# XXVI: The Aftermath explained — Mike

> Chapter companion for Mike by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

The chapter deals with the fallout from Wyatt's expulsion. Mike and others grapple with the news, while Burgess worries about the upcoming Ripton match. Neville-Smith confesses his guilt, and Bob suggests a job for Wyatt in the Argentine. Mike writes to his father to help secure a position for Wyatt.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

Mike's loyalty to Wyatt drives him to seek help from his father, while Neville-Smith's guilt shows his sense of responsibility.

### Ambition and Sacrifice

Wyatt's expulsion sacrifices his cricket career, and Burgess must sacrifice team strength for the Ripton match.

## Character check-ins

### Mike Jackson

Feels responsible for Wyatt's fate and writes to his father about a job in the Argentine.

### Wyatt Burgess

Has been sacked and is staying in Mr. Wain's dressing-room; his departure affects the cricket team.

### Bob Jackson

Suggests the Argentine job idea for Wyatt and discusses the cricket team's losses.

### Neville-Smith

Confesses guilt over Wyatt's capture and receives extra punishment.

### Billy Burgess

As cricket captain, is frustrated by losing key players before the Ripton match.

### Mr. Wain

Keeps Wyatt locked in his dressing-room overnight to prevent escape.

## Key lines

> It was all my fault. If it hadn’t been for me, this wouldn’t have happened. What a fool I was to ask him to my place! I might have known he would be caught.

Neville-Smith blames himself for inviting Wyatt to the celebration, believing it led to his capture.

_Neville-Smith's guilt is a key emotional moment in the aftermath._

> Only that, as far as I can see, we shall play Ripton on Saturday with a sort of second eleven.

Burgess laments that the team will be weakened for the Ripton match due to recent expulsions.

_Highlights the impact of Wyatt's and Neville-Smith's punishments on the cricket team._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mike_se/chapters/xxvi-the-aftermath
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mike_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mike_se/chapters