Dr. Wortle’s School · Chapter
At Chicago explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Peacocke travels to San Francisco to obtain proof of Ferdinand Lefroy's death, including a photograph of his gravestone and certificates of burial. He then goes to Chicago to meet Robert Lefroy, who attempts to blackmail him by claiming that the buried man was not his brother but a cousin. A tense confrontation ensues, but Mr. Peacocke refuses to be intimidated and ultimately pays Lefroy the agreed sum, though Lefroy tries to shortchange him. Mr. Peacocke leaves for England, never to see Lefroy again.
Themes in this chapter
Integrity and Conscience
Mr. Peacocke's determination to obtain truthful evidence and his refusal to be swayed by Lefroy's lies highlight his moral integrity.
Moral Hypocrisy
Robert Lefroy's attempt to twist the truth and his false claims about the burial expose his hypocrisy and deceit.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Peacocke
Travels to San Francisco and Chicago to secure evidence of Ferdinand Lefroy's death and settle with Robert Lefroy.
- Robert Lefroy
Attempts to blackmail Mr. Peacocke with a fabricated story about the identity of the buried man, but is ultimately paid and leaves.
Key passages
“He had no difficulty in obtaining the evidence which he required.”
He easily found the proof he needed.
Mr. Peacocke's mission to verify Ferdinand Lefroy's death is straightforward.
“I’d be evidence for you, as to Ferdy’s death, you know.”
I could testify for you about Ferdy's death.
Lefroy offers to help, but his offer is insincere and self-serving.