The Quest of the Silver Fleece · Chapter
XXVI: Congressman Cresswell explained
Harry Cresswell is elected to Congress through family influence and money.
What happens
Harry Cresswell is elected to Congress through family influence and money. In Washington, his wife Mary Taylor Cresswell grows restless and dissatisfied with her marriage. Meanwhile, Bles Alwyn is slated for a high government position, but Sam Stillings and Teerswell conspire to undermine him. Stillings manipulates Alwyn into making a controversial speech, then alerts Congressman Cresswell, who works to block Alwyn's appointment. Mrs. Vanderpool defends Alwyn, but the plot advances.
Themes in this chapter
Corruption of Philanthropy and Politics
The chapter exposes the corrupt bargain behind Cresswell's election and the machinations to block Alwyn's appointment.
Class and Color Hierarchy
Cresswell and Stillings exploit racial prejudice to maintain white supremacy and control over political appointments.
The Intersection of North and South
Mary Taylor's Northern ideals clash with Southern political realities, and the plot involves Northern philanthropists and Southern politicians.
Characters to notice
- Harry Cresswell
Elected to Congress through family influence; actively plots against Bles Alwyn's appointment.
- Mary Taylor
Now Mrs. Harry Cresswell, restless and unfulfilled in her marriage, yearning for a role in her husband's political life.
- Bles Alwyn
Slated for a high office; becomes the target of a conspiracy led by Stillings and Cresswell.
- Sam Stillings
Schemes to undermine Alwyn and secure a government position for himself, using Teerswell and Cresswell.
- Mr. Teerswell
Jealous of Alwyn's relationship with Carrie Wynn; joins Stillings' plot to destroy Alwyn.
- Mrs. Vanderpool
Defends Alwyn's appointment, showing interest in honest politics.
Key passages
“The election of Harry Cresswell to Congress was a very simple matter. The Colonel and his son drove to town and consulted the Judge; together they summoned the sheriff and the local member of the State legislature.”
Harry Cresswell's election was easily arranged through a meeting with local officials and a bribe.
Illustrates the corrupt political process.
“Stillings, you look like a fool, but you're a genius.”
Teerswell compliments Stillings on his cunning despite his appearance.
Highlights the deceptive nature of the conspiracy.
“I'm interested in Alwyn; in fact, an honest man in politics, even if he is black, piques my curiosity.”
Mrs. Vanderpool expresses curiosity about Alwyn's honesty, which is rare in politics.
Shows her support for Alwyn.