Piccadilly Jim · Chapter
Mrs. Pett Takes Precautions explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Pett, concerned about Ogden's health and still reeling from Jerry Mitchell's firing, receives a visit from Lord Wisbeach. He reveals that the man claiming to be Jimmy Crocker is an impostor, and that the butler Skinner is likely in league with him. Lord Wisbeach proposes moving into the house to watch both men, and Mrs. Pett, though grateful, secretly decides to hire a detective from Mr. Sturgis's agency to reinforce the surveillance.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Mistaken Identity
Lord Wisbeach reveals that the man claiming to be Jimmy Crocker is an impostor, and that Skinner is complicit, deepening the theme of deception.
Reputation and Redemption
Mrs. Pett's trust in Lord Wisbeach and her decision to secretly hire a detective highlight her concern for protecting her household's reputation.
Family Dynamics and Obligation
Mrs. Pett's maternal worry for Ogden and her protective actions underscore family obligations amidst external threats.
Characters to notice
- Mrs. Pett
Takes precautions by secretly hiring a detective after Lord Wisbeach's revelations.
- Lord Wisbeach
Reveals the imposture of Jimmy Crocker and Skinner, and offers to move into the house to watch them.
- Ogden Ford
Languishes on the sick-settee, refusing soup and bread-and-milk, and is sent to bed by Mrs. Pett.
- Jimmy Crocker
Referred to as the impostor by Lord Wisbeach; his true identity is under suspicion.
- Skinner
Accused by Lord Wisbeach of being in league with the false Jimmy Crocker.
- Aida
The Pomeranian who snarls and barks at Lord Wisbeach upon his entrance.
Key passages
“That man is not your nephew.”
Lord Wisbeach tells Mrs. Pett that the man calling himself Jimmy Crocker is an impostor.
This revelation sets the plot in motion for Mrs. Pett's precautions.
“I pretended to recognise him? Just so. For a purpose.”
Lord Wisbeach explains that he feigned recognition of the impostor to avoid alerting him.
Shows Lord Wisbeach's strategic thinking and his role as a manipulator.
“I could help a great deal more if you were to invite me to live in the house.”
Lord Wisbeach suggests moving into the Pett mansion to better monitor the suspects.
Indicates his deepening involvement and the escalation of the surveillance plot.
“She could combine the installation of a detective with the nicest respect for her ally’s feelings by the simple process of engaging one without telling Lord Wisbeach anything about it.”
Mrs. Pett decides to hire a detective secretly to avoid offending Lord Wisbeach.
Highlights Mrs. Pett's independent decision-making and her distrust of relying solely on Lord Wisbeach.