The Murder at the Vicarage · Chapter
VI explained
The chapter opens with Miss Marple, Griselda, and the Vicar discussing the arrest of Lawrence Redding for the murder of Colonel Protheroe.
What happens
The chapter opens with Miss Marple, Griselda, and the Vicar discussing the arrest of Lawrence Redding for the murder of Colonel Protheroe. Miss Marple expresses surprise and suggests that Lawrence's confession might actually indicate his innocence, arguing that a guilty man would not appear so distraught. The conversation touches on the curious details of the crime, including the stopped clock and the unfinished letter. Lettice Protheroe visits, seemingly indifferent to her father's death, and later goes to inform Anne of Lawrence's arrest. The Vicar learns that Inspector Slack has locked the study and departed. Griselda visits Anne Protheroe and finds her quiet but terrified, not grief-stricken. Dennis returns from tennis, excited by the murder, and the chapter ends with the Vicar troubled by the events.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
Miss Marple suggests that Lawrence's confession may be a facade, and the true reality of the crime is hidden beneath appearances.
Gossip and Community
The characters discuss the arrest and share information, reflecting the community's involvement in the murder case.
Deception and Secrets
Anne Protheroe's terrified demeanor and Lettice's indifference hint at hidden secrets and possible deception.
Characters to notice
- Miss Marple
Miss Marple discusses the arrest with Griselda and the Vicar, expressing doubt about Lawrence's guilt and emphasizing the need for proof.
- Griselda
Griselda shares news of Lawrence's arrest and later visits Anne Protheroe, finding her terrified rather than grief-stricken.
- Dennis Clement
Dennis returns from tennis, excited by the murder, and searches for footprints in the garden.
- Lettice Protheroe
Lettice visits the Vicarage, shows indifference to her father's death, and goes to tell Anne about Lawrence's arrest.
- Anne Protheroe
Anne is visited by Griselda after the arrest; she appears quiet and terrified, not grief-stricken.
- Colonel Melchett
Colonel Melchett arrives at the Vicarage to see the Vicar, but does not appear in the main dialogue.
Key passages
“I am so glad—so very glad.”
Miss Marple expresses relief upon learning that Lawrence Redding gave himself up.
Miss Marple's reaction suggests she believes Lawrence's confession indicates his innocence.
“I think, you know, that that child is not half so vague as she pretends to be. She's got a very definite idea in her head and she's acting upon it.”
Miss Marple observes that Lettice is more purposeful than she appears.
Miss Marple hints that Lettice has a hidden agenda.
“She didn't seem so much bowled over as—well—terrified.”
Griselda describes Anne Protheroe's reaction as fearful rather than shocked.
Anne's terror suggests she may know more about the murder than she reveals.