The Cloven Foot · Chapter
An Old Lady's Diary explained
Laura visits her aunt, Mrs.
What happens
Laura visits her aunt, Mrs. Malcolm, in Russell Square to learn about her father's past. Mrs. Malcolm, a methodical diarist, retrieves her diary from 1856 and reveals that Captain Desmond was a close friend of Stephen Malcolm and was with him at his death. Laura copies the address of Captain Desmond's lodgings, hoping to trace the man who may be Desrolles.
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
- Secrets and Deception
Laura seeks to uncover the truth about her father's past and the mysterious Captain Desmond, who may be connected to Desrolles.
- Inheritance and Legitimacy
Laura's financial independence from a deed of trust and her marriage to the inheritor of her benefactor's estate are discussed.
- Provincial vs. Urban Life
The contrast between Laura's childhood at the cottage in Chiswick and the oppressive, monumental atmosphere of her aunt's London house is highlighted.
Characters to notice
- Laura Malcolm
Visits her aunt to investigate her father's past and copies Captain Desmond's address from the diary.
- Miss Malcolm
Laura's aunt, a methodical diarist who provides information about Stephen Malcolm's friend Captain Desmond.
- Stephen Malcolm
Laura's deceased father; his past association with Captain Desmond is discussed.
- Captain Desmond
A friend of Stephen Malcolm who was with him at his death; his address is recorded in Mrs. Malcolm's diary.
- Mr. Leopold
John Treverton's lawyer, mentioned as being in good spirits about the case.
- John Treverton
Laura's husband, currently in the House of Detention; Laura's interview with him was comforting.
Key passages
“A man of that age and of those habits doesn’t go far”
Mr. Leopold expresses confidence that Desrolles will be found because of his age and predictable habits.
Reflects Victorian assumptions about criminal behavior and detection.
“I have always felt I was doing a useful act in keeping a diary, my dear. I am not surprised to find this humble record of inestimable value”
Mrs. Malcolm takes pride in her diary-keeping, seeing it as a valuable historical record.
Highlights the Victorian practice of diary-keeping and its perceived importance.
