Psmith, Journalist · Chapter
Bat Jarvis explained
Billy Windsor brings Psmith and Mike to his modest apartment on East Fourteenth Street.
What happens
Billy Windsor brings Psmith and Mike to his modest apartment on East Fourteenth Street. While discussing the possibility of moving to cheaper lodgings, they are visited by Bat Jarvis, the leader of the Groome Street Gang, who has come to reclaim his lost cat. The encounter establishes a bond of gratitude between Billy and the formidable gang leader, as Psmith observes with characteristic wit.
Themes in this chapter
Gang Violence and Corruption
Bat Jarvis's background as a gang leader and the description of the Groome Street Gang's rise through violence and political manipulation highlight the underworld's influence on New York life.
Friendship and Loyalty
Billy's simple act of rescuing Jarvis's cat creates an unexpected bond, with Jarvis offering his loyalty and protection in return.
Characters to notice
- Psmith
Displays his characteristic wit and calm demeanor, engaging Bat Jarvis with polished remarks and observing the scene with his monocle.
- Billy Windsor
Hosts Psmith and Mike in his modest room, shows practical kindness by rescuing Jarvis's cat, and earns the gang leader's gratitude.
- Bat Jarvis
The leader of the Groome Street Gang, a dealer in animals, who comes to retrieve his cat and offers his protection to Billy in return.
- Mike
Present as a quiet observer, comments on the expense of the Astor and agrees to consider moving to Fourth Avenue.
Key passages
“A blithe spirit, said Psmith. Not garrulous, perhaps, but what of that? I am a man of few words myself. Comrade Jarvis's massive silences appeal to me.”
Psmith remarks that Bat Jarvis is a cheerful soul, though not talkative, and that he appreciates Jarvis's quiet demeanor.
Psmith's ironic humor contrasts his own verbosity with Jarvis's taciturn nature.
“I don't know that he's just the sort of side-partner I'd go out of my way to choose, from what I've heard about him. Still, if one got mixed up with any of that East-Side crowd, he would be a mighty useful friend to have.”
Billy acknowledges that while Jarvis is not the kind of ally he would normally seek, having him as a friend could be valuable if trouble arises.
Billy pragmatically recognizes the potential benefit of Jarvis's protection despite his criminal reputation.