At the Villa Rose · Chapters

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Chapter companions for At the Villa Rose by A. E. W. Mason.

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Chapter 1
I: Summer Lightning
Mr. Ricardo, a wealthy and somewhat pretentious widower, arrives at Aix-les-Bains for his annual holiday. While observing the baccarat rooms at the Villa des Fleurs, he witnesses a young, nervous girl in white satin—later identified as Celia Harland—flee the tables in distress. He also observes Harry Wethermill, a brilliant young scientist and successful gambler, who abruptly relinquishes the bank when Celia stakes a five-louis note. Ricardo becomes intrigued by the relationship between Celia and her older companion, Madame Dauvray, and by the mysterious plans that prevent them from returning to the casino the following night.
Chapter 2
II: A Cry for Help
Harry Wethermill bursts into Ricardo's dressing-room in a panic, showing him a newspaper report of the murder of Mme. Dauvray at the Villa Rose. The article suggests that Celia Harland, the young English companion, is involved. Despite Ricardo's reservations based on his observations of Celia's suspicious behavior the previous night, Wethermill insists on enlisting the help of the famous detective M. Hanaud, who is vacationing in Aix. They visit Hanaud, who agrees to take the case after hearing Wethermill's plea.
Chapter 3
III: Perrichet's Story
Perrichet recounts his observations from the previous night, including seeing a bright light at the villa, finding the gate open, and eventually discovering Mme. Dauvray's body in the salon. Hanaud, Ricardo, and Wethermill then proceed to the villa to begin the investigation.
Chapter 4
IV: At the Villa
Hanaud, Ricardo, and Wethermill arrive at the Villa Rose to investigate the murder. They meet Commissaire Louis Besnard and the Juge d'instruction M. Fleuriot, who reveals his obsession with the Dreyfus affair. Hanaud examines footprints and shoes from Celia Harland's room, deducing that a young woman wearing Celia's new shoes fled the scene between eleven and twelve. He also interviews the chauffeur Servettaz, who reveals that Celia Harland suggested he ask for the day off to visit his parents in Chambéry, raising suspicion about her involvement.
Chapter 5
V: In the Salon
Hanaud, Ricardo, Wethermill, and the police examine Celia's bedroom and the salon, discovering clues including a torn note with disguised handwriting, a stained cushion, and evidence that Celia purchased the cord used in the murder.

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I: Summer Lightning

II: A Cry for Help

III: Perrichet's Story

IV: At the Villa

V: In the Salon