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The Case of Charles Dexter Ward · Chapter
List of Illustrations explained
A brief listing of illustrations including astrological symbols and a cryptic handwritten note in Saxon minuscules referencing 'Corvinus' and instructions for disposal of a body with aqua fortis.
What happens
A brief listing of illustrations including astrological symbols and a cryptic handwritten note in Saxon minuscules referencing 'Corvinus' and instructions for disposal of a body with aqua fortis.
Key passages
“Corvinus, necandus est. Cadaver aq(ua) forti dissolvendum, nec aliq(ui)d retinendum. Tace ut potes.”
Corvinus must be killed. The corpse is to be dissolved with aqua fortis, and nothing is to be retained. Be silent as you can.
This note foreshadows the secretive and violent methods associated with Joseph Curwen's necromantic practices.