# The Cord explained — The Borough Treasurer

> Chapter companion for The Borough Treasurer by J. S. Fletcher.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se/chapters/v-the-cord
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se/chapters