The Haunted Hotel · Chapter
XVIII explained
Francis Westwick arrives in Venice to investigate the haunted room for his theatre.
What happens
Francis Westwick arrives in Venice to investigate the haunted room for his theatre. He reserves Room 13A and experiences a mysterious, revolting odor that no one else can smell, leading him to question his own senses.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and the Unknown
Francis Westwick's encounter with a mysterious odor that only he perceives suggests an unexplained supernatural presence in Room 13A.
Deception and Secrets
The manager's scheme to use Francis as a witness to vindicate the room's reputation hints at hidden truths and manipulation.
Characters to notice
- Francis Westwick
Arrives in Venice, reserves Room 13A, and experiences a mysterious odor that only he can smell.
- Henry Westwick
Mentioned as having joined Francis in Milan and transferred charge of Mrs. Norbury.
- Mrs. Norbury
Mentioned as being transferred to Henry Westwick's charge.
Key passages
“He became conscious of a mysteriously offensive odour in the room, entirely new in his experience of revolting smells.”
Francis suddenly noticed a strange, repulsive smell in the room that he had never encountered before.
Francis's unique sensory experience sets the stage for the supernatural theme.
“The room is as fresh and sweet as a room can be, he answered.”
The scene-painter declared the room smelled perfectly normal and pleasant.
Contrasts Francis's perception with that of others, emphasizing the mysterious nature of the odor.