Journal 2 - Lord Darcy

 

12/3/2000

Lord Darcy by Randall Garrett

“Murder and Magic”

“The Eyes Have It”

               It is an interesting Proposition but doubtful that such a line could have lasted that long.  I like the idea of the image being burned in the murder’s eyes.  It is interesting the Laird Duncan and his wife as shown as being willing to protect each other.  It is good that the minor characters are given character.  But what I do not seem to comprehend is why the Church in the story is so tolerant of magic to allow for such an open development of magic.  It is also a nice touch that the Holy Land is not part of the Empire.

 

“A Case of indemnity”

               Good manipulation of the voodoo doll theory.  Darcy is Sherlock but a far more likable version.  He seems to be in control his emotions, but also to have them.  He also seems, to a degree,  more athletic.  And of course, he serves the government. 

The Lord Setiger’s control is not only scary because of the thoughts of commands but the callousness that goes into making such person. The question of whether it is morally okay seems iffy.  Should it be acceptable to control someone who hasn’t done anything wrong, but who might?

“The Muddle of the Wood”

               Another example of the difference between Holmes and Darcy is that Darcy is also younger than Holmes.  He is far more attractive figure as evidence by the crush that Lady Anne has on him.  Nice and human enough to treat her nicely.

“A Stretch of Imagination”

               “Late afternoon is not a unusual time for suicide, but in Lord Arlen’s case it appeared that his death could hardly be attributable to any other cause.” (154).

               Good title and beginning. It’s a nice little story.

 

“Too Many Magicians”

               Interesting characters.

               Like the characterization of Tia.  But particularly like Mary.  Story does show more of a difference between Darcy and Holmes.  Darcy is a s intelligent as Holmes, he does seem to be at least like or respect women – like in his relationship with Mary.  Like the King’s mate, “We would have understood however that it [gun] is not a purely ceremonial weapon, but is to be used in the course of your duties.  If We hear that is hanging on the wall of you trophy room in a golden frame or other such foolishness, We will personally com over there and take it away from you.” (396).

               With a King like that it is no wonder that the monarchy has survived so long in the books.

 

“Lord Darcy Investigates”

               “A Matter of Gravity”

               “De La Vixin had succeed to the County Sear 1951 and had governed the Vexin wisely and well.  He had a son, daughter, and a hobby” (403).

               Not clear what the daughter has to do with the death.    

               Story also re-enforces the idea of class.  Madeline lower class is not morally fit.  Lower class is evil here.  So the father who turns out to be correct.  High class is fit for everything gets re-enforced, and his son goes on to marry the chosen wife.

               Like how the murder was committed.

 

“The Ipswich Phial”

               Very much an Irene Adler story.  Except the Countess is far more nasty and evil.  Like the way Darcey read that he was under a spell and the idea of him having sex.

“The Sixteen Keys”

               Reimagine of Doyle’s “Second Stain”

“The Napoli Express”      Dull