The Cloven Foot · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Cloven Foot by M. E. Braddon.
Chapter 1
I: The Heir Presumptive
John Treverton travels by train to the Devonshire estate of his dying kinsman, Jasper Treverton, whom he hopes to inherit from. Upon arrival, he meets Laura Malcolm, Jasper's adopted daughter, whom he initially distrusts. Jasper reveals that he has left his fortune to John on the condition that he marry Laura, a condition John accepts after seeing her beauty.
Chapter 2
Jasper Treverton's Will
Jasper Treverton dies after a lingering illness, and his will is read, revealing that John Treverton inherits the estate only if he marries Laura Malcolm within a year. The awkward condition unsettles both John and Laura. John accepts an invitation to stay with the lawyer, Thomas Sampson, and his sister Eliza, while Laura is left to consider her position.
Chapter 3
III: A Mysterious Visitor
John Treverton tours the Hazlehurst estate with Mr. Sampson, learning the full extent of Jasper Treverton's wealth and the condition of his inheritance. He meets Laura Malcolm on the common and walks with her, finding her charming but remains troubled. Later, while smoking near the Manor House, he witnesses a mysterious man being secretly admitted into the garden by Laura, leading him to suspect a secret lover. He attempts to identify the man but fails, and resolves to question Laura before leaving.
Chapter 4
La Chicot
This chapter details the bohemian life of La Chicot and her husband Jack Chicot in Paris, focusing on their extravagant, pleasure-driven existence, La Chicot's declining popularity as a dancer, and their eventual move to London where they take lodgings in a street favored by actors, with a landlady who describes the other lodgers.
Chapter 5
A Disappointed Lover
Laura Malcolm remains at the Manor House after Jasper Treverton's death, persuaded by Mr. Clare. She reflects on her constrained future with John Treverton, feeling she will always be an obstacle to his freedom. Mr. Clare discusses John's past and Laura's independence. Edward Clare, the vicar's son, is disappointed that Laura now restricts his visits, having long hoped to marry her and inherit Jasper's fortune.
Chapter 6
La Chicot Has Her Own Way
Jack Chicot endures a miserable winter in London, trapped in a degrading marriage to the ballet dancer La Chicot. He works as a draughtsman while she drinks and spends her salary. She insists on performing a dangerous ascent in a new ballet, ignoring his fears. After she accepts an anonymous gold bracelet, they quarrel, and Jack leaves for a few days, asking Desrolles to watch over her.
Chapter 7
VII: "A Little While Such Lips as Thine to Kiss"
Spring arrives at Hazlehurst, and John Treverton returns unexpectedly, staying with the Sampsons. During a tea at the Clares', conversation turns to the accident of the dancer La Chicot, which visibly unsettles Treverton. Celia Clare teases Laura about Treverton's attentions, while Edward Clare's jealousy is evident. Treverton leaves through the orchard, passing the mysterious door that had troubled him before, but he dismisses his suspicions about Laura.
Chapter 8
Days That Are Over, Dreams That Are Done
La Chicot lies near death after a stage accident, her husband Jack Chicot returns to find her unconscious. The surgeon George Gerard suspects Jack's secret relief at the prospect of her death, and confronts him about his lack of devotion.
Chapter 9
IX: “And Art Thou Come! and Art Thou True!”
Laura Malcolm wrestles with anger and self-reproach over John Treverton's prolonged absence, suspecting he cares only for her fortune. Her bitterness dissolves when John returns, looking ill and careworn, and they reconcile. They walk to the chestnut tree where they parted, and John kneels to propose, confessing his love and unworthiness. Laura accepts him, and they agree to marry to fulfill Jasper Treverton's will, with the Trimmers observing their reunion approvingly.
Chapter 10
X: Engaged
John Treverton and Laura Malcolm spend a blissful evening together after becoming engaged, though John harbors a dark secret. The next day, John informs his lawyer Mr. Sampson of the engagement and requests a marriage settlement, while Miss Sampson quietly suffers her unrequited feelings for John.
