Psmith, Journalist · Chapter
Trapped explained
Psmith receives protection from Bat Jarvis and Long Otto against the Three Pointers.
What happens
Psmith receives protection from Bat Jarvis and Long Otto against the Three Pointers. After a visit from Comrade Parker, Psmith gets a note from Billy Windsor who has escaped from prison. As Psmith tries to go to Billy, Parker forces his way into the cab and holds him at gunpoint.
Themes in this chapter
Gang Violence and Corruption
The Three Pointers, led by Spider Reilly, attempt to intimidate Psmith; Bat Jarvis and Long Otto provide armed protection; Parker uses a revolver to trap Psmith.
Friendship and Loyalty
Bat Jarvis declares Psmith his 'pal' and threatens anyone who harms him; Psmith gives Pugsy a day off and money for a date.
Courage and Risk
Psmith remains calm and witty despite the threat of violence; Billy Windsor risks escape from prison to help the cause.
Characters to notice
- Psmith
Hosts Bat Jarvis and Long Otto for protection; receives Billy's escape note; is trapped in a cab by Comrade Parker's revolver.
- Bat Jarvis
Brings Long Otto to guard Psmith; threatens the Three Pointers and warns Spider Reilly; discusses fits in kittens.
- Long Otto
Accompanies Bat Jarvis as a silent but formidable ally; grunts agreement and kicks table leg.
- Comrade Parker
Visits Psmith to pressure him to quit; later forces his way into the cab and holds Psmith at gunpoint.
- Pugsy Maloney
Given the day off to take his girl to the Bronx Zoo; receives two dollars from Psmith.
- Billy Windsor
Sends a note from an East Side address asking Psmith to come quickly with money; has escaped from prison.
Key passages
“I am very much obliged for your courtly assistance, Comrade Jarvis. But for you I do not care to think with what a splash I might not have been immersed in the gumbo.”
Psmith thanks Bat Jarvis for saving him from a violent attack by the Three Pointers.
Psmith's characteristic polite and humorous gratitude after the gang's delegation is driven off.
“If you will pardon the expression, Comrade Parker, 'Aha!' Meaning that I propose to keep that information to myself.”
Psmith refuses to reveal the location of the incriminating paper to Parker.
Psmith's playful defiance in the face of Parker's threats.
“Now what?”
Parker asks Psmith what he will do now that he is held at gunpoint in the cab.
The moment of crisis as Parker traps Psmith with a revolver.