10 Questions
What was Horace's initial reaction when the woman mentioned that she might call the police?
He suggested cutting the telephone wires.
How did the woman respond when Horace indicated that he would hurt her?
She laughed it off.
What was Horace's reason for stealing, as mentioned in the text?
To steal only from the wealthy for a 'good reason'.
Why did Horace express his hatred for the thought of prison?
He committed crimes for a specific purpose and didn't want to be caught.
How did Horace try to convince the woman to let him go?
By promising never to commit such crimes again.
What was the woman's primary concern about letting Horace go?
That society needed protection from criminals like him.
How did Horace react when the woman mentioned that he was going to rob her?
He tried to justify his actions by claiming his targets were wealthy.
What strategy did Horace suggest when the woman raised concerns about society's safety?
To convince the woman to let him go without involving the authorities.
'I'm desperate. Let me go and I promise never to do this kind of thing again.' This statement by Horace reflects his attempt at:
'Seeking empathy' by showing remorse and asking for forgiveness.
'I’m not a man who threatens society. I steal only from those who have a lot of money.' What moral justification can be inferred from this statement made by Horace?
'Stealing is acceptable if targeted at the wealthy.'
Study Notes
Story Summary
- Horace Danby, a 50-year-old unmarried man, appears to be a good, honest citizen, but is not completely honest.
- He has a secret life as a thief, stealing from the wealthy to buy rare, expensive books.
- He has been doing this for 15 years, ever since serving a prison sentence in a library where he developed a love for rare books.
The Lady's Deception
- Horace is tricked by a charming, clever young lady who is not who she seems to be.
- The lady appears to be the wife of the owner of the house, Shotover Grange, but is actually working against Horace.
- She deceives Horace by making him believe she is willing to help him, but actually sets him up to get caught.
Horace's Downfall
- Horace is caught and his fingerprints are found all over the room.
- The lady denies knowing him, and Horace is unable to convince anyone of his story.
- He is now serving time in prison as an assistant librarian, where he often thinks about the lady who tricked him.
Horace's Character
- Horace is a meticulous planner, but his flaws lead to his downfall.
- He is not completely honest, but has a sense of morality, as he only steals from the wealthy.
- He is not a typical thief, as he has a relatable motivation (buying rare books) and is not cruel or violent.
The Lady's Motivation
- The lady's motivation is not explicitly stated, but it can be inferred that she is trying to protect society from thieves like Horace.
- She is sharp-tongued and clever, able to outsmart Horace and manipulate him into getting caught.
Test your memory and comprehension skills by answering questions about a mystery short story involving a man framed for theft. Explore the plot, characters, and twists in the narrative.
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