Chapter 11
No Trousseau
In the interval between her betrothal and wedding, Laura is blissfully happy, feeling that her love for John Treverton fulfills her duty to her adopted father Jasper. Celia Clare returns from Brighton to help with wedding preparations and is horrified that Laura has ordered no proper trousseau or wedding gown. Celia reveals that her brother Edward has a bad opinion of Mr. Treverton, which wounds Laura. Laura confronts Edward, who leaves for London. Celia stays at the Manor House and observes that John, though clearly in love, is unusually serious and melancholy. On the eve of the wedding, the couple dines at the vicarage and walks home alone, with everything quietly arranged for the next day.
Chapter 12
XII: An Ill-Omened Wedding
Laura receives a letter from John Treverton confessing his wrongdoing and professing his love. Despite his betrayal, she cannot stop loving him. She decides to flee alone on her honeymoon to avoid explaining his desertion, taking her maid Mary with her. The household gossips about the bridegroom's absence, and Laura waits anxiously for his promised explanation.
Chapter 13
XIII: The Settlement
John Treverton returns to Hazlehurst to execute a deed of settlement, giving all his property to his wife Laura. He signs the document in the presence of Mr. Sampson, his sister Eliza, and a housemaid, then departs hastily. The chapter also follows Tom Sampson's lazy evening reflections on marriage and his interest in Celia Clare.
Chapter 14
XIV: “You Have but to Say the Word”
La Chicot and Desrolles discuss her wealthy admirer, Joseph Lemuel, while she dismisses his offers, asserting her pride and honesty. Her marriage to Jack Chicot is a hollow shell, and she lives recklessly, drinking heavily. George Gerard occasionally reproaches her, but she continues her self-destructive path, indifferent to the future.
Chapter 15
Edward Clare Discovers a Likeness
Celia Clare writes to her brother Edward about Laura Treverton's mysterious return from her honeymoon alone and her refusal to discuss her husband. Meanwhile, in London, Edward Clare encounters the disreputable Mr. Desrolles and learns about Jack Chicot, a man who bears a striking resemblance to someone Edward knows from Hazlehurst.
Chapter 16
XVI: Shall It Be “Yes” or “No”?
La Chicot contemplates a proposal from Joseph Lemuel, who offers her a life of luxury in Paris if she leaves her husband. She struggles with the decision, torn between her love for Jack Chicot and the allure of wealth and freedom. Despite her degradation, she ultimately rejects the offer, reaffirming her identity as an honest woman.
Chapter 17
XVII: Murder
In the dead of night, Jack Chicot raises the alarm that his wife La Chicot has been murdered in their lodging house on Cibber Street. The landlady Mrs. Evitt, fellow lodger Mrs. Rawber, and Desrolles gather at the scene. Chicot leaves to fetch a policeman but never returns, raising suspicion. The police and a surgeon arrive, confirming death by a throat wound, and the investigation begins.
Chapter 18
What the Diamonds Were Worth
The inquest into La Chicot's murder is held, and George Gerard examines the wound and discovers a thin Italian dagger in Jack Chicot's paint box. The press vehemently condemns the missing husband, while an elderly man attempts to sell unset diamonds to Mr. Mosheh, claiming they belong to a friend in financial distress.
Chapter 19
XIX: “To a Deep Lawny Dell They Came”
In June, Laura Treverton maintains a hopeful exterior despite her husband John's absence. She tends to the estate, hoping for his return. John confesses to a past Scotch marriage and proposes a second marriage in a remote location to secure their union. Laura agrees, trusting him, though she struggles with doubt. The chapter explores her love, patience, and the weight of secrecy.
