Bulldog Drummond · Chapter
In Which There Is Trouble at Goring explained
Drummond reads about the murder of Mr.
What happens
Drummond reads about the murder of Mr. James Granger, Potts's secretary, in Belfast and realizes that Potts is supposedly at the Carlton, not Goring. He telephones Peter Darrell to check on Potts, then recruits Algy Longworth and plans to visit the Carlton. He also reflects on the danger of his situation and pays Mullings for his help.
Themes in this chapter
Post-War Disillusionment and the Search for Adventure
Drummond seeks excitement in challenging a criminal gang, viewing it as sport in a land of strikes and profiteers.
Criminal Conspiracy and Revolution
The murder of Granger and the gang's activities hint at a larger international plot controlled by Peterson.
Characters to notice
- Captain Hugh Drummond
Reads about Granger's murder, telephones Darrell, recruits Longworth, and reflects on the danger of his situation.
- Algy Longworth
Recruited by Drummond for the adventure; agrees to join the band and suggests roping in Toby Sinclair.
- Peter Darrell
Receives a telephone call from Drummond about Potts's condition and the news from Belfast.
- Mr. Hiram Potts
Reported in the newspaper to have returned to the Carlton, though Drummond knows he is at Goring.
- Mr. James Granger
Murdered in Belfast; his body was identified by a tailor's tab, and his pockets were rifled.
- Mullings
Drummond pays him fifty pounds for his assistance and expresses admiration for Drummond.
Key passages
“Holy smoke! laddie, that man Peterson ought to be on the committee here. Verily, I believe, he could galvanise the staff into some semblance of activity.”
Drummond jokes that Peterson's criminal efficiency would improve his club's sluggish service.
Drummond's sardonic humor about Peterson's organizational skills.
“The labourer, Mullings, is worthy of his hire. You have been of the very greatest assistance to me; and, incidentally, it is more than likely that I may want you again.”
Drummond pays Mullings generously and hints at future employment.
Drummond's appreciation for Mullings's help and his forward planning.
“If there was more like 'im, and less like 'im — he indicated a stout vulgarian rolling past in a large car and dreadful clothes — things wouldn't 'appen such as is 'appening today.”
Mullings contrasts Drummond's character with that of a vulgar rich man, implying that society's problems stem from such people.
Mullings's commentary on class and social decay.