VI: The Movements of Mr. Davenant explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Deception and Secrecy

  Gordon's secret investigation of Davenant's cottage and the concealment of Davenant's true identity highlight themes of deception and secrecy.

• Detection and Rationality

  The characters engage in deductive reasoning about Davenant's movements and the murder, emphasizing rational investigation.

Characters to notice

• Gordon Davenant

  Gordon investigates Davenant's cottage, finding evidence of a premeditated departure.

• Mordaunt Reeves

  Reeves discusses the case with Gordon, Marryatt, and Carmichael, and shares his observations about Davenant.

• Marryatt

  Marryatt expresses suspicion of Davenant, citing his sinister demeanor and ungovernable temper.

• Mr. Carmichael

  Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person, and comments on the Irish character.

• Sullivan

  Sullivan confronts Gordon in the garden and denies knowing Davenant's address.

Key passages

• “Oh, that,” said Carmichael lightly, “merely that Brotherhood is Davenant, and Davenant is Brotherhood.”

  Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person.

  This is the key revelation of the chapter.

• “I’m so sorry,” he said, on the inspiration of the moment, “but could you tell me what Mr. Davenant’s address is? I shall have to write to him, and this is the only address they’ve got up at the Club.” “ Mr. Davenant left no address,” said Sullivan.”

  Gordon pretends to need Davenant's address to avoid suspicion, but Sullivan says he left no address.

  Gordon's quick thinking to cover his investigation.