# II: “That’s Something!” explained — Continental Op Stories

> Chapter companion for Continental Op Stories by Dashiell Hammett.

## What happens

The Continental Op and Detective Sergeant O'Gar investigate the murder of Leopold Gantvoort, found dead in a stolen car with his skull crushed by a typewriter. Evidence includes a threatening letter signed 'E. B.', a list of names, a jewel case, modified bullets, a tuft of blond hair, and missing collar buttons and a shoe. The Op reveals Gantvoort had reported threats from an Emil Bonfils, linked to a Paris incident in 1902. They interview the butler Whipple and plan to trace the list and clippings.

## Themes in this chapter

### Crime and Detection

The chapter focuses on the forensic investigation of a brutal murder, including analysis of physical clues and witness interviews.

### Deception and Identity

The threatening letter, missing personal items, and the list of names suggest hidden identities and a possible revenge plot spanning decades.

### Violence and Survival

The murder is graphically described (skull crushed with a typewriter), and the modified bullets indicate premeditated lethal intent.

## Character check-ins

### The Continental Op

Leads the investigation, examines evidence, and connects the murder to a threatening letter from Emil Bonfils.

### Detective Sergeant O'Gar

Works alongside the Op, presents the physical evidence, and coordinates police follow-up.

### Charles Gantvoort

Son of the victim, identifies his father's belongings and provides initial information.

### Bernard Gilmore

Mentioned as the victim's son-in-law; not directly present in this chapter.

### The Whosis Kid

Not present in this chapter.

## Key lines

> I think we want to find Monsieur Emil Bonfils.

The Op concludes that locating Emil Bonfils is the primary objective.

_The Op deduces the killer's identity from the threatening letter._

> That’s something!

O'Gar expresses surprise at the Op's revelation about the threatening letter.

_O'Gar reacts to learning that Gantvoort had reported threats before his death._

> What the hell do you want? Ain’t that enough?

O'Gar is exasperated by the Op's request for more evidence.

_O'Gar feels the pile of clues is already substantial._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii-that-s-something
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters