Simon · Chapter
A Suggestion explained
Ned Cromarty confronts Simon Rattar about the scandalous rumors implicating Sir Malcolm and Cicely Farmond in Sir Reginald's murder.
What happens
Ned Cromarty confronts Simon Rattar about the scandalous rumors implicating Sir Malcolm and Cicely Farmond in Sir Reginald's murder. Ned insists on hiring a London detective to investigate further, but Rattar resists, arguing that the evidence is insufficient and that further inquiry would only cause a family scandal. The chapter ends with Rattar growing agitated after Ned leaves.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Investigation
Ned Cromarty pushes for a more thorough investigation by hiring a London detective, while Simon Rattar defends the existing police work and cautions against further inquiry.
Suspicion and Rumor
The chapter revolves around the damaging rumors implicating Sir Malcolm and Cicely Farmond, and the debate over how to address them.
Secrecy and Silence
Simon Rattar advocates for avoiding a family scandal by not pursuing the case further, suggesting a preference for secrecy over full disclosure.
Characters to notice
- Ned Cromarty
Visits Simon Rattar to demand action against the scandalous rumors and insists on hiring a London detective.
- Simon Rattar
Reluctantly meets with Ned Cromarty, defends the police work, and argues against hiring a detective to avoid a family scandal.
Key passages
“I’ve come to see you about this scandalous story that’s going round.”
Ned Cromarty confronts Simon Rattar about the rumors.
Ned directly addresses the scandal.
“What we want is a London detective.”
Ned insists on hiring a detective from London.
Ned's suggestion for a better investigator.
“I propose to avoid the painful family scandal which further disclosures and more publicity would almost certainly bring about.”
Simon Rattar wants to prevent a family scandal by not pursuing the case.
Rattar's rationale for inaction.