Scarhaven Keep · Chapter
The Reaver's Glen explained
Zachary Spurge, having evaded capture after the inquest, reveals to Copplestone, Vickers, and Gilling that he has been hiding in the Reaver's Glen, a wild coastal valley.
What happens
Zachary Spurge, having evaded capture after the inquest, reveals to Copplestone, Vickers, and Gilling that he has been hiding in the Reaver's Glen, a wild coastal valley. There he witnessed Peter Chatfield secretly burying nine heavy white wood boxes among the ruins of an old peel tower. Spurge has been guarding the cache ever since, and Chatfield has not returned. The group realizes they have likely found the hidden gold.
Themes in this chapter
Greed and Corruption
Chatfield's secret burial of heavy boxes suggests hidden wealth obtained through corrupt means, driving the plot forward.
Mystery and Detection
Spurge's careful observation and preservation of evidence (footprints) highlight the detective work central to the chapter.
Isolation and Landscape
The remote Reaver's Glen and Darkman's Dene are vividly described as wild, hidden places that facilitate secrecy and hiding.
Characters to notice
- Zachary Spurge
Arrives disheveled from hiding in the wild; recounts his surveillance of Chatfield burying boxes in the Reaver's Glen.
- Richard Copplestone
Present during Spurge's account; coordinates the group's response and kicks Vickers under the table to signal significance.
- Guy Vickers
Present as a lawyer; Spurge initially distrusts him but is reassured by Copplestone.
- Mr. Gilling
Ushers Spurge into the room and closes the door; part of the listening group.
- Peter Chatfield
Subject of Spurge's report; observed burying nine heavy boxes at night in the Reaver's Glen and has not returned.
- Jim Spurge
Mentioned as Spurge's cousin who supplied provisions and is currently guarding the cache.
Key passages
“I didn't count for to meet no lawyers, gentlemen... I ain't a-goin' to talk before 'em, neither!”
Spurge refuses to speak in front of lawyers, showing his distrust of legal professionals.
Spurge's initial reluctance to speak before Vickers.
“I've news. Serious news—as I reckons it to be. Of—Chatfield!”
Spurge announces that he has important information about Chatfield.
Spurge reveals the subject of his news.
“I counted nine o' them thumps.”
Spurge heard nine heavy objects being unloaded from Chatfield's trap.
Spurge's observation of the number of boxes.
“So certain sure have I been that something 'ud come o' this business of hiding them boxes and that something valuable is in 'em that I've taken partiklar care ever since Chatfield planted 'em there that night never to set foot within a dozen yards of 'em.”
Spurge deliberately avoided the boxes to preserve any footprints or evidence.
Spurge's careful preservation of the scene.