This is, as my publisher gleefully notes, a new, original Saint novel. While the term "original" is subject to interpretation - especially when one is creating fresh escapades for Leslie Charteris' internationally established icon of adventure - this novel is neither pastiche nor adaptation. In other words, I made it up. I would love to tell you that this story erupted in its full glory entirely from my subconscious, but my Intrinsic morality compels admission that, as with The Saint in New York and Saint Overboard, Capture the Saint contains gems of truth embedded in fiction. The most far-fetched aspect of this story concerns a treasure named after a famous movie star of the 193O's. My defense is well-worn and time proven: the treasure story is 100% true - which proves something or other about life, literature, and authors in search of catchy plot devices. Fortunately, my beloved brother Stan knew a the details, thus validating the value of siblings.

The luxury yacht featured in the first chapter is also real. She is owned and lovingly maintained by Foss Maritime Company. Kings, ambassadors, congressmen, and industry leaders have walked her decks. To assure you of absolute accuracy in my description of this historic vessel, my family and I spent many hours serenely cruising Lake Washington while gracious uniformed attendants catered to our every whim. Such are the sacrifices one endures for the sake of art.

If you are a new reader of the Saint Saga, I hope this newest entry in the series encourages you to seek out Charteris' classic originals; if you are an established Saint fan, you'll find old friends waiting for you between these pages. Will there be more new adventures of the Saint? I can give no better answer than the one given by Leslie Charteris several decades ago: As long as the two of us can keep it up - Watch for the sign of the Saint; he will be back.

Burl Barer
1997