Chapter 20
The Church Near Camelot
Laura Treverton prepares for her husband John's return from Buenos Aires, revealing to Celia Clare that she will meet him at Plymouth. Celia writes to her brother Edward, who reacts bitterly. Laura and John remarry in a quiet ceremony at a church near Camelot, ensuring the legality of their union. Laura then busies herself preparing a study for John at Hazlehurst Manor.
Chapter 21
XXI: Halcyon Days
John Treverton and his wife Laura return to Hazlehurst Manor unannounced, beginning their married life in domestic bliss. They explore the estate, plan improvements, and reflect on their love. Laura initiates John into his role as squire, visiting cottages and planning reforms. Their happiness is shadowed by unspoken pasts, as John asks about a mysterious relation Laura met in the garden. Laura deflects, citing a family black sheep. Society calls, and they plan dinner parties, with Celia Clare pressing for eligible bachelors and inclusion of her family.
Chapter 22
A Village Iago
At a dinner party, Edward Clare discusses the Chicot murder with Lady Barker and John Treverton, revealing a malicious look toward John that Laura observes. Later, Edward feigns friendship while visiting the Manor House, and a conversation about caricature leads to a mention of Chicot's artistic style, unsettling John.
Chapter 23
XXIII: “In the Meanwhile the Skies ’Gan Rumble Sore”
John Treverton has given up caricature and now paints an ideal portrait of his wife, while managing the estate. The first year of marriage is blissful, and the couple looks forward to the birth of a child. At the Vicarage, Edward Clare feigns contentment but harbors a deadly secret about John's past, which he hints to Celia, suggesting that John's seven unaccounted years make him a scoundrel. Celia is alarmed, and Edward resolves to watch and wait for an explosion that will destroy the Manor House.
Chapter 24
XXIV: “And Purple Light Shone Over All”
Laura Treverton prepares for a Christmas party for the children of the cottagers, ordering blankets, food, and decorations. John Treverton falls ill with a low fever but is not dangerously ill; Laura nurses him devotedly. The party proceeds despite his illness, with Laura balancing her duties as hostess and nurse.
Chapter 25
The Children's Party
During a Christmas Eve children's party at Hazlehurst Manor, Edward Clare arrives and describes a suspicious man loitering near the gates, whom he identifies as a London Bohemian and possible swindler. Laura grows anxious, and when a bell rings during Edward's reading, she leaves abruptly. Edward realizes the man is the same he saw with Chicot in Drury Lane, raising fears that a secret is about to be revealed.
Chapter 26
XXVI: A Disinterested Parent
Laura reveals to John that the man known as Mr. Desrolles is actually her long-lost father, Stephen Malcolm, who faked his death years ago so that Jasper Treverton would adopt her. John is disturbed by the revelation but agrees to provide financial support, while Desrolles blackmails John by threatening to expose his past identity as Jack Chicot. The chapter ends with Desrolles departing for Paris, leaving Laura and John to grapple with the implications of his presence.
Chapter 27
XXVII: Desrolles Is Not Communicative
Desrolles, newly enriched by a secret payment from John Treverton, encounters Edward Clare on the road from Hazlehurst Manor. Edward presses him about the identity of John Treverton and Chicot the caricaturist, but Desrolles stubbornly denies any connection, claiming the two are distinct individuals. Edward, suspicious and determined to protect Laura, threatens to find Chicot and bring him to justice for his wife's murder. Desrolles remains evasive, hinting at his own self-interested calculations about the bigamous implications of John's marriage to Laura.
Chapter 28
Edward Clare Goes on a Voyage of Discovery
Edward Clare, nursing a deep hatred for John Treverton, resolves to uncover the truth about Treverton's past, suspecting he is the husband of the murdered dancer Zaïre Chicot. He manipulates a conversation about photography to learn that Treverton had his picture taken by Nadar in Paris. Clare then travels to London, finds Mrs. Evitt's lodging house in Cibber Street, and secures rooms formerly occupied by Desrolles, intending to investigate the murder and prove Treverton's fraud. He also enlists Gerard's help for a trip to Devonshire.
