The Lost Scroll by peter edwards

You are an investigative journalist with a high reputation based on your success in solving the mystery of Dom Orre.
You are summoned to the house of an old man, John de Sward, on his 100th birthday, who has a mission for you in a nearby stately home.

I believe you will find it quite difficult, but the good news is you won't be "killed" or find yourself in an unwinnable position.

Play online

Comment Scout 167

29 Aug 2025

never mind another of the classic "as soon as I comment I figure it out".

Comment Scout 167

29 Aug 2025

@DavyB Could you give me some more help with the violet stone? You said breathe deeply while looking at something violet. I am looking at the violet flowers. Should I be looking at something else?

Comment DavyB

28 Aug 2025

Thanks for bringing me back to The Lost Scroll @gorgona. Surprised at how much I'd remembered after 9 years. I did take a lot of trouble with this game at the time as I really wanted to finish it without a hint, but Peter Edwards made this, what seems to his last game, his hardest! Do wish, however, that he'd put in a few more verb variants as it's no fun knowing what needs to be done but struggle to find the right phase to achieve the effect.

Comment DavyB

26 Aug 2025

*** spoiler alert **

Sorry @gorgona, there is a bug in the version of the game you are playing but no need to start from the beginning with the latest version. In the Tapestry Room, when looking at the box through the hole you need to say "use glasses with box" rather than just "look at box". You can go back and do that. Afterwards you should have a different response when feeling in the chimney.

Comment gorgona

26 Aug 2025

@DavyB sorry about bothering you again. I tried a thousand times to feel in chimney, but apparently I have no reason to do so, even after seeing the man's trick. I have all the stones and everything takable, useful and not, have been to every room a hundred times, manipulated everything possible, yet the game thinks I'm missing something. should I trim my character's beard or something, before entering the great hall? or am I missing some small detail?

Comment DavyB

26 Aug 2025

*** spoiler alert ***

You are nearly there @gorgona! You don't have a poker to prod in the chimney so use your hands (e.g. "feel in"). You are probably ok from there on but I'm still here if you need more,

Comment gorgona

26 Aug 2025

@DavyB say that again. fiendishly tricky game, on par with Zork maybe... the candlestick refuses to move, the chimney doesn't change, and the ebony box is nowhere to be seen. I can't even understand how I got this far with onlya few nudges... if you could, just once more, help please. how to move that stubborn candlestick, or anything else in that fireplace for that matter? thanks a lot.

Comment DavyB

26 Aug 2025

*** spoiler alert ***

You need to interact with the carving on the wardrobe. Instructions are found by breathing on the mirror in the cell off the music room. No need to move the ladder. This was a tricky game that I needed a nudge to finish as you'll see if you look at the first comments posted.

Comment gorgona

26 Aug 2025

@DavyB maybe I'm dumb, or something, but that wardrobe refuses to open. it has no keyhole, no lock, nothing. do I need to do something with the stones, put them on the door etc? also, how to reach the hole when I cannot take the ladder from the dovecot?

Comment DavyB

26 Aug 2025

*** spoiler alert ***
.
.
.
.
.
For the last stone, take a deep breath while looking at something of the same colour.
To finish the game, you need to open the wardrobe in the tapestry room and and follow what you see there.
More specific details available on request!

Comment gorgona

26 Aug 2025

@DavyB thank you. only the violet stone remains. also, the looking glass and the mirror evade me, no matter how hard I search. are these necessary for completing the game?

Comment DavyB

26 Aug 2025

*** spoiler alert ***

The combination lock to the dovecot needs 4 digits. If you have found the grain and field glasses you have all you need to discover the flipping code.

Comment gorgona

26 Aug 2025

@DavyB all but yellow and violet. also, everyone keep talking about some looking glass or something, and a mirror. unfortunately, no looose bricks showed up, the fireplace remains cold, and the dovecot locked.

Comment DavyB

25 Aug 2025

...problem now sorted and game played to completion successfully. So @gorgona, I'm now ready to help. What stones do you have?

Comment DavyB

25 Aug 2025

...went back to the game but haven't been able to complete it. Digging into the code there seems to have been an error introduced during the last update.

Comment DavyB

24 Aug 2025

Sorry @gorgona, I would need to play the game again from scratch. I think there is a loose brick around the fireplace that needs to be pressed at some point but that's as far as my memory goes at this stage.

Comment gorgona

24 Aug 2025

@DavyB I'm not sure. turning the horn was almost self-explanatory, so was winding the clock. what about pressing on? and everyone is talking about a mirror and looking glass. I searched everywhere, well, maybe except the dovecot, but couldnt find any such thing. also, three stones evade me...

Comment DavyB

24 Aug 2025

@gorgona it's been a long time since I played this game but happy to help if I can. Can you start by giving me the name of a room that you've not been able to enter?

