# XVII: In Custody explained — Plague Ship

> Chapter companion for Plague Ship by Andre Norton.

## What happens

Dane Thorson delivers a passionate defense of the Solar Queen's crew, recounting their ordeal on Sargol and the subsequent plague infestation. He presents the creature as evidence and calls for an impartial investigation. The Patrol interrupts their broadcast, demanding surrender. The three apprentices disarm and surrender, hoping their testimony will sway opinion. They are taken into Patrol custody, fed well, and kept under observation. Meanwhile, Medic Hovan, now an ally, confronts the Patrol to return to the ship to treat the sick crew, and Dane intervenes to protect Hovan's access, resulting in a scuffle.

## Themes in this chapter

### Law vs. Justice

The crew breaks quarantine laws but argues self-defense and seeks a fair hearing; the Patrol's rigid procedures clash with the crew's desperate need for justice.

### Loyalty and Camaraderie

Dane, Rip, and Ali surrender together; Hovan risks his career to return to the ship and help the crew; Dane physically intervenes to protect Hovan's mission.

### Survival and Ingenuity

Dane uses the creature as evidence in the broadcast; the crew's resourcefulness in capturing the pest and surviving the Big Burn is recounted.

## Character check-ins

### Dane Thorson

Delivers a compelling defense of the crew before the broadcast is cut off; surrenders with Rip and Ali; later tackles a policeman to protect Hovan's entry to the ship.

### Rip Shannon

As acting captain, orders the surrender and disarms himself; remains calm under observation in custody.

### Ali Kamil

Follows Rip's lead in surrendering; makes sardonic comments about their situation and the Patrol's actions.

### Medic Hovan

Testifies on behalf of the crew; later demands to return to the ship to treat the sick, invoking 'Pro Bono Publico'; successfully boards the Queen.

### Jasper Weeks

Holds the ship against the Patrol, refusing to surrender; opens an escape port for Hovan.

### Captain Jellico

Mentioned as having the only Hoobat on Terra, which could be used to round up the creatures.

## Key lines

> We have broken the law, but we were fighting in self-defense. All we ask now is the privilege of an impartial investigation, a chance to defend ourselves—such as any of you take for granted on Terra—before the courts of this planet—

Dane admits they violated regulations but argues they acted to protect themselves, and requests a fair hearing like any Terran citizen would receive.

_Dane's plea for justice highlights the theme of law vs. justice._

> Pro Bono Publico—I demand the right to return to duty—

Hovan invokes the public good to justify his demand to re-enter the ship and treat the sick crew.

_Hovan uses his medical authority to override the Patrol's blockade._

> If we're heroes, what are we doing locked up here? I'd like a few earth-side comforts—beginning with a full meal—

Dane questions why they are imprisoned if they are being treated as heroes, and expresses a desire for basic amenities.

_Shows the uncertainty of their status and Dane's fatigue._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plague_ship_se/chapters/xvii-in-custody
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plague_ship_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plague_ship_se/chapters