# XI: Superintendent Battle Arrives explained — The Secret of Chimneys

> Chapter companion for The Secret of Chimneys by Agatha Christie.

## What happens

Superintendent Battle arrives at Chimneys to investigate the murder of Prince Michael. Lord Caterham, George Lomax, and Colonel Melrose brief him on the case. Battle reveals that footprints from the scene match the boots of a young man named Anthony Cade, who is staying at a local inn. To their surprise, Cade then arrives at the house, seeking to speak with Lord Caterham.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Intrigue and Diplomacy

The murder is entangled with secret negotiations for oil concessions and British support for Prince Michael's claim to the throne.

### Crime and Detection

Superintendent Battle's methodical investigation begins, with footprints and a suspect who does not flee.

### Secrecy and Revelation

The true identity of the victim as Prince Michael is revealed, and the purpose of his visit is disclosed in confidence.

## Character check-ins

### Lord Caterham

Returns from estate tour and is summoned to the library by George Lomax; provides a description of the house party to Superintendent Battle.

### George Lomax

Anxious about the case; insists on discretion; reveals Prince Michael's true identity and the purpose of his visit to Battle.

### Superintendent Battle

Arrives to lead the investigation; questions Lord Caterham and George Lomax; notes the suspicious behavior of Anthony Cade.

### Colonel Melrose

Chief Constable present during the briefing; engages Battle in discussion about the case.

### Tredwell

Butler who discreetly informs Lord Caterham of George Lomax's request and later announces Anthony Cade's arrival.

### Anthony Cade

Mentioned as the man whose boots match the footprints; arrives at Chimneys seeking to speak with Lord Caterham.

### Mr. Hiram Fish

American guest invited to view first editions; mentioned as part of the house party.

### Virginia Revel

Listed among the ladies staying at Chimneys.

## Key lines

> So apprehensive was Lord Caterham of being consulted by George that he spent the whole morning making a tour of his estate.

Lord Caterham avoided George Lomax by staying out on his estate all morning.

_Shows Lord Caterham's desire to evade involvement in the political intrigue._

> Superintendent Battle arrived half an hour ago... He has been round with Inspector Badgworthy, and seen Dr. Cartwright. He now wants a few facts from us.

Battle has already inspected the scene and spoken with local officials before meeting the house party.

_Highlights Battle's thorough, routine approach to investigation._

> I just say it’s curious, that’s all. Here’s a young man who ought to cut and run, but he doesn’t cut and run. He stays here, and gives us every facility for comparing footmarks.

Battle finds it odd that the suspect remains nearby instead of fleeing.

_Suggests Battle suspects the evidence may be too convenient or that Cade is innocent._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_of_chimneys_se/chapters