# XXII explained — The Square Emerald

> Chapter companion for The Square Emerald by Edgar Wallace.

## What happens

Leslie Maughan reveals the full truth about the Druze sisters' conspiracy, including Anita Bellini's blackmail, the forgery of Lord Everreed's signature, and the murder of Arthur Druze. She discloses that Jane Raytham's divorce was actually granted, contrary to what she believed, and that Anita manipulated her into thinking she was a bigamist. The chapter concludes with Peter and Leslie alone, sharing a tender moment, while Lucretia observes.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Identity

The Druze sisters' masquerade and Anita's manipulation of Jane's identity and marriage status.

### Secrecy and Blackmail

Anita Bellini's long-term blackmail of Jane Raytham and the forgery scheme.

### Family and Betrayal

Martha Druze betrays her sisters to save herself; the Druze sisters' pact is broken.

## Character check-ins

### Leslie Maughan

Reveals the full truth about the Druze sisters' conspiracy and the divorce.

### Peter Dawlish

Present during the revelation; shares a tender moment with Leslie.

### Jane Raytham

Learns that her divorce was actually granted; expresses relief and hope.

### Mr. Coldwell

Listens to Leslie's explanation and prepares to leave.

### Lucretia Brown

Observes Peter and Leslie's intimate moment and sneers.

### Princess Anita Bellini

Revealed as the mastermind behind the blackmail and forgery.

## Key lines

> I can live everything down, and live through everything, if somebody will let that little yellow head sleep on my pillow now and again.

Jane says she can endure any hardship if she can have her child with her.

_Jane expresses her primary desire to be reunited with her daughter._

> Would you like a house in Park Lane? I'd like almost any kind of house, Peter.

Leslie indicates she would be happy to live with Peter anywhere.

_Leslie and Peter's romantic resolution._

## Links

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