The Cloven Foot · Chapter
Mr. Leopold Asks Irrelevant Questions explained
John Treverton is questioned by his lawyer, Mr.
What happens
John Treverton is questioned by his lawyer, Mr. Leopold, about the night of La Chicot's murder. Leopold probes Treverton's alibi, his knowledge of Desrolles, and the possibility of a diamond necklace. The inquiry is adjourned, and Leopold places advertisements seeking Desrolles and the necklace.
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 Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional peak where Laura’s trust and love are directl…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Crime and Justice
The chapter focuses on the legal inquiry into La Chicot's murder, with Mr. Leopold building a defense and questioning witnesses.
- Secrets and Deception
Treverton's reluctance to speak about Desrolles and the mystery of the diamond necklace suggest hidden truths.
Characters to notice
- John Treverton
The accused, being questioned by his lawyer about the murder of his wife.
- Mr. Leopold
The criminal lawyer representing Treverton, asking probing questions about the case.
- Thomas Sampson
Honest Tom Sampson, present during the questioning, admiring Leopold's skill.
- Mr. Desrolles
A tenant in the house at the time of the murder, described as a broken-down gentleman; Treverton is reluctant to discuss him.
- George Gerard
Witness who discovered the dagger in Jack Chicot's colour box, subpoenaed by the prosecution.
- La Chicot
The murder victim, Treverton's wife; her death is the subject of the inquiry.
Key passages
“I can tell you very little," answered John Treverton. "I know nothing to his discredit, except that he was poor, and too fond of brandy for his own welfare.”
John Treverton says he knows little about Desrolles, only that he is poor and drinks too much.
Treverton downplays his knowledge of Desrolles, hiding the fact that Desrolles is Laura's father.
“I neither met nor spoke to a mortal, except a man at a coffee stall near the Mother Redcap, on my way back.”
Treverton claims he only spoke to a coffee stall vendor on his walk back from Hampstead Heath.
This is a potential alibi witness, though Leopold doubts its usefulness.
