# XVII explained — Robbery Under Arms

> Chapter companion for Robbery Under Arms by Rolf Boldrewood.

## 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'.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/robbery_under_arms_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/robbery_under_arms_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/robbery_under_arms_se/chapters