Room 13 · Chapter
II explained
Johnny Gray is released from Dartmoor prison and returns to Peter Kane's house, where he learns that Marney has married Major Floyd.
What happens
Johnny Gray is released from Dartmoor prison and returns to Peter Kane's house, where he learns that Marney has married Major Floyd. He encounters Barney Ford and overhears a confrontation between Marney and Barney about his prying. Johnny and Peter discuss Emanuel Legge, who has been released and holds a grudge against Peter for allegedly informing on him.
Themes in this chapter
Loyalty and Betrayal
Peter Kane denies betraying Emanuel Legge, while Legge believes he was 'shopped'; Fenner's case highlights betrayal by Legge.
Fatherhood and Protection
Peter Kane's obsessive concern for Marney's future leads him to support her marriage to Major Floyd.
Crime and Punishment
Johnny's release from prison, Fenner's assault and impending flogging, and the ongoing criminal tensions between Legge and Kane.
Characters to notice
- Johnny Gray
Released from prison and returns to Peter Kane's house; learns of Marney's marriage; discusses Emanuel Legge with Peter.
- Peter Kane
Welcomes Johnny back; reveals Marney married Major Floyd; discusses Emanuel Legge's hatred and release.
- Marney Kane
Now married to Major Floyd; confronts Barney Ford about his prying.
- Barney
The butler with a criminal past; caught prying by Marney; greets Johnny upon his return.
- Emanuel Legge
Mentioned as having been released from prison six months ago; holds a grudge against Peter Kane.
- Fenner
A convict who attacks a warder; his case is discussed in relation to Legge's testimony.
Key passages
“He hates you, Peter. He says you shopped him.”
Johnny tells Peter that Emanuel Legge believes Peter informed on him.
Johnny relays Legge's accusation of betrayal.
“She was married this morning.”
Peter reveals that Marney married Major Floyd earlier that day.
Johnny learns of Marney's marriage.
“He coshed a screw, but they can't give him another bashing.”
Fenner attacked a warder but cannot be flogged again because his sentence is nearly over.
Discussion of Fenner's violent outburst and the limits on punishment.