Simon · Chapter
XL: The Last Chapter explained
In the final chapter, Carrington explains to Ned Cromarty how he solved the murder of Sir Reginald Cromarty.
What happens
In the final chapter, Carrington explains to Ned Cromarty how he solved the murder of Sir Reginald Cromarty. He reveals that the man posing as Simon Rattar is actually his twin brother George, an ex-convict who murdered Simon and assumed his identity. Carrington details the clues that led him to this conclusion, including the discovery that the supposed Simon Rattar smoked tobacco despite being an anti-tobacco fanatic, the suspicious advertisement about a lost ring, and the burial of Simon's body in a flower bed. The chapter concludes with Carrington and Ned reflecting on the case, and Carrington sharing a brief exchange with Miss Peterkin.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Deception
The central revelation of the chapter is that George Rattar has been impersonating his twin brother Simon, deceiving everyone including the police and the detective for an extended period.
Justice and Investigation
Carrington's methodical unraveling of the case, from initial suspicions to the final discovery of the body, exemplifies the investigative process and the pursuit of justice.
Characters to notice
- F. T. Carrington
Carrington explains the full solution to the murder case, detailing his investigative process and the key clues that led him to identify George Rattar as the impostor and murderer.
- Ned Cromarty
Ned listens as Carrington recounts the investigation, expressing admiration for Carrington's deductive abilities and reflecting on his own role in the events.
- George Rattar
Revealed as the true murderer: George Rattar, the ex-convict twin brother of Simon Rattar, who killed his brother, assumed his identity, and murdered Sir Reginald Cromarty.
- Simon Rattar
Simon Rattar is confirmed to have been murdered by his twin brother George, who then impersonated him; his body was buried in a flower bed at his own house.
- Miss Peterkin
Miss Peterkin briefly appears at the end of the chapter, commenting on Ned Cromarty's character as he departs.
Key passages
“Smoked two pipes of tobacco! A man who was an anti-tobacco fanatic! The truth hit me straight in the eye—'That man is not Simon Rattar!'”
Carrington realized the man he was watching was not Simon Rattar because Simon was known to be vehemently opposed to smoking, yet this man smoked two pipes.
This is the pivotal moment when Carrington deduces the identity swap.
“I can see the luck at every turn, and though I’d like to believe in the guidance, I’m hanged if it’s quite as distinct!”
Carrington admits that while he can recognize the fortunate coincidences that helped him, he is less certain about attributing his success to deliberate skill.
Carrington reflects on the role of chance versus method in his detective work.