The Crimson Circle · Chapter
XVIII: “Flush” Barnet’s Story explained
Inspector Parr interrogates burglar Flush Barnet, who confesses he was hired by banker Brabazon to steal letters from Felix Marl's safe.
What happens
Inspector Parr interrogates burglar Flush Barnet, who confesses he was hired by banker Brabazon to steal letters from Felix Marl's safe. Barnet found only a photograph, which he burned. Parr deduces Brabazon is connected to the Crimson Circle and attempts to arrest him, but Brabazon has fled, and Parr suspects Thalia Drummond is involved.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Punishment
The chapter focuses on the burglary, the interrogation of Barnet, and the pursuit of Brabazon, highlighting the criminal justice process.
Deception and Identity
Barnet's false claims about the banknotes and Brabazon's hidden motives reveal layers of deception.
Class and Corruption
Brabazon, a banker, hires a burglar to cover up his own corruption, illustrating the intersection of class and criminality.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Barnet
Flush Barnet is interrogated by Parr; he confesses to being hired by Brabazon to burgle Marl's house and burn a photograph from the safe.
- Mr. Parr
Inspector Parr interviews Barnet, deduces the burglary was a paid job, and later attempts to arrest Brabazon, who has fled.
- Brabazon
Brabazon is revealed as the one who hired Barnet to steal letters from Marl; he escapes before Parr's arrival.
- Felix Marl
Marl is mentioned as the victim of the burglary and is reported dead, found in his bed.
- Thalia Drummond
Thalia is referenced as the woman Marl was sweet on and who Barnet used as an opportunity to burgle; Parr suspects she will get another job.
- Milly Macroy
Milly is Barnet's girlfriend who works at Brabazon's bank, leading to Barnet's connection with Brabazon.
Key passages
“They’re my own, I tell you, Mr. Parr,” he protested, “would I tell you a lie?” “Of course you would,” said Inspector Parr without heat.”
Barnet insists the banknotes are his, but Parr calmly points out that Barnet is a known liar.
Shows Parr's skepticism and Barnet's desperation.
“I don’t know anything about Crimson Circles, Mr. Parr,” he said, “but this is the truth.””
Barnet claims ignorance of the Crimson Circle but swears he is telling the truth about the burglary.
Barnet distances himself from the larger conspiracy.
“Thalia Drummond is going to get another job,” he said.”
Parr implies that Thalia will soon be arrested or implicated.
Foreshadows Thalia's involvement and possible escape.