The Dead Letter · Chapter
X: The Anniversary explained
Burton reflects on the strained atmosphere at the Argyll mansion after his return from New York.
What happens
Burton reflects on the strained atmosphere at the Argyll mansion after his return from New York. He senses a change in Mr. Argyll's and Mary's behavior, suspects James of undermining him, and describes the painful anniversary of Eleanor's intended wedding day, which she commemorates by dressing in her wedding attire. The chapter ends with Burton visiting the Moreland villa, securing it against the weather, and returning through a gathering storm.
Themes in this chapter
Grief and Resilience
Eleanor's ritual dressing in her wedding gown and the household's somber observance of the anniversary illustrate profound grief and the struggle to cope.
Family and Loyalty
Burton's sense of betrayal and suspicion toward James, along with Mary's changing demeanor, highlight tensions within the Argyll family and loyalty bonds.
Appearance vs. Reality
James's outwardly friendly manner contrasts with Burton's belief that he is secretly undermining him; the sunny conservatory contrasts with the inner gloom.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Burton
Narrator; feels like an intruder in the Argyll household, suspects James of slander, and is deeply affected by Eleanor's grief.
- James Argyll
Suspected by Burton of covertly working against him, using flattery and undermining his standing in the family.
- Eleanor Argyll
On her nineteenth birthday, which was to be her wedding day, she dresses in her wedding robe and veil, sending Mary for a bouquet.
- Mary Argyll
Becomes reserved toward Burton; helps Eleanor with the wedding flowers and confides in Burton about Eleanor's actions.
- Mr. Argyll
Appears constrained and formal with Burton; wanders restlessly on the anniversary, with the office closed and blinds shut.
- Henry Moreland
Deceased; his memory dominates the anniversary, and a book of poetry he last opened contains verses that eerily echo the situation.
Key passages
“I could not help believing, although I had no proof of it, that James was covertly working to produce an impression against me in the family.”
Burton suspects James is secretly turning the family against him, though he has no evidence.
Burton's growing paranoia about James's influence.
“She has taken out all the wedding apparel, for the first time since that day. She is dressing herself. She has put on the robe and veil; and now she has sent me down to make the bouquet.”
Mary reports that Eleanor is dressing in her wedding clothes for the first time since Henry's death and has asked for a bouquet.
Eleanor's ritual reenactment of her wedding on the anniversary.
“I had a wild walk back to the village—full of lonely magnificence and gloom, which suited my temper.”
Burton's walk home through the stormy landscape matches his melancholy mood.
The external weather mirrors Burton's internal state.