# XXX: The Last Sad Farewells explained — Psmith in the City

> Chapter companion for Psmith in the City by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

Psmith and Mike resign from the bank in a dramatic confrontation with Mr. Bickersdyke at the Senior Conservative Club. Psmith delivers a theatrical speech about their departure, while Mr. Bickersdyke, who had already planned to dismiss Psmith for leaving work early, is left unable to get a word in. The chapter ends with Mike feeling optimistic about the future, including Cambridge and an open-air life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Authority and Rebellion

Psmith and Mike defy Bickersdyke's authority by resigning on their own terms, turning a potential dismissal into a victory.

### Ambition and Career

Psmith declares his intention to pursue the Bar, while Mike looks forward to managing the Psmith estates, signaling a shift from banking to more fulfilling careers.

### Humor and Absurdity

Psmith's exaggerated sympathy, the brandy prop, and his mock-serious tone create a comedic contrast to the serious act of resignation.

## Character check-ins

### Psmith

Leads the resignation scene with theatrical flair, ordering brandy for Bickersdyke and delivering a mock-sympathetic speech.

### Mike Jackson

Silent and embarrassed during the confrontation, but feels relieved and optimistic about the future afterward.

### Mr. Bickersdyke

Caught off guard by Psmith's resignation; had planned to dismiss Psmith for leaving work early, but is outmaneuvered in the conversation.

### Mr. Gregory

Reported Psmith's early departure to Bickersdyke, providing the manager with grounds for dismissal.

## Key lines

> I should be glad if you would say it, and go.

Bickersdyke tells Psmith to get to the point and leave.

_Bickersdyke is impatient with Psmith's theatrical preamble._

> Comrade Jackson and myself are leaving the bank.

Psmith announces that he and Mike are resigning.

_The central action of the chapter, delivered with Psmith's characteristic formality._

> I am aware of that.

Bickersdyke already knows about the resignations.

_Bickersdyke's dry response deflates Psmith's dramatic reveal._

> I should like to say how much Comrade Jackson and I have enjoyed our stay in the bank.

Psmith sarcastically thanks Bickersdyke for the banking experience.

_Psmith's ironic praise underscores his disdain for the job._

> Come back.

Bickersdyke calls after them as they leave.

_A last attempt to assert control, but Psmith dismisses it as unmanly._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/psmith_in_the_city_se/chapters/xxx-the-last-sad-farewells
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/psmith_in_the_city_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/psmith_in_the_city_se/chapters