Richard Mallathorpe

I: Death Brings Opportunity

Mentioned as the widow of John Mallathorpe's deceased younger brother, who with her two children inherited the estate after John's death intestate.

II: In Trust

Mentioned as Mrs. Mallathorpe, a beneficiary under the will.

IV: The Fortunate Possessors

Mrs. Mallathorpe, a capable and energetic woman; explains the letter from Antony Bartle as a request about local books; manages family affairs.

V: Point-Blank

Receives Pratt's visit, learns of the will's existence, and is pressured into considering Pratt's scheme.

VI: The Unexpected

Mrs. Mallathorpe is referenced as the target of the blackmail scheme, who is to be offered the will for ten thousand pounds.

VII: The Supreme Inducement

Mentioned as the person Pratt expects to call on him regarding the will and the stewardship.

Terms

Mrs. Mallathorpe is the central figure in this chapter, negotiating with Pratt and concealing the secret from her children.

X: The Footbridge

Mentioned as being prostrate with grief; the woodman claims he warned her about the bridge on Friday.

XI: The Prevalent Atmosphere

Mentioned as being very ill and under doctor's care, having scarcely spoken since her son's death.

XII: The Power of Attorney

Mrs. Mallathorpe is recovering from the shock of her son's death but becomes ill and frightened after a private meeting with Pratt, and refuses to tell Nesta what was discussed.

XIII: The First Trick

Mrs. Mallathorpe is the one who signed the power of attorney, but her motives and awareness are questioned by the others.

XIV: Cards on the Table

Referenced as the target of Pratt's blackmail. Pratt claims to know a secret about her that could ruin her life, and describes her actions to secure the footbridge before Harper's death.

Pratt Offers a Hand

Referenced as the author of the incriminating letter and the target of Pratt's blackmail, though not present in the scene.

XVI: A Headquarters Conference

Mentioned as the target of Pratt's accusations; Eldrick suggests she may have a different explanation for the footbridge incident.

The Direct Charge

Discussed as being in Pratt's power and possibly colluding with him through Esther Mawson.

XXII: The Cat's Paw

Mrs. Mallathorpe is referenced as being under Pratt's control, which Pratt uses to manipulate Nesta.

XXV: Dry Sherry

Mrs. Mallathorpe is mentioned as having confided in Esther Mawson, and Pratt intends to see her to obtain her signature on documents before fleeing.

Restored to Energy

Blackmailed by Esther Mawson; paid with banknotes and rings, then burned the documents and ordered Esther's capture.

The Woman in Black

Burns the original will but is confronted with the duplicate; struggles with the loss of the estate.