# Leon Theorizes explained — The Three Just Men

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

## What happens

Leon Gonsalez presents his theory linking Dr. Oberzohn to a series of murders, including those of a stockbroker, a blackmailer, and a bank clerk, all connected by the use of a trained snake. Inspector Meadows is skeptical but intrigued. The Three Just Men reveal their knowledge of Oberzohn's methods and their intention to keep the snake's attention on themselves. Elijah Washington, a snake expert from Chicago, arrives and dismisses the idea that a snake could have killed Barberton in the manner described, adding a new layer of mystery.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

Oberzohn's use of a trained snake and his hidden criminal network exemplify deception.

### Crime and Punishment

Leon's theory outlines a series of murders and the pursuit of justice by the Three Just Men.

## Character check-ins

### Leon Gonsalez

Presents his theory connecting Oberzohn to multiple murders via a trained snake.

### George Manfred

Listens to Leon's theory and confirms their knowledge of Oberzohn's activities.

### Raymond Poiccart

Briefly leaves to answer the door, returns with Elijah Washington.

### Inspector Meadows

Skeptical of Leon's theory, but acknowledges its coherence; learns of Johnson Lee.

### Elijah Washington

Snake expert from Chicago who refutes the snake-bite theory of Barberton's death.

## Key lines

> though you could lay your hands on him." "And we could," they said in unison. "Who is he?" challenged the detective. "The Herr Doktor," smiled Gonsalez. "Oberzohn?"

When Meadows asks if they can identify the snake handler, the Three Just Men confidently name Dr. Oberzohn.

_Highlights the trio's knowledge of Oberzohn's role._

> The whole thing sounds like a romance to me." Meadows was rubbing his chin irritably. "I am staring at the covers of a book whilst you are reading the pages.

Meadows feels out of depth, comparing his limited understanding to the trio's full knowledge.

_Illustrates Meadows' frustration and the trio's superior insight._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se/chapters/xii-leon-theorizes
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_three_just_men_se/chapters