"Round the Fire Stories" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century, ideally crafted for sharing during a chilly evening around a fire. This anthology features tales that explore various aspects of human experience and curiosity, hinting at macabre events and mysterious legacies. The introduction to "Round the Fire Stories" presents Lionel Dacre, a wealthy and eccentric collector of occult literature living in Paris. A visit to his home leads to an intriguing examination of a leather funnel with a mysterious past, linked to the dark practices of historical torture. Dacre proposes an experiment with the funnel, suggesting it might connect to dreams and past horrors. The narrative establishes a suspenseful atmosphere and reveals Dacre's intention to uncover the object’s fascinating story through a shared experience with the narrator, setting the stage for a chilling exploration of history and the unknown.

I. THE LEATHER FUNNEL
II. THE BEETLE-HUNTER
III. THE MAN WITH THE WATCHES
IV. THE POT OF CAVIARE
V. THE JAPANNED BOX
VI. THE BLACK DOCTOR
VII. PLAYING WITH FIRE
VIII. THE JEW’S BREASTPLATE
IX. THE LOST SPECIAL
X. THE CLUB-FOOTED GROCER
XI. THE SEALED ROOM
XII. THE BRAZILIAN CAT
XIII. THE USHER OF LEA HOUSE SCHOOL
XIV. THE BROWN HAND
XV. THE FIEND OF THE COOPERAGE
XVI. JELLAND’S VOYAGE
XVII. B. 24