The Hidden Staircase · Chapter
Notifying the Police explained
Nancy and the Turnbull sisters race to the sheriff's office to report Nathan Gombet's crimes.
What happens
Nancy and the Turnbull sisters race to the sheriff's office to report Nathan Gombet's crimes. After initial hesitation, the sheriff agrees to act upon learning Nancy is Carson Drew's daughter. They drive to Gombet's house, where the sheriff's noisy approach alarms Nancy. They enter through the cellar and find themselves facing a shotgun held by Gombet's servant.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Morality
Nancy's determination to see Gombet arrested underscores the pursuit of justice despite the sheriff's initial reluctance.
Courage and Resourcefulness
Nancy leads the police through the cellar window, showing bravery and ingenuity in the face of danger.
Characters to notice
- Nancy Drew
Leads the effort to notify the police and confront Gombet, showing determination and quick thinking.
- Floretta Turnbull
Accompanies Nancy and expresses fear of shooting during the confrontation.
- Rosemary Turnbull
Frets about the lack of a telephone and criticizes the sheriff's competence.
- Nathan Gombet
The suspect whose house is surrounded; his servant is found holding a shotgun.
- Carson Drew
Mentioned by Nancy; his reputation convinces the sheriff to take action.
Key passages
““Oh, why does that sheriff have to be so dramatic?” Nancy murmured, in alarm. “After all this noise, it will be a wonder if Nathan Gombet doesn’t slip through the secret tunnel and escape. That will ruin everything!””
Nancy criticizes the sheriff's loud approach, fearing it will alert Gombet and allow him to escape through a secret tunnel.
Highlights Nancy's strategic thinking and concern about the operation's success.
““If my father were here, he’d convince you all right,” Nancy said, with rising temper.”
Nancy angrily asserts that her father, Carson Drew, would be able to persuade the sheriff.
Shows Nancy's frustration and her reliance on her father's reputation.