The Three Just Men · Chapter
Work for Gurther explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Oberzohn assigns Gurther to eliminate a traitor, and Gurther perfects an elaborate disguise to carry out the murder. Meanwhile, Monty Newton and Joan Newton enjoy a night at the theatre, where Monty is killed in the dark during a play, likely by Gurther.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Disguise
Gurther's elaborate disguise as a crippled gentleman is central to the chapter, showcasing the theme of deception.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Oberzohn speaks of a 'Judas treachery' and sends Gurther to kill a traitor, highlighting betrayal.
Crime and Punishment
The murder of Monty Newton during the play and Gurther's planned killing underscore the theme of crime.
Characters to notice
- Gurther
Disguises himself as a crippled gentleman to carry out Oberzohn's orders; reflects on his ambitions and the importance of the prisoner in the cellar.
- Dr. Eruc Oberzohn
Assigns Gurther to kill a traitor; discusses plans and praises Gurther's disguise.
- Montague Newton
Attends the theatre with Joan; is murdered in the dark during the play.
- Joan Newton
Enjoys the theatre with Monty; discovers his body and screams hysterically.
- Leon Gonsalez
Seen in the front row of the stalls with the other two Just Men.
- George Manfred
Present in the front row with Gonsalez.
- Raymond Poiccart
Present in the front row with the other Just Men.
Key passages
“Once more, my Gurther, I send you forth. This time to save us all from the Judas treachery of one we thought was our friend.”
Oberzohn sends Gurther to eliminate a traitor they once trusted.
Oberzohn assigns the murder mission.
“The face had an unearthly ivory pallor; the black brows, the faint shadows beneath the eyes that suggested a recent illness, the close-cropped black beard in which grey showed—these might not have deceived him.”
Gurther's disguise made him look like a pale, ill, and deformed stranger.
Description of Gurther's disguise.
“Monty! Speak to me! He's dead, he's dead!”
Joan screams that Monty is dead after discovering his body.
Joan's reaction to Monty's murder.