# The Confrontation explained — The Haunted Hotel

> Chapter companion for The Haunted Hotel by Wilkie Collins.

## What happens

Mrs. Ferrari, determined to confront Lady Montbarry, goes to her hotel and is admitted. She accuses Lady Montbarry of knowing about the money sent to Ferrari's widow, but Lady Montbarry remains composed and insults her. Lady Montbarry then forces Mrs. Ferrari to take her to Miss Lockwood's lodging, where she goes in alone. Henry Westwick arrives and, learning of the situation, follows her inside.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Secrets

Mrs. Ferrari's accusation about the money and Lady Montbarry's denial highlight the hidden truths surrounding the courier's disappearance.

### Madness and Psychological Torment

Lady Montbarry's erratic behavior, from catlike suddenness to groans of misery, and her threat to strangle Mrs. Ferrari, suggest psychological instability.

## Character check-ins

### Mrs. Ferrari

Confronts Lady Montbarry about the money sent to Ferrari's widow, is insulted and intimidated, then forced to guide Lady Montbarry to Agnes Lockwood's lodging.

### Countess Narona

Lady Montbarry, now haggard and altered, receives Mrs. Ferrari with cold composure, denies knowledge of the courier, and forces her to lead the way to Agnes Lockwood's house.

### Agnes Lockwood

Mentioned as the woman who recommended Ferrari to Lord Montbarry; Lady Montbarry goes to her lodging to confront her.

### Henry Westwick

Arrives at Miss Lockwood's door, sees Mrs. Ferrari in a cab, learns that Lady Montbarry is inside, and enters to protect Agnes.

## Key lines

> I come, my lady, to acknowledge the receipt of the money sent to Ferrari's widow.

Mrs. Ferrari directly states that she is there to confirm receiving the money that was sent to the widow of the courier Ferrari.

_This is the key accusation that Mrs. Ferrari makes against Lady Montbarry._

> You lie! you lie! you lie!

Lady Montbarry vehemently denies Mrs. Ferrari's accusation, repeating the word 'lie' three times.

_Shows Lady Montbarry's violent reaction to the mention of Miss Lockwood's name._

> If you cry out, as sure as the heavens are above you, I'll strangle you with my own hands.

Lady Montbarry threatens to kill Mrs. Ferrari if she screams.

_Demonstrates Lady Montbarry's intimidating and dangerous nature._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_haunted_hotel_se/chapters