Chapter 29
George Gerard
John Treverton has recovered from his injury and resumes his life with Laura, participating in a New Year's Day hunt. Meanwhile, Celia Clare anticipates the arrival of her brother Edward's friend, George Gerard, a young doctor from London. When Gerard arrives, he proves to be a serious, intelligent man, and Celia finds herself intrigued by him despite his evident poverty. The chapter explores Gerard's difficult past and his solitary struggle for success in his profession.
Chapter 30
XXX: Thou Art the Man
On a Sunday in January, George Gerard attends church with the Clare family and observes John Treverton and his wife Laura. Gerard recognizes Treverton as Jack Chicot, the former husband of the murdered La Chicot. Despite his suspicions, Treverton's calm demeanor and Laura's trusting face cause Gerard to waver in his belief of Treverton's guilt. After the service, Treverton acknowledges their past acquaintance and appeals to Gerard's honor not to reveal his secret to Laura. Edward Clare, motivated by personal malice, insists on exposing Treverton, while Gerard advises caution. Gerard decides to return to London, troubled by the moral dilemma.
Chapter 31
XXXI: Why Don’t You Trust Me?
John Treverton, burdened by his past, confesses to Laura that he is actually Chicot, the man suspected of murdering his first wife, Zaïre Chicot. He recounts his descent from a cavalry officer to a penniless Bohemian in Paris, his marriage to the dancer Zaïre, and her descent into intemperance. Laura is devastated by the deception but insists they must reveal the truth to Mr. Clare and Mr. Sampson, forfeiting the estate.
Chapter 32
On His Defence
John Treverton confesses to his marriage to La Chicot and the fraud regarding the estate, but maintains his innocence in her murder. Tom Sampson suggests that the first marriage may not have been legal, buying time to investigate. Edward Clare accuses Treverton of acting only under pressure, while Laura and the Vicar stand by him.
Chapter 33
At the Morgue
John Treverton, unable to sleep, reflects on his past life and his marriage to Zaïre Chicot. He recalls a disturbing incident in Paris where they witnessed a dead man being taken to the Morgue; Zaïre's extreme reaction suggests a hidden connection to the deceased.
Chapter 34
George Gerard in Danger
George Gerard, having planned to leave Beechampton, is persuaded by Mrs. Clare and Celia to stay another day due to bad weather. He enjoys a cheerful breakfast and a moorland ramble with Celia, despite his growing doubts about Edward Clare's character. Celia reflects on Gerard's poverty and her own aspirations, while Gerard feels conflicted about his position at the Vicarage.
Chapter 35
On a Voyage of Discovery
John Treverton and his solicitor Tom Sampson travel to Auray in Brittany to investigate the validity of Treverton's first marriage. They seek out local clergy, including Father le Mescam, to uncover information about Treverton's first wife, Chicot, hoping to prove the marriage invalid and thus eliminate a motive for murder.
Chapter 36
XXXVI: Kergariou's Wife
John Treverton learns from Father le Mescam that La Chicot was originally Marie Pomellec, who married Jean Kergariou in Auray. Kergariou died in a Paris accident three years prior, confirming that John's marriage to Laura is valid. John sends a telegram to Laura with good news and prepares to travel to Paris with Sampson to obtain legal proof.
Chapter 37
The Tenant from Beechampton
Laura Treverton, alone and anxious, fears the suspicion of murder will forever follow her husband John. She rejects visits from Celia Clare due to her distrust of Edward Clare, but accepts the Vicar's comfort. The Vicar reassures her that Edward will not use his knowledge against them. Laura receives a telegram from Auray with good news. While walking with the Vicar, they meet a stranger who claims to be a tenant of John's from Beechampton and inquires after him.
