Paul Berkeley

II: The Eavesdropper

The narrator and protagonist, a recently qualified doctor covering for a colleague. He visits Godfrey Bellingham and learns about the family's legal troubles.

III: John Thorndyke

Berkeley visits Thorndyke's chambers and shares his impressions of Godfrey Bellingham and George Hurst. He mentions that Godfrey lost his property around the time of the disappearance and that there is a problematic will.

Legal Complications and a Jackal

Visits Godfrey Bellingham and meets Ruth, discussing Egyptology.

V: The Watercress-Bed

Narrator; reflects on his feelings for Ruth Bellingham and decides to seek Thorndyke's advice; later reads about the Sidcup discovery.

VI: Sidelights

Offers to help Ruth with her work by taking dictation in shorthand after she injures her hand. Shows concern for her financial situation and expresses interest in the will for Thorndyke.

John Bellingham's Will

Transcribes the will and delivers it to Thorndyke; expresses gloom about the case.

A Museum Idyll

Works with Ruth at the British Museum, reflects on their friendship, and asks her to support Thorndyke's involvement.

The Sphynx of Lincoln’s Inn

Arranges the supper party with Miss Oman's help, then visits Mr. Jellicoe to discuss the human remains and the Bellingham case.

X: The New Alliance

Hosts the supper party and is embarrassed when Thorndyke reveals his attempted bribe.

The Evidence Reviewed

Asks Thorndyke pointed questions about Hurst's possible methods and expresses discomfort when the Bellinghams are mentioned.

A Voyage of Discovery

Acts as Thorndyke's proxy, traveling to Woodford to examine the bones and report his findings.

XIII: The Coroner’s Quest

Narrator and observer at the inquest, taking notes.

Which Carries the Reader Into the Probate Court

Narrator and observer; attends the Probate Court with Miss Bellingham and her father.

XV: Circumstantial Evidence

Visits Thorndyke to discuss his inquest notes and later meets Ruth at the British Museum.

XVI: O Artemidorus, Farewell!

Confesses his love to Ruth and is rejected; later reflects on his loss and observes Ruth's transformation.

XVII: The Accusing Finger

Paul is deeply distressed by the newspaper report and the threat to Ruth, and he later writes a letter renouncing his romantic hopes.

John Bellingham

Narrates the chapter; describes his dread and hope; delivers Thorndyke's message to Ruth and accompanies her to the Museum.

The End of the Case

Narrator present during the confession and Jellicoe's death.