# VII: The Bishop Goes for a Ride explained — A Prefect’s Uncle

> Chapter companion for A Prefect’s Uncle by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

During the M.C.C. match, Gethryn discovers that his uncle Farnie has absconded with money, leaving a note. Determined to retrieve him before the scandal is discovered, Gethryn leaves the match and rides his bicycle to Anfield, hoping to catch Farnie and return before his absence is noticed.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Obligation

Gethryn feels compelled to retrieve his uncle Farnie despite personal dislike, to protect family reputation.

### Deception and Truth

Farnie's theft and note create a secret that Gethryn must manage to avoid scandal.

### Sportsmanship and Competition

The M.C.C. match is depicted with detailed cricket action, highlighting skill and competitive spirit.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Gethryn

Discovers his uncle's theft and note, decides to pursue him to Anfield on his bicycle.

### Farnie

Has stolen money and left a note; Gethryn sets out to bring him back.

### Norris

Wins the toss and bats first; scores 51 before being dismissed.

### Pringle

Bats with confidence after Gethryn's dismissal, forming a stand with Norris.

### Marriott

Waits to bat; Gethryn delays his departure to watch Marriott's innings.

### Gosling

Comments on Pringle's batting style.

## Key lines

> Gethryn’s desire for his hat was not so pressing as to make him deprive himself of the pleasure of seeing Marriott at the wickets.

Gethryn wanted to watch Marriott bat before leaving to fetch his hat.

_Shows Gethryn's prioritization of the match over his errand._

> Farnie must be brought back. That was plain. And he must be brought back at once, before anyone could get to hear of what had happened.

Gethryn decides he must retrieve Farnie immediately to prevent the theft from becoming known.

_Highlights Gethryn's sense of urgency and family duty._

> He would have oceans of time for his ride. Norris wouldn’t dream of declaring the innings closed before five o’clock at the earliest, and no bowler could take seven wickets in the time on such a pitch.

Gethryn calculates he has enough time to cycle to Anfield and back before the match ends.

_Shows Gethryn's strategic thinking under pressure._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_prefect_s_uncle_se/chapters/vii-the-bishop-goes-for-a-ride
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_prefect_s_uncle_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_prefect_s_uncle_se/chapters