That Affair Next Door · Chapter
V: “This Is No One I Know.” explained
Amelia Butterworth hosts the Van Burnam sisters while the investigation unfolds.
What happens
Amelia Butterworth hosts the Van Burnam sisters while the investigation unfolds. Howard Van Burnam is brought to identify the body but initially denies knowing her, though he later shows distress upon noticing the hands resemble his wife's. The chapter reveals tension among the Van Burnam family and Mr. Gryce's growing suspicions.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance
Howard's initial denial of knowing the victim contrasts with his later physical recognition, highlighting the theme of hidden truths and public facades.
Family Duty and Loyalty
The Van Burnam family's collective denial and whispered exchanges reveal their protective instincts and internal tensions.
Observation and Deduction
Mr. Gryce's careful scrutiny of Howard's reactions and Amelia's watchful narration exemplify the detective work and keen observation central to the story.
Characters to notice
- Amelia Butterworth
Narrator and host to the Van Burnam sisters; observes the events from her window and later describes the identification scene.
- Howard Van Burnam
Brought to identify the body; initially claims 'This is no one I know,' but later shows recognition of the hands and distress.
- Mr. Gryce
Detective who escorts Howard to the undertaker's and subtly probes his reactions.
- Franklin Van Burnam
Elder brother who whispers to Howard, prompting him to look again at the body; shows concern.
- Silas Van Burnam
Father of the Van Burnam sons; watches Howard with painful intentness and appears dejected.
- Isabella Van Burnam
One of the Van Burnam sisters staying with Amelia; chatters nervously and later has hysterics.
Key passages
“This is no one I know.”
Howard declares that the deceased woman is a stranger to him.
Key moment of denial that sets up later tension.
“They are like hers! O God! they are like hers!”
Howard recognizes the hands of the dead woman as resembling his wife's.
Shows his internal conflict and hints at the truth.
“One would think that you knew the young woman who has fallen victim to her folly next door.”
Amelia suggests the Van Burnam sisters are more connected to the deceased than they admit.
Amelia's probing remark reveals her suspicion.