# Chapter XV explained — The Square Emerald

> Chapter companion for The Square Emerald by Edgar Wallace.

## What happens

Leslie and Jane discuss Jane's past, her marriage, and her lost child. Leslie admits she is in love with Peter but concludes it is maternal. Peter shares his father's history with Princess Bellini, and Leslie examines an anonymous letter, suspecting Greta Gurden.

## Themes in this chapter

### Secrecy and Blackmail

The anonymous letter and Jane's hidden child highlight secrets and potential blackmail.

### Family and Betrayal

Peter's father's affair with Princess Bellini and Jane's betrayal of her marriage are central.

### Gender and Power

Jane's role in child welfare committees contrasts with her personal powerlessness; Leslie's independence is notable.

## Character check-ins

### Leslie Maughan

Lunches with Jane, discusses her feelings for Peter, and investigates the anonymous letter.

### Jane Raytham

Confesses her selfishness about her child, discusses her marriage to Lord Raytham, and her past with Peter.

### Peter Dawlish

Visits Leslie, shares his father's history with Princess Bellini, and gives her the anonymous letter.

### Lucretia Brown

Draws curtains, expresses fear of staying in the flat, and comments on shingling and Princess Bellini.

### Princess Anita Bellini

Described by Peter as a devil; revealed to have had a past relationship with Peter's father.

### Mr. Coldwell

Calls Leslie with instructions to be ready to leave the flat.

## Key lines

> I salved my conscience by expressing doubt as to the validity of the marriage.

I eased my guilt by questioning whether the marriage was legally valid.

_Leslie reflects on her role in the deception about Jane's marriage._

> I’m not in love with her at all. I suppose I ought to be, right down in the deeps of my heart, but I’m not.

I don't love her, even though I feel I should deep down.

_Peter admits to Leslie that he does not love Jane._

> She’s just a devil, a wicked devil! How my father hated her! I’ve an idea he was a bit afraid of her, too.

She is an evil person; my father both hated and feared her.

_Peter expresses his hatred for Princess Bellini and reveals his father's fear of her._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_square_emerald_se/chapters/xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_square_emerald_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_square_emerald_se/chapters