The Final Pursuit to Marchbolt

The investigation’s separate trails converge on Gladys Evans, Moira’s exposure, and the arrest that closes the immediate danger.

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The Unanswered Letter

The Unanswered Letter A sudden lead At the inquest, Frankie receives a letter in Bobby’s handwriting directing her to Tudor Cottage at Chipping Somerton. She does not know that Roger has forged it, and follows its instructions. A trap closes Frankie enters the dark cottage expecting to meet Bobby and is chloroformed. The false message turns their investigative caution against them and leaves both detectives in captivity.

The Attic Captives

The Attic Captives Roger’s threat Bound together in an attic, Bobby and Frankie learn that their captor plans to fake a fatal car crash. He claims Moira is alive but offers no assurance that she will remain so. A last analysis Bobby recognizes that the man impersonating Dr Nicholson has different ears from the real doctor. The observation identifies Roger just before the prospect of escape seems to vanish.

Badger’s Entrance

Badger’s Entrance A rescue from above Badger crashes through the skylight while Roger is away, having followed the Bentley to the cottage and climbed onto the roof. His arrival gives Bobby and Frankie a chance to escape their bonds. The tables turn The three hide and ambush Roger when he returns. Badger’s accidental entrance defeats a carefully arranged killing and converts a desperate prison into a brief opportunity to seize the villain.

An Escape into the Night

An Escape into the Night A prisoner’s advantage Roger appears bound and under guard, but Bobby, Frankie, and Badger discover that he has escaped by cutting his ropes. The rescue party also finds Moira drugged in a bedroom. An incomplete victory The police arrive, yet the improvised account sounds like a hoax and Roger is already gone. The trio have survived, but the principal criminal remains at large.

The Cafe Confrontation

The Cafe Confrontation A final meeting Moira arrives at the Vicarage, then urges Bobby and Frankie to speak at the Orient Cafe. She claims that Roger is nearby, drawing their attention away from their drinks. The disguise collapses Frankie realizes Moira has put something in the coffee and recognizes her as Mrs Templeton. Moira draws a pistol, but Bobby knocks it upward and the shot misses; the police are summoned.

After the inquest into Henry’s death

Friday, after Bobby has been missing for two days

Moments after Roger leaves the attic

Shortly after the attic ambush

The evening the trio return to Marchbolt