XVI: Searching for Clues explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Detection and Reasoning

  Fessenden and Kitty debate methods of detection, from assuming guilt to searching for tangible clues, highlighting the challenges of logical deduction.

• Jealousy and Motive

  Kitty's insistence on Carleton's guilt and the mention of Miss Morton's inheritance motive underscore the theme of jealousy and motive.

Characters to notice

• Rob Fessenden

  Investigates Tom Willard's alibi, searches the house for clues, and discusses the case with Kitty French.

• Kitty French

  Accompanies Fessenden, insists Schuyler Carleton is guilty, and helps search the library and drawing-room for clues.

• Tom Willard

  His alibi is verified by the innkeeper and bellboy; later found going over Madeleine's papers with Lawyer Peabody.

• Mr. Taylor

  Landlord of the Mapleton Inn who confirms Tom Willard's account of the previous evening.

• Harris

  The butler who opens the door and follows Fessenden's orders to open blinds during the search.

Key passages

• “Believing that Marie’s information about Miss Morton was of deep interest, Rob started off at once to confer with Coroner Benson about it.”

  Rob immediately went to discuss Marie's news about Miss Morton with the coroner.

  Fessenden acts on new information regarding Miss Morton.

• “It was Schuyler Carleton, just as sure as I stand here.”

  Kitty firmly believes Schuyler Carleton is the murderer.

  Kitty expresses her conviction about Carleton's guilt.

• “I’m going to look for clues; real, material, tangible clues, such as criminals invariably leave behind them.”

  Fessenden decides to search for physical evidence that criminals always leave.

  Fessenden shifts to a material evidence approach.