The creator of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz spins a gripping tale of mystery, deceit, and murder in a rollicking tale from the turn of the twentieth century that abounds in old-fashioned charm. Join Sam Steele, a resourceful young sailor, for a whirlwind trip to the land of the pyramids, where he and the crew of the good ship Seagull encounter scorpion pits, treacherous allies, and other hazards in their quest for a 2,000-year-old treasure.The adventure begins when Sam rescues an escaped cabin boy from a sinking dinghy in Boston Harbor. Runaway Joe Herring, along with pampered aristocrat Archie Ackley, accompany Sam to Alexandria, Egypt. There, the trio learn of the legendary lost riches of Karnak and Luxor - a wealth of pearls, gold, precious gems, and historic papyrus rolls, all hidden from invading Persians. Relying upon their pluck, luck, and quick wits, the American boys follow an ancient caravan route to uncover a secret from beyond the grave.