Poirot Investigates · Chapter
The Mystery of Hunter's Lodge explained
Poirot, recovering from influenza, sends Hastings to investigate the murder of Mr.
What happens
Poirot, recovering from influenza, sends Hastings to investigate the murder of Mr. Harrington Pace at Hunter's Lodge. Hastings interviews the Haverings and Inspector Japp, but the case seems baffling. Poirot later reveals that the housekeeper was actually Mrs. Havering in disguise, and that she and her husband conspired to murder Mr. Pace for his money.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
Mrs. Havering's disguise as the housekeeper and the false alibi highlight the theme of deception.
Greed and Crime
The murder is motivated by the Haverings' desire for Mr. Pace's fortune.
Appearance vs. Reality
The Haverings appear grief-stricken and innocent, but are actually the criminals.
Characters to notice
- Hercule Poirot
Ill with influenza but directs the investigation from his sickbed, ultimately deducing the truth.
- Captain Hastings
Travels to Hunter's Lodge to investigate the murder on Poirot's behalf.
- Mr. Roger Havering
Nephew of the victim; initially appears distraught but is later revealed to be involved in the murder plot.
- Mrs. Havering
The murderer; an actress who disguised herself as the housekeeper to create an alibi.
- Mr. Harrington Pace
The victim, shot dead at Hunter's Lodge.
- Inspector Japp
Investigates the case locally, initially suspecting Roger Havering.
Key passages
“After all, it is possible that I shall not die this time.”
Poirot expresses hope that he will recover from his illness.
Poirot's humorous remark about his influenza.
“I know well enough who killed Mr. Harrington Pace.”
Poirot claims to have solved the murder from his sickbed.
Poirot reveals his deduction to Hastings.
“There's no sech person, as your so great Shakespeare says.”
Poirot declares that the housekeeper never existed.
Poirot's misattribution of the quote to Shakespeare instead of Dickens.