The Haunted Hotel · Chapter
XXV explained
In the evening, Henry Westwick leaves the opera early to speak with Agnes Lockwood, who remains at the hotel.
What happens
In the evening, Henry Westwick leaves the opera early to speak with Agnes Lockwood, who remains at the hotel. He argues that the evidence from Dr. Bruno, the consul, and the priest proves Lord Montbarry's death was natural, but Agnes remains unconvinced, haunted by the apparition she saw. Henry reveals he confronted the Countess about the hidden head, but she was unresponsive, absorbed in writing a play. Agnes refuses to see the Countess again. Henry then announces he has changed his plans to accompany Agnes back to England, hinting at his love for her.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and the Unknown
Agnes's belief in the apparition and her superstitious interpretation of events contrast with Henry's rational explanations.
Deception and Secrets
The Countess's secret writing and her evasive behavior regarding the hidden head underscore the theme of concealed truth.
Characters to notice
- Agnes Lockwood
Remains at the hotel, troubled by the apparition and unconvinced by the evidence of Lord Montbarry's natural death.
- Henry Westwick
Leaves the opera early to comfort Agnes, confronts the Countess about the hidden head, and decides to return to England with Agnes.
- Countess Narona
Obsessively writing a play, unresponsive to Henry's accusations about the hidden head, and shows only fleeting curiosity about the investigation.
- Lord Montbarry
Mentioned as having changed his travel plans due to Henry's decision to return to England.
Key passages
“What I saw last night prevents me... I feel in my heart of hearts that you are deceived. Nothing will shake my belief that we are still as far from having discovered the dreadful truth as ever.”
Agnes insists that her vision of the apparition proves the mystery remains unsolved, despite Henry's logical arguments.
Highlights Agnes's unwavering conviction in the supernatural explanation.
“She went on with her writing as if I had spoken in an unknown tongue!”
The Countess completely ignored Henry's accusations, continuing to write her play as if he had not spoken.
Illustrates the Countess's detachment and obsession with her manuscript.
“I shall go back with you to England, Agnes. That will be holiday enough for me.”
Henry tells Agnes he is returning to England with her, implying that being with her is all the vacation he needs.
Reveals Henry's romantic feelings and his decision to prioritize Agnes.