# How a German Engineer Found Strange Fishing explained — The Three Hostages

> Chapter companion for The Three Hostages by John Buchan.

## What happens

Hannay and Gaudian reconnoiter Snaasen, observing Newhover's predecessor depart and confirming Medina's plan. They explore the area at night and plan further surveillance. Hannay later meets Gaudian, who shares his disillusionment with post-war Germany, and they discuss the terrain. Hannay travels to Merdal, where he encounters a mysterious man who offers to help him find lodging.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Cost of Peace

Gaudian's lament about the harshness of foreign powers and the destruction of Germany reflects the ongoing consequences of the war.

### Loyalty and Friendship

Hannay and Gaudian form a trusting partnership, with Gaudian agreeing to help despite his initial reluctance.

## Character check-ins

### Richard Hannay

Narrator and protagonist; conducts reconnaissance of Snaasen and travels to Merdal.

### Herr Gaudian

German engineer and ally; assists Hannay in surveillance and shares his pessimistic views on Germany's future.

### Dr. Newhover

Medina's subordinate; observed relieving his predecessor at Snaasen.

### Johan

Hannay's boatman; left at Hauge with instructions to wait.

### Peter Bojer

Local farmer; Gaudian lodges with him and Hannay later seeks a bed there.

## Key lines

> I swear by all that’s holy I am telling you the plain truth, and the full truth. Newhover may have done anything you jolly well like in the War. That’s all washed out. I’m after him to get a line on a foul business which is English in origin. I want to put a spoke in the wheel of English criminals, and to save innocent lives.

Hannay assures Gaudian that his pursuit of Newhover is not about wartime grievances but about stopping an English criminal plot to save lives.

_Hannay convinces Gaudian of his honorable intentions._

> Reason is not listened to, and I fear there is no salvation till my poor people have passed through the last extremity. You foreign Powers have hastened our destruction, when you had it in your hands to save us. I think you have meant well, but you have been blind, for you have not supported our moderate men and have by your harshness played the game of the wreckers among us.

Gaudian criticizes foreign powers for failing to support moderate Germans, thereby worsening the country's post-war crisis.

_Gaudian expresses his disillusionment with the post-war order._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_hostages_se/chapters/xi-how-a-german-engineer-found-strange-fishing
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_hostages_se/chapters