"The Indian Drum" by William MacHarg and Edwin Balmer is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set around the mysterious disappearance of Benjamin Corvet, a ship owner whose life is intertwined with various characters, including his business partner Lawrence Sherrill and his daughter Constance. The narrative delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the significance of the past, as it unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Great Lakes and is steeped in Indian folklore. The opening of the book introduces a sense of foreboding through a storm near Lake Michigan, harmonizing with local superstitions about an "Indian drum" that beats whenever a life is lost at sea. Benjamin Corvet is portrayed as a complex, isolated character who has experienced personal turmoil following the unexplained departure of his wife and a declining vitality tied, perhaps, to the memories of lives lost on the water. It hints at a deep connection between Corvet and a young man named Alan Conrad, who has recently received a summons from Corvet, leading to questions about their relationship. Alan's journey to Chicago sets a tone of intrigue, suggesting there are hidden truths regarding his lineage and the emotional weight that brings both him and Corvet to a pivotal juncture in their lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)