# X: The Letter explained — Simon > Chapter companion for Simon by J. Storer Clouston. ## What happens Cicely learns of George Rattar's death from a newspaper announcement, prompting a discussion about his criminal past and his twin brother Simon. Sir Reginald becomes angry upon receiving a letter from Simon Rattar regarding the letting of Castleknowe farm to Shearer, despite a prior agreement to cancel the arrangement. After a tense exchange, Sir Reginald sends a sharp note demanding a meeting. Later, the household enjoys a peaceful evening, but Malcolm attempts to speak privately with Cicely, who rebuffs him. ## Themes in this chapter ### Family and Betrayal The discussion of George Rattar's swindling of his twin brother Simon highlights deep familial betrayal and lasting enmity. ### Secrecy and Silence Cicely's guarded response about when she last saw Simon Rattar and the hushed-up nature of George's crimes reflect themes of secrecy. ### Class and Social Status Sir Reginald's authority over his estate and his dismissive attitude toward Shearer as a 'socialistic, quarrelsome' tenant underscore class tensions. ## Character check-ins ### Cicely Farmond Reads about George Rattar's death and asks questions; later plays billiards and is approached by Malcolm. ### Sir Reginald Cromarty Discusses George Rattar's past, becomes angry over Simon Rattar's letter about Castleknowe, and sends a sharp reply. ### Lady Cromarty Participates in the conversation about George Rattar, advises caution with Simon Rattar, and observes Cicely and Malcolm. ### Simon Rattar Discussed as the twin brother of George; his letter about Castleknowe farm provokes Sir Reginald's anger. ### Malcolm Cromarty Plays billiards, retires to his room, and later attempts to speak privately with Cicely. ### George Rattar Reported dead in New York; his criminal past and twin relationship with Simon are discussed. ## Key lines > I see the announcement of his death. ‘Son of the late John Simon Rattar’ he’s called. Cicely notices a death notice for George Rattar in the newspaper. _Cicely initiates the conversation about George Rattar's death._ > If you had heard it, Margaret, you’d know better. I was a bit cross with him for a minute or two then, which I hardly ever am, and that alone would make him remember it, one would think. Sir Reginald insists that Simon Rattar could not have forgotten their conversation about the farm. _Sir Reginald expresses frustration over Simon's apparent disregard for their agreement._ > I just wanted to speak to you! Malcolm tries to get Cicely's attention for a private conversation. _Malcolm attempts to confide in Cicely but is rebuffed._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se/chapters/x-the-letter - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se/chapters