Comment gorgona

21 Aug 2025

help please... I'm hopelessly stuck. found nearly all of the stones, unlocked nearly all rooms, searched and examined everything a brazilion times. everyone keeps talking about pressing on in the music room, but there is nothing to press but a piano and a portrait. please, whoever had sold this puzzle, point me in a right direction... thanks.

Review Scout 167

18 Aug 2025

love it! I'm a big fan of Peter's games and this is one of my favorites.

Review WarriorsSN

29 Jun 2018

ok so... i did not finish the game because i got bored! yay. anyways, heres why:
1. i thought it was SUPER boring how you typed north, east, south or west every time you wanted to go a certain way.
2. i don't know if this was supposed to be like this, but there was too many rooms!
3. also, i felt that it is VERY super meticulous having to search every single room in the house
the actual writing of the game was good. that probably took a while :p. anyways i'd just say make the setup more like Victorian Detective, so you go through a story, rather than just moving around by yourself in a house looking for a scroll the could fit just about anywhere.

Comment peter edwards

15 May 2018

Robyn,
Well done the team! Thrilled you found it to be fun. It’s why I write them!
Peter

Comment robyn334

15 May 2018

Yay! We did it! Very exciting and so much fun. Thank you for all your help!
We knew the "session ended" was not your fault. Internet.....

Comment peter edwards

15 May 2018

Robyn,
This is how it should work.
Look through hole - you know the one I mean - and then use binoculars on box. Then try the chimney again!
Good luck, and let me know how you get on.
Peter

Comment peter edwards

15 May 2018

Robyn,
Very frustrating for you! The “session ended” situation is, I think, a problem with Quest being used on a tablet. Not sure. Not my fault, honestly!
Trying to figure out why you have a chimney problem. Will let you know as soon as I do...
Peter

Comment robyn334

15 May 2018

OK. Before our 'session expired' drama we typed "feel up chimney" and had success. Now that we have totally restarted the game, collected all the items and all the stones, after the wardrobe experience we go back to the fireplace, "feel up chimney" and are told that we have no obvious reason to do this. We're stuck.

Comment robyn334

15 May 2018

We figured that part out! We got all way to the end, to the part where we use the stones, but then our "session expired" , all our previous work was erased and then no amount of manipulating could get us back! Every time we tried to feel up the chimney we were told we had "no reason to do this, so desist". Finally we decided to start over (we have a hand drawn map, we're visual!) and that's what we're doing now. Onward! By the way, loved the Matthew 7:7 clue. :)

Comment peter edwards

14 May 2018

Robyn,
Sorry, just realised that you haven’ t found the small chapel. If you find your way to the top of the folly while carrying the field glasses, and look east, you’ll get a hint.
Peter

Comment peter edwards

14 May 2018

Robyn,
Very happy that you and your daughter are enjoying the adventure. It’s what it’s all about! One question before I say any more - have you found the small chapel near the river?
Peter

Comment robyn334

14 May 2018

We really wanted to do it on our own, but are stuck! The green things we have found are the moss, the huntsmens' coats, grass and the door in the picture. We have tried: search, examine, move, pick, smell, speak to (ha), etc. We know you can pray anywhere, and have tried! (ha again). We can't find anything green in the chapel. I've read some comments about a tiny chapel but haven't found that. I know we're going to be totally chagrined when we find out, but I think we need another nudge in the right direction. PS My daughter and I are having so much fun!

Comment peter edwards

14 May 2018

Robyn,
Good morning. You need to search something green! I pray you’ll find the right place...
PS There are more than one suitable places to pray!
Good luck, and ask again if you need to.
Peter

Comment robyn334

14 May 2018

We have it ALL, except for the green stone!!! Where is it? Please? :)

Comment peter edwards

06 Nov 2017

Hi, Ber89,
Sorry to have not replied to your request for help. I keep forgetting the existence of the message facility, so missed your request for assistance!
Have replied to you now. Hope you got it.
Good luck
Peter

Review GameofChocolate

23 Jul 2017

It was really good writing, an interesting backstory, and a definite challenge. But I can't seem o get my key to work, and the constant need to search is making this feel like a pixelhunt. I gave up. This game has started to become a long, tedious affair. Good job for the most part. I don't hate the game, I just got bored with it.

Comment peter edwards

22 Jun 2017

Thank you for that, Xanithos. I'd never noticed the envelope before in spite of using this site for some years! (A quick response is more likely via the comments section, however.)

From your message I recognise a player who doesn't give up easily - a kindred spirit in fact - so I won't give any hints unless you ask for them. Have I got the picture...?
Peter

Comment Xanithos

22 Jun 2017

I'll keep pressing on in the music room. I don't know what I could be missing. And you should have a message in your inbox. Top right had corner on my screen. A little envelope icon. No big deal if you don't have it.

