The Viaduct Murder · Chapter
XXI: The Test explained
Reeves and Gordon set a trap for Marryatt by tampering with his pipes and hiding in the secret passage.
What happens
Reeves and Gordon set a trap for Marryatt by tampering with his pipes and hiding in the secret passage. When Marryatt returns to his room and sees the oaken cudgel, he reacts with terror, confirming Reeves' suspicions. Gordon overhears Marryatt crying out in distress, and they debate what to do next.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Secrecy
Reeves and Gordon secretly observe Marryatt from the hidden passage, and Gordon tampers with Marryatt's pipes to force a reaction.
Appearance vs. Reality
Marryatt appears composed at dinner but reveals terror when confronted with the oaken cudgel, exposing his hidden guilt.
Characters to notice
- Mordaunt Reeves
Sets up the trap with Gordon, observes Marryatt's terrified reaction, and debates the next steps.
- Gordon Davenant
Helps Reeves set the trap, hides in the passage, and overhears Marryatt's cries of distress.
- Marryatt
Returns to his room, sees the oaken cudgel, and reacts with terror; later heard crying out in his room.
- Mr. Carmichael
Dines with the group and engages in conversation about church matters and Brotherhood.
Key passages
“God!” and again, “Oh, my God!””
Gordon hears Marryatt crying out in anguish from his room.
Marryatt's distress confirms his guilt to Gordon.
“I can’t simply tell the police what I know, and leave them to get on with it; it seems so mean. Besides, I don’t think I want anything to happen to Marryatt. Only I’ve promised Miss Rendall-Smith that I’ll do my best to get Davenant off. What am I to do?”
Reeves is torn between his duty to expose Marryatt and his promise to help Davenant.
Reeves' moral dilemma drives the chapter's tension.