The Sport of the Gods · Chapter
XVI: Skaggs's Theory explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Skaggs, a reporter for the New York Universe, develops a theory about Berry Hamilton's innocence based on Joe's drunken story. He convinces his editor to let him investigate, travels south, and gathers information from Colonel Saunders and others at the Continental Hotel. Saunders reveals that Maurice Oakley underwent a mysterious change four years after the theft, becoming reclusive and secretive, and speculates that Oakley found the missing money and carries it in a secret pocket. Skaggs confronts Oakley at his home, using a ruse about a message from his brother in Paris to pressure him into revealing his secret.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Self-Deception
Colonel Saunders and others know the truth about Oakley's secret but refuse to expose it to protect his social standing, highlighting the hypocrisy of the elite.
Cycle of Suffering and Fate
Oakley's secret consumes him, leading to madness and isolation, while Berry Hamilton remains imprisoned—a cycle of suffering perpetuated by pride and fear.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Skaggs
Develops a theory about Berry Hamilton's innocence, travels south to investigate, and confronts Maurice Oakley.
- Maurice Oakley
Described as a recluse with a guilty secret; he carries something in a secret pocket and is confronted by Skaggs.
- Colonel Saunders
Shares his theory about Oakley's secret with Skaggs at the Continental Hotel.
- Mrs. Oakley
Attempts to prevent Skaggs from seeing her husband but relents when Oakley hears 'Paris'.
- Beachfield Davis
Present at the Continental Hotel, discusses dogs and the Hamilton case.
Key passages
“I am something of a psychologist, and I often find the smallest and most insignificant-appearing details pregnant with suggestion.”
Skaggs claims to be a psychologist who finds meaning in small details.
Skaggs uses this to persuade Colonel Saunders to share the story.
“From a social, companionable man, he became a recluse, shunning visitors and dreading society.”
Maurice Oakley transformed from sociable to reclusive.
Colonel Saunders describes Oakley's change after the theft.
“It is the money which he carries in his secret pocket, with a morbid fear of its discovery.”
Saunders theorizes Oakley carries the stolen money in a secret pocket.
Key theory that drives Skaggs's investigation.
“I have tried to do my duty and failed. Simply tell him that I came from Paris.”
Skaggs uses 'Paris' as a code to gain entry to Oakley.
Skaggs's bluff to get past Mrs. Oakley.