The Midnight Guest · Chapter
XXI: To Be in Time explained
Silva reveals to Mrs.
What happens
Silva reveals to Mrs. Delahay and the Countess that Count Flavio arranged his own daughter's kidnapping as an act of revenge against his wife, and that Lord Ravenspur was involved. Silva recounts his long search for the child, Vera, and his discovery that she is connected to Ravenspur. He vows vengeance. Later, Mrs. Delahay follows Silva to Ravenspur's house, where she sees him climb onto the studio dome. She rushes to the front door and warns Walter Lance to get to the studio immediately.
Themes in this chapter
Vengeance and Justice
Silva explicitly vows to make Lord Ravenspur pay for his role in the kidnapping, stating 'we never forget, and we never forgive.'
Secrecy and Deception
The entire plot hinges on hidden letters, secret meetings, and the concealed identity of Vera; Silva's surveillance and stealthy actions underscore this theme.
Characters to notice
- Luigi Silva
Reveals the history of Count Flavio's cruelty and the kidnapping plot; vows vengeance against Lord Ravenspur.
- Mrs. Delahay
Listens to Silva's story, follows him to Ravenspur's house, and warns Walter Lance of danger.
- The Countess
Present during Silva's revelation; learns that her daughter Vera is alive and connected to Lord Ravenspur.
- Walter Lance
Opens the front door to Mrs. Delahay's urgent warning.
- Lord Ravenspur
Implied to be in the studio; target of Silva's vengeance.
Key passages
“When we South Italians take our vengeance, we strike and strike hard. But it is done in the dark, so that the right hand does not know what the left is doing. But we never forget, and we never forgive.”
Silva explains that his vengeance will be secret and ruthless, characteristic of his Southern Italian heritage.
Highlights Silva's commitment to revenge and his cultural background.
“I have stood behind his chair when guests have been present. I have seen his clever simulation of affection, whilst all the time he was saying things that wound sensitive women and drive them to despair.”
Silva describes Count Flavio's public pretense of love while privately tormenting his wife.
Illustrates the theme of deception and the Count's cruelty.