The Mind of Mr. J. G. Reeder · Chapter
The Green Mamba explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Reeder orchestrates the arrest of Marylou Plessy for sending poisoned chocolates, leading to her conviction. Mo Liski, her lover and a powerful gang leader, threatens Reeder and is briefly imprisoned for intimidation. Upon release, Liski plots revenge while managing his criminal empire, including a deal involving the Nine Emeralds. Reeder, aware of the threat, remains cautious but refuses police protection after Liski's release, confident in his own abilities.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Disguise
Reeder's unassuming demeanor hides his sharp intellect, while Liski's dapper appearance conceals his criminal leadership.
Revenge and Feuds
Marylou Plessy and Mo Liski seek revenge on Reeder for their personal and criminal grievances.
Underworld and Criminal Networks
Mo Liski's gang controls racecourses, clubs, and drug traffic, illustrating organized crime in London.
Characters to notice
- Mr. J. G. Reeder
Receives poisoned chocolates, orchestrates Marylou Plessy's arrest, and calmly faces threats from Mo Liski.
- Marylou Plessy
Arrested for sending poisoned chocolates to Reeder, convicted, and sentenced to two years.
- Mo Liski
Threatens Reeder after Marylou's conviction, is imprisoned for intimidation, and upon release plots revenge while managing his criminal network.
- Chief Inspector Pyne
Reports Marylou's meeting with Liski to the Assistant Prosecutor and discusses Reeder's dangerous nature.
- Teddy Alfield
Liski's chief of staff, offers to assault Reeder but is warned off by Liski.
- Mrs. Kerrel
Reeder's housekeeper, brings tea and discusses the chocolates.
Key passages
“He said aloud: 'Marylou Plessy—dear me!' Here began the war.”
Reeder realized Marylou Plessy was behind the poisoned chocolates, marking the start of a conflict.
Reeder identifies the sender and initiates his counterattack.
“Mine is Mo Liski. You’ve sent down a friend of mine—' 'Mrs. Plessy?' 'Yes—you know! Reeder, I’m going to get you for that!'”
Mo Liski confronts Reeder after Marylou's conviction and threatens revenge.
Liski openly threatens Reeder, leading to his own arrest for intimidation.
“That man is a genial mamba! Never seen a mamba? He’s a nice black snake, and you’re dead two seconds after he strikes!”
The Assistant Prosecutor compares Reeder to a deadly mamba snake, emphasizing his hidden danger.
Reeder's colleagues recognize his lethal effectiveness despite his mild appearance.