# Broom at the Crossroads explained — Midwinter

> Chapter companion for Midwinter by John Buchan.

## What happens

Alastair Maclean encounters Edom Lowrie, a servant of Mr. Kyd, and learns that Kyd has deceived him about his route. After forcing Edom to hand over his papers, Alastair discovers a letter from Kyd to 'Achilles' (Sir John Norreys) that reveals a deeper conspiracy and heightens his sense of insecurity. The chapter ends with the sound of hounds approaching, forcing Alastair and Edom to flee.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

Kyd's lies about his route and the use of classical aliases highlight the pervasive deceit within the Jacobite network.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Alastair's growing distrust of Kyd and the revelation of Kyd's secret correspondence with Norreys underscore the fragility of loyalty.

## Character check-ins

### Alastair Maclean

Confronts Edom Lowrie, forces him to surrender Kyd's papers, and grows increasingly suspicious of Kyd's loyalty.

### Edom Lowrie

Kyd's servant, encountered by Alastair at a hut; reluctantly hands over his packet after being threatened.

### Mr. Samuel Johnson

Mentioned as having made accusations against Kyd at Cornbury, which now appear justified.

### Sir John Norreys

Referred to as 'Achilles' in Kyd's letter; revealed to be deeply involved in the Jacobite cause.

### Claudia Norreys

Mentioned as 'Lady Briseis' in Kyd's letter; described as having political enthusiasm and strong will.

## Key lines

> The face before him had the tightened look of a sudden surprise: then it relaxed into recognition; but it showed no fear, though the young man's visage was grim enough.

Edom Lowrie's face showed initial surprise, then recognition, but no fear despite Alastair's stern expression.

_Alastair confronts Edom Lowrie in the hut._

> I jalouse mysel' that he's gone south, but he micht be for Wales.

I suspect he has gone south, but he might be heading to Wales.

_Edom speculates about Kyd's destination._

> The news of the Marches and the West will travel to you with all expedition, but I must linger behind to encourage my correspondents.

News from the border regions and the west will be sent to you quickly, but I must stay behind to support my contacts.

_Kyd's letter to 'Achilles' (Norreys) reveals his role as a coordinator._

> A sudden sense of a vast insecurity overcame the young man. The ground he trod on seemed shifting sand, and nowhere was there a firm and abiding landmark.

Alastair felt a profound unease, as if the ground beneath him was unstable and nothing was certain.

_Alastair's realization of the extent of deception and conspiracy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se/chapters/viii-broom-at-the-crossroads
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se/chapters