Brood of the Witch-Queen · Chapter
The Ivory Hand explained
Robert Cairn, alone in his chambers, struggles with paranoia and supernatural phenomena as he examines a silken cord left by Antony Ferrara.
What happens
Robert Cairn, alone in his chambers, struggles with paranoia and supernatural phenomena as he examines a silken cord left by Antony Ferrara. He experiences auditory hallucinations, a mysterious shadow, and an unconscious writing episode. After a phone call from his father, Dr. Cairn reveals that the cord was stolen from the British Museum, and Ferrara likely planted it as a focus for his sorcery. Robert then feels a spectral hand on his shoulder—the ivory hand of the Witch-Queen—and falls into a trance vision of a ritual before being roused by the telephone.
Themes in this chapter
Sorcery vs. Science
Robert attempts to use rational deduction and a revolver against Ferrara's supernatural attacks, but is overwhelmed by hypnotic and occult forces.
Possession and Identity
Robert experiences unconscious writing and a trance vision, suggesting his mind is being controlled or influenced by Ferrara's sorcery.
The Occult and Ancient Egypt
The vision of the Witch-Queen, the ring of Thoth, and the Book of Thoth ritual evoke ancient Egyptian occult practices.
Characters to notice
- Robert Cairn
Protagonist; alone in his chambers, he experiences auditory hallucinations, a mysterious shadow, and unconscious writing. He examines the silken cord and falls into a trance.
- Antony Ferrara
Antagonist; referenced as the source of the silken cord and the supernatural attacks. His basilisk eyes and unholy campaign are recalled.
- Dr. Bruce Cairn
Robert's father; calls to warn Robert that the cord was stolen from the British Museum and that Ferrara planted it as a focus for sorcery.
- Myra Duquesne
Robert's beloved; he fondly remembers her appearance in Mr. Saunderson's garden, her pale beauty, and her rebellious curls.
Key passages
“He had been writing unconsciously! And this was what he had written: 'Robert Cairn—renounce your pursuit of me, and renounce Myra; or tonight—'”
Robert discovers he has written a threatening message from Ferrara without being aware of it.
Demonstrates Ferrara's supernatural influence over Robert's mind.
“A hand crept over his shoulder—followed by a bare arm of the hue of old ivory—a woman’s arm!”
A spectral ivory-colored hand and arm appear over Robert's shoulder.
Climactic supernatural manifestation; the 'Ivory Hand' of the chapter title.
“'Ferrara meant you to find that cord, boy! Remember, he is unacquainted with your chambers and he requires a focus for his damnable forces!'”
Dr. Cairn explains that Ferrara planted the cord as a magical focus to attack Robert.
Reveals Ferrara's strategic use of objects for sorcery.