The House of Arden · Chapter
The Secret Panel explained
Elfrida recounts her adventure in the past to Edred, who initially doubts her story.
What happens
Elfrida recounts her adventure in the past to Edred, who initially doubts her story. After a quarrel and reconciliation, they discuss the hidden jewels and the secret room. Elfrida recalls her encounter with Sir Edward Talbot, who won a wager by robbing the Arden jewels and hiding at Arden Castle. She cleverly deflects inquiries from Talbot's pursuers, protecting him. The chapter explores sibling dynamics, the blurring of time, and the thrill of historical adventure.
Themes in this chapter
Sibling Rivalry and Cooperation
Elfrida and Edred quarrel over the truth of her adventure, but reconcile and plan to explore the secret room together, highlighting both conflict and teamwork.
Courage and Resourcefulness
Elfrida shows bravery by lying to protect Sir Edward Talbot and cleverly deflecting questions from the searching gentlemen.
The Past as a Living Presence
Elfrida's time travel makes history immediate and tangible, as she interacts with historical figures and events as if they were present.
Characters to notice
- Elfrida Arden
Narrates her time-travel adventure to Edred, defends her actions, and shows bravery in protecting Sir Edward Talbot from his pursuers.
- Edred Arden
Initially skeptical of Elfrida's story, quarrels with her, but later reconciles and agrees to investigate the secret room.
- The Mouldiwarp
Instructs the children to 'go along in' after Elfrida's return, facilitating their time-travel adventures.
- Sir Edward Talbot
Reveals himself as the highwayman who won a wager by robbing the Arden jewels and hiding at the castle; praises Elfrida's courage.
- Eliza
Referred to as 'Cousin Bet' or 'Betty'; present during the search for Talbot and faints conveniently to avoid suspicion.
Key passages
“But it’s true, I tell you,” said she. “You don’t suppose I should make up a whole tale like that, do you?” “No,” said Edred. “Of course, you’re not clever enough. But you might have read it in a book.””
Elfrida insists her story is real, but Edred suggests she could have read it somewhere.
Highlights Edred's initial disbelief and sibling teasing.
““I do wish you’d explain,” said Elfrida, almost stamping with curiosity and impatience. “And so I will, my pretty,” said he, laughing. “Aren’t you the King? You said you were.” “Nay, nay—not so fast. I asked thee what thou wouldst say if I told you I was King James.””
Elfrida demands an explanation from the highwayman, who reveals he is not the King but Sir Edward Talbot.
Reveals the identity of the mysterious gentleman and the wager.
““If,” said Elfrida, “you think your Talbot’s playing hide-and-seek here, and if he’s done anything wrong, you can look for him if you like. But I don’t believe Lord Arden will be pleased. That’s all. I should like to get down on to the floor, if you please!””
Elfrida boldly challenges the searching gentlemen, asserting that Lord Arden would disapprove of their intrusion.
Demonstrates Elfrida's courage and quick thinking in a tense situation.