# Joining the Missing Links explained — The Dead Letter

> Chapter companion for The Dead Letter by Metta Victor.

## What happens

The chapter reveals James Argyll as the murderer of Henry Moreland. Mr. Burton presents the evidence, including the surgical instrument with George Thorley's initials and Thorley's confession. James is banished from the family and the country. Richard Redfield is exonerated and accepted as a partner. Leesy Sullivan dies peacefully after seeing little Nora, who is later adopted.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice and Investigation

Mr. Burton's patient, methodical detective work culminates in the exposure of the true murderer and the restoration of Richard's innocence.

### Family and Loyalty

The Argyll family grapples with betrayal by James, yet ultimately forgives Richard and offers him a place as a son and partner.

### Fate and Providence

The recovery of the Dead Letter and the timing of its discovery are described as 'awfully providential,' underscoring a sense of destined justice.

## Character check-ins

### James Argyll

Revealed as the murderer; slinks away into exile after being confronted.

### Mr. Burton

Presents the final evidence and confession; orchestrates the resolution and offers James a chance to flee unpunished.

### Richard Redfield

Fully exonerated; accepts partnership offer from Mr. Argyll.

### Mary Argyll

Defends Richard and expresses regret for having been persuaded to marry James.

### Eleanor Argyll

Shows self-possession and forgiveness; comforts Mary and Richard.

### Leesy Sullivan

Dies peacefully after seeing little Nora; her love for Henry Moreland is revealed.

## Key lines

> Mr. Burton had yet much to say, for he wished to close this horrible business forever.

Burton was determined to bring the matter to a definitive end.

_Shows Burton's resolve to conclude the investigation._

> Let him go... Go, instantly and forever.

Mr. Argyll orders James to leave immediately and never return.

_Demonstrates the family's final rejection of James._

> I never accused you—I always felt that you were innocent, and always said so.

Mary tells Richard she never believed he was guilty.

_Highlights Mary's loyalty and Richard's vindication._

> She died with a smile on her face, going out of this world, which had been so cold to one of her impassioned nature, with joy.

Leesy passed away happily, relieved to leave a harsh world.

_Emphasizes Leesy's tragic but peaceful end._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_dead_letter_se/chapters/part-ii-ix-joining-the-missing-links
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_dead_letter_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_dead_letter_se/chapters