The Leavenworth Case · Chapter
VIII: Circumstantial Evidence explained
During the coroner's inquest, Eleanore Leavenworth is questioned about her relationship with her uncle, her actions on the morning of the murder, and the discovery of her handkerchief in the library with pistol stains.
What happens
During the coroner's inquest, Eleanore Leavenworth is questioned about her relationship with her uncle, her actions on the morning of the murder, and the discovery of her handkerchief in the library with pistol stains. She denies taking a paper from the table and refuses to answer further, leading to heightened suspicion. The chapter ends with Eleanore fainting.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
Eleanore's calm and composed demeanor contrasts with the mounting circumstantial evidence against her, raising questions about her true nature.
Secrecy and Truth
Eleanore's refusal to answer about the paper and her evasive responses highlight the tension between hiding secrets and revealing the truth.
Guilt and Innocence
The inquest focuses on Eleanore's potential guilt, with the handkerchief and key evidence suggesting involvement, yet her denials and fainting leave ambiguity.
Characters to notice
- Eleanore Leavenworth
Testifies at the inquest, denies taking a paper, refuses to answer about the key, and faints after the handkerchief evidence is presented.
- Mary Leavenworth
Present at the inquest, shows agitation and does not assist her cousin when she faints.
- Mr. Gryce
Observes quietly, whispers to the coroner, and produces the soiled handkerchief as evidence.
- The Narrator
Describes the proceedings and his own emotional turmoil, feeling a desire to flee the scene.
- Kate
Recalled as a witness, testifies about washing and ironing the handkerchief.
Key passages
“The cold steadiness of her now fixed and impassive countenance was sufficient warranty in itself against the possibility of any such catastrophe.”
Her calm and unchanging expression seemed to guarantee that she would not betray herself.
The narrator observes Eleanore's composure during the inquest.
“I decline answering the question.”
I refuse to respond to that.
Eleanore's defiant response when asked about taking a paper from the table.
“When any suspicious paper is found in my possession, it will be time enough then for me to explain how I came by it.”
If you find a suspicious paper on me, then I'll explain how I got it.
Eleanore challenges the coroner to produce evidence before demanding an explanation.