Comment peter edwards

22 Jun 2017

Xanithos,
Well done. You've done the trickiest part! The message you received after the winding was something like "press on".
Examine everything in the music room. (This means examine everything that is mentioned when you examine something etc etc !)
Peter
PS. Just for interest, where did you put the aforementioned message? Blowed if
I can find it. That's why the comments section is the only way to reach me!

Comment Xanithos

22 Jun 2017

Can't seem to find a 'sent message' area of my profile so I'll try to repeat it.

Basically, I despise asking for hints, but I'm so stuck, I need a nudge.

I'm to the point where I've turned the horn, wound what's next, and now I'm at a standstill. Seems I may need to "twist" something, unless that was referencing the horn. Also I've seen mentioned a "Tapestry Room" in the comments and have yet to find that. Is that related to the puzzle I'm stuck with?

Comment peter edwards

22 Jun 2017

Xanithos,
Without a doubt, the comments section is the best way to reach me! I tend to get lost among the plethora of forums (fora?) so will have missed your last message. Sorry about that. Please repeat in comments section!
Peter

Comment Xanithos

22 Jun 2017

I did message you directly Peter. That way at least, if there are some spoilers, it won't ruin it for anyone else. Or is the comments section the best way to get a hold of you?

Comment peter edwards

22 Jun 2017

Hi Xanithos,
Quite right, not the "indigo" area!
If you would like some hints, I'm sure I can help without spoiling it for anyone else...
As a starter, 3 actions are required in 3 different locations - told you it wasn't easy!
Good luck, and stay in touch.
Peter

Comment Xanithos

22 Jun 2017

Hi Peter,

I assume this has something to do with the puzzle that was mentioned in the comments previously. Don't want to mention any parts to it in case of spoilers. I'll just have to figure that part out. Thanks

Just in case, this area has nothing to do with where you find the indigo stone, correct? Not that area?

Comment peter edwards

21 Jun 2017

Xanithos,
You do, indeed, need to find the mirror. You've not missed something obvious - it is, in fact, one of the trickier puzzles! It's in a secret location that needs several actions to find. If you'd like some help, let me know.
Peter

Comment Xanithos

21 Jun 2017

I cannot, for the life of me, figure out where the looking glass is that everyone keeps mentioning in the comments. Feel like this is halting my progression and I'm sure it's somewhere obvious that I've missed.

Comment TheBoldWriter

15 Jun 2017

Peter I LOVE all your games! Played all of them!! Would you please take some time and review a new game of mine? It's a work in progress.. It's called "The United States of Zombies". Please leave any comments good or bad! I would really love your advice!

Comment peter edwards

15 Jun 2017

Thank you, Natasha, for your review. I'm very glad you enjoyed the adventure. It's why I wrote it!
Peter

Review Natloud

15 Jun 2017

Really intriguing, detailed and addictive. Great game!

Comment Natloud

15 Jun 2017

Got it! These puzzles are incredible.

Comment Natloud

15 Jun 2017

Hi Peter,
I'm there but I can't figure out the action.
Natasha

Comment peter edwards

15 Jun 2017

Hi Natasha,
A pool of sunlight in the library will shed some light on your problem. If you stay stuck, please ask again (though I may not be able to help until Sunday night!)
Good luck
Peter

Comment Natloud

15 Jun 2017

Hi Peter,

Great game. I am stuck at what to do with the looking glass. It's probably super obvious but two days of trying hasn't yielded me anything.

Thanks,
Natasha

Comment peter edwards

15 May 2017

Hi Snoogins,
First, the blue stone. Are you sure you've found it? You've probably found some pebbles. Try examining them, then searching them...
Have you found your way to the Tapestry Room?
Good luck. It's not an easy game at all, but I'm glad you're enjoying the experience. Do ask again if you need more help.
Peter

Comment Snoogins

15 May 2017

Hi Peter,

I'm enjoying the game so far and loving how detailed the descriptions are. I'currently stumped on what to do next and was wondering if you could kindly give me a nudge in the right direction.

I'm carrying a pair of field-glasses, a blanket, a box (containing grain), sheet music, a glass, a large brass key, a red stone and an orange stone.

I've tried to use the sheet music with the piano but it doesn't work, I've used the field-glasses on the small hole in the main room but all it says is it's a cross shape, I've used the glass to look at the blue stone in the pond but can't get the stone. I've searched every bed, chair, portrait, bench and flower I can find. I'm not sure what to do next!

