# The Wizard's Den explained — Brood of the Witch-Queen

> Chapter companion for Brood of the Witch-Queen by Sax Rohmer.

## What happens

Robert Cairn tracks Antony Ferrara to a secluded barn near Dulwich Common, which Myra had dreamt of, revealing Ferrara's hidden lair for his sorcerous activities. Dr. Cairn and Robert prepare for a supreme attack that night, vowing to stay together with Myra in the library.

## Themes in this chapter

### Sorcery vs. Science

Dr. Cairn prepares to use magical seals and protections against Ferrara's sorcery, highlighting the clash between modern rationality and ancient occult arts.

### Good vs. Evil

The Cairns position themselves as defenders against Ferrara, described as an 'arch fiend' and 'unnatural monster,' in a clear moral struggle.

### The Occult and Ancient Egypt

Ferrara is linked to the 'Witch-Queen' and an 'unholy brood,' suggesting ancient Egyptian sorcery and hereditary occult powers.

### Hereditary Curse and Taint

Ferrara is described as the son of the Witch-Queen, carrying on her evil work, implying a hereditary curse or taint.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Cairn

Tracks Ferrara to his hidden den near Dulwich Common, using a photographer's shop and a taxi pursuit.

### Dr. Bruce Cairn

Plans defensive measures for the night, believing Ferrara will make a supreme effort; discusses Ferrara's unnatural nature and victims.

### Antony Ferrara

Observed entering a photographer's shop and later a barn-like building in a field near Dulwich Common; described as effeminate and sinister.

### Myra Duquesne

Mentioned as having dreamt of the barn; she is out shopping with Miss Saunderson and is to stay with the Cairns that night for safety.

### Mr. Saunderson

His house near Dulwich Common is referenced; Myra stayed there during her illness.

### Miss Saunderson

Accompanies Myra shopping.

## Key lines

> I doubt if we can do anything today. Obviously the early morning is the most suitable time to visit his den at Dulwich Common.

Dr. Cairn suggests that visiting Ferrara's lair should wait until dawn.

_Plans for the confrontation are delayed until the next morning._

> We shall be called upon to place certain seals upon our doors and windows; to protect ourselves against an enemy, who, like Eros, laughs at locks and bars.

They must use magical seals to defend against Ferrara, who can bypass ordinary locks.

_Highlights the supernatural nature of the threat._

> I have tracked him, sir! ... His den is in a field no more than a thousand yards from the garden wall—from Saunderson's orchid-houses!

Robert reveals that Ferrara's lair is very close to the Saunderson property.

_The proximity explains Myra's earlier vulnerability._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brood_of_the_witch_queen_se/chapters/xxix-the-wizard-s-den
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brood_of_the_witch_queen_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brood_of_the_witch_queen_se/chapters