# XXII: I Find Love explained — The Murder on the Links

> Chapter companion for The Murder on the Links by Agatha Christie.

## What happens

Hastings declares his love for Bella Duveen and helps her escape from Poirot. Poirot and Hastings trace the Dulcibella Kids to Coventry, where Hastings confronts Bella. She confesses to taking the dagger and to the murder of Mr. Renauld, believing him to be Jack. Despite her confession, Hastings vows to protect her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Hastings' unconditional love for Bella, despite her confession to murder, and his willingness to protect her at all costs.

### Deception and Appearance

Bella's stage persona as a cheerful performer contrasts with her inner turmoil and guilt. Hastings initially misinterprets her motives for taking the dagger.

### Crime and Its Consequences

Bella's impulsive act of violence leads to a web of fear, guilt, and the need for concealment, affecting her relationship with Hastings.

## Character check-ins

### Captain Hastings

Declares his love for Bella Duveen, helps her escape from Poirot, and later confronts her about the murder.

### Bella Duveen

Confesses to taking the dagger and killing Mr. Renauld, mistaking him for Jack. She is terrified and seeks Hastings' protection.

### Hercule Poirot

Discovers Hastings' involvement with Bella, but allows her to escape. He later tracks the Dulcibella Kids to Coventry.

### Jack Renauld

Mentioned as the object of Bella's love and the reason for her jealousy.

### Mr. Aarons

Helps Poirot identify Bella Duveen as one of the Dulcibella Kids.

## Key lines

> I love you, that's true⁠—but I don't want anything in return. Only let me help you. Love him still if you have to, but let me help you as he can't.

Hastings tells Bella that his love is unconditional and he only wants to assist her, even if she still loves Jack.

_Demonstrates Hastings' selfless love and his willingness to sacrifice his own desires for Bella's well-being._

> You think that I love Jack Renauld? ... Not as I love you. Never as I love you!

Bella corrects Hastings' assumption, declaring that her love for him surpasses any feelings she had for Jack.

_Reveals the depth of Bella's affection for Hastings and the emotional climax of their relationship._

> It was you who took the dagger, wasn't it? ... Yes.

Hastings asks Bella if she was the one who took the dagger, and she admits it.

_Confirms Bella's involvement in the crime and her motive to protect Jack._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_murder_on_the_links_se/chapters/xxii-i-find-love
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_murder_on_the_links_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_murder_on_the_links_se/chapters