Psmith, Journalist · Chapter
X: Going Some explained
In the third week of the new regime, Cosy Moments thrives under Psmith and Billy Windsor's leadership, with the Kid Brady autobiography and the tenement exposé driving sales.
What happens
In the third week of the new regime, Cosy Moments thrives under Psmith and Billy Windsor's leadership, with the Kid Brady autobiography and the tenement exposé driving sales. Mr. Francis Parker visits to bribe them into stopping the tenement articles, but Psmith and Billy refuse, leading to a tense confrontation.
Themes in this chapter
Journalism and Power
The chapter highlights the power of the press to expose corruption and the attempts to silence it through bribery.
Courage and Risk
Psmith and Billy show courage by refusing Parker's bribe despite the implied threat of violence.
Class and Inequality
The tenement exposé targets wealthy landlords exploiting the poor, a central class conflict.
Characters to notice
- Psmith
Acts as subeditor and co-leader, using wit and dignity to reject Parker's bribe.
- Billy Windsor
Editor who remains steadfast against Parker's offer, threatening violence.
- Comrade Parker
Smooth, well-dressed emissary who attempts to bribe the editors to stop the tenement series.
- Kid Brady
Featured in the paper with his autobiography; his raw style is praised by Psmith.
- Pugsy Maloney
Office boy who announces Parker's arrival and describes his appearance.
Key passages
“Cosy Moments cannot be muzzled.”
The newspaper will not be silenced by bribes or threats.
Psmith's defiant statement rejecting Parker's bribe.
“I'm going to put my cards on the table, and see if we can't fix something up.”
I will be honest and propose a deal.
Parker's attempt to negotiate a bribe.
“If this does not bring Comrade Garvin up to the scratch, nothing will.”
If this doesn't challenge Garvin to a fight, nothing will.
Psmith's confidence in Kid Brady's autobiography to provoke a title match.