# XXXVIII: Unexpected Words explained — Hand and Ring

> Chapter companion for Hand and Ring by Anna Katharine Green.

## What happens

In the aftermath of Mr. Orcutt's accident, Imogene Dare confronts the dying lawyer, demanding he reveal the true murderer of Mrs. Clemmens. Orcutt, in a moment of consciousness, declares that Fate has spoken, and later murmurs 'Blood will have blood!' and 'Ah, Imogene, Imogene, it was all for you!' before lapsing into insensibility. Imogene, overwhelmed, is supported by a portly gentleman who reveals himself as a detective and offers to help her. The chapter ends with Imogene leaving the room with this mysterious ally, while Mr. Ferris and others are left in shock and disbelief.

## Themes in this chapter

### Guilt and Innocence

Imogene's confrontation forces the question of who is truly guilty, with Orcutt's cryptic words suggesting his own culpability.

### Secrets and the Past

Orcutt's dying words hint at a hidden connection to Imogene and the murder, revealing long-buried secrets.

### Fate and Coincidence

Orcutt's declaration that 'Fate has spoken' underscores the theme of inevitable justice and the role of chance in the unfolding events.

## Character check-ins

### Imogene Dare

Confronts the dying Orcutt, demanding the truth about Mrs. Clemmens' murder, and is supported by a mysterious gentleman who offers help.

### Mr. Orcutt

On his deathbed, he utters cryptic words that seem to implicate himself and express his feelings for Imogene.

### Mr. Ferris

District Attorney who is present at Orcutt's bedside, initially dismissive of Imogene's accusations.

### Mr. Byrd

Observes the scene and notes the change in Orcutt's expression, and later follows Imogene to the door.

### Mr. Hickory

Receives orders from the mysterious gentleman to guard the sickroom.

## Key lines

> I realize,” said she, “with what surprise you must have heard the revelation which has just come from Mr. Orcutt’s lips.

Imogene acknowledges that the shocking words from Orcutt must have surprised everyone.

_Imogene speaks to Mr. Ferris after Orcutt's confession._

> My words are true, but who will ever believe them?” “Pardon me,” exclaimed a bland and fatherly voice over her shoulder, “I am a man who can believe in anything.

Imogene doubts anyone will believe her, but a stranger offers his belief and assistance.

_The mysterious gentleman offers his support to Imogene._

> If Craik Mansell is not the man who killed Mrs. Clemmens, do you, Mr. Orcutt, tell us who is!

Imogene demands that Orcutt name the real murderer if it isn't Mansell.

_Imogene directly challenges Orcutt on his deathbed._

> Blood will have blood!” Then in lower and more familiar accents, cried: “Ah, Imogene, Imogene, it was all for you!

Orcutt declares that murder demands vengeance, and then speaks of his actions being for Imogene.

_Orcutt's final words before losing consciousness._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hand_and_ring_se/chapters/xxxviii-unexpected-words
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