The original scenario for "The Million Dollar Mystery" was created as a promotional tool for a film serial of the same name released in 1914. The serial was produced by Thanhouser Company and consisted of 23 episodes, each ending in a cliffhanger to entice viewers to return for the next installment. The plot revolves around the search for a stolen million-dollar bill and the various adventures and dangers encountered by the protagonists in pursuit of it.Harold MacGrath, a popular author of adventure and romance novels during the early 20th century, adapted Lonergan's scenario into a novel. MacGrath's novelization expanded on the characters and plot elements of the film serial, providing more depth and background to the story.