The Middle Temple Murder · Chapter
XIX: The Chamberlayne Story explained
Spargo visits Mr.
What happens
Spargo visits Mr. Quarterpage in Market Milcaster to learn more about John Maitland and the silver ticket. Quarterpage recounts Maitland's trial, his imprisonment, and the disappearance of his sister-in-law Jane Baylis with his child. He then tells the story of Stephen Chamberlayne, a stockbroker who vanished after Maitland's arrest and was said to have died suddenly in London, but whose coffin many believe was weighted with lead, suggesting he faked his death.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Blackmail
The suspicion that Chamberlayne faked his death to escape with embezzled funds.
The Past Haunting the Present
The unresolved Maitland case and the mystery of Chamberlayne's death continue to affect current events.
Crime and Punishment
Maitland's imprisonment and the ongoing search for the truth about the stolen money.
Characters to notice
- Frank Spargo
Visits Mr. Quarterpage to investigate the Maitland case and the silver ticket.
- Benjamin Quarterpage
Hosts Spargo and recounts the stories of Maitland and Chamberlayne.
- John Maitland
Former banker convicted of embezzlement; his disappearance after release is discussed.
- Jane Baylis
Maitland's sister-in-law who took his child and personal effects, then disappeared.
- Stephen Chamberlayne
Stockbroker who fled after Maitland's arrest and allegedly died suddenly in London.
Key passages
“I perceive, sir, that you have read the account of the Maitland trial.”
Mr. Quarterpage notes that Spargo has read the trial report.
Opens the conversation about the Maitland case.
“That the silver ticket in my purse was Maitland’s property.”
Spargo concludes the silver ticket belonged to Maitland.
Key deduction linking the ticket to Maitland.
“That Chamberlayne never did die, and that that coffin was weighted with lead!”
Quarterpage reveals the local belief that Chamberlayne faked his death.
Climactic revelation of the chapter.