Chapter 8: The Last Night

One evening after dinner, Utterson receives a visit from Poole, Jekyll’s butler. Poole tells him simply that “there is something wrong” and, after taking a second look at him, Utterson offers him a glass of wine and asks him to explain himself. Poole’s agitation is evident, saying “I wish I may die if I like it,” thus demonstrating the extent of his worry and concern. When asked what he is afraid of, Poole “doggedly” disregards the question, suggesting a purposeful dismissal and thereby a paradoxical desire to avoid the topic and uphold Jekyll’s image of respectability. Avoiding Utterson’s eye, Poole’s terror is evident and the lawyer presses him for an answer, being told eventually that he believes there has been “foul play,” implying Jekyll has been murdered. This frightens Utterson, who cannot believe what he has been told. Poole says he will speak on it no further but pleads with the lawyer to come back to Jekyll’s home and see for himself. Utterson silently agrees by standing to put on his coat, a sign which gives Poole “the greatness of the relief,” conveying his trust in Utterson and the sense that safety and lawfulness is returning to the narrative.