# Baxter Suspects explained — Leave It to Psmith

> Chapter companion for Leave It to Psmith by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

Psmith travels to Blandings Castle with Lord Emsworth, successfully impersonating the poet Ralston McTodd. On the train, he learns from Freddie Threepwood about a scheme to steal Lady Constance's necklace to help Freddie's step-sister Phyllis. Upon arrival, Psmith meets the guests, including Miss Peavey, and writes an autograph in her book. Baxter grows suspicious of Psmith's identity.

## Themes in this chapter

### Mistaken Identity and Imposture

Psmith impersonates the poet Ralston McTodd, deceiving Lord Emsworth and the other guests at Blandings Castle.

### Deception and Manipulation

Psmith and Freddie conspire to steal Lady Constance's necklace, involving a complex scheme of deception.

### Comedy of Errors and Miscommunication

Baxter's suspicion and the autograph incident create comedic tension, as Psmith's impersonation is nearly exposed.

## Character check-ins

### Psmith

Impersonates Ralston McTodd; travels with Lord Emsworth; agrees to help Freddie with the necklace scheme; writes an autograph for Miss Peavey.

### Lord Emsworth

Travels with Psmith; discusses gardens and his dislike of poets; introduces Psmith to the castle.

### Freddie Threepwood

Meets Psmith on the train; explains the necklace scheme and asks for Psmith's help.

### Aileen Peavey

Poetess staying at Blandings; asks Psmith for an autograph; defends him against Baxter.

### Rupert Baxter

Secretary; becomes suspicious of Psmith; observes the autograph incident and broods over Psmith's identity.

### Lady Constance

Hostess; expresses delight at Psmith's arrival; dismisses Baxter's concerns.

## Key lines

> The five o'clock train, having given itself a spasmodic jerk, began to move slowly out of Paddington Station.

The train at five o'clock lurched and started its slow departure from Paddington Station.

_Describes the train's departure, setting the scene for Psmith's journey._

> I was saying that, from all reports, you must have a very nifty display of garden-produce at your rural seat.

I mentioned that I've heard you have an impressive garden at your country estate.

_Psmith compliments Lord Emsworth's gardens in his characteristic style._

> It is a long story, which you may find tedious. But, if you really wish to hear it...

The explanation is lengthy and might bore you, but if you insist...

_Psmith begins to explain his impersonation to Freddie._

> How strange, sighed Miss Peavey. To think that you should have chosen that line!

Miss Peavey expresses surprise that Psmith chose that particular line from his supposed poetry.

_Miss Peavey reacts to the autograph Psmith wrote._

> I am rather tired, said Psmith with gentle reproach, after my journey. Fatigued. We artists...

Psmith claims exhaustion from the trip, implying that artists are sensitive and need rest.

_Psmith deflects Baxter's questioning by playing the part of a weary poet._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/leave_it_to_psmith_se/chapters/vii-baxter-suspects
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/leave_it_to_psmith_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/leave_it_to_psmith_se/chapters