Robbery Under Arms · Chapter
XVII explained
Dick Marston is formally charged with cattle theft and imprisoned in Bargo.
What happens
Dick Marston is formally charged with cattle theft and imprisoned in Bargo. He reflects on the misery and disgrace brought upon his family, while Starlight remains defiant and cheerful. The chapter includes testimony from witnesses and Mr. Falkland, who speaks well of Dick and Jim. Dick suspects Warrigal may have informed on them.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Punishment
Dick faces the consequences of his criminal life, imprisoned and awaiting trial.
Family and Loyalty
Dick's thoughts dwell on the suffering of his mother, sister, and Gracey due to his actions.
Honor and Morality
Contrast between Starlight's cheerful defiance and Dick's remorse; Goring's honest path versus the outlaws'.
Characters to notice
- Dick Marston
Narrator and prisoner, charged with stealing cattle, reflects on his downfall.
- Captain Starlight
Arrested and brought to court, remains cheerful and devil-may-care.
- Jim Marston
Fugitive, being hunted by police; Dick worries about him.
- Warrigal
Slipped his handcuffs and escaped into the scrub; suspected by Dick of informing.
- Mr. Falkland
Testifies in court, speaks highly of Dick and Jim's work ethic.
- Sergeant Goring
Arresting officer, charges Dick formally, shows some friendliness.
Key passages
“I sat down on my blanket on the floor and hid my head in my hands. I wonder it didn't burst with what I felt then.”
Dick sits in despair, overwhelmed by shame and regret.
Dick's emotional low point after being charged.
“He was just as easygoing and devil-may-care as ever.”
Starlight remains nonchalant and cheerful despite being arrested.
Starlight's unflappable demeanor in custody.
“Sooner than hurt a hair of his head he'd have put his hand into the fire and kept it there.”
Warrigal would endure any pain to protect Starlight.
Dick reflects on Warrigal's loyalty to Starlight.