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1. Why did Theroux have an early childhood fascination with train travel?

Growing up near a major American rail line, Theroux found the whistles enchanting and viewed trains and as an ideal way of traveling. Unlike planes or buses, trains were not cramped and did not lead to motion sickness. Finally, train travel offered an excellent way of meeting fascinating people.

2. Why did Duffill appear to be so mysterious to Theroux?

Everything from his clothes to his behavior made Duffill seem mysterious. His clothes were ill-fitting, as if he did not have time to grab correctly sized clothes. He carried oddly-shaped packages wrapped in brown paper. Theroux also found it impossible to place his accent and said Duffill had the manner of someone who thought he was being followed.

3. Why did Theroux think the Orient Express was used as the setting for many stories of criminal intrigues?

Despite the romantic history of the Orient Express, the train was showing its age. Theroux at one point described riding the train as being akin to murder. It was cramped and in bad condition, which made travel challenging, despite the romantic connotations of the term "Orient Express." In addition, it no longer offered services such as dining cars.

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