Arsène Lupin Versus Herlock Sholmes · Chapter
Second Arrest of Arsène Lupin explained
Herlock Sholmes confronts Arsène Lupin in his apartment, having escaped from captivity and surrounded the building with police.
What happens
Herlock Sholmes confronts Arsène Lupin in his apartment, having escaped from captivity and surrounded the building with police. Sholmes reveals his true goal is to recover the blue diamond, not just arrest Lupin. After a tense exchange, Lupin is arrested by Ganimard, but not before a telephone call from the Blonde Lady adds further intrigue.
Themes in this chapter
Duel of Wits
Sholmes and Lupin engage in a battle of intellect and strategy, with Sholmes outmaneuvering Lupin despite his earlier defeat.
Crime and Justice
Lupin's arrest by Ganimard represents the law's attempt to capture the master criminal.
Cunning vs. Brute Force
Lupin's clever escape devices and hidden passages contrast with the police's numerical and physical force.
Characters to notice
- Arsène Lupin
Arrested for the second time by Ganimard, but remains defiant and amused.
- Herlock Sholmes
Confronts Lupin alone after escaping captivity; orchestrates the arrest and seeks the blue diamond.
- Ganimard
Leads the police force and handcuffs Lupin, following Sholmes's plan.
- Wilson
Mentioned as having been injured by Lupin earlier.
- Clotilde Destange
Implied to be the Blonde Lady who telephones during the arrest, though not directly named.
Key passages
“Ah! what's the matter, Monsieur Lupin? You seem to be displeased about something.”
Sholmes mockingly asks Lupin why he looks upset.
Sholmes's sarcastic greeting upon confronting Lupin.
“Our accounts are squared, monsieur,”
Lupin acknowledges that Sholmes has evened the score between them.
Lupin's acceptance of defeat after Sholmes's successful trap.
“How many are you, my friends? Twenty-five? Thirty? That's too many. I can't do anything. Ah! if there had been only fifteen!”
Lupin counts the police and jokes that he could escape if there were fewer.
Lupin's bravado and humor even while being arrested.