First published in 1972 (as The Popinjay Stairs), this novel set in Restoration England is one of the finest productions in Geoffrey Trease's long and distinguished career as a writer of historical fiction for young readers.
The inciting incident for the novel's drama is the hold-up by highwaymen of a coach that numbers among its passengers one Samuel Pepys, Secretary to the Office of Lord High Admiral of England, and accordingly a young man who holds a high responsibility for the nation's naval defences. That the villains should relieve their victims of jewellery and watches comes as no surprise - but why are they so interested in the well-worn leather case of official documents belonging to Mr. Pepys?
What follows is a headlong tale of adventure, blackmail and treachery, culminating in a midnight river chase on the Thames.
- ISBN10 0330327038
- ISBN13 9780330327039
- Publish Date 12 February 1993
- Publish Status Cancelled
- Out of Print 12 March 1998
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Pan Macmillan
- Imprint Macmillan Children's Books
- Edition New edition
- Format Paperback (A-Format (178x111 mm))
- Pages 176
- Language English