# Strict Business Lines explained — The Borough Treasurer

> Chapter companion for The Borough Treasurer by J. S. Fletcher.

## What happens

Christopher Pett arrives at his aunt's cottage and learns that Mallalieu, the escaped mayor, is hiding there. Miss Pett plans to profit from harboring him. Christopher goes into town to gather information and assess the situation, while Mallalieu remains hidden.

## Themes in this chapter

### Greed and Materialism

Miss Pett and Christopher view harboring Mallalieu as a business opportunity, focusing on financial gain.

### Deception and Betrayal

Christopher spreads false information about his purpose in town to conceal the harboring of Mallalieu.

### Crime and Punishment

Mallalieu's escape and the police search underscore the theme of crime and its consequences.

## Character check-ins

### Christopher Pett

Arrives at the cottage, learns of Mallalieu's escape and hiding, and goes into town to gather information.

### Miss Pett

Harbors Mallalieu in Kitely's room, plans to profit from the situation, and discusses business with her nephew.

### Mr. Mallalieu

Hiding in the cottage, frightened and dependent on the Petts for escape.

### Mr. Kitely

Deceased; his room is used to hide Mallalieu, and his furniture is being sold.

## Key lines

> It’ll pay very well, Chris.

Miss Pett tells Christopher that harboring Mallalieu will be financially rewarding.

_Highlights the theme of greed and materialism._

> I got what I consider a very good price. Sold the whole lot to another Brixton property-owner, got paid, and have brought you the money.

Christopher reports that he sold Kitely's furniture for a good price and has brought the proceeds.

_Shows the business-like handling of Kitely's estate._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se/chapters/xxiv-strict-business-lines
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_borough_treasurer_se/chapters