Getting Acquainted explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Deception and Appearances

  Jimmy pretends to be a champion burglar to gain favor with the police captain, and both men fabricate a story to hide the truth from Molly.

• Crime and Morality

  The burglary and the police captain's corrupt demand for a cut highlight the blurred lines between crime and law enforcement.

• Humor and Irony

  The absurdity of the situation—Jimmy being welcomed as a burglar, Spike's fear of the bulldog, and Jimmy's theatrical exit through the window—provides comedic relief.

Characters to notice

• Jimmy Pitt

  Breaks into a house with Spike, improvises as a London burglar to appease the police captain, and reunites with Molly McEachern.

• Spike Mullins

  Accompanies Jimmy on the burglary, reveals he was set up by a Swede, and nervously interacts with the bulldog Rastus.

• John McEachern

  The police captain and homeowner, initially threatening but becomes accommodating when he thinks Jimmy is a useful crook; hides his corruption from Molly.

• Molly McEachern

  Enters the scene, recognizes Jimmy from the Mauretania, and is reassured by the cover story about a burglar.

• Rastus

  The bulldog that menaces Spike and adds to the chaotic atmosphere.

Key passages

• “The same treatment," suggested Jimmy, with approval, "would also do a world of good to this playful and affectionate animal—unless he is a vegetarian, in which case don't bother.”

  Jimmy sarcastically suggests that the bulldog should also be restrained, unless it doesn't eat meat.

  Jimmy's dry humor in a tense moment.

• “Say," said Spike, "he's a champion burglar, boss—" "Eh!" he said. "He's a champion burglar from de odder side. He sure is. From Lunnon. Gee, he's de guy! Tell him about the bank you opened, and de jools you swiped from de duchess, and de what-d'ye-call-it blowpipe."”

  Spike enthusiastically introduces Jimmy as a top-notch burglar from London, urging him to boast about his crimes.

  Spike's tactless bragging puts Jimmy in a difficult position but unexpectedly works in his favor.

• “I shall be delighted—" he had begun, when he stopped. In the doorway was standing a girl—a girl whom he recognized. Her startled look told him that she too had recognized him.”

  Jimmy was about to respond when he saw Molly in the doorway, and they both realized they knew each other.

  The dramatic entrance of Molly changes the dynamic of the scene.

• “A man broke in, my dear," he said. "This gentleman was passing and saw him." "Distinctly," said Jimmy. "An ugly-looking customer!" "But he slipped out of the window and got away," concluded the policeman.”

  McEachern tells Molly that a burglar broke in and Jimmy, a passerby, scared him off, and Jimmy agrees with the story.

  The two men quickly concoct a cover story to protect their secrets from Molly.

• “I did that rather well," he said pleasantly. "I think I must take up this sort of thing as a profession. Good night."”

  Jimmy comments on his graceful exit through the window and jokes about becoming a burglar.

  Jimmy's playful remark underscores his charm and the absurdity of the situation.