Chapter Four: The Hour Grows Late Summary

On returning home, Will showers to rid himself of the blood and brains of Erasmus, and once back in the library, asks Warthrop about his decision to kill the man. Warthrop explains that he was driven by mercy, and that Erasmus would thank him, were he able. Will understands that Warthrop would do the same if it were him, and would expect Will to kill him in the same situation. Warthrop doesn't linger on Erasmus' death, however, and instead focuses on discovering how many Anthropophagi are in the pod, and from where they came. Will questions this, asking if they should fetch the constable, but Warthrop is convinced the Anthropophagi will not attack again. When pressed, Warthrop admits his folly may have led to the death of Erasmus, but that, although he is...