The Viaduct Murder · Chapter
VI: The Movements of Mr. Davenant explained
Gordon, Reeves, Marryatt, and Carmichael discuss the murder and the character of Davenant.
What happens
Gordon, Reeves, Marryatt, and Carmichael discuss the murder and the character of Davenant. Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person. Gordon investigates Davenant's cottage, finding evidence that Davenant left on Monday with all his belongings, including soap and a photograph, suggesting a premeditated departure. He is nearly caught by Sullivan but manages to escape.
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 Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the psychological peak where the murderer, Reeves, reveal…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Deception and Secrecy
Gordon's secret investigation of Davenant's cottage and the concealment of Davenant's true identity highlight themes of deception and secrecy.
- Detection and Rationality
The characters engage in deductive reasoning about Davenant's movements and the murder, emphasizing rational investigation.
Characters to notice
- Gordon Davenant
Gordon investigates Davenant's cottage, finding evidence of a premeditated departure.
- Mordaunt Reeves
Reeves discusses the case with Gordon, Marryatt, and Carmichael, and shares his observations about Davenant.
- Marryatt
Marryatt expresses suspicion of Davenant, citing his sinister demeanor and ungovernable temper.
- Mr. Carmichael
Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person, and comments on the Irish character.
- Sullivan
Sullivan confronts Gordon in the garden and denies knowing Davenant's address.
Key passages
“Oh, that,” said Carmichael lightly, “merely that Brotherhood is Davenant, and Davenant is Brotherhood.”
Carmichael reveals that Brotherhood and Davenant are the same person.
This is the key revelation of the chapter.
“I’m so sorry,” he said, on the inspiration of the moment, “but could you tell me what Mr. Davenant’s address is? I shall have to write to him, and this is the only address they’ve got up at the Club.” “ Mr. Davenant left no address,” said Sullivan.”
Gordon pretends to need Davenant's address to avoid suspicion, but Sullivan says he left no address.
Gordon's quick thinking to cover his investigation.
