1.) In the opening of chapter 16, “Robert Audley Gets his Congé (Notice)”, Alicia Audley exits the library after having her “interview” with Sir Harry Towers, the fox-hunting baronet. Robert intercepts Alicia as she exits and asks if Sir Harry had asked her hand in marriage. Her reply is “’Have you been listening through the door, Mr. Audley?’” (Braddon 111). Alicia seems to be in shock that Robert even knew that but Robert explains to her that he came to this conclusion through induction, also known as logic. Here’s the exert explaining how he got to the conclusion:
“’I dare say Sir Harry would ask if it was a new kind of horse ball. I knew by induction that the baronet was going to make you an offer; first, because he came downstairs with his hair parted on the wrong side, and his face as pale as a table clothe; secondly, because he could eat any breakfast, and let his coffee go the wrong way; and thirdly, because he asked for an interview with you before he left the Court. Well, how’s it to be, Alicia? Do you many the baronet, and is poor Cousin Bob to be the best man at the wedding?’”(111)
When he puts it this way, it seems as though a simpleton could’ve come to that conclusion. He first pays attention to every detail there is, such as Sir Towers’ hair being parted the wrong way, his inability to stomach breakfast, and he body language. Then he connects it to Sir Towers asking for an interview with Alicia before he departs from the Court. Finally, Robert comes to the simple conclusion that Sir Towers asked for this interview so that he could ask Alicia for her hand in marriage. From this passage it is evident that Sir Robert had hides his true ability as a barrister until the right time presents itself to use it. He can be seen as a character in the background, taking in key information that others would put aside as nothing out of the ordinary. He then puts the puzzle together piece by piece until he can form a conclusion and prove his assumption to be correct. Therefore Robert will prove to be the key to solving Lady Audley’s Secret.