Chapter 38
Celia's Lovers
Laura receives a reassuring letter from John Treverton, who explains that his first marriage to Zaïre was invalid because she was already married to Jean Kergariou, securing their claim to the estate. Celia Clare bursts in, upset that Laura has been distant, and defends her brother Edward's hostility. Later, Celia reveals she has been preoccupied with a young man, and Laura guesses it is Mr. Gerard. Meanwhile, Tom Sampson proposes to Celia, who gently refuses him, and he consoles himself with champagne and thoughts of domestic reform.
Chapter 39
On Suspicion
John Treverton is arrested for the murder of La Chicot and taken to London, accompanied by his wife Laura and detectives. Laura remains composed, supporting her husband while grappling with the gravity of the situation. They travel to London, where John is committed to the House of Detention. Mr. Sampson arrives and engages a criminal lawyer, Mr. Leopold, to handle the case. Laura learns that her father, known as Desrolles, was in the house at the time of the murder, deepening her anxiety. The chapter ends with Laura and her maid Mary at the Midland Hotel, Laura's fortitude giving way to despair.
Chapter 40
Mr. Leopold Asks Irrelevant Questions
John Treverton is questioned by his lawyer, Mr. Leopold, about the night of La Chicot's murder. Leopold probes Treverton's alibi, his knowledge of Desrolles, and the possibility of a diamond necklace. The inquiry is adjourned, and Leopold places advertisements seeking Desrolles and the necklace.
Chapter 41
Mrs. Evitt Makes a Revelation
Mrs. Evitt, a chronically ill and melancholic landlady, provides crucial information to Mr. Leopold that implicates Desrolles in the murder of La Chicot, leading to John Treverton's potential exoneration. George Gerard and Tom Sampson discuss the case, while Laura Treverton reacts with horror but insists on saving her husband's name.
Chapter 42
XLII: The Undertaker's Evidence
Laura is horrified by the revelation that Desrolles claims to be her father and a murderer. John comforts her and insists they investigate. Laura travels to Chiswick with Mr. Sampson to find Ivy Cottage and uncover the truth about her father's death. They visit an undertaker who confirms that Mr. Malcolm died and was buried in Chiswick, lifting a heavy burden from Laura's mind.
Chapter 43
An Old Lady's Diary
Laura visits her aunt, Mrs. Malcolm, in Russell Square to learn about her father's past. Mrs. Malcolm, a methodical diarist, retrieves her diary from 1856 and reveals that Captain Desmond was a close friend of Stephen Malcolm and was with him at his death. Laura copies the address of Captain Desmond's lodgings, hoping to trace the man who may be Desrolles.
Chapter 44
XLIV: Three Witnesses
John Treverton appears before the magistrate at Bow Street. Two medical experts give conflicting testimony about bloodstains on the dagger. Mrs. Evitt, the landlady, testifies that Treverton is innocent and describes finding a handful of iron-gray hair and a bloodstained dressing-gown hidden in her lodging. Mr. Joseph Lemuel, a stockbroker, testifies that he gave La Chicot a paste necklace shortly before her death, which may have motivated the murder. Mr. Mosheh, a diamond merchant, identifies a photograph of Desrolles as the man who tried to sell him imitation diamonds. Based on this evidence, John Treverton is discharged.
Chapter 45
XLV: The Hunt for Desrolles
Desrolles, having secured a handsome annuity, relocates to Paris and indulges in a life of dissipation, frequenting his old haunts in the students' quarter. He renounces brandy for absinthe, gambles, and spends recklessly. His plans to travel to South America are delayed when he reads of John Treverton's arrest, causing him to worry about his annuity's security. He considers fleeing to America but hesitates, fearing loss of income.
Chapter 46
Epilogue
John and Laura Treverton return to Hazlehurst Manor, where the scandal of John's past has faded. Edward Clare leaves for the Cape to learn ostrich farming. John and Laura have a son, and later George Gerard and Celia Clare become engaged during a visit. John gives George a medical practice as a gift.
