The Charing Cross Mystery · Chapter
Waterloo explained
Hetherwick and Robmore search a house where Rhona and Madame Listorelle were imprisoned, finding evidence of their recent captivity.
What happens
Hetherwick and Robmore search a house where Rhona and Madame Listorelle were imprisoned, finding evidence of their recent captivity. Hetherwick retrieves Rhona's handbag and later meets her. They then go to Waterloo station to meet Matherfield's train, where they spot Baseverie waiting. Robmore and his men surveil Baseverie as the Southampton train arrives.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Investigation
Robmore and Hetherwick conduct a thorough search of the house, gathering evidence of the captivity, and later coordinate a surveillance operation at Waterloo to apprehend Baseverie.
Secrecy and the Past
The hidden house with barred windows and bolted doors reveals the secret detention of Rhona and Madame Listorelle, and the woman's sudden flight hints at concealed connections.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Hetherwick
Accompanies Robmore in searching the house, retrieves Rhona's handbag, and later meets Rhona before going to Waterloo station.
- Sergeant Robmore
Leads the search of the house, deduces the occupants fled, and later surveils Baseverie at Waterloo with his men.
- Rhona Hannaford
Meets Hetherwick after escaping captivity, borrows money, and accompanies him to Waterloo where she identifies Baseverie.
- Dr. Charles Ambrose
Mentioned as found dead in Pencove Street, prompting the woman's flight.
- Dr. Cyprian Baseverie
Spotted by Rhona at Waterloo station waiting for the Southampton train, under surveillance by Robmore's men.
- Mr. Matherfield
Sends a wire from Southampton asking to be met at Waterloo at eight-twenty; expected to be on the train with Baseverie.
Key passages
“I'll tell you what it is, Mr. Hetherwick! exclaimed Robmore abruptly. This house is empty! Empty of people, anyway.”
Robmore declares that the house is completely deserted.
Robmore's immediate conclusion after finding no response.
“That settles it! he exclaimed. They have been here! This is Miss Han—I mean Miss Featherstone's bag—I've seen her carry it often.”
Hetherwick confirms the ladies were held there after finding Rhona's familiar handbag.
Key evidence linking the location to the captives.
“Baseverie—himself! she said. There—under that clock! See! He's going towards the gates!”
Rhona spots Baseverie standing beneath a clock at the station.
Critical identification moment leading to surveillance.