# Zigzags of Treachery explained — Continental Op Stories

> Chapter companion for Continental Op Stories by Dashiell Hammett.

## What happens

The Continental Op navigates a complex web of deceit and double-crosses as he investigates a series of interconnected crimes, facing threats from multiple criminal factions and uncovering layers of betrayal.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Identity

The chapter is rife with double-crosses and hidden identities, as characters constantly shift allegiances and conceal their true intentions.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Trust is a scarce commodity, with characters betraying each other for personal gain or survival.

## Character check-ins

### The Continental Op

The protagonist and investigator, navigating treacherous alliances.

### Colonel Einarson

A key figure in the investigation, possibly with hidden motives.

### Jack Counihan

A suspect or ally whose loyalties are uncertain.

### Babe McCloor

A criminal element involved in the underworld dealings.

### Bluepoint Vance

A dangerous adversary operating in the urban underworld.

## Key lines

> Zigzags of Treachery

The chapter's title emphasizes the unpredictable and deceitful nature of the events, where trust is constantly undermined.

_Sets the tone for the chapter's focus on betrayal and shifting alliances._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/zigzags-of-treachery
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters