# XVIII: Robert Receives a Visitor Whom He Had Scarcely Expected explained — Lady Audley’s Secret

> Chapter companion for Lady Audley’s Secret by M. E. Braddon.

## What happens

Lady Audley visits Robert at the Castle Inn to apologize for his dismissal from Audley Court, but their conversation quickly turns to the disappearance of George Talboys. Robert reveals his suspicions and his plan to examine George's letters if his advertisements go unanswered. After she leaves, Robert learns she has taken a train to London and follows her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Secrecy and Deception

Lady Audley's visit is a cover for probing Robert's investigation; both characters engage in veiled threats and hidden motives.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Lady Audley's childish, innocent demeanor contrasts with her calculated actions and the dark suspicions surrounding her.

### Justice and Morality

Robert's determination to uncover the truth about George's disappearance reflects a personal quest for justice.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Audley

Receives an unexpected visit from Lady Audley; expresses his suspicions about George Talboys's disappearance and his intention to investigate further.

### Lady Audley

Visits Robert at the inn, offering an apology; questions him about his investigation and later departs for London, prompting Robert to follow.

### George Talboys

Central to the conversation; Robert discusses his disappearance and plans to examine his letters.

### Phoebe Marks

Announces Lady Audley's arrival to Robert.

## Key lines

> I had a friend, Lady Audley, whom I loved very dearly, and since I have lost him I fear that my feelings toward other people are strangely embittered.

Robert explains that his grief over George's disappearance has made him more suspicious and harsh toward others.

_Robert reveals the emotional impact of George's loss on his demeanor._

> I shall examine the effects he left at my chambers.

Robert plans to go through George's belongings, particularly his letters, to find clues.

_Robert outlines his next step in the investigation._

> A false move, my lady, and one I never looked for from you.

Robert thinks that Lady Audley's visit is a tactical error on her part.

_Robert's internal reaction to Lady Audley's unexpected appearance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lady_audley_s_secret_se/chapters/xviii-robert-receives-a-visitor-whom-he-had-scarcely-expected
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lady_audley_s_secret_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lady_audley_s_secret_se/chapters