The Borough Treasurer · Chapter
The Cord explained
Brereton observes Cotherstone's oddly elated reaction to Kitely's murder.
What happens
Brereton observes Cotherstone's oddly elated reaction to Kitely's murder. The police discover that Kitely was strangled with a pig-killer's cord, leading suspicion toward John Harborough. The group visits Harborough's cottage and encounters his daughter, Avice.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Punishment
The murder of Kitely and the investigation into the cord as evidence highlight the theme of crime and the search for justice.
Secrecy and Blackmail
Cotherstone's secret relief at Kitely's death and the missing pocketbook suggest hidden dealings and potential blackmail.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Brereton
Observes Cotherstone's unusual behavior and accompanies the police to Harborough's cottage.
- Mr. Cotherstone
Appears elated and eager about Kitely's death; points out the clue of the cord.
- Mr. Bent
Accompanies Brereton and the police; explains Harborough's background to Brereton.
- Miss Pett
Kitely's housekeeper; remains calm and provides information about Kitely's money and pension.
- John Harborough
Suspected due to the pig-killer's cord; his cottage is visited but he is not home.
- Avice Harborough
Arrives at her father's cottage and is seen by the group.
Key passages
“Find who that cord belongs to, and you may get at something”
The doctor suggests that identifying the owner of the cord could lead to the murderer.
The cord is identified as a pig-killer's cord, pointing suspicion toward Harborough.
“It’s a pig-killer’s cord, sir. It’s what a pig-killer fastens the pig down with—on the cratch.”
A policeman explains that the cord is used by pig-killers to tie down pigs on a hurdle.
This detail links the murder weapon to a specific trade and suspect.