# XX: Petticoat Mine explained — The Chinese Parrot

> Chapter companion for The Chinese Parrot by Earl Derr Biggers.

## What happens

Bob Eden and Charlie Chan realize their theory about Jerry Delaney is wrong after hearing his voice over the wireless. Their discussion is interrupted by Will Holley, who reports that Paula Wendell has gone missing after visiting the Petticoat Mine. Eden and Holley drive to the abandoned mining town, where they confront Shaky Phil Maydorf. After a struggle, Eden unlocks the jail and finds Evelyn Madden and Paula Wendell imprisoned. A mysterious figure is discovered locked in a second cell.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

The chapter reveals that the central theory about Jerry Delaney's death was false, underscoring how appearances and assumptions can mislead.

### Isolation and the Desert Landscape

The remote Petticoat Mine and its ghost town setting emphasize the desolate, isolating environment where characters are trapped and secrets are hidden.

## Character check-ins

### Bob Eden

Distraught over the collapse of their theory, but quickly shifts focus to rescuing Paula Wendell. He physically subdues Shaky Phil Maydorf and frees the imprisoned women.

### Charlie Chan

Remains calm despite the shattered theory, quoting Confucius. He offers Eden his automatic pistol before the rescue mission.

### Will Holley

Arrives in a panic to report Paula Wendell's disappearance. He drives Eden to the Petticoat Mine and assists in the confrontation with Maydorf.

### Paula Wendell

Found imprisoned in the old jail at Petticoat Mine after being detained by Shaky Phil for exploring the area.

### Evelyn Madden

Also discovered locked in the jail, she breaks down in tears upon being rescued by Bob Eden.

### Shaky Phil Maydorf

Stationed at the Petticoat Mine, he attempts to prevent Holley and Eden from searching the area but is overpowered and disarmed.

## Key lines

> Our theory blows up completely, and you—

Our entire hypothesis has been disproven, and yet you remain unruffled.

_Eden expresses frustration at Chan's calm acceptance of their failed theory._

> I humbly beg of you—

I earnestly request that you take this weapon.

_Chan insists Eden carry the automatic for protection._

> I've been longing to meet you again, and I don't feel any too gentle.

I have been eager to encounter you once more, and I am not in a forgiving mood.

_Eden threatens Shaky Phil, referencing their earlier encounter._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_chinese_parrot_se/chapters/xx-petticoat-mine
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_chinese_parrot_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_chinese_parrot_se/chapters