The Return of Tarzan · Chapter
The Wreck of the Lady Alice explained
After Tarzan's disappearance from the ship, Hazel Strong grows concerned and reports him missing.
What happens
After Tarzan's disappearance from the ship, Hazel Strong grows concerned and reports him missing. The captain orders a search, but no trace is found. Monsieur Thuran, having obtained what he came for, decides to pursue Hazel Strong for her fortune. He follows her to Cape Town, where he becomes a frequent visitor and eventually proposes. Hazel asks for time to consider. Meanwhile, Jane Porter unexpectedly reunites with Hazel, but is despondent. A series of misfortunes plague the yacht Lady Alice, culminating in a collision with a derelict that rips open the hull. The ship sinks, but all four boats are safely launched.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Betrayal
Monsieur Thuran's manipulative pursuit of Hazel Strong for her fortune, while hiding his role in Tarzan's disappearance.
Survival and Physical Prowess
The wreck of the Lady Alice and the desperate launch of lifeboats highlight the struggle for survival at sea.
Characters to notice
- Tarzan
Missing from breakfast; his berth was not occupied; presumed lost overboard.
- Monsieur Thuran
In good spirits after Tarzan's disappearance; ingratiates himself with Hazel Strong; follows her to Cape Town and proposes.
- Hazel Strong
Worried about Tarzan's absence; reports him missing to the captain; later reunites with Jane Porter in Cape Town.
- Jane Porter
Reunites with Hazel Strong in Cape Town; is despondent and quiet; aboard the Lady Alice when it sinks.
- Lord Tennington
Attempts to cheer Jane Porter; takes charge during the sinking of the Lady Alice, giving calm orders.
- Mrs. Strong
Distrusts Monsieur Thuran; travels with her daughter to Cape Town.
Key passages
“I have looked upon you always as a very dear friend. I shall not give you my answer now. Forget that you have asked me to be your wife. Let us go on as we have been—then I can consider you from an entirely different angle for a time.”
Hazel Strong tells Monsieur Thuran that she sees him only as a friend and asks for time to think about his marriage proposal.
Hazel's cautious response to Thuran's proposal, reflecting her uncertainty.
“There's a hole in her you could drive a bally cow through, sir.”
The officer reports that the yacht has a massive hole in its hull and cannot stay afloat much longer.
Graphic description of the damage to the Lady Alice.