Our Mutual Friend, Chapter 12 summary

What happens

1. Lightwood and Wrayburn discuss their shared cottage, boredom, and Wrayburn’s refusal to accept the marriage his father proposes.
2. Roger Riderhood arrives, demands a written record, and accuses his former partner Jesse Hexam of murder.
3. When Lightwood rejects mere suspicion, Riderhood claims that Hexam admits killing the victim for money.
4. Riderhood acknowledges that the increased financial opportunity prompts his disclosure, but denies implicating Hexam’s daughter.
5. The friends follow Riderhood through wind and hail; he checks Hexam’s home and reports that Hexam and his boat are absent.
6. The inspector reviews the statement, pockets handcuffs, and arranges to wait at the Fellowships while Riderhood gathers information.

In this chapter

What to notice

Eugene distrusts Riderhood without dismissing the possibility that his accusation contains truth. This distinction explains why the friends involve the police despite their doubts.

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