Brood of the Witch-Queen · Chapter
Lair of the Spiders explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Cairn and Robert Cairn trace the location of the sarcophagus of the Witch-Queen to a house in Port Said. They discover a hidden cellar containing the sarcophagus, where Antony Ferrara lies in a trance. As Dr. Cairn prepares to kill Ferrara with a knife, a mass of tarantula spiders descends upon them, forcing a panicked retreat. The ensuing fire destroys the house and neighboring buildings. Afterwards, Robert receives a parcel from Ferrara containing his charred penknife and a mocking note.
Themes in this chapter
Sorcery vs. Science
Dr. Cairn's rational investigation clashes with Ferrara's supernatural trance and the occult protection of the sarcophagus.
Good vs. Evil
The Cairns' mission to destroy the evil sarcophagus and Ferrara is framed as a moral duty, culminating in a horrific spider attack.
Hereditary Curse and Taint
Ferrara's link to the Witch-Queen and the ancient evil of the sarcophagus suggests a hereditary or cursed lineage.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Bruce Cairn
Leads the search for the sarcophagus, descends into the cellar, and attempts to kill Ferrara but is driven back by spiders.
- Robert Cairn
Accompanies his father, discovers the trapdoor, and is horrified by the spider attack; later receives Ferrara's taunting gift.
- Antony Ferrara
Found lying in a trance inside the sarcophagus of the Witch-Queen; survives the encounter and sends a mocking note to Robert.
Key passages
“We must find that house, find the sarcophagus—for I no longer doubt that it exists—drag it out, and destroy it.”
We have to locate the house and the sarcophagus, which I now believe is real, and then remove and destroy it.
Dr. Cairn expresses his determination to find and destroy the sarcophagus.
“A shot might attract attention. Give me your knife.”
Firing a gun could draw unwanted notice. Hand me your knife.
Dr. Cairn opts for a silent killing method to avoid alerting others.
“With Antony Ferrara's Compliments.”
Compliments of Antony Ferrara.
Ferrara's mocking note accompanies the returned charred penknife.