The Brooklyn Murders · Chapter
Two Men Strike a Bargain explained
Walter Brooklyn, recently released from custody, dines alone at his club, aware of the curiosity and suspicion of the staff and members.
What happens
Walter Brooklyn, recently released from custody, dines alone at his club, aware of the curiosity and suspicion of the staff and members. He reflects on his improved prospects with his nephews out of the way and contemplates his brother Sir Vernon's critical illness. He telephones to inquire after Sir Vernon and learns his condition is grave but not hopeless. Later, he meets with Carter Woodman, who proposes a deal: Woodman will provide £20,000 immediately and an annual allowance in exchange for half of Walter's inheritance under Sir Vernon's will and a new will naming Woodman as heir. After negotiation, Walter agrees, and they sign the documents witnessed by the night-porter and a waiter. Woodman leaves to raise funds, while Walter feels swindled but consoled by the immediate cash and the prospect of future wealth.
Themes in this chapter
Greed and Inheritance
The entire chapter revolves around Walter Brooklyn and Carter Woodman bargaining over Sir Vernon's inheritance, with both men motivated by financial gain and the desire to secure wealth.
Deception and False Clues
Walter Brooklyn feels he has been swindled by Woodman, who uses his secret knowledge of the will to strike a hard bargain, highlighting the deceptive nature of their agreement.
Characters to notice
- Walter Brooklyn
Dines alone at his club, reflects on his release and prospects, negotiates a financial bargain with Carter Woodman, and feels both swindled and hopeful.
- Carter Woodman
Proposes and drafts a deal with Walter Brooklyn to secure half of Walter's inheritance and become his heir, leveraging his knowledge of Sir Vernon's will.
- Sir Vernon Brooklyn
Lies critically ill at Liskeard House; his condition is reported as grave but not hopeless, and any shock would be fatal.
Key passages
“There is a thrill to be got by close personal contact with a real murderer.”
The club servants are eager to serve Walter because being near an accused murderer is exciting.
Reflects the morbid curiosity of the staff despite their belief in his guilt.
“After me, the deluge”
Walter does not care what happens after his death, as long as he enjoys wealth while alive.
Walter's cynical attitude toward his financial arrangement with Woodman.