RALPH 124C 41+: The Keystone SF Classic
By Hugo Gernsback

Ralph 124C 41+ is the leading genius around town in the scientifically run utopia of the year 2660.  His inventions have helped make the world a better placed to live in and his every thought is devoted to scientific thought - until he meets Alice 212B 423 and she instantly becomes the object of his affections.  He woos her amid a tour of the wonders of the New York of 2660 C.E.  But then a scientific rival becomes a rival for Alice's hand.  When Ralph wins her heart, his rival kidnaps Alice and secrets her in a scientific fortress defended by fearful weapons of his own invention.  Soon the two are pitted against each other in a battle of scientific geniuses and weapons.  Here's a genuine keystone novel in the field of science fiction.  Written by Hugo Gernsback, the man dubbed the father of American science fiction for his founding of the first all-sf magazine, Amazing Stories in 1926, Ralph 124C 41+ is 1920's fictional look at the year 2660.  And, due to the author's scientific background, most of its predictions came true!  As critic Groff Conklin says, Ralph "contains a goodly number of then-fantastic scientific ideas that have since become fact.  It also is a lot of fun to read.  True enough, the plot is old-hat and the style is awkward - but even so "Ralph"- is thoroughly delightful.  It has the genuine charm of a sound, workmanlike antique, plus the often-astonishing survival value of successful prophecy.  You will not be disappointed with this tale!" Cover Frank R. Paul/Mia Jennings. With five of the original 1920s illustrations by Paul.