Here's how the setting contributes to the mystery:
* The Old Hotel: The story takes place in a grand, old hotel, the "Grandview." This kind of setting immediately conjures up images of faded grandeur, hidden secrets, and a sense of history. The fact that it's slightly run-down adds to the atmosphere of mystery.
* Haunted Atmosphere: The hotel is rumored to be haunted, and there are reports of strange occurrences. This creates a sense of unease and sets the stage for the mystery.
* Isolated Location: The hotel is located on a remote island, which further contributes to the sense of isolation and mystery. It's not easy for people to come and go, and the guests are more likely to be involved in the events happening.
* Hidden Rooms and Passages: The old hotel has many rooms and secret passages that are not in regular use. This provides ample opportunities for hiding things, creating suspense, and making it difficult to track down the truth.
* The Ghostly Presence: The actual presence of a "ghostly guest" adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the story. It sets up the question of whether it's a real ghost or just someone trying to scare people.
The combination of these elements creates a mysterious and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the reader guessing until the end.