The Secret of Chimneys · Chapter
XII: Anthony Tells His Story explained
Anthony Cade presents himself at Chimneys, confessing to being in the grounds at the time of the murder.
What happens
Anthony Cade presents himself at Chimneys, confessing to being in the grounds at the time of the murder. He recounts his journey from Bulawayo, his encounter with the manuscript, and the events leading to his presence at the scene. Superintendent Battle interrogates him, revealing that a window was found open and a note from the 'Comrades of the Red Hand' was discovered under the body. Anthony identifies the victim as the man who visited him as 'Mr. Holmes' from Balderson and Hodgkins.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Revelation
Anthony reveals his true identity and actions, but with deliberate omissions, highlighting the tension between hiding and disclosing the truth.
Crime and Detection
Superintendent Battle investigates the murder, examining clues like the open window, footprints, and the 'Comrades of the Red Hand' note.
Identity and Disguise
Anthony traveled as James McGrath, and the victim posed as 'Mr. Holmes,' underscoring the theme of false identities.
Characters to notice
- Anthony Cade
Arrives at Chimneys to explain his presence at the murder scene; tells his story of traveling as James McGrath and his encounter with the victim.
- Superintendent Battle
Interrogates Anthony, reveals the open window and the 'Comrades of the Red Hand' note, and shows Anthony the body.
- Lord Caterham
Hosts the gathering; welcomes Anthony and shows interest in his story.
- George Lomax
Present during Anthony's account; reacts to the mention of James McGrath and expresses disapproval of Anthony's masquerade.
- Colonel Melrose
Chief Constable present during the interrogation.
- Tredwell
Announces Anthony Cade's arrival.
- Jimmy McGrath
Mentioned as Anthony's friend in Bulawayo whose name Anthony used for travel.
- Prince Michael Obolovitch
The victim; Anthony identifies him as the man who visited him as 'Mr. Holmes' from Balderson and Hodgkins.
Key passages
“I was trespassing upon Lord Caterham's property last night at about 11:45, and that I actually heard the shot fired.”
Anthony admits he was on the estate when the murder occurred and heard the gunshot.
Anthony establishes his presence at the crime scene.
“I put on shoes when I got up this morning. Later, when I asked for my boots, I couldn't have them. Some nice young constable had called round for them.”
Anthony's boots were taken by police as evidence, confirming his footprints were found.
Anthony deduces he is a suspect based on the missing boots.
“I've seen him before, yes, but not as Prince Michael Obolovitch. He purported to come from Messrs. Balderson and Hodgkins, and he called himself Mr. Holmes.”
Anthony recognizes the victim as the man who visited him under the alias 'Mr. Holmes' from a publishing firm.
Anthony identifies the deceased as someone he had previously encountered.
