Early in the story, Scout shares that inside the Radley home lives a "malevolent phantom." She describes the home as being darkened from its original white and green to a gray color. The shingles are rotted and the yard is unkempt. The creepy appearance of the home adds to the superstitions and misconceptions regarding Boo Radley. After hearing news of Mrs. Radley's death, Atticus visits the Radley home to pay his respects to the family. At the time of her death, the children are still under the impression that the terrifying tales of Boo shared by neighbors are true. Scout and Jem are convinced that Boo must have killed his mother. When Atticus returns from the Radley house, the children are disappointed to learn that her death is a result of natural causes. Scout asks Atticus, "Did you see Mr. Arthur?" She quizzes him because the children are curious about Boo. Atticus's stern reply and sharp look when he answers, "I did not," put an end to Scout's questions.
At the beginning of Chapter 8, Mrs. Radley dies, and Atticus visits her home to express his condolences. When Atticus returns home, Jem and Scout are anxiously waiting to ask him questions concerning Boo's existence. Jem and Scout are still under the impression that Boo is a malevolent creature and believe that Boo finally murdered his mother. Much to their dismay, Atticus informs the children that Mrs. Radley died of natural causes. However, Jem and Scout are still anxious to learn more about their reclusive neighbor, and Scout finally asks her father if he saw Mr. Arthur. Atticus directly replies, "I did not" before he begins to read the newspaper (Lee, 65). Following their short conversation with Atticus, Jem tells his sister that Atticus is still "touchous" about their fascination with the Radleys.
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