# An Unexpected Accomplice explained — Fantômas

> Chapter companion for Fantômas by Pierre Souvestre.

## What happens

Gurn, a condemned murderer, manipulates the warder Nibet into helping him escape from prison. Nibet, bribed by Lady Beltham, provides Gurn with money, a disguise, and a plan to slip out with the workmen. Gurn's escape is set for the following evening.

## Themes in this chapter

### Crime and Justice

Gurn's manipulation of the prison system and the warder's corruption highlight the theme of justice being subverted by crime.

### Obsession and Vengeance

Lady Beltham's obsessive devotion to Gurn drives her to fund his escape, despite his role in her husband's murder.

## Character check-ins

### M. Gurn

The condemned murderer who orchestrates his escape by bribing the warder Nibet.

### Nibet

The warder who becomes Gurn's accomplice, motivated by money from Lady Beltham.

### Lady Beltham

The mysterious benefactor who provides the funds to bribe Nibet and arrange Gurn's escape.

## Key lines

> They do when you help them, and you and I are going to help them.

Things only work out if you take action, and we will take action together.

_Gurn asserts his control over the situation, compelling Nibet to cooperate._

> I am to meet her tonight at eleven, in the boulevard Arago.

I have an appointment with the lady at eleven o'clock on the boulevard Arago.

_Nibet reveals the meeting place where Lady Beltham will provide further instructions._

> In one of the pockets of the clothes, I have put ten hundred-franc notes; you asked for more, but I could not raise it.

I've placed ten hundred-franc notes in the clothing; I couldn't get more than that.

_Nibet provides Gurn with escape money, though less than requested._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fant_mas_se/chapters/xxv-an-unexpected-accomplice
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fant_mas_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fant_mas_se/chapters