The Mystery of a Hansom Cab · Chapter
The Verdict of the Jury explained
In a crowded courtroom, Sal Rawlins appears to testify, leading to Brian Fitzgerald's acquittal for murder.
What happens
In a crowded courtroom, Sal Rawlins appears to testify, leading to Brian Fitzgerald's acquittal for murder. The jury returns a verdict of 'Not guilty,' and Brian is freed, embraced by Madge Frettlby.
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
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it resolves the central mystery—the revelation that the murdered m…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Justice and Injustice
The verdict of 'Not guilty' highlights the theme of justice prevailing through the revelation of truth.
- Secrecy and Deception
The hidden alibi and the secret identity of the letter writer are central to the defense.
Characters to notice
- Brian Fitzgerald
The prisoner, acquitted after Sal Rawlins' testimony proves his alibi.
- Madge Frettlby
Waits anxiously in court; embraces Brian after his acquittal.
- Duncan Calton
Defense lawyer who presents the alibi and secures Fitzgerald's acquittal.
- Sal Rawlins
Key witness who testifies that Fitzgerald was with her at the time of the murder.
- Felix Rolleston
Friend of Fitzgerald, testifies about his aversion to rings; proposes to Julia Featherweight.
- Albert Dendy
Watchmaker who testifies that he corrected the kitchen clock, establishing the time discrepancy.
Key passages
“Knew he was innocent, don't you know... Fitzgerald's too jolly good-looking a fellow, and all that sort of thing, to commit murder.”
Felix Rolleston claims he always believed Fitzgerald was innocent because he was too handsome to be a murderer.
Felix's flippant reasoning contrasts with the serious nature of the trial.
“Not guilty.”
The jury's verdict declares Brian Fitzgerald innocent of the murder charge.
The pivotal moment of the chapter, leading to Fitzgerald's release.
