# The Firm of Oberzohn explained — The Three Just Men

> Chapter companion for The Three Just Men by Edgar Wallace.

## What happens

Mirabelle Leicester, living with her aunt Alma at Heavytree Farm, sees an advertisement for a laboratory secretary and applies. She is interviewed by Dr. Eruc Oberzohn, who hires her on the spot, pays her in advance, and insists she start immediately. He tricks her into sending a telegram to her aunt, which he burns, and locks her in the laboratory.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

Dr. Oberzohn deceives Mirabelle by burning her telegram and locking her in the laboratory, presenting a false front of legitimacy.

### Innocence and Corruption

Mirabelle's naive trust in the advertisement and her employer contrasts with Oberzohn's corrupt and manipulative actions.

## Character check-ins

### Mirabelle Leicester

Sees the advertisement, applies, and is hired by Dr. Oberzohn; she is eager to leave the farm for London.

### Aunt Alma

Mirabelle's aunt; warns her about the dangers of London and the Four Just Men, and is left behind at Heavytree Farm.

### Dr. Eruc Oberzohn

The employer who interviews and hires Mirabelle; he is manipulative, burns her telegram, and locks her in.

## Key lines

> Glory! ... I am young—I have no experience—I have my higher certificate—and daddy was something in the world of science.

Mirabelle excitedly realizes she meets all the requirements for the job.

_Shows her enthusiasm and naivety._

> Today, or it shall be never.

Dr. Oberzohn insists she must start work immediately or lose the opportunity.

_Highlights his coercive control._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se/chapters/i-the-firm-of-oberzohn
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se/chapters