The Trail of the Serpent · Chapter
V: The Cherokees Take an Oath explained
Richard Marwood and Augustus Darley visit the Cherokee tavern, where Richard reunites with the Cheerful Cherokees and asks for their help in finding his uncle's murderer.
What happens
Richard Marwood and Augustus Darley visit the Cherokee tavern, where Richard reunites with the Cheerful Cherokees and asks for their help in finding his uncle's murderer. The group takes an oath to assist him, and the Left-handed Smasher pledges his friendship.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Injustice
Richard seeks the Cherokees' help to find the real murderer of Montague Harding, highlighting his wrongful accusation and the quest for justice.
Revenge and Redemption
Richard vows to track down the murderer, driven by a desire for vengeance and to clear his name.
Characters to notice
- Richard Marwood
Returns to the Cherokee tavern and appeals to the Cherokees for aid in finding Montague Harding's murderer.
- Augustus Darley
Accompanies Richard to the tavern and helps arrange the meeting with the Cherokees.
- Jim Stilson
The Left-handed Smasher, landlord of the Cherokee, who pledges his friendship and support to Richard.
- Daredevil Dick
Referred to as Richard's former nickname; the Cherokees celebrate his return.
Key passages
“Gentlemen, before the unfortunate circumstance which has so long separated us, you knew me, I believe, well, and I am proud to think you esteemed and trusted me.”
Richard reminds the Cherokees of their past friendship and trust before his troubles began.
Richard addresses the group, seeking their continued support.
“That object will be to discover the real murderer of my uncle, Montague Harding.”
Richard states his goal to find who actually killed his uncle.
Richard declares his mission to the Cherokees.
“Promise me, therefore, gentlemen, to give me the benefit of your experience; and whenever that experience throws you into the haunts of bad men, remember that the man I seek may, by some remote chance, be amongst them; and that to find him is the one object of my life.”
Richard asks the Cherokees to use their knowledge of London's underworld to help him find the murderer.
Richard appeals for their assistance in his search.