Short Fiction · Chapter
II: Mr. Peters explained
Judge Harbottle, after a session in the House of Lords, encounters a frail old gentleman who claims to have urgent intelligence for him.
What happens
Judge Harbottle, after a session in the House of Lords, encounters a frail old gentleman who claims to have urgent intelligence for him. The stranger, Mr. Peters, warns the Judge of a secret tribunal called the 'High Court of Appeal' that is forming to judge the conduct of judges, targeting Harbottle specifically. The Judge is visibly shaken by the news and orders his footman to investigate Mr. Peters.
Themes in this chapter
Corruption and Injustice
The chapter introduces a secret tribunal formed to judge corrupt judges, directly addressing themes of judicial corruption and the pursuit of justice outside official channels.
Supernatural and the Uncanny
The mysterious appearance of Mr. Peters, his unnaturally chalky complexion, and the Judge's fear suggest an uncanny or supernatural element underlying the conspiracy.
Characters to notice
- Judge Harbottle
The Judge is the central figure, receiving a warning about a secret tribunal targeting him. He is portrayed as shrewd, dangerous, and initially dismissive but becomes frightened.
- Mr. Peters
A mysterious old gentleman who warns Judge Harbottle about the 'High Court of Appeal' conspiracy. He appears frail and agitated, and his story deeply unsettles the Judge.
Key passages
“He has either painted his face, or he is consumedly sick”
The Judge suspects Mr. Peters might be wearing makeup or is seriously ill, noting his unnaturally pale complexion.
Highlights the Judge's suspicion and the uncanny appearance of Mr. Peters.
“a secret tribunal is in process of formation, the object of which is to take cognisance of the conduct of the judges; and first, of your conduct, my lord: it is a wicked conspiracy.”
Mr. Peters warns the Judge of a secret court being established to investigate and judge the behavior of judges, starting with Judge Harbottle himself.
Central to the chapter's plot, introducing the conspiracy theme.