Comment peter edwards

09 May 2017

Hi Sue,
I'm very glad indeed that you enjoyed the game, and for your kind review.
By the way, did you ever crack Mermaid Bay? Knowing the problems you had with it crashing, I wrote an endgame just for you so you could finish it. I asked Alex to forward the link to you, but in case he didn't here it is if you're interested.
http://textadventures.co.uk/games/view/s8ymgm6kakqi0ufrkdr_ng/beach-endgame
It seems to work, as someone else had the same problem, and I let them into your endgame.
All the best
Peter

Review Sue

09 May 2017

What's not to love about a heritage house, hidden treasure, and a load of fiendish puzzles?

The Lost Scroll has stunningly intricate and layered details for almost every object in the game (for example, I spent a good 5 minutes examining a painting, and it was just scenery!). Yet, despite the level of detail, the text never feels bogged down. There’s a perfect balance of interesting and necessary to keep things moving.

While definitely tricky, the puzzles are all intuitive and so long as you search everything (seriously, everything!) they're all perfectly solvable.

This was an absolutely fantastic game and I would definitely recommend it.

Comment Sue

08 May 2017

Hi, Peter,

Thanks so much for the assist. I actually had the command correct for searching. I think it was using "use field glasses" instead of "examine object" that made the difference (even though examine triggered the description you mentioned, which said I had used the glasses).

Just finished the game, which was fantastic. Thanks for all the work you put into these!

Comment peter edwards

08 May 2017

Hi Sue,
If you use field glasses on box you get a description of the box, followed by a message telling you what the man did next. Return to the fireplace and "feel up chimney" and you should progress.
Let me know how you get on!
Peter

Comment Sue

08 May 2017

Hi, Peter,

Thanks for the quick response. Yes, I had looked at what he was carrying. I went back and looked again after I found the last stone (which I did just after posting earlier), but I still can't follow his example.

Am I missing something very obvious?

Cheers,

Sue.

Comment peter edwards

08 May 2017

Hi Sue,
You have seen the man through the hole, but have you used your field glasses on what he is carrying?
Any more difficulty let me know, but I think that should clear up your problem. Good luck!
Peter

Comment Sue

07 May 2017

The details in this game are absolutely stunning! Unfortunately, (as usual) I seem to have gotten stuck.

I have had a look at the past but can't follow the gentleman's example; it just tells me that because I can't see a reason, I desist.

I am carrying a pair of field-glasses, a blanket, a box, an orange stone, sheet music, an indigo stone, a piece of paper, a small key, a small piece of paper, a large brass key, a blue stone, a violet stone, a green stone, an encyclopaedia, a yellow stone and a looking glass.

A little nudge in the right direction would be much appreciated!

Cheers,

Sue.

Comment peter edwards

09 Mar 2017

Jim,
Thank you for your comment. I'm really glad you enjoyed it. I enjoyed helping.
Peter

Comment jimbrock

09 Mar 2017

Oh for goodness sake! It's appropriate that the stone is red because so is my face!
Thanks again for a smashing game. I really enjoyed.
Jim

Comment peter edwards

09 Mar 2017

Jim,
You'll kick yourself!
You could have tripped over it (literally) at the beginning of the game. With grit and determination, you'll find it...
Peter

Comment jimbrock

09 Mar 2017

The clearing! I tried everything there. Thanks for the hint.
Sorry for the hand holding but the red one still alludes me.
Thanks in advance.
Jim

Comment peter edwards

08 Mar 2017

Jim,
Search in the clearing.
Peter

Comment jimbrock

08 Mar 2017

No, I haven't found the brass key!

Comment peter edwards

08 Mar 2017

Jim,
Does this mean you've found the key? You'll get some good views from the top of the folly, especially if you've got your binoculars...
Peter

Comment jimbrock

08 Mar 2017

And typically, I've just tried it again and I'm onto it. I just need to find those stones!

Thanks

Jim

Comment jimbrock

08 Mar 2017

Hi Peter,
I cracked the wardrobe, I just can't suss the chimney (I've seen the forum questions so I think I know what to do).
I haven't got into the folly yet. I can't find the key (I presume you need the key)
And I can't find the red and green stones.
Thanks for any clues in advance.

Jim

Comment peter edwards

08 Mar 2017

Hi Jim,
You need all the stones to complete your quest, but to solve the chimney you must crack the wardrobe enigma. You already have what you need to do this, but the clue as to how to use it will be found in the library.
Have you entered the folly yet?
Good luck,
Peter

Comment jimbrock

08 Mar 2017

I can't find the brass key either!

Comment jimbrock

08 Mar 2017

Hi Peter,

Really enjoying the game but I'm stuck!

This is my inventory:
You are carrying a yellow stone, a glass, a piece of paper, sheet music, a pair of field-glasses, an encyclopaedia, a blanket, an indigo stone, a small key, a looking glass, a blue stone, a violet stone and an orange stone.

