Chapter One Summary

Introduction

• The story begins in a first-class smoking carriage.
• Mr. Justice Wargrave, recently retired from the bench, is reading political news.
• He reminisces about Soldier Island's history and its current mystery.

Soldier Island Background

• Initially purchased by an American millionaire with yachting interests.
• Built a luxurious house on the island, later sold due to personal reasons.
• Various rumors emerged about the island's ownership:
  • Bought by Miss Gabrielle Turl, a Hollywood film star.
  • Destination for royalty.
  • A honeymoon spot for a young lord.
  • Acquired by the Admiralty for secret experiments.

Mr. Justice Wargrave

• Receives an invitation from Lady Constance Comington to Soldier Island.
• Reflects on Lady Constance's past and personality.
• Nods off in satisfaction with his logical deductions.

Vera Claythorne

• Travels in a third-class carriage, feeling hot and tired.
• Grateful for securing a secretarial holiday post on Soldier Island.
• Remembers a coroner's inquest but tries not to dwell on it.
• Notices a man opposite her, assessing his character.

Philip Lombard

• Observes Vera and assesses her character quickly.
• Recollects his mysterious job offer for 100 guineas.
• Reflects on his past and legal boundaries.

Emily Brent

• Travels upright in a third-class carriage, adhering to her principles.
• Reflects on the current generation’s lack of propriety.
• Remembers receiving a mysterious invitation to Soldier Island.
• Ponders about the free holiday and the person who invited her.

General Macarthur

• Concerned about rumors related to his past.
• Contemplates on the gossip surrounding Soldier Island.
• Reminisces about old times and acquaintances.

Dr. Armstrong

• Driving across Salisbury Plain, reflecting on his successful career.
• Recalls a vague letter about a mysterious health concern.
• Considers the opportunity to rest on Soldier Island as beneficial.
• Thinks back on his past struggles with alcohol.

Tony Marston

• Enjoys driving his sports car, contemplates the journey.
• Considers Soldier Island an interesting destination.
• Reflects on his desires to be part of the wealthy elite.

Mr. Bloor

• Travels from Plymouth, reviewing a notebook of names.
• Considers his own disguise and plans for Soldier Island.
• Engages with an old man who predicts a squall.

These characters are all traveling to Soldier Island for various reasons, setting the stage for the mysterious events that are to unfold.