The Black Gang · Chapter
In Which Count Zadowa Gets a Shock explained
Count Zadowa, posing as Mr.
What happens
Count Zadowa, posing as Mr. William Atkinson, meets with Charles Latter, M.P., at his Hoxton headquarters. He gives Latter orders to incite unrest in Sheffield and to carry out a scheme that will throw thousands out of work. Meanwhile, a disguised intruder (likely Hugh Drummond) overpowers the clerk downstairs and infiltrates the building, leading to a confrontation that shocks the Count.
Themes in this chapter
Disguise and Deception
The Count operates under the alias Mr. Atkinson, and Drummond uses a rough disguise to infiltrate the premises.
Class Conflict
The Count's plan to incite unemployed workers in Sheffield highlights the class tensions of the era.
Corruption of Power
The Count, a powerful figure, uses his influence to manipulate Latter and orchestrate violence for his own ends.
Characters to notice
- Count Zadowa
Revealed as the mastermind behind the Hoxton operation, he issues orders to Latter and prepares for an emergency when the alarm bell rings.
- Charles Latter
Receives instructions from the Count, showing his involvement and fear of the Black Gang.
- Hugh Drummond
Disguised as a rough customer, he incapacitates the clerk and infiltrates the building, likely causing the Count's shock.
- Mr. William Atkinson
The alias used by Count Zadowa for his money-lending front in Hoxton.
Key passages
“Supposing the gang gets me and foils the police,” muttered Latter through dry lips. “What then?” “I shall deal with them personally. They annoy me.””
Latter worries about the Black Gang, but the Count dismisses them, saying he will handle them himself if needed.
Shows the Count's arrogance and confidence in his own power.
“He is a very valuable man to us, and appears to be one of those extraordinary beings who really believe in the doctrines of Communism.”
The Count describes Delmorlick as a useful tool because he genuinely believes in communism and can stir up crowds.
Highlights the Count's cynical manipulation of true believers.