The Patient in Room 18 · Chapter
V: A Lapis Cuff Link explained
Sarah Keate takes an active interest in solving the mystery.
What happens
Sarah Keate takes an active interest in solving the mystery. Lance O'Leary interviews her, revealing that she and Maida Day are among the few without alibis. O'Leary discloses the discovery of Gainsay's cigarette case in Keate's laundry bag and Corole Letheny's revolver in the closet where Dr. Letheny was found. He also reveals Corole's mixed-race heritage from Haiti, suggesting a 'savage' streak.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Suspicion
Keate and O'Leary discuss the limited alibis and hidden evidence, fostering an atmosphere of distrust.
Truth and Justice
Keate's determination to solve the mystery and O'Leary's methodical investigation reflect the pursuit of truth.
Characters to notice
- Sarah Keate
Narrator and nurse who becomes actively involved in the investigation.
- Lance O'Leary
Detective who interviews Keate, reveals key evidence, and discusses Corole's background.
- Maida Day
Keate's assistant; one of the few without an alibi for the night of the murders.
- Corole Letheny
Suspect; her revolver was found in the murder room, and O'Leary reveals her mixed-race heritage.
- Jim Gainsay
Suspect; his cigarette case was found in Keate's laundry bag, linking him to the scene.
Key passages
“I deliberately tried to put myself in the frame of mind to be suspicious about anything and everything—and I trust it is no reflection on my character to say that I succeeded without much effort.”
Keate consciously adopted a suspicious mindset, finding it easy to do so.
Shows Keate's active engagement in the investigation.
“A hospital ought to be sanctuary and it seemed to me an offense against all the laws of humanity that this hideous thing should have happened within our walls of mercy.”
Keate believes a hospital should be a safe haven, making the murders a profound violation.
Highlights the theme of sanctuary violated.
“I find, too, that Dr. Letheny kept his household down to the most moderate of expenses and gave Miss Letheny only a barely sufficient allowance.”
O'Leary reveals that Dr. Letheny was frugal with household expenses and gave Corole a minimal allowance.
Provides motive for Corole's potential involvement.