The Return · Chapter
XIV explained
Sheila confronts Lawford about his late return and his visit to Widderstone, leading to a heated argument about his changed face and their marriage.
What happens
Sheila confronts Lawford about his late return and his visit to Widderstone, leading to a heated argument about his changed face and their marriage. She accuses him of madness and selfishness, while Lawford admits feeling 'possessed.' After a tense exchange, Sheila withdraws her harsh words and offers conditional loyalty, but Lawford questions whether love can survive his transformation. He then reads the book on Sabathier, noting the resemblance in the mirror, and listens for Sheila's movements.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Domestic Tension
The chapter centers on the confrontation between Lawford and Sheila, revealing years of pretense, recrimination, and the breakdown of their marriage.
Sanity and Madness
Sheila accuses Lawford of madness, while Lawford describes himself as 'possessed,' blurring the line between mental illness and supernatural influence.
Identity and Transformation
Lawford's changed face and his reflection in the mirror raise questions about his identity and the nature of his transformation.
Characters to notice
- Arthur Lawford
Confronted by Sheila about his late return and Widderstone visit; admits feeling 'possessed' and reflects on the end of their relationship; reads the Sabathier book and notes the facial resemblance.
- Sheila
Accuses Lawford of madness and selfishness, withdraws her punishment remark, and offers conditional loyalty; questions the propriety of his transformation and their marriage.
- Herbert
Mentioned as having given Lawford the book on Sabathier.
- Nicholas Sabathier
Subject of the book Lawford reads; his face is compared to Lawford's in the mirror.
- Mr. Danton
Mentioned by Sheila as doubting Lawford's story and making suggestions based on it.
- Mr. Bethany
Mentioned by Sheila as having no misgivings and understanding the situation.
Key passages
“Not mad—possessed”
Lawford denies madness and claims he is under a supernatural influence.
Key moment where Lawford articulates his sense of possession.
“I drove there last Saturday afternoon.”
Sheila reveals she visited Widderstone to test Lawford's story.
Shows Sheila's active investigation and skepticism.
“You have told me quite deliberately that for years past your life has been nothing but a pretence—a sham.”
Sheila summarizes Lawford's confession that their marriage was a facade.
Highlights the deep marital rift.