The Third Round · Chapter
IX: In Which Professor Goodman Has a Trying Time explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Robinson reveals to Professor Goodman that he is not Scheidstrun but a man seeking revenge on Carl Peterson. He explains that he staged Goodman's apparent death to thwart Peterson's murder plot and to secure the secret of Goodman's process for himself. After a tense negotiation, Goodman agrees to share his secret in exchange for his freedom, and they begin the experiment.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Justice
Robinson's entire scheme is driven by a twenty-year desire for revenge against Peterson, which he considers an 'artistic revenge'.
Deception and Disguise
Robinson disguises himself as Scheidstrun and poses as Goodman's brother, highlighting the theme of deception.
The Price of Secrets
Goodman's scientific secret is the central object of desire, and its price is his freedom and the safety of his wife.
Characters to notice
- Mr. William Robinson
Reveals his true identity and his twenty-year revenge plot against Peterson, having disguised himself as Scheidstrun to save Goodman and secure the secret.
- Professor Goodman
Learns the truth about his abduction and the deception, reluctantly agrees to share his process under duress.
- Carl Peterson
Mentioned as the target of Robinson's revenge, the man who originally plotted to murder Goodman.
Key passages
“I have lived for nothing else; I have thought of nothing else. But one thing I was determined on—that my revenge when it did come should be a worthy one.”
Robinson has dedicated his entire life to revenge, ensuring it would be a fitting and personal act.
Highlights Robinson's obsession with revenge.
“It was a scheme after his own heart, and I made up my mind to strike at last. Apart from frustrating the monstrous crime of murdering you, I should achieve an artistic revenge.”
Robinson saw an opportunity to both stop Peterson's murder plot and achieve a satisfying revenge.
Explains Robinson's motivation for intervening.
“You are, as I think you must admit yourself, a little obstinate, aren’t you?”
Robinson suggests Goodman is stubborn, which is why he didn't tell him the truth.
Robinson justifies his deception by citing Goodman's character.