XVI explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Yellow Peril

  Fu-Manchu is described as an 'enemy of the white race' writing his name 'in characters of blood,' embodying the era's racial fears.

• Fear and Paranoia

  Petrie's sense of fantasy and the eerie disappearance of the dacoit in the Thames heighten the atmosphere of constant threat.

• Loyalty and Betrayal

  Karamanèh's dilemma between loyalty to Fu-Manchu and her desire to save her brother drives the chapter's tension.

Characters to notice

• Nayland Smith

  Interrogates Karamanèh, captures a disguised dacoit, and directs Petrie in pursuit.

• Dr. Petrie

  Negotiates with Karamanèh, pursues a dacoit into the Thames, and narrowly avoids a thrown knife.

• Karamanèh

  Reveals her brother is held by Fu-Manchu, agrees to help if brother is freed and she is released.

• Dr. Fu-Manchu

  Referenced as the master holding Karamanèh's brother and the target of the investigation.

Key passages

• “You may call me Karamanèh,” she said. “As Karamanèh I was sold to Dr. Fu-Manchu, and my brother also he purchased.”

  She reveals her name and that both she and her brother were bought by Fu-Manchu.

  Karamanèh discloses her enslaved status and her brother's captivity.

• “If I help you to take Dr. Fu-Manchu⁠—tell you where he is to be found alone ⁠—will you promise me, solemnly promise me, that you will immediately go to the place where I shall guide you and release my brother; that you will let us both go free?”

  She offers to betray Fu-Manchu in exchange for her and her brother's freedom.

  Karamanèh proposes a deal to Petrie.

• “He’s tricked you,” said Smith, an angry note in his voice. “What is that you have in your hand?””

  Smith realizes the dacoit has escaped Petrie's pursuit.

  Smith expresses frustration at the dacoit's clever evasion.