Robbery Under Arms · Chapter
XXXIX explained
Jim, Dick, and Starlight ride to Darjallook to protect Mrs.
What happens
Jim, Dick, and Starlight ride to Darjallook to protect Mrs. Whitman and her daughters from Dan Moran's gang, who intend to terrorize the household. They arrive to find Moran already there, but Jim subdues him. Miss Falkland, a guest, expresses deep gratitude to the outlaws, especially Jim, and promises to help his wife Jeanie in Melbourne. Later, at Jonathan Barnes's house, the group celebrates, and Maddie Barnes kisses Jim in admiration.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Morality
Starlight and the Marstons intervene to protect women from Moran's brutality, showing a code of honor despite their outlaw status.
Love and Sacrifice
Jim's devotion to his wife Jeanie is evident as he seeks Miss Falkland's help, and his fierce protection of Miss Falkland reflects his loyalty.
Characters to notice
- Jim Marston
Subdues Moran at Darjallook; gives Miss Falkland Jeanie's address in Melbourne; remains stoic and devoted to his wife.
- Captain Starlight
Leads the group to Darjallook; politely apologizes to Mrs. Whitman for Moran's behavior; bows gallantly to Miss Falkland.
- Dick Marston
Narrates the chapter; rides with Jim and Starlight to Darjallook; participates in the confrontation.
- Maddie Barnes
At Jonathan's house, she kisses Jim and praises him for smashing Moran; expresses curiosity about the night's events.
- Miss Polly
Not present in this chapter.
- Miss Falkland
Guest at Darjallook; thanks Starlight and the Marstons; promises to help Jeanie Morrison in Melbourne.
Key passages
“It’s too late, Miss Falkland,” I said. “We’re all thankful to you for the way you’ve spoken. Jim and I would be proud to shed our blood for you any time, or Mr. Falkland either. We’ll do what we can, but we’ll have to fight it out to the end now, and take our chance of the bullet coming before the rope.”
Dick tells Miss Falkland that they appreciate her concern but are committed to their outlaw life and will face death by bullet or noose.
Dick expresses fatalism and loyalty to Miss Falkland.
“You, poor old Jim,” she said, and she took hold of his brown hand and held it in her own, “I am more sorry than I can tell to hear all I have done about you and Dick too. This is the second time you have saved me, and I am not the girl to forget it, if I could only show my gratitude. Is there any way?””
Miss Falkland thanks Jim for saving her again and asks how she can repay him.
Miss Falkland's gratitude and offer to help Jim.