I can't find the green or red stones. I've been searching in the mossy passage which seems logical. No idea on the red stone. Do I need all the stones before I can solve the chimney?
Thanks
Jim

Comment peter edwards

16 Dec 2016

A loophole, allowing an unintended shortcut, has been plugged!

Comment peter edwards

16 Dec 2016

Knapsy,
Congratulations on finding the scroll. It shouldn't really have happened without solving the wardrobe enigma first! I must make sure it can't in a later update... ( I fear that too much has been given away in the comments.)
I think it's worth trying to solve that problem as it is the main puzzle in the game and leads to an atmospheric moment!
Peter

Comment Knapsy

16 Dec 2016

Well, the old man is happy :-) but the wardrobe resisted my best efforts. Must get that open on a replay - will try some of your other games first :-). That was fun!

Comment Knapsy

16 Dec 2016

Aha! Got the blue stone! I'd tried a few things with the necessary object but not the obvious. Silly me. Will persevere with the troublesome wardrobe. Thanks for the hint Peter!

Comment peter edwards

16 Dec 2016

Knapsy,
Glad you're enjoying the game. You are correct - there is a third action. It's in the music room.
If you need more hints, please don't hesitate to ask. (We'll worry about the blue stone later. For now, enough to know that it's in the garden with the fishpond!)
Peter

Comment Knapsy

16 Dec 2016

Hi there - absolutely loving this game, kept me occupied all week! Now quite quite stuck - I'm missing the blue stone (have placed all the others where needed), and keep failing to open the wardrobe in the Tapestry Room - although I'm pretty sure of two of the steps that are needed and have tried various permutations of them - perhaps there is a third? Also I don't appear to have found the looking glass? I must be missing something obvious there...

I have: field glasses, sheet music, encyclopaedia, blanket, small key, piece of paper, a box, grain, a glass, and the brass key. A nudge would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for the game!

Comment peter edwards

14 Dec 2016

Well done, Shannon. Regarding the O stone - you are searching in the right place. But search deeper! In other words, don't just examine - search.
Ask again of you need to, but I think you'll find it all right!
Peter

Comment Shannon.E

14 Dec 2016

Progress! I was missing the middle step between the horn and the room. Any hints for the orange stone? I must have tried everything in the orangery (though it look likes a red herring)

Comment peter edwards

13 Dec 2016

Shannon,
You need to find a hidden location. Clues on the way to opening this can be found in the music you're carrying, the encyclopaedia, and the nursery.
Told you it was tricky!
Stay in touch...
Peter

Comment Shannon.E

12 Dec 2016

Inventory: large brass key, a pair of field-glasses, a piece of paper, an indigo stone, a blanket, sheet music, a glass, a red stone, a blue stone, a green stone, a box, an encyclopedia, a small key, a small piece of paper, and a yellow stone.

Comment peter edwards

12 Dec 2016

Shannon,
This is a tricky one! It will help me to help you if you could tell me what you are carrying.
Speak to you soon.
Peter

Comment Shannon.E

12 Dec 2016

Struggling to open the wardrobe in the tapestry room, any hints?

Comment Pitch black

05 Dec 2016

Seams scary

Comment peter edwards

02 Dec 2016

Jackson, extremely glad you enjoyed the, albeit unusual, visit to the stately home! And I very much enjoyed giving the few bits of extra clues you requested. I look forward to "meeting" you again.
Good luck
Peter

Comment Jfulls002

02 Dec 2016

Thank you! That helped me finish.
-Jackson

Review Jfulls002

02 Dec 2016

Another homerun for Peter Edwards.

Comment peter edwards

01 Dec 2016

Good morning, Jackson,
Remember, you could be reading the ring the wrong way up!
Regarding "O" - the clue is in the name. Where would you look for an "O"?
In answer to your last question, yes!
Cheers
Peter

Comment Jfulls002

01 Dec 2016

Thank you! I am stuck again, though, I just found the black box and am only two short (Y & O). I saw the ring (I assume you know what I am talking about (don't want TOO many spoilers)) but cannot read it properly. where can I rule out looking for the last two? (later question is only if it is really difficult) Do I need to open the dovecot? Thanks again for your help so far.
-Jackson

Comment peter edwards

30 Nov 2016

Hi Jackson,
Sorry to have been so enigmatic - I didn't want to spoil things for you! You do need the fieldglasses, not just for watching birds. They are on a bench not far from the courtyard. You need to examine the bench.

Secondly, in the library, examine everything, including the maebnus. This will bring to light (!) something else to examine. This is your clue to using the looking glass. I will gladly be more explicit if you wish.

Most rooms have a purpose, either containing clues, or what, I hope, are amusing red herrings!

Have you been up the folly yet?

