# XXVI: Kilsip Has a Theory of His Own explained — The Mystery of a Hansom Cab

> Chapter companion for The Mystery of a Hansom Cab by Fergus Hume.

## What happens

Mr. Calton reads a letter from Brian Fitzgerald, who promises to reveal a secret about Rosanna Moore that may lead to the murderer of Oliver Whyte. Detective Kilsip visits and shares his theory that Roger Moreland is the killer, based on a diamond ring and the missing coat. Calton is skeptical, but Kilsip plans to search the Fitzroy Gardens for the coat. Kilsip also informs Calton that Mother Guttersnipe is dying and wishes to see him, possibly to reveal a secret about Rosanna Moore.

## Themes in this chapter

### Secrecy and Deception

Fitzgerald's letter promises to reveal a secret, and Kilsip's theory hinges on Moreland's possible deception about his drunkenness.

### Justice and Injustice

Calton and Kilsip debate the validity of evidence and the pursuit of the true murderer, highlighting the quest for justice.

## Character check-ins

### Duncan Calton

Reads Fitzgerald's letter and discusses the case with Kilsip, expressing skepticism about Kilsip's theory.

### Brian Fitzgerald

Writes a letter to Calton promising to reveal a secret about Rosanna Moore.

### Mr. Kilsip

Presents his theory that Roger Moreland murdered Whyte and plans to search the Fitzroy Gardens for the coat.

### Roger Moreland

Suspected by Kilsip of the murder; noted to be working as a barman and wearing a silver ring on his right forefinger.

### Mother Guttersnipe

Dying and wants to see Calton to reveal a secret, possibly about Rosanna Moore.

## Key lines

> I know that now you have taken up the affair, you will not stop until you find out everything, so, as I want the matter to rest as at present, I will anticipate you, and reveal all.

Fitzgerald acknowledges Calton's persistence and offers to confess everything to prevent further investigation.

_Fitzgerald's letter to Calton, indicating he will reveal a secret._

> I have an idea.

Kilsip claims to have a theory about the murder.

_Kilsip introduces his suspicion of Roger Moreland._

> She's dying, and wants to tell you some secret.

Mother Guttersnipe is on her deathbed and wishes to disclose information to Calton.

_Kilsip informs Calton about Mother Guttersnipe's request._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se/chapters/xxvi-kilsip-has-a-theory-of-his-own
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se/chapters