The Avenger · Chapter
Two from the Yard explained
Mike Brixan meets with Detective Inspector Lyle and Sergeant Walters from Scotland Yard, who have been placed under his orders.
What happens
Mike Brixan meets with Detective Inspector Lyle and Sergeant Walters from Scotland Yard, who have been placed under his orders. They provide information about Sir Gregory Penne, including his criminal record for assault and his background in Borneo, as well as details about his companion Bhag, an orangutan. Brixan arranges for Adele to be watched by a Scotland Yard man for her safety.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Justice
Scotland Yard joins the investigation, highlighting the formal pursuit of justice and criminal records.
Colonialism and the 'Other'
Penne's background in Borneo and his Papuan-crewed yacht reflect colonial exoticism and othering.
Characters to notice
- Mike Brixan
Receives Scotland Yard officers and gives instructions for Adele's protection.
- Detective Inspector Lyle
Chief of the two Scotland Yard officers placed under Brixan's orders.
- Adele Leamington
Becomes aware she is being shadowed by a Scotland Yard man and receives a reassuring note from Brixan.
- Sir Gregory Penne
Discussed as a suspect with a criminal record for assault and a dubious past in Borneo.
- Bhag
Identified as Penne's orangutan companion, captured as a baby and raised in captivity.
Key passages
“The fact is that sheerly criminal work is a novelty to me, and I’m afraid that I’m going to make it a mystery to you”
Brixan admits he is inexperienced in criminal investigation and worries his methods may confuse the detectives.
Brixan's humility and inexperience in police work.
“He was convicted and fined a few years ago for assaulting a servant—a woman. Apparently he took a whip to the girl, and he very narrowly escaped going to prison.”
Penne has a prior conviction for whipping a female servant and barely avoided jail.
Reveals Penne's violent history.
“Would you mind if I put a Scotland Yard man to watch you, to see that you do not get into mischief!”
Brixan asks Adele to accept police surveillance for her own safety.
Brixan's protective concern for Adele.