Peter

Comment Jfulls002

30 Nov 2016

sorry, but I do not really understand that. a few questions about where I am (you can just answer a) backward b) one-word tip) 1) how do I use the looking glass (what verb) 2) what is the purpose of the folly (what object) 3) which rooms can I ignore? Thank you so much for the prompt response last time and I am sorry to be this terse with you I really love all your games
-Jackson

Comment peter edwards

29 Nov 2016

Jackson,
You've come on a long way, but you need to crack the code in the Tapestry Room. The wardrobe is significant. The looking glass will help. A clue as to how, will be found in the library.
Ask again if you need to. Good luck!
Peter

Comment Jfulls002

29 Nov 2016

You are carrying a looking glass, an indigo stone, an encyclopedia, a blanket, a glass, sheet music, a box, a small key, a large brass key, a blue stone, a red stone and a violet stone.

I have unlocked all rooms (I think) and am completely stuck and at a loss. I have no idea what the tapestry room is for and I cannot find the field glasses to see the bird. I also have no idea what to do with the folly or any fireplace. Thanks, Jackson

Comment peter edwards

08 Nov 2016

Thank you, Kyo, for your review. I'm so glad that you enjoyed the adventure. You say you would like to hop into that world. In fact it is based on a real National Trust property in Cornwall, but I won't tell you where it is - they may complain if you start fiddling with the fireplace!
Peter

Comment KyuJones

07 Nov 2016

Ah! Sorry, Peter. I figured out how to engage the item, but it didn't come up easily to interact with.....
the past scene. "small ebony box"
I had been trying to interact with "small box" as it was referred to in the scene, but it wouldn't let me.
finally just did "x small" and it brought up a list of small things I could choose to interact with.

Review KyuJones

07 Nov 2016

Absolutely fun. These tough puzzles are set in a wonderful scenario with entrancing descriptions - some that are just fun to read! I honestly went back to a couple items thinking they may be a clue to something, but it seems they were just there for the curious. ^____^
I loved that each special item had its place specific to its detail. Those frustratingly thoughtful moments trying to consider what went where and which clues to use.... you know how to test your readers and make them feel QUITE accomplished upon discoveries!
Now if only I could hop into that world and wander that old house. <3

Comment peter edwards

07 Nov 2016

Hi Kyu,
I'd like to help, but I'm not sure what the problem is.
Peter

Comment KyuJones

07 Nov 2016

((side note:: Missing word "ebony" for the small box... bit tricky to look at it without finagling a search for all small things))

Comment peter edwards

07 Nov 2016

Thank you, Lighnagain, for your kind review and comments. I am delighted that you enjoyed the game - and found it challenging. I do hope you enjoy some of my others, but be warned - they may be easier, but also more "dangerous". I will always be here to help, however.
I look forward to communicating with you again.
Peter

Review Lighnagain

07 Nov 2016

As one might ascertain from my propensity to post in the comments section, I did find the puzzles in the latest Edwards puzzle challenging. However, it was primarily a fault of my own for not trying the right things, as the sense in the story was clear. At no point was the logic of the next step questionable--and when you were expected to treat an object in an unconventional way, there were a multitude of hints to direct your mind. My biggest praise, however, is to the author himself--for always being attentive to the player who posts incessantly because she can't figure out a verb! Now to go back and finish the other games of his I haven't gotten a chance to complete!

Comment peter edwards

06 Nov 2016

I have been checking the forum, and have replied there.
To ensure I remember to check it, it may be a good idea to post here also. as you suggest!
You are so near the end...
Peter

Comment Lighnagain

06 Nov 2016

I can't seem to crack it. I've written in the forum--are you checking that or would you like me to post here when I've posted a response there?

Comment peter edwards

06 Nov 2016

Hi Lighnagain,
I've replied in the forum. Hope you don't mind getting your hands dirty!

Comment Lighnagain

06 Nov 2016

hahaha I feel so dumb. I hadn't looked IN yet. Another response in the forum.

Comment peter edwards

06 Nov 2016

Lighnaagain,
I've given you a further clue on your thread...

Comment Lighnagain

06 Nov 2016

Alright wow, you weren't kidding about making this difficult. I have created a thread in the forum, in the attempt to ask you more specific questions without giving away spoilers.
Link:
http://textadventures.co.uk/forum/games/topic/yjo1kmuwx02arlr-t2dvyw/questions-about-the-lost-scroll

Comment Lighnagain

06 Nov 2016

It ALWAYS goes that as soon as I post the comment, I figure out the object I am missing. Nevermind---- :)

Comment Lighnagain

06 Nov 2016

(Which chapel?) But I feel like I've "looked at," "searched," "looked under," "sat on" and tried to "take" every object in both chapels, all to no avail. Is there a verb I'm neglecting?

