Behind That Curtain · Chapter
Hawaii Bound explained
After Major Durand's suicide, the characters reconvene in the bungalow.
What happens
After Major Durand's suicide, the characters reconvene in the bungalow. Inspector Duff reveals Durand's dishonorable discharge and questions Colonel Beetham about his actions. Beetham confesses his love for Eve Durand and his decision not to betray her. Chan, content with the resolution, prepares to leave for Honolulu but is delayed by a five-day wait. He escapes a new case offered by Bill Rankin and secretly departs for the ship. At the pier, June Morrow and Barry Kirk see him off, exchanging gifts and a kiss, as Chan sails for Hawaii.
Themes in this chapter
The Elusive Nature of Truth
The truth about Durand's past and Beetham's motives is gradually revealed, showing how hidden facts shape the investigation.
The Past Haunting the Present
Durand's dishonorable discharge and Beetham's long-held love for Eve demonstrate how past events continue to influence current actions.
Ambition Versus Contentment
Chan chooses contentment and family over a new case, reflecting his desire for peace after the intense investigation.
Characters to notice
- Sergeant Charlie Chan
Content with the resolution, he prepares to leave for Honolulu, escapes a new case, and sails from San Francisco.
- Barry Kirk
Hosts the gathering, helps Duff, and sees Chan off at the pier, kissing June Morrow.
- June Morrow
Comforts Eve Durand, leaves the bungalow with her, and later sees Chan off at the pier, receiving a pink streamer.
- Captain Flannery
Announces Durand's death and leaves to attend to duties below.
- Eve Durand
Grieves after Durand's suicide; is comforted by June Morrow and leaves the bungalow.
- Colonel John Beetham
Confesses his love for Eve Durand and explains his actions to Duff; departs after the conversation.
- Inspector Duff
Reveals Durand's dishonorable discharge, questions Beetham, and takes Sir Frederic's briefcase.
- Bill Rankin
Rushes in with news of a murder in Oakland, hoping to involve Chan, but Chan escapes.
Key passages
“Nothing in his life became him like the leaving it. What a washout that life was! Poor Major.”
Colonel Beetham remarks that Durand's death was the most fitting act of his life, calling it a complete failure.
Beetham reflects on Durand's tragic end.
“Curiosity is all quenched, like fire in pouring rain. We have looked at last behind that curtain Sir Frederic pictured, and I am content.”
Chan says his curiosity is satisfied now that the mystery is solved, comparing it to a fire extinguished by rain.
Chan expresses satisfaction with the resolution.
“The guest who lingers too long deteriorates like unused fish.”
Chan explains that staying too long as a guest makes one unwelcome, like fish that goes bad.
Chan declines to stay longer at Kirk's bungalow.
“Aloha. Until we meet again.”
Chan bids farewell in Hawaiian, expressing hope for a future reunion.
Chan's final words as the ship departs.
