# XXVII: Mr. Elphick's Chambers explained — The Middle Temple Murder

> Chapter companion for The Middle Temple Murder by J. S. Fletcher.

## What happens

Spargo visits the Temple at night to confront Mr. Elphick. He observes Miss Baylis entering Elphick's chambers and later knocks boldly. Inside, Elphick initially treats Spargo with condescension, but when Spargo reveals that he knows John Marbury was actually John Maitland and that Ronald Breton is his son, Elphick is terrified and begs Spargo not to publish the information, offering to answer any questions.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Secrecy

The revelation that John Marbury was actually John Maitland and that Ronald Breton is his son underscores the theme of hidden identities and buried secrets.

### Deception and Blackmail

Elphick's attempt to bribe Spargo and the conspiratorial atmosphere between Elphick and Miss Baylis highlight the theme of deception and potential blackmail.

### Journalism and Investigation

Spargo's relentless pursuit of the truth and his use of the press as leverage exemplify the investigative journalism theme.

## Character check-ins

### Frank Spargo

Investigates Elphick, observes Miss Baylis, and confronts Elphick with the truth about Maitland and Breton.

### Septimus Elphick

Initially confident and bantering, but becomes terrified when Spargo reveals his knowledge of the Maitland secret.

### Jane Baylis

Visits Elphick's chambers before Spargo; remains silent and frightened during the confrontation.

### Ronald Breton

Revealed to be the son of John Maitland and engaged to Stephen Aylmore's daughter.

### John Maitland

Identified as the murdered man previously known as John Marbury.

## Key lines

> I know that the man murdered under the name of John Marbury was, without doubt, John Maitland, of Market Milcaster, and that Ronald Breton is his son, whom you took from that woman!

Spargo reveals to Elphick that the victim is John Maitland and that Ronald Breton is his son, a fact Elphick knew.

_This is the pivotal revelation that terrifies Elphick._

> If I stay, it will only be on the strict condition that you answer—and answer truly—whatever questions I like to ask you.

Spargo agrees to stay only if Elphick answers all his questions truthfully.

_Spargo uses the threat of publication to force Elphick's cooperation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_middle_temple_murder_se/chapters/xxvii-mr-elphick-s-chambers
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_middle_temple_murder_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_middle_temple_murder_se/chapters