# XXVII: Through the House explained — The Wyvern Mystery

> Chapter companion for The Wyvern Mystery by J. Sheridan Le Fanu.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_wyvern_mystery_se/chapters/xxvii-through-the-house
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_wyvern_mystery_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_wyvern_mystery_se/chapters