The Tower Treasure · Chapter
XX: The Flash in the Tower explained
Despite Fenton Hardy's efforts, Mr.
What happens
Despite Fenton Hardy's efforts, Mr. Robinson is arrested again for the Tower Mansion robbery. The Hardy boys, feeling responsible, resolve to find the hidden loot to clear his name. While scouting Tower Mansion, they spot Adelia Applegate searching the old tower with a flashlight, confirming their suspicion that the treasure is still hidden somewhere.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Wrongful Accusation
Mr. Robinson is arrested again despite his innocence, and the boys grapple with the injustice of a ruined reputation even if he is cleared.
Perseverance and Resilience
Frank and Joe refuse to give up, vowing to find the loot despite the seemingly hopeless situation.
Family and Loyalty
Perry Robinson's loyalty to his father drives him to plead for help, and the Hardy boys feel a duty to the Robinson family.
Characters to notice
- Frank Hardy
Frank expresses disgust at their detective work and resolves to find the loot to clear Mr. Robinson.
- Joe Hardy
Joe spots the flash of light in the tower and identifies Adelia Applegate searching with a flashlight.
- Fenton Hardy
Mr. Hardy tells Perry Robinson that the case is hopeless unless the loot is found, and later reiterates this to the boys.
- Perry Robinson
Perry visits the Hardy home, pleading for continued help, and leaves dejected after Mr. Hardy explains the situation.
- Callie Shaw
Callie informs the Hardy boys that Mr. Robinson has been arrested again by Chief Collig.
- Iola Morton
Iola confirms the news of Mr. Robinson's re-arrest and expresses indignation at the suspicion against him.
Key passages
““There’s nothing to be done,” said the detective. “Robinson has been arrested, and while he might be cleared by a skilful lawyer, he hasn’t any money to spend on his defence. Whether he is cleared or not, his reputation is ruined.””
Fenton Hardy explains that without funds for a lawyer, Mr. Robinson's reputation is ruined regardless of the trial outcome.
Highlights the theme of social class and the unfairness of the justice system.
““What a fine pair of detectives we are!” exclaimed Frank, in sudden disgust. “If we had been any good at all we could have got those clues soon enough for Dad to have caught Jackley in time.””
Frank berates himself and Joe for not finding clues sooner to prevent the current crisis.
Shows Frank's self-blame and determination to make amends.
““We’ve got to find that loot!” declared Frank emphatically. “No matter where that tower treasure is, we’ve got to find it!””
Frank insists they must recover the stolen treasure to clear Mr. Robinson's name.
Reinforces the theme of perseverance and the boys' renewed commitment.