Short Fiction · Chapter
Two Doctors explained
The narrator discovers a bundle of papers in an old ledger, containing the incomplete case of Dr.
What happens
The narrator discovers a bundle of papers in an old ledger, containing the incomplete case of Dr. Abell and Dr. Quinn. The story unfolds through statements: Dr. Abell's servant Luke Jennett leaves his service after witnessing strange occurrences involving a bedstaff. The Rector of Islington, Jonathan Pratt, describes Dr. Abell's interest in supernatural beings and his strained relationship with Dr. Quinn. Dr. Quinn is found dead, suffocated by his own pillow, with his door bolted from the inside. The case remains unresolved, with hints of supernatural involvement.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and the Uncanny
Dr. Abell's interest in beings like satyrs and centaurs, and the mysterious death of Dr. Quinn, suggest a supernatural undercurrent.
Guardianship of Secrets
The incomplete dossier and the hidden affidavit hint at secrets guarded by the characters, especially Dr. Abell.
Decay and Mortality
The sudden, unexplained death of Dr. Quinn and the rifling of a mausoleum underscore themes of death and decay.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Abell
A physician in Islington, interested in supernatural beings, involved in a strange case with his servant and colleague.
- Dr. Quinn
A physician in Islington, found dead under mysterious circumstances, suffocated by his pillow.
- Luke Jennett
Dr. Abell's former servant, who left his service after witnessing strange events involving a bedstaff.
- Mr. Palmer
The Rector of Islington, provides testimony about the character and beliefs of Dr. Abell and Dr. Quinn.
Key passages
“I told him that, much against my will, I must look out for another place.”
Luke Jennett informs Dr. Abell that he must leave his service, despite his reluctance.
Luke Jennett's statement about leaving Dr. Abell's service due to strange occurrences.
“He was stretched in the midst of the bed, on his back, without any disorder, and indeed had the appearance of one ready laid out for burial.”
Dr. Quinn was found lying peacefully on his back, as if prepared for burial.
Description of Dr. Quinn's body after his mysterious death.
“I am reminded of these trifling expressions because Dr. A. took them so ill, stamping out of the room in a huff with some such word as that these high and dry parsons had no eyes but for a prayerbook or a pint of wine.”
Dr. Abell reacted angrily to the rector's skepticism, storming out and criticizing the clergy.
Dr. Abell's irritation at the rector's disbelief in supernatural beings.