The Avenger · Chapter
A Cry from a Tower explained
Michael Brixan, acting on his suspicions, takes a shortcut to Griff Towers at dawn.
What happens
Michael Brixan, acting on his suspicions, takes a shortcut to Griff Towers at dawn. He discovers a postern door ajar and hides near the tower, where he hears a window break and a terrified scream from the top room. He rings the bell and is admitted by Sir Gregory Penne, whom he confronts about Bhag's attempt to abduct Adele Leamington. Brixan reveals his identity as a detective, and Penne, visibly shaken, claims the scream came from a mad servant. Penne leaves to investigate but locks Brixan in the library, then extinguishes the lights.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Justice
Brixan's investigation and confrontation with Penne highlight the pursuit of justice against criminal acts.
Deception and Appearances
Penne's initial hostility shifts to feigned humility upon learning Brixan is a detective, revealing hidden motives.
The Macabre and Grotesque
The scream from the tower, the locked room, and the sudden darkness create a macabre atmosphere.
Characters to notice
- Mike Brixan
Investigates Griff Towers at dawn, confronts Penne about Bhag's attack, and reveals his detective identity.
- Sir Gregory Penne
Appears disheveled and defensive; locks Brixan in the library after learning he is a detective.
- Bhag
Mentioned as having attempted to abduct Adele; Brixan shot at him earlier.
- Adele Leamington
Referenced as the target of Bhag's attack and the person Brixan is protecting.
- Lawley Foss
Accused by Brixan of marking Adele's window for Bhag.
Key passages
“He heard a crash of glass, and looked up in time to see fragments falling from the topmost room of the tower.”
Brixan saw glass shatter and fall from the tower's highest window.
Signals a disturbance in the tower, prompting Brixan's intervention.
“It came from the upper room and ended abruptly, as though somebody had put his hand over the mouth of the unfortunate from whom that cry of terror had been wrung.”
The scream from the top floor was suddenly cut off, as if someone silenced the screamer.
Heightens the sense of danger and urgency.
“He looked toward Michael as though seeking permission. His whole attitude was one of humility, and Michael required no more than the sight of that pallid face and those chattering teeth to turn his suspicion to certainty.”
Penne's submissive demeanor and visible fear confirmed Brixan's suspicions.
Reveals Penne's guilt and Brixan's growing certainty.