There is something about this case that tends to make people obsess about it. In the 15 years I have been involved with it, I have met many people who seem compelled to know every detail of every incident. I was writing Murder in the Adirondacks. Part of it, I am sure, is the lingering doubt about whether Chester actually did it. There are also Grace Brown s love letters, which seem to some people like a voice from beyond the grave, telling details of how she felt, but leaving out key details of what her plans were.
People feel compelled to find out the real story.
I know I did. He seemed surprised when Ward arrested him just three days later. Several coincidences led to that quick arrest. See the next question. Chester was careful to use a false name during the three days he traveled with Grace from DeRuyter to Utica and to the Adirondacks.