Foul Play
novel by Reade and Boucicault
Quick Summary
"Foul Play" is a novel co-authored by Charles Reade and Dion Boucicault in 1868. The novel exposed the dangers of "coffin ships," which were unseaworthy and overloaded vessels often insured by unscrupulous owners. This work, like many of Reade's writings, aimed to bring attention to social injustices. "Foul play" itself refers to violence, particularly murder, or the use of brute force to cause harm. The novel's impact helped sway public opinion towards advocating for maritime safety measures.123
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