Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
The Sheik's Strategy explained
Peggy pretends to accept the sheik's marriage proposal to punish Monty, but the joke turns dangerous when the sheik attempts to abduct her.
What happens
Peggy pretends to accept the sheik's marriage proposal to punish Monty, but the joke turns dangerous when the sheik attempts to abduct her. Monty and the crew repel the initial attack, but later that night, the sheik's men successfully kidnap Peggy from the yacht. A chase ensues with the searchlight revealing the fleeing boats.
Themes in this chapter
- Love and Sacrifice
Monty's protective actions and willingness to fight for Peggy reveal his deepening love and sense of sacrifice.
- Friendship and Loyalty
The crew and friends rally to defend Peggy and support Monty during the crisis.
- Moral Dilemmas and Restrictions
Peggy's playful deception leads to a dangerous situation, highlighting the moral complexities of her actions.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Protects Peggy from the sheik, leads the rescue effort, and offers a reward for her safe return.
- Peggy Gray
Feigns acceptance of the sheik's proposal, later terrified when the abduction occurs, and is kidnapped.
- Swearengen Jones
Not directly mentioned in this chapter.
- Mrs. Dan DeMille
Helps Peggy escape below deck and later recounts the sheik incident to guests.
- Captain Abner Perry
Commands the yacht, orders sailors to confront the sheik, and directs the searchlight during the chase.
- Subway Smith
Intervenes to prevent a fight between Monty and the sheik.
Key passages
““I was joking, Monty, only joking,” she cried. “Oh, what have I done?””
Peggy admits her earlier acceptance of the sheik was a joke and regrets the consequences.
Shows Peggy's realization of the danger she caused.
““Keep the light on them, captain,” shouted Monty from below. “Try to pick out the boat that has Miss Gray on board. Pull away, boys! This means a hundred dollars to every one of you—yes, a thousand if we have to fight for her!””
Monty orders the searchlight to locate Peggy's boat and offers a large reward to the crew for her rescue.
Demonstrates Monty's desperation and willingness to spend money to save Peggy.
