Clouds of Witness · Chapter
IV: —And His Daughter Much-Afraid explained
Lord Peter receives a letter from Parker while the family attends police-court proceedings.
What happens
Lord Peter receives a letter from Parker while the family attends police-court proceedings. He investigates a chest on the landing, is startled by his sister Mary, and later visits Grider's Hole farm to inquire about Mr. Grimethorpe.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional peak occurs when the Duke’s stubborn refusal to speak is overridden by the sudden, disruptive ar…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Family Loyalty and Honor
The family's attendance at the police court and Lady Mary's distress highlight the strain on family bonds.
- Deception and Secrets
Peter's investigation of the chest and Mary's evasive behavior suggest hidden truths.
Characters to notice
- Lord Peter Wimsey
Awake and fretful, he reads Parker's letter, chats with Bunter, investigates a chest, encounters Lady Mary, and later visits Grider's Hole.
- Bunter
Brings Parker's letter, discusses his mother, and advises against pressing Lady Mary.
- Lady Mary Wimsey
Found by Peter at the chest; she is distressed and ill, speaking melodramatically about the murder and Gerald's arrest.
- Mr. Grimethorpe
Mentioned as the farmer at Grider's Hole; Peter seeks him out and is warned about a dog.
- Gerald Wimsey
Referenced as the brother under arrest; his police-court proceedings are discussed.
Key passages
“I wish old Parker was here”
Peter longs for Parker's company during his solitary tramp.
Expresses Peter's reliance on Parker.
“facts are like cows. If you look them in the face hard enough they generally run away.”
Bunter's mother says facts retreat when confronted boldly.
A humorous take on investigation.
