The Avenger · Chapter
XX: A Narrow Escape explained
Michael Brixan has a narrow escape from the monstrous Bhag, who is driven off by a mysterious brown-faced man with a curved sword.
What happens
Michael Brixan has a narrow escape from the monstrous Bhag, who is driven off by a mysterious brown-faced man with a curved sword. Afterward, Brixan retrieves his pistol, observes Stella Mendoza leaving Griff Towers, and retrieves his hook ladder. He returns home, doubts his initial solution to the Headhunter mystery, and is visited the next morning by Major Staines, who brings a newspaper cutting found in Francis Elmer's pocket—an advertisement for a 'Benefactor' that may be linked to the murders. Staines warns Brixan to be cautious and not to underestimate the killer.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Justice
The investigation into the Headhunter murders continues, with Brixan and Staines analyzing clues such as the Benefactor advertisement and the mysterious brown-faced man.
The Macabre and Grotesque
Bhag's ape-like appearance and behavior, the drumming on his chest, and the hissing sound create a grotesque and terrifying atmosphere.
Deception and Appearances
Stella Mendoza and Sir Gregory Penne maintain a polite facade despite the sinister circumstances, and the Benefactor advertisement suggests a deceptive lure.
Characters to notice
- Mike Brixan
Narrowly escapes Bhag, retrieves his pistol, doubts his initial theory, and receives a visit from Major Staines.
- Major George Staines
Visits Brixan unexpectedly, brings a newspaper cutting from Elmer's pocket, discusses the Benefactor advertisement, and warns Brixan to be careful.
- Bhag
Attacks Brixan but is driven off by the brown-faced man with a curved sword.
- Stella Mendoza
Leaves Griff Towers after a visit, speaking with Sir Gregory Penne.
- Sir Gregory Penne
Seen at Griff Towers bidding goodnight to Stella Mendoza.
- Francis Elmer
Mentioned in connection with the Benefactor advertisement found in his waistcoat pocket.
Key passages
“he was less confident that his first solution of the Headhunter mystery was the correct one. And the more he thought, the less satisfied he was, till at last, in sheer disgust at his own vacillation of mind, he turned out the light and went to bed.”
Brixan began to doubt his initial theory about the Headhunter, and after growing increasingly frustrated with his indecision, he finally gave up and went to sleep.
Brixan's self-doubt and mental exhaustion are highlighted.
“I’ve either got nightmare or it’s Staines,” he said. Major Staines smiled cheerfully. “You’re awake and normal,” he said.”
Brixan, half-asleep, jokes that he must be dreaming to see Staines, who cheerfully confirms that he is indeed awake.
The friendly rapport between Brixan and Staines is evident.
“It is a queer idea, almost a fantastical one,” said Staines gravely, “but if you feel that you’ve got so much as one thread in your hands, go right ahead.”
Staines acknowledges that Brixan's theory is strange and almost unbelievable, but encourages him to pursue it if he has any lead.
Staines supports Brixan's investigative instincts despite the oddness of the theory.