Mystery of Tannernoe Lodge

Introduction

“The Mystery of Tannernoe Lodge” is an unfinished short story by Robert E. Howard, featuring his detective character Steve Harrison. Set in a secluded lodge, the narrative delves into the enigmatic circumstances surrounding a series of mysterious events and the involvement of various characters in a web of deceit and danger.

First published in Lord of the Dead, by Grant in 1981. It was then completed by Fred Blosser, based on a fragment by Howard.

Summary

Steve Harrison, the protagonist, awakens from a nightmare infused with cryptic images and text, only to find himself in the unfamiliar and gothic setting of Tannernoe Lodge. The tale opens with a tense encounter when Harrison spots a mysterious figure in his moonlit room, leading to an attempted shootout that fails due to faulty ammunition.

Upon investigating, Harrison discovers the body of a man dressed in a cassock, later identified as Gutchluk Khan, a servant at the lodge. A strangler’s cord found nearby suggests an attempt on Harrison’s life, seeding doubt about the intentions of his host, Absolom Tannernoe. The intricate details of the lodge, such as the antique bolt on the door and a secret panel in the wall hint at deeper secrets and hidden threats lurking within the manor.

The narrative escalates when Harrison overhears a disturbing conversation outside his door, suggesting that Tannernoe is in grave danger—or possibly orchestrating a sinister plot. Following muffled noises to the lower levels of the lodge, Harrison discovers Tannernoe restrained and surrounded by hostile figures, revealing a conspiracy involving a mysterious notebook and historical grievances tied to a gem of significant cultural value.

A tense altercation unfolds, culminating in a deadly trap that swallows several of Tannernoe’s captors. In the chaos, Tannernoe manages a daring escape, leaving Harrison grappling with the unresolved mysteries of the lodge and the true nature of the threats he faces.

[The story remains unfinished, leaving readers with unresolved questions about the fate of the characters and the secrets of Tannernoe Lodge.]

Characters

  • Steve Harrison: The hard-boiled private detective and protagonist of the story, who finds himself embroiled in a complex mystery at Tannernoe Lodge.
  • Gutchluk Khan: A servant of Absolom Tannernoe, found dead under suspicious circumstances, leading to Harrison’s investigation.
  • Absolom Tannernoe: The enigmatic owner of Tannernoe Lodge, whose involvement in a mysterious plot raises suspicions of foul play.
  • Ali: A member of a group of mysterious individuals who confront Tannernoe, leading to a violent altercation.
  • Akbar: The leader of the group confronting Tannernoe, whose intentions and motivations remain unclear.
  • Ahmed: Another member of the group involved in the confrontation with Tannernoe.
  • Josef La Tour: Mentioned as the original owner of the incriminating notebook, a shady character connected to broader criminal activities.
  • Unnamed Maronites: The remaining members of the group confronting Tannernoe, whose identities and roles are shrouded in mystery.

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