# XXXII: The Sympathetic Stranger explained — Simon

> Chapter companion for Simon by J. Storer Clouston.

## What happens

Carrington visits Superintendent Sutherland to discuss the case, learning about Simon Rattar's impeccable reputation and the past trouble with his brother George. Sutherland mentions a possible break-in at Rattar's house on the night of the murder and a lost ring. Later, Carrington visits Rattar's home and, finding him absent, charms the maid Mary MacLean into revealing details about the burglary.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice and Investigation

Carrington's methodical questioning of Sutherland and his subtle investigation at Rattar's house advance the inquiry into Sir Reginald's murder.

### Secrecy and Silence

The possible break-in and lost ring are details that have been overlooked or suppressed, hinting at hidden truths.

### Suspicion and Rumor

Carrington's suspicion about Rattar's past and the rumors surrounding the break-in drive the chapter's tension.

## Character check-ins

### F. T. Carrington

Visits Superintendent Sutherland to discuss the case and later charms Mary MacLean at Rattar's house.

### Superintendent Sutherland

Provides Carrington with information about Simon Rattar's reputation and the possible break-in at his house.

### Simon Rattar

Discussed as the subject of Carrington's inquiries; his house is visited by Carrington.

### Mary MacLean

The maid at Rattar's house who is charmed by Carrington and reveals details about the burglary.

### George Rattar

Mentioned as Simon Rattar's brother who caused trouble in the past and is believed to have died.

## Key lines

> Carrington’s soliloquy was interrupted by the appearance of someone on the pavement ahead of him.

Carrington's thoughts were broken when he noticed a person walking toward him on the street.

_Sets the scene for Carrington's next move._

> The Superintendent admitted that this was so, and also that Sir Reginald Cromarty had suffered thereby, but he was quite positive that this trouble was entirely a thing of the past.

Sutherland confirmed that George Rattar had caused problems for Sir Reginald, but insisted it was all resolved.

_Reveals past conflict between the Rattar family and the victim._

> Carrington’s chair squeaked on the floor as he sat up sharply. “The very night of the murder?” he repeated. “Why has this never come out before?”

Carrington reacted with surprise upon learning the break-in occurred on the night of the murder, questioning why it hadn't been mentioned.

_Highlights a crucial new clue for Carrington._

> Within five minutes of making his acquaintance, Mary felt that she could tell him almost anything.

Mary quickly felt comfortable enough with Carrington to share personal information.

_Demonstrates Carrington's skill in gaining trust._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se/chapters/xxxii-the-sympathetic-stranger
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/simon_se/chapters