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How does Stevenson create mystery and suspense in chapters three and four of Jekyll and Hyde?

In chapter three, Dr. Jekyll is so mysterious as he sits talking with his friend and lawyer, Mr. Utterson, that his odd responses to Utterson's questions create suspense and build tension. Utterson wants to discuss Jekyll's will, but Jekyll is unwilling to pursue the subject, even though Utterson is concerned because he's heard something "'abominable'" about Mr. Hyde, the man who is currently named as Jekyll's sole heir. Jekyll's face "grew pale [...], and there came a blackness about his eyes," and he speaks sharply to a friend who is only trying to help. He claims that Utterson does not and cannot understand his position, that he is "'painfully situated'" and that the situation is "'very strange.'" This odd vagueness is quite provoking and builds suspense as a result.


In chapter four, Mr. Hyde has killed one Mr. Carew, about one year after the previous chapter took place. Oddly, he has done so with a cane that Utterson gave to Jekyll many years earlier. Again, it is clear that there is some very odd relationship between Hyde and Jekyll, and Utterson's interest remains piqued, especially when he goes to Hyde's home and discovers that the man has clearly run off in a rush. The mystery of their relationship, why Hyde would kill someone, and why Jekyll would protect him continues to build suspense.

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