The Borough Treasurer · Chapter
The Interrupted Flight explained
Mallalieu, having witnessed Stoner's fall into Hobwick Quarry, decides to flee.
What happens
Mallalieu, having witnessed Stoner's fall into Hobwick Quarry, decides to flee. He carefully inspects the quarry to ensure his walking stick is not found, then plans a public departure under the guise of town business. He prepares his valuables in a specially made waistcoat and arms himself with a revolver. After a morning of routine activity, he attends a committee meeting, only to be arrested at its conclusion by Norcaster detectives on a warrant for Stoner's murder.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Punishment
Mallalieu's flight and arrest highlight the consequences of his crimes, including Stoner's murder.
Deception and Betrayal
Mallalieu deceives the town by using a committee meeting as cover for his escape, betraying his public role.
Greed and Materialism
Mallalieu's careful preparation of his securities and gold underscores his materialistic concern for wealth even in flight.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Mallalieu
Plans his flight after Stoner's death, inspects the quarry for his stick, prepares his valuables, and is arrested at the Town Hall.
- Bert Stoner
Referenced as the victim who fell into Hobwick Quarry; Mallalieu reflects on the event and the missing stick.
- Mr. Cotherstone
Mallalieu sees him at the office but avoids speaking about Stoner's death.
- David Myler
Arrives at the police station with Norcaster detectives to arrest Mallalieu.
Key passages
“Twenty-four hours after he had seen Stoner fall headlong into Hobwick Quarry, Mallalieu made up his mind for flight.”
A day after witnessing Stoner's fatal fall, Mallalieu decided to escape.
Sets the chapter's central action in motion.
“He would go, once and for all, and since he was to go he would go in such a fashion that nobody should be able to trace him.”
He planned to disappear completely and untraceably.
Highlights Mallalieu's cunning and determination.
“He had got together his valuable securities; they were all neatly bestowed in a stout envelope which fitted into the inner pocket of a waistcoat which he once had specially made to his own design.”
He had prepared his financial assets in a custom waistcoat for easy transport.
Shows his foresight and materialism.
“Mr. Mayor!... These are officers from Norcaster, sir—there's a warrant for your arrest. It's—it's the Stoner affair!”
The superintendent informs Mallalieu that Norcaster detectives have a warrant for his arrest in connection with Stoner's death.
Climactic moment of the chapter, leading to Mallalieu's capture.