# During the Storm explained — The Mystery at Lilac Inn

> Chapter companion for The Mystery at Lilac Inn by Carolyn Keene.

## What happens

Nancy Drew hides in bushes near an old house in Dockville, observing Mary Mason and two men—Bud Mason and Tom Tozzle—arguing about dividing loot. She follows them inside during a violent storm, sneaks through a window into a storeroom, and overhears their heated dispute over shares of stolen goods, suspecting they may be involved in the Lilac Inn mystery.

## Themes in this chapter

### Risk and Bravery

Nancy risks her safety by hiding in bushes and sneaking into the criminals' house during a dangerous storm.

### Crime and Punishment

The chapter centers on the criminals' dispute over stolen loot and Nancy's determination to uncover their crimes.

### Deception and Appearances

Mary Mason's criminal nature contrasts with her earlier innocent appearance, and the criminals argue over trust and betrayal.

## Character check-ins

### Nancy Drew

Brave but nervous, Nancy hides in bushes, sneaks into the house during a storm, and overhears the criminals' argument.

### Mary Mason

Mary argues with Bud and Tom about splitting the loot, showing her involvement in criminal activities.

### Bud Mason

Mary's brother, a young hardened criminal, who argues about the division of stolen goods.

### Tom Tozzle

The older man with a hooked nose, who demands a larger share of the swag and threatens to send the others to jail.

## Key lines

> Nancy Drew was by nature a brave girl, but as she glanced up at the leaden sky she was more than a little disturbed.

Though Nancy was naturally courageous, the ominous sky made her uneasy.

_Highlights Nancy's bravery mixed with human fear._

> I tell you we've got to settle up tonight and get out while the getting is good

Tom insists they must finalize their plans and flee immediately.

_Shows the criminals' urgency and tension._

> What do I care for that? I furnished the boat.

Tom dismisses the agreement, claiming his contribution of the boat entitles him to more.

_Reveals the greed and conflict among the criminals._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_at_lilac_inn_se/chapters/xviii-during-the-storm
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_at_lilac_inn_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_at_lilac_inn_se/chapters