XV: Anthony’s Busy Day explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• The Role of the Press

  The chapter describes how the case has seized public imagination and divided public opinion, with reporters eager for news.

• Secrecy and Blackmail

  Anthony's interviews with Belford, Mabel Smith, Elsie Syme, and Mr. Pellett involve discreet inquiries and potential blackmail.

• Love and Romantic Tension

  Anthony's strained encounter with Lucia Lemesurier reveals unresolved romantic feelings.

Characters to notice

• Anthony Gethryn

  Visits Deacon in prison, conducts interviews, meets Madam Vander, and writes a report.

• Mr. Deacon

  Prisoner awaiting transfer; discusses legal arrangements with Anthony.

• Lucia Lemesurier

  Seen leaving the police station with her sister; exchanges a cold bow with Anthony.

• Miss Dora Masterson

  Speaks with Anthony outside the police station; later helps him identify a book.

• Mr. Hastings

  Present at The Owl's office during Anthony's meeting with Mr. Pellett.

• Madam Vander

  Meets Anthony at the Regency Theatre; discusses John Hoode.

Key passages

• “He covered the distance to the village in a time creditable for so hot a day.”

  Despite the heat, he reached the village quickly.

  Shows Anthony's urgency and physical fitness.

• “It was so like, so very like, the books the public had read yesterday, were reading today, and would read tomorrow and tomorrow.”

  The case mirrored the popular crime novels of the time.

  Highlights the media's role in shaping public perception.

• “He thought of her as he had seen her that morning; as he had seen her that first time; as she had sat in her drawing-room that night—the night he had made her tell him all about it.”

  He recalled Lucia at various moments, especially the evening she confided in him.

  Reveals Anthony's lingering feelings for Lucia.