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Nightshade

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Nightshade

By: Dashiell Hammett
Narrated by: Mike Vendetti
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About this listen

"Nightshade" by Dashiell Hammett is a short story appearing in "Mystery League Magazine, October 1933" featuring Jack Bye, who encounters a young woman, Helen Warner, stranded near Piney Falls bridge. Helen urgently asks for a ride into town, escaping from two men, Tony Forrest and Fred Barnes, who seem wary of Jack. Jack helps Helen and drives her into town, where they stop at a speakeasy for drinks. Their interaction is lighthearted but tinged with tension.

Later, Jack decides not to take Helen home, and she expresses gratitude for his help. After Helen leaves, Toots Mack, the speakeasy owner, warns Jack about the risks of associating with Helen, given her father's status as a judge and societal prejudices.

The story explores themes of class, race, and fleeting connections, set against Hammett's signature gritty, realistic backdrop.

Public Domain (P)2025 Mike Vendetti Anthologies & Short Stories Short Stories
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