Behind That Curtain · Chapter
The Letter from London explained
Captain Flannery interrogates Eileen Enderby about recognizing Jennie Jerome in the elevator.
What happens
Captain Flannery interrogates Eileen Enderby about recognizing Jennie Jerome in the elevator. Chan finds the hidden Scotland Yard letter in Paradise's shoe, revealing that Sir Frederic linked Hilary Galt's murder with Eve Durand's disappearance. Flannery decides to let Paradise remain free to gather more evidence, while Chan advises patience.
Themes in this chapter
The Elusive Nature of Truth
Eileen Enderby's initial lie and the hidden letter highlight how truth is gradually uncovered.
Suspicion and Trust
Flannery's decision to let Paradise remain free reflects the tension between suspicion and strategic trust.
Characters to notice
- Captain Flannery
Interrogates Eileen Enderby and discovers the Scotland Yard letter hidden by Paradise.
- Eileen Enderby
Confesses to recognizing Jennie Jerome in the elevator and being asked to keep it secret.
- Sergeant Charlie Chan
Finds the hidden letter and advises patience in the investigation.
- Barry Kirk
Hosts the gathering and discusses the case with Miss Morrow.
- June Morrow
Objects to Flannery's plan to arrest Jennie Jerome without evidence and assists with tea.
- Paradise
Revealed to have hidden the Scotland Yard letter; Flannery plans to watch him.
Key passages
“Lying's a dangerous business in a matter of this kind.”
Enderby warns that dishonesty is risky in a murder investigation.
Enderby advises his wife against lying to the police.
“Patience, always brightest plan in these matters.”
Chan emphasizes that patience is the best approach in detective work.
Chan advises against hasty actions.
“The ship with too many steersmen never reaches port.”
Chan compares having too many investigators to a ship with too many helmsmen.
Chan supports Flannery's decision not to call Inspector Duff.