"The Absent-Minded Coterie", a short story published in 1906, tells of a cunning scam devised by crooked counterfeiters. But, of course, French detective Eugene Valmont eventually discovers the truth. "The Absent-Minded Coterie" is widely recognized as one of the best crime stories of the time.

Robert Barr (September 16, 1849-October 21, 1912) was a Scottish Canadian short story writer and novelist born in Glasgow, Scotland. After moving to London in the 1890s, Barr became a prolific author, publishing a book a year, primarily in the crime genre.

Charles Hammond has read dozens of audio programs and provided the voiceover narration for three major documentary films. He is a resident of Liverpool, England.