# XXX: Conclusion explained — A Gentleman of Leisure

> Chapter companion for A Gentleman of Leisure by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

Jimmy Pitt and Spike Mullins watch passengers board the St. Louis at Southampton. Spike decides to return to America, feeling he has no place in England now that Jimmy is married. Jimmy reveals that the necklace was paste, explaining why he wouldn't steal it. Spike plans to enter politics, and they part with Jimmy wishing him luck.

## Themes in this chapter

### Adventure and Risk

Spike chooses to return to the risky life of New York and politics.

### Identity and Transformation

Spike considers a new identity in politics; Jimmy reflects on his changed life after marriage.

## Character check-ins

### Jimmy Pitt

Bids farewell to Spike at Southampton, reflects on his marriage and the necklace.

### Spike Mullins

Returns to America, plans to enter politics, learns the necklace was paste.

### Molly McEachern

Mentioned as Jimmy's wife; they plan to go to France.

### John McEachern

Mentioned as having successfully entered society.

## Key lines

> Well, Spike,” said Jimmy, “your schooner’s on the tide now, isn’t it? Your vessel’s at the quay.

Jimmy tells Spike that his ship is ready to depart.

_Metaphor for Spike's departure._

> That necklace was paste.” “What’s dat?” “Nothing but paste.

Jimmy reveals the necklace was fake.

_Key revelation explaining Jimmy's refusal to steal._

> I’m goin’ to sit in at anodder game dis time—politics, boss.

Spike says he will try his hand at politics.

_Spike's new ambition._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_gentleman_of_leisure_se/chapters/xxx-conclusion
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_gentleman_of_leisure_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_gentleman_of_leisure_se/chapters