# The Melting of Mr. Connolly explained — Indiscretions of Archie

> Chapter companion for Indiscretions of Archie by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

Archie attempts to negotiate with labor leader Mr. Connolly to end the strike on Mr. Brewster's new hotel, but the situation is complicated when a cabaret performance of 'Mother's Knee' unexpectedly moves Connolly to call off the strike. Meanwhile, Bill Brewster laments that Spectatia Huskisson, moved by the same song, has decided to abandon her career and return home.

## Themes in this chapter

### Comedy of Errors and Misunderstandings

Archie's bumbling attempt to resolve the strike leads to an unexpected resolution through a sentimental song, highlighting the farcical nature of the situation.

### Work vs. Idleness

The strike represents a conflict between labor and management, with Archie's idle scheming contrasting with the serious business of construction and negotiation.

### Family and Financial Conflict

Mr. Brewster's financial interests in the hotel are threatened by the strike, and his frustration is compounded by Archie's involvement.

## Character check-ins

### Archie Moffam

Attempts to charm Mr. Connolly and end the strike; orchestrates the cabaret performance that inadvertently resolves the conflict.

### Mr. Daniel Brewster

Furious about the strike and the cabaret, but ultimately pleased when Connolly ends the strike.

### Connolly

The labor leader who is initially hostile but is moved to end the strike after hearing 'Mother's Knee'.

### Bill Brewster

Distraught that Spectatia Huskisson is leaving New York after being inspired by the song.

### Spectatia Huskisson

Performs 'Mother's Knee' with great emotion, leading to Connolly's change of heart and her own decision to return home.

### Lucille Brewster Moffam

Present with Archie; expresses concern about Bill's situation.

## Key lines

> Who the devil,” inquired Mr. Connolly, “are you?” “My name’s Archibald Moffam.” “That’s not my fault.”

Connolly rudely asks Archie's identity, and Archie introduces himself; Connolly dismissively says it's not his problem.

_Shows Connolly's initial hostility and Archie's awkward attempt at rapport._

> I say, you know! It won’t do, you know! Absolutely no! Not a bit like it! No, no, far from it! Well, how about it? How do we go? What? Yes? No?”

Archie incoherently tries to persuade Connolly to call off the strike.

_Highlights Archie's characteristic bumbling speech and inability to communicate effectively._

> That song was sent to guide me, Dan! It was meant! Thirty years ago last October me dear old mother⁠—

Connolly declares that the song 'Mother's Knee' was a divine sign reminding him of his mother, prompting him to end the strike.

_Key moment where the sentimental song changes Connolly's mind, resolving the conflict._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/indiscretions_of_archie_se/chapters/xxiv-the-melting-of-mr-connolly
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/indiscretions_of_archie_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/indiscretions_of_archie_se/chapters