Continental Op Stories · Chapter
II: “That’s Something!” explained
The Continental Op and Detective Sergeant O'Gar investigate the murder of Leopold Gantvoort, found dead in a stolen car with his skull crushed by a typewriter.
What happens
The Continental Op and Detective Sergeant O'Gar investigate the murder of Leopold Gantvoort, found dead in a stolen car with his skull crushed by a typewriter. Evidence includes a threatening letter signed 'E. B.', a list of names, a jewel case, modified bullets, a tuft of blond hair, and missing collar buttons and a shoe. The Op reveals Gantvoort had reported threats from an Emil Bonfils, linked to a Paris incident in 1902. They interview the butler Whipple and plan to trace the list and clippings.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the ultimate test of the Op's will and control: he mus…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Crime and Detection
The chapter focuses on the forensic investigation of a brutal murder, including analysis of physical clues and witness interviews.
- Deception and Identity
The threatening letter, missing personal items, and the list of names suggest hidden identities and a possible revenge plot spanning decades.
- Violence and Survival
The murder is graphically described (skull crushed with a typewriter), and the modified bullets indicate premeditated lethal intent.
Characters to notice
- The Continental Op
Leads the investigation, examines evidence, and connects the murder to a threatening letter from Emil Bonfils.
- Detective Sergeant O'Gar
Works alongside the Op, presents the physical evidence, and coordinates police follow-up.
- Charles Gantvoort
Son of the victim, identifies his father's belongings and provides initial information.
- Bernard Gilmore
Mentioned as the victim's son-in-law; not directly present in this chapter.
- The Whosis Kid
Not present in this chapter.
Key passages
“I think we want to find Monsieur Emil Bonfils.”
The Op concludes that locating Emil Bonfils is the primary objective.
The Op deduces the killer's identity from the threatening letter.
“That’s something!”
O'Gar expresses surprise at the Op's revelation about the threatening letter.
O'Gar reacts to learning that Gantvoort had reported threats before his death.
“What the hell do you want? Ain’t that enough?”
O'Gar is exasperated by the Op's request for more evidence.
O'Gar feels the pile of clues is already substantial.
