The Brigand by Edgar Wallace. Short summary

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A novel about the noble swindler Anthony Newton, consisting of 12 separate stories linked by a common theme. Newton is a sort of modern-day Robin Hood.

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A series of stories about «outlaw» Anthony Newton, a modern-day Robin Hood. At 16, he was a soldier in World War I. When he returned from the war, he could not get a job and find a place in life.

Newton finds in himself the qualities of a con man, but not a simple one, but a noble one. In 12 stories he demonstrates these qualities and perfects them. He is a «master of gentle robbery,» and operates on the edge of the law. He is a man of humor and a dash of philosophy.

Anthony moves from one adventure to another, from one gullible rich man to another, avoiding to fall into the hands of the law. He avoids marrying a rich widow nicknamed «Plum Pudding.» They try to kill him, but he happily gets away with it.

Anthony falls in love with journalist Vera Monsar, and even saves her from marrying a con man.

Eventually Anthony becomes so famous that he is even elected a member of the House of Commons.