The Red Thumbmark · Chapter
XVI: Thorndyke Plays His Card explained
In the climactic trial scene, Thorndyke reveals his forensic evidence demonstrating that the incriminating thumbprint is a forgery.
What happens
In the climactic trial scene, Thorndyke reveals his forensic evidence demonstrating that the incriminating thumbprint is a forgery. He explains how he created forged prints to test the experts, who were consistently wrong. The judge and jury are convinced, and Reuben Hornby is acquitted, leading to emotional relief from his family and Juliet Gibson.
Themes in this chapter
Forensic Science and Evidence
Thorndyke's detailed explanation of fingerprint forgery and the scientific method used to expose the false evidence.
Justice and Wrongful Accusation
The trial culminates in Reuben's acquittal, highlighting the danger of wrongful conviction based on flawed evidence.
Deception and Betrayal
The forged thumbprint represents a deliberate attempt to frame Reuben, underscoring themes of deceit.
Characters to notice
- Dr. John Evelyn Thorndyke
Delivers expert testimony explaining the forgery of the thumbprint and his methodology, leading to Reuben's acquittal.
- Dr. Christopher Jervis
Observes the trial proceedings and comforts Juliet Gibson during the verdict.
- Reuben Hornby
The defendant, who is acquitted after Thorndyke's evidence proves the thumbprint is a forgery.
- Juliet Gibson
Emotionally reacts to the verdict, expressing relief and joy at Reuben's acquittal.
- Mrs. Hornby
Laughs and cries with relief upon hearing the not guilty verdict.
- Mr. Anstey
Defense counsel who delivers a powerful closing argument summarizing the evidence of forgery.
Key passages
“I am prepared to swear, and do swear, that those thumbprints which I have stated to be forgeries, are forgeries, and that their detection presents no difficulty to an observer who has an expert acquaintance with fingerprints.”
Thorndyke confidently testifies that the thumbprints are forgeries and easily identifiable as such by a trained expert.
Thorndyke asserts his expertise and the clarity of the forgery.
“The object of a forger in executing a forgery is to produce deception on those who shall examine the forgery.”
A forger's goal is to mislead anyone who inspects the fake evidence.
Thorndyke explains the forger's intent to the judge.
“We have agreed on our verdict, my lord. Not guilty.”
The jury foreman announces that the defendant is found not guilty.
The verdict is delivered, acquitting Reuben.