Comment peter edwards

06 Nov 2016

Lighnagain,
Examine carefully everything in the chapel...
Peter

Comment Lighnagain

05 Nov 2016

Alright I capitulate. Finding the glasses certainly furthered me in the storyline quite a bit--but now I am again at a loss. I have all stones, just need the key. I have found the ploughman clue--but not sure if it's a hint to something I've already figured out, or if I missed some ploughman reference? I saw your hint about kneeling in prayer, but I also saw at some point there's someone else who moves about, is this person's appearance triggered by something I haven't figured out yet?

Comment Lighnagain

05 Nov 2016

EDIT: Field Glasses acquired. Just totally missed that descriptor and never bothered to interact with it.... standby.

Comment Lighnagain

05 Nov 2016

I figured I needed to spy on the bird from afar--but I haven't found the binoculars either. I looked at and searched everything I could think of in the library, but came up empty-handed as far as an encyclopedia.

Comment peter edwards

05 Nov 2016

Hello, Lighnagain,
As a keen birdwatcher, my advice is to keep your distance and use binoculars!
Where might you look for an encyclopaedia?
The tapestry room is behind a locked door.
Good luck, and remember I'm here to help.
Peter

Comment Lighnagain

05 Nov 2016

OK. Put grain on the bird table. A bird keeps eating it, but flying away when I get close. Have no idea how to find mentioned tapestry room, but I am only missing G and Y stones. Also don't have an encyclopedia. Gentle nudge?

Comment peter edwards

05 Nov 2016

Hi, Kyo,
Welcome to The Lost Scroll. I'm glad you're enjoying it. It's difficult, but I see you have already solved one of the trickier puzzles!
Knowing you to be an experienced player, I won't give everything away too easily. The tapestry room is important. You have what you need to progress here. A clue as to how to use it can be found in the library. Enough help for now, but please ask again if you need to!
Good luck
Peter

Comment KyuJones

05 Nov 2016

Hi! A new game! WOO!

I am quite enjoying it, like your others..... I've become stuck, a bit. I can't figure out what the nursery and tapestry rooms are for. :( I believe I've discovered the entire map, except getting into the dovecot(?). I haven't figured out what some things mean, yet...... grain dove, huntsmen pic, ploughman pic, milkmaid/horse

inv::
glass, sheet music, box, encyclopaedia, piece of paper, small piece of paper, blanket, field-glasses, small key, large brass key, looking glass, orange stone, violet stone, red stone, green stone, and indigo stone

you're the best!!

Comment peter edwards

06 Oct 2016

Yellowfellow,
When you turned the horn, you will have been given a clue. If you didn't notice it, you can always go back and turn it (to reset it), then turn it again.
The flowers are not red herrings! What else do you do with flowers?
What happened when you put the grain on the bird-table?

Comment YELLOWFELLOW

06 Oct 2016

I turned the horn, but I still haven't found out what has changed. Meanwhile, I found three 'items' for the riddle. How am I supposed to take the violet and primrose flowers? Are they red herrings? I found the plough carving but can't figure out what to do. I've got into every room except the dovecot...

---inventory---
You are carrying an indigo stone, a glass, sheet music, an encyclopaedia, a blanket, a piece of paper, a pair of field-glasses, a large brass key, a green stone, a small key and a red stone.
(the grain is on the bird-table)

Comment peter edwards

05 Oct 2016

Yellowfellow,
The tapestry room is locked. You need a key. Perhaps it fell out of someone’s pocket when they knelt in prayer?
Keep the green stone. You'll find a use for it later.

Comment YELLOWFELLOW

05 Oct 2016

and I have not found the tapestry room...any hints there :)

Comment YELLOWFELLOW

05 Oct 2016

found a green stone...will continue playing!

Comment peter edwards

05 Oct 2016

Yellowfellow,

General advice for this game would be to use the verb “search” a lot, and to examine or search everything that is described or even implied. In addition, examine “in layers”, i.e. your examination may lead you to other things to examine etc.
Good luck!

Comment peter edwards

05 Oct 2016

I think, Yellowfellow, that this is a very difficult game. I make no apology – you have been warned! It’s hard to advise unless I know what locations you have visited. To start with, have you found the tapestry room?

Comment YELLOWFELLOW

05 Oct 2016

I am stuck, early on.

Inventory
You are carrying a glass, sheet music, an encyclopaedia, a blanket, a piece of paper, a pair of field-glasses and a large brass key.

I've found the tiny chapel but haven't been able to do anything there. I've explored all the locations...

Any help would be appreciated!

Comment peter edwards

29 Jun 2016

BrierDIEZ,
Just type 'in'!
Please ask again if you need to - delighted to help.
Peter

Comment BriarDIEZ

29 Jun 2016

I opened the folly door, but I can't figure out the right command to go inside. Help.

