# The Deed That Had Been Done in the Wood explained — Aurora Floyd

> Chapter companion for Aurora Floyd by M. E. Braddon.

## What happens

Aurora returns to the house after a shot is fired in the wood, and John tries to shield her from the news that a man has been hurt. John reflects on his happiness and feels unworthy, while Mrs. Powell insinuates Aurora's involvement. Aurora insists she will testify if needed, and John fiercely defends her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Secrecy and Scandal

The murder of Conyers threatens to expose Aurora's past, and Mrs. Powell's insinuations heighten the atmosphere of scandal.

### Jealousy and Betrayal

John's protective anger and Mrs. Powell's sly remarks suggest underlying tensions and potential betrayal.

### Redemption and Forgiveness

John's guilt and desire to sacrifice for Aurora reflect a longing for redemption and forgiveness.

## Character check-ins

### Aurora Floyd

Returns from the wood with a flushed, defiant demeanor; learns of the shooting and insists she will testify if called.

### John Mellish

Tries to protect Aurora from the news, reflects guiltily on his past happiness, and angrily defends her against Mrs. Powell's insinuations.

### Mrs. Walter Powell

Observes the scene with smug curiosity, hints at Aurora's presence near the murder, and is rebuked by John.

### James Conyers

The trainer who has been killed; his death is the central event of the chapter.

### Mr. Lofthouse

Present in the hall and accompanies John after the shooting.

### Mrs. Lofthouse

Seated with Aurora and Mrs. Powell in the drawing-room; asked by John to care for Aurora.

## Key lines

> He lifted his hand with a warning gesture⁠—a gesture that plainly said: Whatever trouble or sorrow there may be, let her be spared the knowledge of it; let her be sheltered from the pain.

John raised his hand to signal that Aurora should be kept unaware of the trouble.

_John's instinct to protect Aurora from the grim news._

> I have not been good enough; I have intoxicated myself with my happiness, and have made no return for it.

John feels he has been selfish and unworthy of his good fortune.

_John's self-reproach and reflection on his past life._

> If they choose to call me as a witness, I will tell all I know about this man's death; which is nothing but that I heard a shot fired while I was in the grounds.

Aurora says she will testify honestly if required, but knows only that she heard a shot.

_Aurora's calm defiance in the face of potential scandal._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/aurora_floyd_se/chapters/xxv-the-deed-that-had-been-done-in-the-wood
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/aurora_floyd_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/aurora_floyd_se/chapters