In Which Peace Is Declared explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Brotherhood and Rivalry

  Mike and Adair's reconciliation after their fight highlights the transition from rivalry to mutual respect and teamwork.

• Ambition and Sacrifice

  Adair's dedication to Sedleigh's cricket and his willingness to play despite injury reflect ambition and sacrifice for the team.

Characters to notice

• Mike Jackson

  Reconciles with Adair, agrees to play in the match, and suggests arranging a fixture with Wrykyn.

• Adair

  Has sprained his wrist in the fight, but is eager to play; makes peace with Mike.

• Psmith

  Mentioned as having informed Mike about Adair's misunderstanding; also jokes about jam.

• Mr. Downing

  Mentioned as the master Mike avoids; Adair says he is not a bad sort.

• Strachan

  Captain of Wrykyn; Mike plans to write to him about arranging a match.

Key passages

• “Sprained his wrist? said Mike. How did he do that? During the brawl. Apparently one of his efforts got home on your elbow instead of your expressive countenance, and whether it was that your elbow was particularly tough or his wrist particularly fragile, I don't know. Anyhow, it went.”

  Mike learns that Adair sprained his wrist during their fight when his punch hit Mike's elbow.

  Explains Adair's injury and its cause.

• “I say, awfully sorry about your wrist. Oh, that's all right. It was my fault.”

  Mike apologizes for Adair's injury, but Adair takes the blame.

  Shows the beginning of their reconciliation.

• “Let's get a match on with Wrykyn. What! They wouldn't play us. Yes, they would. At least, I'm pretty sure they would. I had a letter from Strachan, the captain, yesterday, saying that the Ripton match had had to be scratched owing to illness. So they've got a vacant date.”

  Mike suggests arranging a cricket match with Wrykyn, as they have a free date due to a cancelled fixture.

  Key plot point: Mike uses his connections to benefit Sedleigh.