# V: Poking About explained — Trent’s Last Case

> Chapter companion for Trent’s Last Case by E. C. Bentley.

## What happens

Trent explores Manderson's bedroom and the house, examining evidence such as shoes, a revolver, and dental plate. He interviews Inspector Murch and learns of Marlowe's alibi via a telegram from Southampton. He also speaks with Célestine, who expresses strong dislike for Manderson. Trent then examines Marlowe's room, noting its disorder and photographs.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

Trent's investigation reveals discrepancies between the surface order of the house and the hidden tensions among its inhabitants.

### Class and Society

The interactions between Trent, the inspector, servants like Célestine, and the wealthy Manderson household highlight class dynamics.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Trent

Investigates Manderson's bedroom and Marlowe's room, interviews Inspector Murch and Célestine.

### Sigsbee Manderson

Deceased; his bedroom and belongings are examined by Trent.

### Mabel Manderson

Mentioned as sleeping in the inner room; Célestine expresses loyalty to her.

### John Marlowe

His alibi is confirmed via telegram; his room is examined by Trent.

### Calvin Bunner

Appears at the bedroom door during Trent and Murch's conversation.

### Célestine

Lady's maid; interviewed by Trent, expresses hatred for Manderson and devotion to Mrs. Manderson.

## Key lines

> There are moments in life, as one might think, when that which is within us, busy about its secret affair, lets escape into consciousness some hint of a fortunate thing ordained.

Sometimes we get an unexplained feeling that something good is about to happen.

_Trent feels a surge of confidence as he begins his investigation._

> I hope that monsieur will catch the assassin of Monsieur Manderson. But I not regret him too much... Je ne le regrette pas du tout, du tout!

I hope you catch the killer, but I don't regret Manderson's death at all.

_Célestine expresses her intense dislike for Manderson._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/trent_s_last_case_se/chapters/v-poking-about
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/trent_s_last_case_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/trent_s_last_case_se/chapters