Tea in the Schoolroom explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Political Intrigue and Diplomacy

  The murder of Prince Michael is tied to international oil concessions and the rivalry between British and American financial interests.

• Secrecy and Revelation

  Anthony investigates Mademoiselle Brun's identity and the light in her room, while Battle and Anthony discuss hidden political motives.

• Loyalty and Betrayal

  Boris Anchoukoff's sudden pledge of loyalty to Anthony contrasts with the political betrayals surrounding Prince Michael's death.

Characters to notice

• Anthony Cade

  Discusses the murder with Virginia, plans a trip to Dinard, and visits the schoolroom to meet Mademoiselle Brun.

• Virginia Revel

  Confirms the body is Prince Michael and shares information about Mademoiselle Brun's room.

• Superintendent Battle

  Agrees to Anthony's trip to Dinard and discusses the political stakes of the murder.

• Lord Caterham

  Hosts lunch and privately offers Anthony a drink, complaining about entertaining foreigners.

• Bundle

  Quells the children and plans a peaceful afternoon for Mr. Fish.

• Mr. Hiram Fish

  Converses with Anthony about the mystery and later ambles toward the house for tea.

• Mademoiselle Brun

  Has a migraine; Anthony visits her in the schoolroom and finds her ordinary appearance surprising.

• Boris Anchoukoff

  Enters Anthony's room and pledges his loyalty as a servant.

Key passages

• ““I’ve done my good deed for the day,” she whispered. “I got Lord Caterham to take me to see the body.” “Well?” demanded Anthony eagerly. One theory of his was to be proved or disproved. Virginia was shaking her head. “You were wrong,” she whispered. “It’s Prince Michael all right.””

  Virginia tells Anthony she convinced Lord Caterham to let her view the body, and confirms it is indeed Prince Michael, disproving one of Anthony's theories.

  Virginia's confirmation of the victim's identity advances the investigation.

• ““I don’t mind the American so much,” continued Bundle. “He and Father can talk first editions together quite happily in some secluded spot.””

  Bundle remarks that Mr. Fish is tolerable because he shares her father's interest in rare books.

  Bundle's comment highlights the social dynamics and Mr. Fish's cover as a book collector.

• ““You are my master now. I will serve you faithfully.” “Yes—but—look here—I don’t need a valet. I can’t afford one.” Boris Anchoukoff looked at him with a touch of scorn. “I do not ask for money. I served my master. So will I serve you—to the death!””

  Boris Anchoukoff declares his loyalty to Anthony as his new master, refusing payment and vowing to serve him unto death.

  Boris's dramatic pledge introduces a new layer of mystery and loyalty to Anthony's role.