# VI: The Movements of Mr. Davenant explained — The Viaduct Murder

> Chapter companion for The Viaduct Murder by Ronald A. Knox.

## What happens

Gordon, Reeves, Marryatt, and Carmichael discuss the murder and the character of Davenant. Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person. Gordon investigates Davenant's cottage, finding evidence that Davenant left on Monday with all his belongings, including soap and a photograph, suggesting a premeditated departure. He is nearly caught by Sullivan but manages to escape.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_viaduct_murder_se/chapters