Take a look at the hints below for guidance.
Hint 1
Who is Mathilda and what is her relationship to Graves? Read Ingrid’s letter about Mathilda’s fight with Graves.
Hint 2
Lady Mathilda is Graves’ lover, though their relationship is rocky due to his controlling nature. Do we know what Mathilda looked like? Study the tapestry photo.
Hint 3
The noblewoman seated at dinner is likely Mathilda, as Hermann’s memoir mentions Mathilda’s handmaiden seated at the far end of the table, next to where the noblewoman is sat. Next, does Mathilda have a motive to kill Graves?
Hint 4
Ingrid’s letter and Hermann’s memoir both mention Graves confined Mathilda to the castle to punish her. Ingrid also describes Mathilda stabbing Graves in the side with a brooch. Is there any evidence this stabbing took place?
Hint 5
Notes on the photo of Graves’ skeleton show Graves suffered a wound in his side. Mathilda’s brooch is dug up during the modern archaeological excavation. Can we determine when the stabbing happened? Note that Mathilda and Graves fought in the castle kennel.
Hint 6
The recorded message from the Cherwell Historical Volunteer Club confirms the kennel was demolished in autumn 1379. If Graves died sometime earlier than the autumn of 1379 from the abdominal wound, Mathilda is the killer. If you’ve covered all bases and you’re still stuck, please follow the hint section for The Final Hints to gradually reveal the answer to this case.