The Secret Adversary · Chapter
XXVII: A Supper Party at the Savoy explained
The chapter opens with a lavish supper party hosted by Julius Hersheimmer at the Savoy, celebrating the successful resolution of the conspiracy.
What happens
The chapter opens with a lavish supper party hosted by Julius Hersheimmer at the Savoy, celebrating the successful resolution of the conspiracy. Guests include the American ambassador, Mr. Carter, Sir William Beresford, Archdeacon Cowley, Dr. Hall, Tuppence, Tommy, and Jane Finn as the guest of honour. The conversation turns to revelations about Sir James Peel Edgerton's secret identity as Mr. Brown, the mastermind behind the plot. Tommy explains how he deduced Sir James's guilt through careful observation, including a misspelled note. Mr. Carter reads from Sir James's diary, which reveals his megalomaniacal ambition and his double life as a respected barrister and criminal mastermind. The chapter concludes with the aftermath: the gang's collapse, Kramenin's flight, and the government's successful prevention of a national crisis.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Identity
Sir James Peel Edgerton's double life as a respected barrister and the criminal mastermind Mr. Brown exemplifies the theme of hidden identities and deception.
Post-War Disillusionment and Opportunity
The conspiracy to overthrow the government and the characters' secret service work highlight the post-war disillusionment and the opportunities for adventure and danger.
Crime and Justice
The exposure of Sir James's criminal organization and the prevention of a national crisis underscore the tension between crime and the pursuit of justice.
Characters to notice
- Tommy Beresford
Explains his deduction of Sir James's guilt, revealing his cleverness and growth as a secret agent.
- Tuppence Cowley
Playfully teases Julius about his earlier proposal and participates in dressing Jane for the party.
- Julius P. Hersheimmer
Hosts the supper party and admits his earlier suspicion of Sir James; shows romantic interest in Jane.
- Jane Finn
Guest of honour at the party, now rescued and dressed elegantly; her photograph was key to the investigation.
- Sir James Peel Edgerton
Revealed posthumously as Mr. Brown; his diary exposes his megalomania and double life.
- Mr. Carter
Reads from Sir James's diary and reflects on the narrow escape from national disaster.
Key passages
“I never liked him. I felt from the first that there was something wrong about him, and I always suspected that it was he who silenced Mrs. Vandemeyer so appositely.”
Julius says he never trusted Sir James and suspected him of causing Mrs. Vandemeyer's death.
Julius expresses his early suspicion of Sir James.
“I've always thought I was so much cleverer than Tommy—but he's undoubtedly scored over me handsomely.”
Tuppence admits that Tommy outsmarted her in solving the mystery.
Tuppence acknowledges Tommy's superior detective work.
“I was an awful mug—right up to the time I found that photograph of Annette, and realized that she was Jane Finn.”
Tommy confesses he was clueless until he discovered the photograph identifying Annette as Jane Finn.
Tommy explains the key moment that led to his deductions.
“It is madness to keep this book. I know that. It is documentary evidence against me. But I have never shrunk from taking risks.”
Sir James acknowledges the danger of keeping a diary but cannot resist documenting his thoughts.
From Sir James's diary, revealing his arrogance and need for self-expression.
“What a magnificent field—what unlimited possibilities! It made my brain reel.”
Sir James reflects on the vast opportunities for a man of brains in the criminal underworld.
Sir James's diary entry showing his fascination with crime as a career.
