# XXI explained — Right Ho, Jeeves

> Chapter companion for Right Ho, Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

Bertie, now engaged to Madeline Bassett, discusses with Jeeves the possibility of using a fire-alarm scheme to reunite Madeline with Gussie and Angela with Tuppy. Despite initial doubts, Bertie agrees to the plan, set for after midnight. Later, Madeline compares Bertie to Cyrano de Bergerac, and their engagement is announced. Bertie, feeling trapped, seeks Jeeves' help once more.

## Themes in this chapter

### Futility of Planning

Bertie's engagement to Madeline is a result of unintended gestures, and the fire-alarm scheme is a desperate, elaborate plan that may fail.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Bertie appears engaged to Madeline, but the reality is that she still loves Gussie, and Bertie seeks to escape.

### Comedy of Errors

The mistaken engagement, the Cyrano comparison, and the absurd fire-alarm plan all contribute to a comedic situation.

## Character check-ins

### Bertram Wooster

Engaged to Madeline Bassett, seeks Jeeves' help to escape the situation.

### Jeeves

Proposes the fire-alarm scheme to reunite couples, still mentally sharp.

### Madeline Bassett

Announces engagement to Bertie, compares him to Cyrano de Bergerac.

### Gussie Fink-Nottle

Target of the fire-alarm scheme to reunite with Madeline.

### Tuppy Glossop

Target of the fire-alarm scheme to reunite with Angela.

### Angela

Kisses Madeline and expresses hope for happiness with Gussie.

## Key lines

> I am sorry to hear that, sir. Can I be of any assistance?

Jeeves offers to help Bertie with his problem.

_Jeeves' standard offer of assistance._

> You remind me of Cyrano.

Madeline compares Bertie to Cyrano de Bergerac for his chivalrous behavior.

_Madeline's romanticized view of Bertie's actions._

> The device which I have in mind is one that I have already mentioned to you, sir.

Jeeves reminds Bertie of the fire-alarm scheme he proposed earlier.

_Jeeves' plan to reunite the couples._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/right_ho_jeeves_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/right_ho_jeeves_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/right_ho_jeeves_se/chapters