The Door with Seven Locks · Chapter
Chapter X explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Cody visits Dr. Stalletti at Gallows Cottage late at night, fearing the police and discussing the failed attempt to eliminate a pursuer. Stalletti reveals he sent someone after the man but failed, and the two men exchange veiled threats about Lew Pheeney's death. After a mysterious listener is detected outside, Cody returns to his car, driven by the surly Tom Cawler.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
Cody and Stalletti conspire in secret, with Stalletti hiding his activities and both men deceiving each other and the authorities.
Crime and Detection
The plot to eliminate a pursuer, the mention of Lew Pheeney's death, and the fear of police investigation drive the chapter's tension.
Characters to notice
- Bertram Cody
Visits Stalletti late at night, fearful and seeking money; implicated in the plot against the pursuer.
- Antonio Stalletti
Receives Cody at Gallows Cottage; discusses the failed attempt on the pursuer and hints at Lew Pheeney's death.
- Thomas Cawler
Drives Cody to the meeting; suspected by Stalletti of spying, but denies following him.
- Dick Martin
Referred to as 'Martini' or 'Martin' by Stalletti; identified as the man Havelock sent to find Selford.
- Lew Pheeney
Mentioned by Stalletti as having died, possibly by suicide, in connection with the conspiracy.
Key passages
“There was a Mr. Pheeney... He certainly died, but I think that must have been suicide.”
Stalletti sarcastically suggests that Lew Pheeney's death was a suicide, implying his own involvement.
Stalletti taunts Cody with the implication of murder.
“Somebody was listening at the window, my friend. I will give you three guesses—you were not driven here by car?”
Stalletti reveals that an eavesdropper was at the window and suspects Cody's chauffeur.
Heightens the paranoia and secrecy of the meeting.