The Viaduct Murder · Chapter
The Animated Picture explained
Reeves and his companions discuss the portrait of Miss Rendall-Smith found on the body.
What happens
Reeves and his companions discuss the portrait of Miss Rendall-Smith found on the body. Marryatt reveals her identity and address after visiting Campbell. The group debates how to approach her for information about Brotherhood. Later, while playing bridge in Reeves' room, the photograph appears to change expression, unsettling the men and sparking a discussion about collective hallucination and the uncanny.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
The photograph's changing expression blurs the line between objective reality and subjective perception, highlighting the theme of deceptive appearances.
Deception and Secrecy
The group debates how to approach Miss Rendall-Smith, considering disguises and half-truths to uncover the secrets behind Brotherhood's murder.
Isolation and Community
The shared experience of the uncanny photograph bonds the four men in a moment of collective unease, contrasting with the isolation of the murder victim.
Characters to notice
- Mordaunt Reeves
Leads the investigation, insists on confronting Miss Rendall-Smith despite moral qualms; observes the photograph's apparent change.
- Marryatt
Visits Campbell to identify the portrait; expresses fear about the uncanny photograph and urges abandoning the inquiry.
- Mr. Carmichael
Participates in the bridge game and discussion; offers rational explanations and a personal anecdote about a haunted house.
- Alexander Gordon
Examines the photograph closely; suggests the change might be due to heat or dampness; advocates telling the truth to Miss Rendall-Smith.
- Miss Rendall-Smith
Subject of the photograph; identified as the daughter of Canon Rendall-Smith; her portrait was found on Brotherhood's body.
Key passages
“Always tell the truth, and people will never believe you.”
Gordon suggests that being straightforward is the best way to conceal a fact, as people will assume you are joking or being sarcastic.
Gordon's cynical advice on how to approach Miss Rendall-Smith.
“The photograph had smiled.”
The portrait of Miss Rendall-Smith appeared to change expression, showing a faint smile that startled the men.
Key moment of the uncanny in the chapter.