# Relief explained — Lost Man’s Lane

> Chapter companion for Lost Man’s Lane by Anna Katharine Green.

## What happens

Mr. Gryce's plan succeeds as William unknowingly reveals the location of hidden evidence. After a second search, Mr. Gryce clears the Knollys sisters of suspicion, confirming the real clue lies in Mother Jane's cottage. William returns angry, blaming his sisters for exposing his secret vivisection, and declares he will investigate the disappearances himself.

## Themes in this chapter

### Detection and Investigation

Mr. Gryce's methodical plan succeeds through tracking William's footsteps; the chapter highlights the process of elimination and shifting suspicion.

### Secrecy and Deception

The Knollys family's hidden secrets—William's vivisection and the mother's return and death—are exposed, yet Mr. Gryce agrees to keep them confidential.

## Character check-ins

### Amelia Butterworth

Narrates the chapter; feels relief and gladness that the investigation has failed, revealing her compassion beyond the detective instinct.

### Mr. Gryce

Executes the plan successfully, conducts a second search, and reassures the sisters that their secrets will remain private; confirms the investigation will now focus on Mother Jane's cottage.

### William Knollys

Unwittingly reveals the location of hidden evidence by his footsteps; later returns angry, blaming his sisters for exposing his vivisection and declaring he will play detective.

### Lucetta

Present during the events; dismisses Hannah's fears, stating the worst secret is already out.

### Hannah

Rushes in to announce the return of the police with spades and lanterns.

## Key lines

> The plan succeeded. Mr. Gryce’s plans usually do.

Mr. Gryce's scheme worked, as his schemes typically do.

_Opening line establishing Gryce's competence._

> Your part has been well played, but I know you are glad that it has failed.

You performed your role admirably, but I know you're relieved it didn't succeed.

_Mr. Gryce acknowledges Miss Butterworth's mixed feelings about the investigation's outcome._

> I’m going to see if I cannot make folks blink askance at some other man than me. I’m going to find out who or what causes these disappearances.

I intend to divert suspicion from myself by investigating the real cause of the disappearances.

_William declares his intention to play detective, shifting focus from his own secrets._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lost_man_s_lane_se/chapters/xxxii-relief
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lost_man_s_lane_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lost_man_s_lane_se/chapters