# The Key of the Parlour explained — The House of Arden

> Chapter companion for The House of Arden by E. Nesbit.

## What happens

Elfrida is trapped behind the secret panel in the parlour, having hidden the key in her pocket. Edred is unable to open the panel and becomes increasingly anxious. After a long wait, Aunt Edith arrives, finds a labeled key on the path, and frees both children. They explore the secret chamber together. Later, Aunt Edith explains the family's financial situation, and the children resolve to find the treasure and avoid quarreling.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Heritage and Identity

The children learn about the financial burden of Arden Castle and the importance of preserving their heritage.

### Courage and Resourcefulness

Elfrida remains calm and explores the secret chamber; the children resolve to find the treasure and avoid quarrels.

### Magic and Adventure

The Mouldiwarp's intervention with the labeled key and the secret panel's magic continue the adventure.

## Character check-ins

### Elfrida Arden

Trapped behind the secret panel; gives the key to the Mouldiwarp.

### Edred Arden

Unable to open the panel; reads Red Cotton Nightcap Country; rescued by Aunt Edith.

### Aunt Edith

Finds the labeled key and rescues the children; explains the family's financial situation.

### The Mouldiwarp

Receives the key from Elfrida and places it on the path for Aunt Edith.

### Mrs. Honeysett

Declares there was never a labeled parlour key in her time.

## Key lines

> “I see,” she said wisely, “it does work backwards, doesn’t it?”

Elfrida realizes the magic clock works in reverse.

_Elfrida's observation about the Mouldiwarp's magic._

> “It is very important indeed,” he said, “for us to find the treasure. Then we could ‘keep up’ the Castle without any bother.”

Edred emphasizes the need to find the treasure to maintain the castle.

_The children's motivation to seek the treasure._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_house_of_arden_se/chapters/vii-the-key-of-the-parlour
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_house_of_arden_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_house_of_arden_se/chapters