The Wyvern Mystery · Chapter
XXVII: Through the House explained
Mildred Tarnley assists a mysterious tall lady who has arrived at the house.
What happens
Mildred Tarnley assists a mysterious tall lady who has arrived at the house. The lady experiences a strange fit or seizure, then recovers and is led through the house to a warm bedroom. She asks about Master Harry and his wife, and after Mildred leaves to prepare food, the lady drinks brandy from a bottle in her bag.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
The mysterious lady conceals her distress and drinks brandy in secret, maintaining a facade of composure.
Isolation and Entrapment
The lady's strange behavior and reliance on brandy suggest a sense of isolation and inner turmoil within the domestic setting.
Characters to notice
- Mildred Tarnley
Old servant who assists the mysterious lady, leads her through the house, and prepares food.
- Alice Maybell
Mentioned as the wife of Master Harry; the lady asks about her.
- Harry Fairfield
Referred to as Master Harry; the lady inquires about him and his wife.
Key passages
“Be ye sick, ma’am?”
Are you ill, madam?
Mildred expresses concern about the lady's sudden change in appearance.
“I have no right to cry no; I cry excellent, good, good, very good, for as you are my husband’s servant, I have all the benefit of your admirable fidelity.”
I have no reason to complain; I say excellent, good, very good, because as you are my husband's servant, I benefit from your loyalty.
The lady praises Mildred's faithfulness in a somewhat sarcastic or overwrought manner.
“Patience, patience, what a d⸺d trick! no matter, wait a little.”
Patience, patience, what a damned trick! No matter, wait a little.
The lady mutters to herself after Mildred leaves, revealing frustration and a hidden agenda.