Short Science Fiction · Chapter
A Night of Trouble explained
Walter Sills revels in his discovery of ammonium metal, but his joy is short-lived as he faces a series of threats: a lowball offer from J.
What happens
Walter Sills revels in his discovery of ammonium metal, but his joy is short-lived as he faces a series of threats: a lowball offer from J. Throgmorton Bankhead, the intrusive proposal of ex-Congressman Peter Q. Hornswoggle, and a nighttime burglary attempt by gangster 'Slappy' Egan and his associate Mike. After a chaotic struggle, Sills and his partner Eugene Taylor drive off the intruders, but the night's events leave Sills shaken and regretting his public announcement.
Themes in this chapter
Greed and Corruption
Bankhead's lowball offer, Hornswoggle's scheming, and the gangsters' theft attempt all illustrate the corrupting influence of wealth.
The Pursuit of Fame and Wealth
Sills' initial joy at fame and his plan to sell the patent for a fortune drive the chapter's conflict.
Characters to notice
- Walter Sills
Delighted by his discovery but soon overwhelmed by the unwanted attention and burglary attempt.
- Eugene Taylor
Sills' pragmatic associate who handles negotiations and helps fend off the burglars.
- J. Throgmorton Bankhead
Wealthy industrialist who offers a paltry sum for the patent and later conspires with unsavory contacts.
- Peter Q. Hornswoggle
Former Congressman who first tries to ingratiate himself, then returns as a burglar.
- Slappy Egan
Gangster who cases the lab and participates in the break-in.
- Mike the Slug
Gangster who fights Taylor and escapes after a scuffle.
Key passages
“How does it feel to be famous?”
Taylor asks Sills about the experience of fame.
Highlights Sills' initial elation.
“A million would be more like it.”
Taylor rejects Bankhead's offer of two thousand dollars.
Shows the high value placed on the discovery.
“Ammonium has certainly proved to be very upsetting so far. I almost wish I had never heard of it.”
Sills regrets his discovery after the night's troubles.
Reflects the theme of unintended consequences.