Cranford

Mysterious Death of the Jamiesons’ Dog Carlo

Two days after the attempted break-in, Mrs Jamieson’s dog Carlo is found dead, his legs stretched out as if running from Death. The cause is mysterious—some suspect the robber gang poisoned him in revenge for his barking, while others blame apoplexy from overfeeding. The mysterious circumstances renew fears that Signor Brunoni’s deadly will may be at work, though the townspeople gradually recover their courage in daylight.

Mrs Jamieson’s Departure for Cheltenham

Mrs Jamieson is deeply affected by Carlo’s death, feeling it as keenly as her husband’s passing. With her appetite and sleep both disturbed—unusual for her—Mr Mulliner urges a change of scene. She departs for Cheltenham, escorted by Mr Mulliner, who had been alarmed by the attempted break-in and felt overwhelmed by the responsibility of defending so many women.

Lady Glenmire’s Stay at the Jamieson Household

Lady Glenmire remains at Mrs Jamieson’s house during her absence, her stated purpose being to prevent the maid-servants from picking up followers. The arrangement suits her well, as she has let her own house in Edinburgh and needs accommodation. She finds the situation agreeable and notes that Mrs Jamieson’s trip to Cheltenham is the best possible arrangement for everyone.

Miss Pole’s Exaggerated Robber Gang Descriptions

Miss Pole delights in recounting her encounter with what she calls a “murderous gang” of two men and a woman, embellishing the tale with each telling. The tall man grows to gigantic height with black elf-locks; the short, broad man develops a hump and carroty red hair with a squint. The woman transforms into a masculine virago, and later acquires a beard, manly voice, and stride—possibly even a man in disguise.