Appearance vs. Reality

Ferrara's charming, effeminate exterior and social popularity mask his monstrous, supernatural nature, while seemingly ordinary events (fires, perfumes, orchids) conceal deadly magical attacks.

Ferrara's charming exterior contrasts with the sinister nature of his rooms and actions, as perceived by Cairn.

The phantom hands and the mysterious death challenge characters' perceptions of what is real versus supernatural.

Robert's friendly visit masks his true purpose of surveillance; Ferrara's charm conceals his malevolent nature.

Ferrara is socially accepted despite his dark practices; Lord Lashmore's accident story conceals the true, horrifying nature of the attacks.