Lost Man’s Lane · Chapter
XIV: I Forget My Age, or, Rather, Remember It explained
Miss Butterworth accepts a ride from Mr.
What happens
Miss Butterworth accepts a ride from Mr. Trohm, who she believes is the one man she can trust. During their ride through Lost Man's Lane, they discuss the Knollys family, the phantom coach, and the mysterious dangers of the lane. Mr. Trohm shows his well-kept home and lands, but becomes evasive when pressed about the Knollys. He warns Miss Butterworth about the veiled danger in the lane, but is interrupted by William Knollys before he can say more.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
Mr. Trohm evades Miss Butterworth's questions about the Knollys family, and his warning is cut short by William's arrival, maintaining the air of mystery.
Isolation and Community
The contrast between Mr. Trohm's well-kept home and the Knollys mansion highlights the isolation of the lane and the differing ways residents cope with it.
Characters to notice
- Amelia Butterworth
Miss Butterworth rides with Mr. Trohm, trying to gain information about the Knollys family and the lane's mysteries.
- Mr. Trohm
Mr. Trohm drives Miss Butterworth home, showing off his well-kept property and expressing concern for her safety, but avoids direct discussion of the Knollys.
- Lucetta
Lucetta is mentioned as being afraid of Mr. Trohm and as having conceived the idea that he encourages William in an intimacy she does not approve.
- William Knollys
William appears at the gate, interrupting Mr. Trohm's warning to Miss Butterworth.
- Deacon Spear
Deacon Spear is seen sitting on his front doorstep as they ride by, and Miss Butterworth notes his self-satisfied expression.
Key passages
“I hear that this lane has other claims to attention beyond those afforded by the mysteries connected with it. I hear that it has at times a ghostly visitant in the shape of a spectral horse and carriage.”
Miss Butterworth mentions the legend of the phantom coach to Mr. Trohm.
She uses the ghost story to open a conversation about the lane's mysteries.
“I will not acknowledge her as an enemy. I like the girl too well.”
Mr. Trohm refuses to call Lucetta an enemy, saying he likes her too much.
He shows a conflicted attitude toward Lucetta, suggesting hidden feelings.
“Do not talk to me about this family. It is a painful subject to me.”
Mr. Trohm asks Miss Butterworth not to discuss the Knollys family, saying it is painful.
He avoids the topic, hinting at deeper knowledge or personal involvement.
“Sometimes I think the ghosts you allude to are not as innocent as mere spectres usually are.”
Mr. Trohm suggests that the ghosts in the lane may be more dangerous than typical spirits.
He implies a real, human threat behind the supernatural stories.