Comment peter edwards

17 Jun 2016

Chris,
Very glad you enjoyed it! For your peace of mind I can assure you that you missed nothing concerning the servants' stairs nor the plaque in the church. Both were real items in the house upon which I based the story, and I felt they ought to go in for the atmosphere. (The story on the plaque was quite true - so you see this adventure was educational as well!)
Did you see any significance in the plaque on the rocking horse? Just wondered...
Well done again.
Peter

Comment chris todd1

17 Jun 2016

Really enjoyed it. Were there any 'extras' that I missed? As in,was it ever possible to get up to the servants quarters? Did the plaque in the church have any significance etc?

Comment peter edwards

14 Jun 2016

Chris,
Many congratulations on finishing the game! I hope you enjoyed it.
Peter

Comment chris todd1

14 Jun 2016

Success!!!!

Comment chris todd1

14 Jun 2016

Aha, 7th item found! The fireplace is perplexing me. Is there something you need to do elsewhere which enables you to find whatever it is you need to manipulate???

Comment peter edwards

13 Jun 2016

Hi Chris,
Glad you're enjoying the game. To help you, the man had to use the tool he did because the fire was lit. You don't have that problem! In answer to your first query - you have searched the items. Now what else might you do with them? (I'm assuming I know which item you're missing)
Good luck!

Comment chris todd1

13 Jun 2016

Enjoying this game, but stuck. Struggling to find the 7th piece, thought I found where it was, but searching got me nowhere. Have no idea where to go now - have seen the man do his thing... but can't find the tool to replicate his actions. Any hints?

Comment DavyB

08 Jun 2016

...and thank you Peter! BTW, did you think of publicising your game(s) through the forum (http://forum.textadventures.co.uk/), which provides better support for discussion as well as improving visibility?

Comment peter edwards

07 Jun 2016

DavyB,
Thank you very much for your generous review. I'm extremely pleased that you enjoyed the game, and congratulations on completing it with very little help!
I look forward to helping you again later - should you need it!
Peter

Review DavyB

07 Jun 2016

This is the 8th Quest text adventure from Peter Edwards in the last 3-4 years, with a 2-year gap back to his previous game, Mermaid Bay. All so far have been beautifully constructed and this one is no exception.

Peter commented in 2014 that he “…really must try to make the puzzles harder...” and has succeeded! I therefore recommend starting with an earlier game if you are new to the collection. That will help you get used to Peter’s style and allow you to take advantage of the many additional clues in the surrounding discussion.

The Lost Scroll is a pure text adventure, meaning that there are no hyperlinks, no control panel, and no map. There are, however, a few pictures to add atmosphere and these work well. The general appearance of the adventure is excellent though I would prefer continuous scrolling rather than text being deleted when some pictures are presented.

The adventure itself is written to a very high standard, with subtle clues woven into the text. There is a simple clear storyline, which is reinforced as the adventure proceeds, providing an engaging and very satisfactory experience overall. For me, the decision to leave out situations where the player can die, or worse still, end up in an unwinnable state, was very welcome.

The Lost Scroll may be Peter’s best game so far, but I have five more to play before I can offer that conclusion. Well done!

Comment DavyB

07 Jun 2016

Aah! I'm so used to the verb-object format for commands I left out 'on'. Now finished and will add a review later today. Thank you for this tough but very enjoyable game!

Comment peter edwards

07 Jun 2016

DavyB,
You've manipulated the picture. Obviously you have examined it. Have you examined the parts of the picture which are described? A further clue - Matthew 7:7
Speak to you later!
Peter

Comment DavyB

07 Jun 2016

Alas, sleep and an hour of examining, searching, pulling, pushing, turning, lifting, generally manipulating everything in the guest room (especially the picture) has me no further ahead. A stronger nudge is needed...perhaps a good shove!

Comment DavyB

06 Jun 2016

Many thanks for the rapid reply Peter. I had already spent quite a bit of time in that room as I suspected there must be something hidden there. However, even knowing that for certain isn't yet helping. I'll sleep on it!

Comment peter edwards

06 Jun 2016

Hi DavyB,
You are right in thinking that you need to get to the other side of that locked door. You won't find a way to open it - but perhaps there's another way into the room. Investigate next door. I won't give too much away unless you ask, as I know you want to get there on your own, but I'm delighted to give you nudges whenever you want!
I shall watch your progress with interest ...
Good luck
Peter

Comment DavyB

06 Jun 2016

Hi Peter, I recently completed two of your earlier games (Mermaid Bay and then Escape from the Forbidden City) but felt I 'cheated' by looking through the comments as soon as I became stuck! Your new game gave me a chance to persevere and that has worked out pretty well. Unfortunately though close to the end (I think!), I'm out of ideas. I have one item still to find (the sixth in sequence) and have one locked door (near the bathroom). A nudge in the right direction would be welcome!

Comment peter edwards

27 May 2016

Small error corrected - purely aesthetic!