# Chapter II explained — The Lazy Detective

> Chapter companion for The Lazy Detective by George Dilnot.

## What happens

The discovery of the Streetly House jewel robbery is investigated by Detective Inspector Labar. Despite the flawless execution of the crime, Labar suspects Larry Hughes but lacks evidence. He faces pressure from the victim, Mr. Solly Gertstein, and anxiety about his career standing with his superiors. The Assistant Commissioner and Chief Constable arrive, and Labar is left to manage the investigation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Wealth

Gertstein's wealth and threats of influence underscore the power dynamics between the rich and the police.

### Professionalism and Morality

Labar's struggle with professional etiquette and the ethical dilemma of accepting rewards is central to the chapter.

### Crime and Justice

The flawless execution of the robbery and the lack of evidence highlight the challenges of achieving justice.

## Character check-ins

### Harry Labar

Divisional Detective Inspector leading the investigation; anxious about career repercussions and professional missteps.

### Solly Gertstein

Wealthy victim of the robbery; agitated and threatening to use his influence against the police.

### Larry Hughes

Prime suspect in the robbery, identified by Malone as having the 'hallmark' of the crime.

### Malone

Detective who observes the lack of fingerprints and suggests Larry Hughes as the culprit.

### Winter

Chief Constable of the C.I.D.; rebukes Labar for his pessimism and later notes Labar's capacity for hard work.

### Marlow

Detective Superintendent and Labar's immediate superior; part of the 'Big Four' arriving at the scene.

## Key lines

> Not so much as a blighting fingerprint

There was not a single fingerprint left behind.

_Malone comments on the thieves' skill in avoiding detection._

> This has got the hallmark of Larry, guv’nor.

This crime bears the distinctive style of Larry Hughes, sir.

_Malone identifies Larry Hughes as the likely mastermind._

> About as easy as taking treacle from a bear’s mouth.

It would be extremely difficult to accomplish.

_Labar uses a simile to express the challenge of solving the case._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lazy_detective_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lazy_detective_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lazy_detective_se/chapters