XVIII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Crime and Punishment

  Mr. Reeder's parable about caged rabbits and the fate of criminals underscores the theme of crime leading to imprisonment and loss of freedom.

• Deception and Identity

  Mr. Reeder's visit is a deceptive cover for his investigation, and Jeff's identity as a criminal is masked by his apparent convalescence.

• Loyalty and Betrayal

  Jeff accuses Lila of betraying him by revealing his marriage to Marney, highlighting the tension and distrust between them.

Characters to notice

• Jeff Legge

  Recovering from his injury, Jeff is irritable and suspicious, threatening Lila and worrying about the disruption to his operations.

• Lila Sain

  Lila tends to Jeff, defends herself against his accusations, and is visibly shaken by Mr. Reeder's arrival.

• Mr. Reeder

  Mr. Reeder visits Jeff under the guise of a friendly call, delivering a parable about caged rabbits and the fate of criminals.

• Golden

  Mentioned as Mr. Reeder's predecessor, who has gone abroad due to health issues.

• Craig

  Referenced by Jeff as a 'dirty, twisting thief' who was straightened by Johnny Gray.

• Marney Kane

  Mentioned as having returned to her father, Peter Kane.

Key passages

• “I like letting rabbits loose; other people like putting rabbits in cages.”

  Mr. Reeder enjoys freeing rabbits from captivity, contrasting with those who imprison them.

  This metaphor warns Jeff about the consequences of his criminal lifestyle.

• “If I get 'bird' for this marriage, I'll kill you, Lila.”

  Jeff threatens to kill Lila if he is imprisoned because of his marriage to Marney.

  Shows Jeff's violent temper and his belief that Lila betrayed him.

• “I never did believe in the equality of the sexes, but no girl is the weaker vessel if she gets first grip of the kitchen poker.”

  Lila asserts that she can defend herself physically despite not believing in gender equality.

  Highlights Lila's defiance and willingness to fight back against Jeff's threats.