Chapter 49: The Search Warrant Denied
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Sheriff Colcord meets Brother Armagh, who has waited nearly forty minutes to request return of the holy relic. Colcord explains that the relic is now evidence in a homicide involving a detective. Armagh mentions that he visited Father Moore and shares concerns about Moore’s conservative views, including support for the Tridentine Mass and unusual opinions on the Inquisition. Armagh describes Moore’s museum of Inquisition memorabilia, which includes odd contraptions. Colcord suspects a Spanish boot may be among them. After Armagh leaves, Colcord drafts and emails a search warrant for the church catacombs. Judge Greenberg calls, questions the probable cause, and refuses to sign until Colcord provides a “smoking gun.” The call ends with the warrant denied.
Key Events
- Brother Armagh confronts Colcord about the delayed return of the relic.
- Colcord reveals that the relic was found at the murder scene of a detective.
- Armagh describes Father Moore’s traditionalist views and his Inquisition memorabilia collection.
- Colcord focuses on the possibility of a Spanish boot among the antiques.
- Colcord writes a search warrant for the church catacombs.
- Judge Greenberg calls, expresses doubt about the warrant’s basis, and demands stronger evidence.
- Greenberg refuses to sign the warrant, leaving Colcord without legal means to search the church.
Character Development
Sheriff Colcord – Becomes more aggressive and frustrated as he sees the investigation stall. He prioritizes speed over caution, ignoring political risks.
Brother Armagh – Reveals a critical view of Father Moore, though he downplays Moore’s ideas. His curiosity about Moore suggests a hidden agenda or professional rivalry.
Judge Greenberg – Portrayed as politically astute and unwilling to risk public backlash. He demands concrete evidence before authorizing a sensitive search.
Father Moore (mentioned) – Deepens as a suspect: his museum and views on the Inquisition align with the torture used in the murders.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Faith and evidence – The chapter contrasts religious belief (Armagh’s trust in the relic, Moore’s doctrinal positions) with the need for empirical proof in a legal investigation.
Hidden pasts – Moore’s private museum symbolises the way history (the Inquisition) can be preserved or reinterpreted behind closed doors.
Institutional friction – The tension between church authority (Armagh, Moore) and law enforcement (Colcord, Greenberg) highlights competing claims to truth and justice.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter narrows the investigation squarely onto Father Moore by linking his personal collection to the murder weapon. It also raises the stakes: Colcord cannot act without stronger evidence, and the killer may destroy it. The denied warrant forces Colcord to find another way, setting up a potential break in the case or a dangerous confrontation.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Judge Greenberg refuse to sign the warrant?
Greenberg believes the affidavit relies on hearsay from Brother Armagh and lacks a “smoking gun.” He worries the warrant will face heavy media scrutiny and could be politically damaging if approved without solid probable cause.
2. How does Colcord’s conversation with Armagh shift his suspicion toward Father Moore?
Armagh mentions Moore’s collection of Inquisition memorabilia, including odd contraptions. Colcord immediately connects this to the Spanish boot used in the murders, making Moore the primary suspect.
3. What does Brother Armagh’s description of Moore reveal about their relationship?
Armagh’s careful criticism—citing Moore’s traditional Latin Mass and Inquisition views—suggests professional or doctrinal tension. Armagh downplays the significance, but his curiosity and disapproval hint at a deeper conflict.