The Clue of the Twisted Candle · Chapter
XII explained
Kara reflects on a past assassination attempt in Durazzo on Candlemas day, recalling his rescue by Turkish Gendarmes and the execution of his would-be killers.
What happens
Kara reflects on a past assassination attempt in Durazzo on Candlemas day, recalling his rescue by Turkish Gendarmes and the execution of his would-be killers. His reverie is interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Gathercole, his eccentric agent. Kara instructs his valet Fisher to leave after eleven o'clock. Gathercole confronts Kara about his service, then departs after a cryptic conversation. Fisher notes the sound of Kara's steel latch, indicating he is not to be disturbed until eleven.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearances
Kara's pleasant demeanor masks his criminal dealings; Gathercole's eccentric appearance belies his role as an agent.
Fear and Control
Kara's memory of being bound and manacled, awaiting execution, contrasts with his current control over his household and agents.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Kara
Lies in bed reminiscing about a past assassination attempt in Durazzo; receives his agent Gathercole and instructs Fisher to leave for the night.
- Fred Fisher
Valet who announces Gathercole, receives instructions to leave after eleven, and observes the visitor's eccentric behavior.
- George Gathercole
Kara's agent, a grotesque figure with a shiny hat and ragged beard, who complains about his service and departs after a cryptic conversation.
Key passages
“Kara lay back on his down pillows with a sneer on his face and his brain very busy.”
Kara reclined on his soft pillows, smirking as his mind raced with thoughts.
Opens the chapter with Kara's reflective and scheming mood.
“He remembered the day well because it was Candlemas day, and this was the anniversary.”
He recalled the date clearly because it was Candlemas, and today marked the anniversary.
Highlights the significance of the date in Kara's memory.
“No more Patagonia! no more Tierra del Fuego!”
No further assignments in Patagonia or Tierra del Fuego!
Gathercole's exclamation indicates his refusal to undertake further distant missions.