The Phantom Light

Tom Evans is a mentally disturbed member of the lighthouse station’s staff. His instability leads to moments of aggression, including an attempted strangling of Dr. Carey and tense outbursts that unsettle the crew. His unpredictable behavior increases danger around the lamp and fuels the mounting tension at the lighthouse.

Jim Pearce presents himself as a reporter, but is entwined with the saboteur plot and hidden motives. He bribes, schemes, and pursues a questionable agenda, while at times pretending to be someone else. His true role emerges as he is implicated in the plan to damage the lighthouse and the Mary Fern.

Alice is introduced as an actress hiding from the police, later claiming to be a Scotland Yard detective. She uses charm to influence others and seeks to reveal the truth, though she has her own cover story to manage. Her involvement shifts between suspect and ally as the investigation unfolds.

Sam Higgins is the new, practical leader arriving to take over the lighthouse. He questions guests, keeps order among the crew, and is resourceful in handling threats. Sam ultimately coordinates the repair of the light and the defense against the saboteurs.

A resident staff member at the lighthouse station, she provides support and steadiness in a tense situation. Her presence helps anchor the station’s routines as chaos swirls outside.

Dr. Carey is the mastermind behind the sabotage, manipulating Tom and coordinating actions to achieve a hidden agenda. His calm exterior masks a calculated plan, culminating in a dramatic choice at the lighthouse summit.

Claff Owen is David Owen’s brother and Tom’s uncle. He is involved in the crew at the lighthouse and participates in untangling or enabling the peril guests’ actions. His presence contributes to the family dynamics within the station.

Capt. Pearce appears as a maritime figure connected to the vessel and navigation aspects surrounding the case. He represents authority and the broader maritime context of the events at the light.

David Owen is the Harbour Master who informs Sam about the previous disappearances and the shipwrecks. He embodies the official voice at the harbor and anchors the operational side of the lighthouse's world.

Bob Peters is one of the lighthouse staff assistants who helps keep the routine going. He is knocked unconscious during the sabotage sequence, highlighting the danger faced by the crew.

Sergt. Owen is a law-enforcement presence in the lighthouse drama, representing the authorities as the mystery deepens and the plot unfolds toward resolution.

Griffith Owen is a member of the Owen family group at the lighthouse, contributing to the social web surrounding the station and its secrets.

Mrs. Owen is another member of the station’s extended family, adding to the interpersonal dynamics aboard the lighthouse keeper’s environment.