# XIX: The Return to Earth explained — The Skylark of Space

> Chapter companion for The Skylark of Space by E. E. Smith.

## What happens

The Skylark returns to Earth after an uneventful voyage. DuQuesne examines the treasure given by Dunark, including radium and priceless gems, and plans to become a money power. As they approach Earth, the group discusses DuQuesne's fate, but he escapes via a parachute over the Panama Canal. The chapter ends with the Skylark landing at Crane Field, where Shiro greets them, and the couples reunite joyfully.

## Themes in this chapter

### Scientific Discovery and Innovation

DuQuesne's acquisition of radium and exotic gems highlights the value of rare scientific materials, while the Skylark's navigation and parachute escape demonstrate advanced technology.

### Survival and Resilience

The crew's successful return after a perilous journey, and DuQuesne's daring parachute jump from extreme altitude, underscore themes of endurance and adaptability.

## Character check-ins

### Marc DuQuesne

Examines his treasure from Dunark, plans to become a money power, and escapes the Skylark via parachute over the Panama Canal.

### Richard Seaton

Pilots the Skylark back to Earth, confronts DuQuesne about his future, and joyfully reunites with Dorothy upon landing.

### Martin Crane

Calculates the course to Washington, discovers DuQuesne's escape, and is deeply moved upon seeing the landing lights of Crane Field.

### Dorothy Vaneman

Prepares a meal during the voyage, defends DuQuesne's escape, and shares a tender reunion with Seaton.

### Margaret Spencer

Helps prepare a meal, expresses relief at DuQuesne's departure, and is glad to be back on Earth.

### Shiro

Greets the returning party at Crane Field, having kept the landing lights burning faithfully.

## Key lines

> At last, I will be what I have always longed to be—a money power. Now I can cut loose from that gang of crooks and go my own way.

DuQuesne resolves to use his newfound wealth to become financially independent and break free from his criminal associates.

_Reveals DuQuesne's ambition and his intention to operate alone._

> I think he earned his liberty.

Dorothy believes DuQuesne deserves to go free after his contributions during the voyage.

_Shows Dorothy's capacity for fairness despite DuQuesne's villainy._

> Nine weeks, Dick, and Shiro would have kept them burning nine years if necessary.

Crane notes that Shiro maintained the landing lights faithfully throughout their absence.

_Highlights Shiro's loyalty and the emotional weight of their return._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se/chapters/xix-the-return-to-earth
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_skylark_of_space_se/chapters