Simon · Chapter
XXV: A Telegram explained
Carrington presses Simon Rattar to arrange a meeting with Sir Malcolm Cromarty, arguing that character judgment is a valid shortcut in investigation when evidence is thin.
What happens
Carrington presses Simon Rattar to arrange a meeting with Sir Malcolm Cromarty, arguing that character judgment is a valid shortcut in investigation when evidence is thin. Rattar is evasive and suspicious. After leaving, Carrington sends a telegram to Sir Malcolm, signed with Cicely Farmond's name, urging him to come immediately. He then heads to Stanesland Castle.
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 Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because Ned Cromarty experiences an emotional and psychological peak of re…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Justice and Investigation
Carrington defends using character judgment as a shortcut in investigation when direct evidence is lacking, sparking a debate with Rattar.
- Deception and Identity
Carrington signs the telegram with Cicely Farmond's name, a deliberate deception to manipulate Sir Malcolm into coming.
Characters to notice
- F. T. Carrington
Presses Rattar to summon Sir Malcolm, then sends a deceptive telegram signed as Cicely Farmond.
- Simon Rattar
Shows caution and suspicion; refuses to summon Sir Malcolm on trivial grounds, but agrees to think about it.
- Malcolm Cromarty
Target of Carrington's request; a telegram is sent to him under false pretenses.
- Cicely Farmond
Her name is used without her knowledge as the signature on Carrington's telegram.
Key passages
“Very unsafe doctrine”
Rattar dismisses Carrington's reliance on character judgment as unreliable.
Rattar expresses skepticism about Carrington's investigative methods.
“I want to see Sir Malcolm Cromarty. Can you arrange for him to run up here for a day?”
Carrington asks Rattar to bring Sir Malcolm to town for questioning.
Carrington's direct request to Rattar to facilitate a meeting with Sir Malcolm.
“Come immediately urgent news don't answer please don't delay.”
Carrington sends a telegram urging Sir Malcolm to come at once, signing it as Cicely Farmond.
The deceptive telegram sent by Carrington to lure Sir Malcolm.
