Tracks in the Snow · Chapter
XVII explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Driver encounters Vane-Cartwright, who insists on his innocence in Peters' murder and warns Driver to keep an open mind. Driver later visits the Trethewy family and speaks with Ellen Trethewy, who reveals her distrust of Vane-Cartwright and her secret knowledge of the case. Driver feels he has gained an advantage over Vane-Cartwright, but their walk together is fraught with tension and suspicion.
Themes in this chapter
Guilt and Innocence
Vane-Cartwright vehemently denies being Peters' assassin, while Driver's suspicions deepen; the theme of presumed guilt versus actual innocence is central.
The Past and Secrets
Ellen Trethewy's hidden knowledge and Vane-Cartwright's mysterious motives reveal how past events continue to shape present suspicions.
Memory and Perception
Driver's perceptions of Vane-Cartwright's actions (e.g., the shadow's arm movement) are questioned, highlighting the unreliability of memory and observation.
Characters to notice
- James Callaghan
Narrator and investigator; referred to as 'Mr. Driver' in the chapter.
- William Vane-Cartwright
Suspect who protests his innocence and warns Driver to keep an open mind; shows suspicious behavior during their walk.
- Ellen Trethewy
Trethewy's daughter; now a young woman who secretly distrusts Vane-Cartwright and shares her observations with Driver.
- Reuben Trethewy
Father of Ellen; previously accused of Peters' murder; now living under Vane-Cartwright's patronage.
- Mrs. Trethewy
Grateful to Vane-Cartwright for providing a new home; unaware of her daughter's knowledge.
Key passages
“You think I am the assassin of Eustace Peters. Well, I am not.”
Vane-Cartwright directly denies being Peters' killer.
Key moment of denial in the chapter.
“I have not said what I meant about Trethewy. I have really begun to suspect him myself.”
Vane-Cartwright claims he now suspects Trethewy, despite earlier defending him.
Reveals Vane-Cartwright's shifting stance.
“I do not feel a bit, not a bit grateful to Mr. Vane-Cartwright, and I do not believe father does.”
Ellen Trethewy expresses distrust and ingratitude toward Vane-Cartwright.
Shows Ellen's independent suspicion.