Behind That Curtain · Chapter
XVIII: Flannery's Big Scene explained
Captain Flannery outlines his dramatic plan to confront Colonel Beetham with Eve Durand, hoping to force a confession about Sir Frederic's murder.
What happens
Captain Flannery outlines his dramatic plan to confront Colonel Beetham with Eve Durand, hoping to force a confession about Sir Frederic's murder. He stages the scene with Major Durand present, but when the woman arrives, Durand declares she is not his wife, shattering Flannery's theory.
Themes in this chapter
Suspicion and Trust
Flannery's scheme relies on manipulating suspicion, while Durand's trust in Beetham and his wife is tested.
The Elusive Nature of Truth
The dramatic confrontation fails to reveal the truth, as the woman is not Eve Durand, leaving the mystery intact.
Identity and Disguise
The woman's identity is questioned; her failure to be recognized underscores the theme of mistaken or hidden identity.
Characters to notice
- Captain Flannery
Orchestrates a dramatic confrontation, confident in his theory against Beetham.
- Colonel John Beetham
Accused of running away with Eve Durand; remains composed and denies the charge.
- Major Eric Durand
Brought in to identify his wife; initially hopeful but ultimately declares the woman is not Eve.
- Eve Durand
The woman presented as Eve Durand; her arrival fails to confirm Flannery's theory.
- Sergeant Charlie Chan
Observes Flannery's plan with skepticism; later investigates the Cosmopolitan Club.
- Barry Kirk
Accompanies Chan to the Cosmopolitan Club and discusses the case with June Morrow.
Key passages
“You would chop down the tree to catch the blackbird.”
Chan suggests Flannery's plan is overly destructive for a small gain.
Chan uses a proverb to critique Flannery's heavy-handed approach.
“The wise man digs his well before he is thirsty.”
Chan advises preparing in advance rather than waiting for a crisis.
Chan's proverb underscores his methodical nature versus Flannery's impulsiveness.
“It's the old story over again. Captain Flannery, you are mistaken. This woman is not my wife.”
Durand confirms the woman is not Eve, deflating Flannery's theory.
The climax of Flannery's scene ends in failure, highlighting the theme of elusive truth.