Murder in the Gunroom · Chapter
Chapter X explained
Jeff Rand and Mick McKenna discuss the murder of Arnold Rivers and the theft from the Fleming collection.
What happens
Jeff Rand and Mick McKenna discuss the murder of Arnold Rivers and the theft from the Fleming collection. Rand outlines his theory that the butler Walters is responsible for stealing pistols from the collection and that Rivers served as the fence. They examine evidence at the crime scene, including a card from Rivers's file system, and agree to cooperate on the investigation.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Rivers's fraudulent alterations and the butler's theft hidden by replacements highlight the theme of deception.
Greed and Materialism
The theft of valuable pistols and Rivers's crooked dealings underscore greed as a motive.
Murder and Justice
The murder of Rivers and the investigation into Fleming's death drive the chapter's focus on justice.
Characters to notice
- Jeff Rand
Discusses his theories about the theft and murder with McKenna, reveals Rivers's fraudulent dealings, and agrees to cooperate on the case.
- Mick McKenna
Investigates the murder scene with Rand, suggests the butler as the killer, and agrees to share information.
- Arnold Rivers
Found dead in his shop; discussed as a crooked dealer and possible fence for stolen firearms.
- Walters
Identified as the butler suspected of stealing from the Fleming collection and possibly murdering Rivers.
- Lane Fleming
Mentioned as having been killed under suspicious circumstances; his collection was looted after his death.
- Aarvo Kavaalen
Corporal assisting McKenna at the crime scene, taking photos and examining the body.
Key passages
“That’s a damn good circumstantial case, Jeff,” McKenna nodded. “Nothing you could take to a jury, of course, but mighty good grounds for suspicion.”
McKenna agrees that Rand's evidence is strong but not enough for a conviction.
Highlights the difference between suspicion and legal proof.
“Rivers had no conscience to be stricken with.”
Rand asserts that Rivers was morally bankrupt and would not have committed suicide.
Emphasizes Rivers's corrupt character.
“I feel like an undertaker watching a man being swallowed by a shark.”
Rand expresses frustration at not being paid to investigate the murder.
Shows Rand's professional detachment and dark humor.