The Lodger · Chapter
XIV explained
Bunting expresses relief at the lodger's return and worries about his nighttime wanderings, while Mrs.
What happens
Bunting expresses relief at the lodger's return and worries about his nighttime wanderings, while Mrs. Bunting grows increasingly uneasy. She secretly listens to Mr. Sleuth's movements and is startled when he unexpectedly comes down to the kitchen, asking to use her gas stove for an experiment after his own slot-machine stove malfunctions. Despite her fear, she agrees, and the lodger plans to work late after the Buntings have gone to bed.
Themes in this chapter
Fear and Suspicion
Mrs. Bunting's growing unease and secret listening, along with Bunting's warnings about the Avenger, heighten the atmosphere of fear and suspicion.
Isolation and Urban Anonymity
The fog-bound house and the lodger's secretive nighttime activities underscore the isolation and anonymity of urban life.
Psychology of the Criminal
Mr. Sleuth's odd behavior, his urgent need to conduct experiments at night, and his discomfort when discovered hint at a disturbed psychology.
Characters to notice
- Mrs. Bunting
Feels sharp envy and resentment toward Bunting's ease, listens furtively to the lodger's movements, and is unnerved by Mr. Sleuth's unexpected visit to the kitchen.
- Mr. Bunting
Relieved at the lodger's return, reads the evening paper, and expresses concern about the dangers of the fog and the Avenger.
- Mr. Sleuth
Returns from a nighttime outing, later comes down to the kitchen in a plaid dressing-gown to request use of the gas stove for an experiment, appearing wild and eager.
Key passages
“There he is at last, and I’m glad of it, Ellen. ’Tain’t a night you would wish a dog to be out in.”
Bunting expresses relief that the lodger has returned, noting the terrible weather.
Highlights Bunting's concern for the lodger's safety and the harsh foggy night.
“I’ve a good mind to speak to him about it, that I have! He ought to be told that it isn’t safe—not for the sort of man he is—to be wandering about the streets at night.”
Bunting considers warning the lodger about the dangers of nighttime wandering.
Reveals Bunting's growing suspicion and concern for the lodger's activities.
“The truth is, I didn’t know you were here, Mrs. Bunting. Please excuse my costume. My gas-stove has gone wrong... So I came down to see if you had a gas-stove.”
Mr. Sleuth apologizes for his appearance and explains he needs to use the kitchen stove because his own is broken.
Shows the lodger's unexpected intrusion into Mrs. Bunting's domain and his excuse for the visit.