The Story of Ivy · Chapter
IX explained
Roger Gretorex, after a long morning's work, receives a note from Ivy Lexton informing him of Jervis's sudden death.
What happens
Roger Gretorex, after a long morning's work, receives a note from Ivy Lexton informing him of Jervis's sudden death. He is overwhelmed with joy at the prospect of being with Ivy, but also feels shame. Ivy calls him, warning him that the police suspect poison and that his name may be involved. Gretorex prepares a story and enlists Mrs. Huntley's help to lie about his visitors.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Self-Deception
Gretorex deceives himself about Ivy's purity and prepares a false story, while Mrs. Huntley agrees to lie for him.
Love and Obsession
Gretorex's intense love for Ivy borders on obsession, as he rejoices in her freedom and longs to be with her despite the circumstances.
Crime and Justice
The suspicion of poison in Jervis's death and the involvement of Inspector Orpington introduce a criminal investigation.
Characters to notice
- Roger Gretorex
Gretorex is excited and conflicted after learning of Jervis's death, torn between love for Ivy and shame. He prepares a story and asks Mrs. Huntley to lie for him.
- Ivy Lexton
Ivy sends an unsigned note and later calls Gretorex, warning him that the police suspect poison and that his name may be involved.
- Mrs. Huntley
Mrs. Huntley, grateful for Gretorex's care of her daughter, agrees to lie about his visitors, believing he may be a corespondent in a divorce case.
- Jervis Lexton
Jervis is reported to have died suddenly, possibly from poison, prompting police inquiries.
- Inspector Orpington
Orpington telephones Gretorex, requesting a meeting to discuss business related to Jervis's death.
- Dr. Berwick
Gretorex recalls Berwick as a 'damned offensive fellow' and a blackguard who made love to a patient's wife.
Key passages
“I'm not quite sure if you are in London; but I know you will be very sorry to hear that Jervis died suddenly last night. I hardly know what I am doing—the shock has been so great. Nurse says his heart must have given way. I would rather not see anybody for a little while.”
Ivy writes to Gretorex that Jervis died suddenly, likely from heart failure, and she needs solitude.
This note sets the plot in motion, revealing Jervis's death and Ivy's desire for isolation.
“My name is Orpington. As to my business, it would take too long to explain. But I will be with you in a very few minutes.”
Inspector Orpington calls Gretorex, asking to meet in person to discuss an unspecified matter.
Orpington's call introduces the police investigation into Jervis's death.
“I've something so dreadfully important to say to you—are you alone in the house?”
Ivy urgently asks if Gretorex is alone, hinting at the gravity of the news she is about to share.
Ivy's call reveals the police suspect poison and that Gretorex's name may be involved.
“All I want you to do is to hold your tongue on my behalf. The time may come when you will be asked what sort of visitors I have received since I came to live here.”
Gretorex asks Mrs. Huntley to lie about his visitors, implying he needs an alibi.
Gretorex's request shows his fear of being implicated and his willingness to deceive.
