Strong Poison · Chapter
XXIII explained
Harriet Vane is acquitted after the Crown withdraws the charge of murder, and Lord Peter Wimsey defends his sister Mary's desire to marry Chief Inspector Parker while revealing his own intention to marry Harriet.
What happens
Harriet Vane is acquitted after the Crown withdraws the charge of murder, and Lord Peter Wimsey defends his sister Mary's desire to marry Chief Inspector Parker while revealing his own intention to marry Harriet.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Innocence
Harriet Vane is fully exonerated as the Crown withdraws the charge and the judge declares her acquitted without a stain on her character.
Class and Snobbery
The Duke's objection to Mary marrying a policeman highlights class prejudice, while Wimsey defends Parker's future prospects.
Love and Sacrifice
Wimsey's intention to marry Harriet and his immediate departure after the verdict reflect a selfless love that avoids exploiting her gratitude.
Characters to notice
- Harriet Vane
Acquitted and discharged without a stain on her character; she asks for Lord Peter Wimsey but learns he has already left.
- Lord Peter Wimsey
Defends his sister Mary's wish to marry Parker, reveals his own intention to marry Harriet, and leaves immediately after the verdict.
- Lady Mary Wimsey
Wants to marry Chief Inspector Parker, causing family perturbation.
- Gerald de Wimsey
The Duke objects to Mary marrying a policeman and is perturbed by the family situation.
- Chief Inspector Parker
Referenced as the policeman Mary wishes to marry; Wimsey defends him as 'one of the best.'
- Sir Impey Biggs
Rises in court to request that Harriet's acquittal be clearly stated as based on proof of innocence.
Key passages
“Not at all,” said Lord Peter. “Charles is one of the best.” “Very likely,” said the Duke, “but Mary can’t marry a policeman.” “Now, look here,” said Wimsey, tucking his sister’s arm in his, “you leave Polly alone. Charles made a bit of a mistake at the beginning of this murder case, but he doesn’t make many, and one of these days he’ll be a big man, with a title, I shouldn’t wonder, and everything handsome about him.”
Wimsey defends Parker against the Duke's objection to Mary marrying a policeman, predicting Parker's future success and title.
Wimsey supports his sister's choice and counters class-based objections.
“My lord—I am instructed that the Crown offers no evidence against this prisoner.” The gasp that went round the room sounded like the rustle of trees in a rising wind.”
The Crown announces it will not proceed with the case, causing a dramatic reaction in the courtroom.
The moment of Harriet's unexpected acquittal.
“I intend to marry the prisoner.” “What?” said the Duke. “Good lord, what, what?” “If she’ll have me,” said Lord Peter Wimsey.”
Wimsey reveals his plan to propose to Harriet, shocking the Duke.
Wimsey's declaration of his romantic intentions.