# XXII explained — Robbery Under Arms

> Chapter companion for Robbery Under Arms by Rolf Boldrewood.

## What happens

Dick Marston receives a bitter letter from Kate Mullockson (formerly Morrison), who mocks his downfall and announces her marriage to a wealthy man. Jim Marston shares his longing to reunite with Jeanie but feels trapped by his outlaw life. The brothers explore the Hollow, a hidden valley that serves as their refuge, and reflect on their past and uncertain future.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Jim's devotion to Jeanie and Dick's lingering feelings for Gracey contrast with Kate's bitter, transactional marriage.

### The Bush and Outlaw Life

The Hollow is depicted as a natural fortress and refuge for the outlaws, emphasizing their separation from society.

### Crime and Punishment

Dick and Jim reflect on their criminal past and the consequences that keep them from returning to normal life.

## Character check-ins

### Dick Marston

Receives and reacts to Kate's spiteful letter; feels relief at being rid of her and renewed affection for Gracey Storefield.

### Jim Marston

Comforts Dick after the letter; expresses deep longing to return to Jeanie but feels trapped by his criminal record.

### Kate Mullockson

Sends a venomous letter to Dick, announcing her marriage to Mr. Mullockson and blaming him for her unhappiness.

### Dad Marston

Leads the brothers into the Hollow; provides brandy and food; speaks cheerfully about their safe haven.

### Grace Storefield

Mentioned by Dick as the woman who makes every other woman seem disagreeable to him.

### Jeanie Morrison

Mentioned as Jim's loyal love; her sister Kate contrasts her faithfulness.

## Key lines

> I did not hold myself bound to live single for your sake, so did what most women do, though they pretend to act from other motives, I disposed of myself to the best advantage.

Kate justifies her marriage to Mr. Mullockson as a practical decision, implying that women often marry for security rather than love.

_Kate's letter reveals her pragmatic and resentful view of marriage._

> I’d give all I ever had in the world if I could go to her and say, ‘Here I am, Jim Marston, without a penny in the world, but I can look every man in the face, and we’ll work our way along the road of life cheerful and loving together.’ But I can’t say it, Dick, that’s the devil of it.

Jim wishes he could return to Jeanie as an honest man, but his criminal record prevents him from doing so.

_Jim's lament highlights the theme of love and sacrifice, and the burden of his outlaw past._

> Well, boys, what d’ye think of the Hollow again? It’s not a bad earth for the old dog-fox and his cubs when the hounds have run him close.

Dad Marston compares their hideout to a fox's den, suggesting it is a safe refuge from the law.

_Dad's metaphor reinforces the theme of the bush and outlaw life._

## Links

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