Phase II: The Private Secretary explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Class and Society

  Sandford's obscure origins and lack of social connections are highlighted, contrasting with his position in the Civil Service and the suspicion he faces.

• Family and Betrayal

  Kimball feels betrayed by someone close to him in his office, reflecting a breach of trust within a professional 'family'.

• Crime and Morality

  The chapter deals with the moral implications of the Coal Ramp scandal and the suspicion of bribery and corruption.

Characters to notice

• Mr. Reginald Fortune

  Present at Scotland Yard, discusses the case with Lomas and Bell, observes Kimball's health, and questions Sandford.

• Mr. Lomas

  Hosts the meeting at Scotland Yard, presents the new fact about Sandford's bank deposit, and leads the investigation.

• Superintendent Bell

  Offers his opinion on criminal envy and Sandford's character, noting his isolated nature.

• Horace Kimball

  The Rt. Hon. Horace Kimball, Sandford's chief, is distressed by the betrayal and confronts Sandford about the money.

• Secretary Sandford

  Kimball's private secretary, denies knowledge of the three thousand pound deposit, maintains a correct and restrained demeanor.

Key passages

• “Three thousand pounds has been paid into Sandford’s account. It was handed in over the counter in notes of small amounts yesterday morning.”

  A deposit of three thousand pounds in small notes was made into Sandford's bank account yesterday.

  This fact triggers the confrontation with Sandford.

• “I have no information. I have no idea.”

  Sandford claims he knows nothing about the deposit.

  Sandford's repeated denial of knowledge about the money.

• “I’ve been in business thirty years, and I’ve never had one of my own people break faith with me.”

  Kimball expresses shock that someone in his office has betrayed him.

  Kimball's personal sense of betrayal.