# The Continental Op — Continental Op Stories character guide > The Continental Op in Continental Op Stories by Dashiell Hammett. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Unknown, me, I, myself, mine **First appearance:** 0000-arson-plus ## Snapshot A nameless Continental Agency operative whose bland patience hides a cold, methodical eye for the small lies that undo careful criminals. ## Who they are He works for the Continental Detective Agency, taking whatever case the Old Man hands him and burrowing into other people's lives with the patience of a man who has learned that most crimes are solved by waiting. In one story he sits drinking tea with a kindly old couple while, in the next room, a gunman argues for his murder and a cultured British voice argues for tying him up instead. He matters because everything reaches us through his flat, watchful narration — a voice that notices the twitch before the confession. ## In the story ### [Arson Plus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/arson-plus) Investigates the arson and uncovers the conspiracy. ### [Crooked Souls](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/crooked-souls) The detective assigned to the Gatewood kidnapping case; investigates the scene and confronts suspects. ### [Slippery Fingers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/slippery-fingers) Investigates the Grover murder, uncovers the fingerprint deception, and arrests Clane and Farr. ### [It](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/it) Investigates Rathbone's disappearance and uncovers the murder. ### [Bodies Piled Up](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/bodies-piled-up) Temporarily working as a hotel detective at the Montgomery Hotel; discovers the three bodies and leads the investigation. ### [The Tenth Clue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-tenth-clue) The protagonist and detective, actively investigating the case. ### [I: “Do You Know… Emil Bonfils?”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i-do-you-know-emil-bonfils) Arrives for an appointment with Leopold Gantvoort, waits, and is hired by Charles Gantvoort to investigate the murder. ### [II: “That’s Something!”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii-that-s-something) Leads the investigation, examines evidence, and connects the murder to a threatening letter from Emil Bonfils. ### [III: “A Sleek Kitten That Dame!”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii-a-sleek-kitten-that-dame) Leads the investigation, interviews Abernathy and Creda Dexter, sends telegrams to trace Bonfils. ### [IV: “Maybe That Ain’t So Foolish!”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv-maybe-that-ain-t-so-foolish) Leads the investigation, re-evaluates clues, and decides to pursue a rival suitor angle. ### [V: “Meet Mr. Smith”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v-meet-mr-smith) Leads the investigation into Creda Dexter's past, interviews Madden Dexter on the train, and is ambushed by Mr. Smith on the ferry. ### [VI: “Those Damned Horns!”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi-those-damned-horns) Semiconscious and struggling in the bay after being attacked, fighting exhaustion and the cold. ### [VII: “You Have a Lot of Fun, Don’t You?”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii-you-have-a-lot-of-fun-don-t-you) Survives being thrown into the bay, recovers, and leads the confrontation at the Dexters' apartment. ### [VIII: “I Hope You Swing!”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii-i-hope-you-swing) Interrogates Madden Dexter and extracts the truth about the murder. ### [Night Shots](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/night-shots) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the case. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Arrives at the Exon estate to investigate the shooting; interviews household members and farm hands. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Investigates the second shooting, searches the grounds, interviews Shand, and observes interactions between Hilary Gallaway and Barbra Caywood. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Hides in a closet to catch the attacker; discovers Exon trying to remove the nurse's bandages. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Investigates the shooting, deduces Exon's guilt, and later receives Exon's confession. ### [Zigzags of Treachery](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/zigzags-of-treachery) The protagonist and investigator, navigating treacherous alliances. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The detective hired by Vance Richmond to investigate Dr. Estep's death. He is skeptical and focused on facts, dismissing Richmond's emotional pleas. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Investigates the Estep case, questions servants and nurse, searches the first Mrs. Estep's hotel room. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Shadows Mrs. Estep throughout the day, employing classic detective techniques. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Turns over the woman to Dick Foley and assigns Bob Teal to tail Jacob Ledwich. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Tails Ledwich and discovers Boyd; adjusts surveillance strategy. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Disguises himself in shabby clothes, tails Ledwich, and poses as a crook named Shine Wisher to gain Ledwich's trust. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Investigates Boyd's murder, interrogates Mrs. Estep, and plans to confront Ledwich. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Reports to Vance Richmond on the day's investigation, remains emotionally detached from the attorney's pleas. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Confronts Ledwich, reveals his identity, and negotiates for the Estep note. ### [Ledwich's Confession](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) The Op listens to Ledwich's confession, weighing the moral dilemma of freeing a murderer to save Mrs. Estep's life. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Manipulates Ledwich into revealing the suicide note, then signals O'Gar to intercept him. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Hired by Vance Richmond to investigate the theft of Chrostwaite's car and find the thieves before Monday's court date. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Interviews Patrolman Coffee about the Newhouse hit-and-run. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Investigates Newhouse's murder, interviews Soules, and deduces a counterfeiting plot. ### [The House in Turk Street](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-house-in-turk-street) Canvasses Turk Street undercover, drinks tea with the Quarres, later negotiates with Tai Choon and is tied up by Elvira. ### [The Girl with the Silver Eyes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-girl-with-the-silver-eyes) The protagonist and detective, narrating the investigation. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Awakened by a phone call from the Old Man, he goes to meet Burke Pangburn and begins investigating the disappearance of Jeanne Delano. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Interviews Pangburn, evaluates his sincerity and sanity, insists on a reputable endorsement before accepting the case. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Visits Axford to seek endorsement for investigating Jeanne Delano's disappearance. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Conducts the investigation, telephones Pangburn, visits the apartment, and traces the trunks. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Investigates Jeanne Delano's bank account at the Golden Gate Trust Company. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Visits the agency, decodes a telegram, and reports to the Old Man about Pangburn's case. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Investigates Pangburn's whereabouts, checks weather records and taxicab companies, and contacts Axford. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Investigates Pangburn's disappearance, searches his apartment, and uncovers the forged check scheme. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Investigates the lead on Pangburn's whereabouts and arranges for an undercover operative at the White Shack. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Arranges a meeting with his informant Porky Grout and sends him on a surveillance job to Halfmoon Bay. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Investigates the case, traces a call from the Marquis Hotel to the White Shack, and arranges surveillance on Kilcourse. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Arrives at the agency and coordinates the investigation into Pangburn's location. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiii) Sits beside Axford in the car, observes the scene, and identifies Pangburn's body. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiv) Investigates Pangburn's murder, confronts Joplin and his associates, and engages in a violent struggle. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xv) Pursues Kilcourse and the girl, engages in a car chase and ambush, captures the girl, and later runs over Porky Grout. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvi) Grows cross and firm, physically restrains the girl, and insists on discussing only the Pangburn affair. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvii) Listens to the woman's confession and story. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xviii) Struggles with his attraction to the woman while maintaining his professional detachment; recalls Porky Grout's sacrifice. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xix) Confronts Cara Kenbrook with accusations of forgery and murder. ### [Women, Politics & Murder](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/women-politics-murder) Interviews Mrs. Gilmore and later Cara Kenbrook; deduces the truth about the murder. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Investigates the Gilmore murder, recalls Gilmore's reputation, and meets O'Gar for details. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Visits Cara Kenbrook to investigate Bernard Gilmore's death. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Interviews Mrs. Gilmore, investigates the murder scene, and interrogates the maid Lina Best. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Returns to the Garford Apartments to interrogate Cara Kenbrook, using bluff and pressure to extract a revised account of her whereabouts during Gilmore's murder. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Interrogates Cara Kenbrook, deduces the murder solution, is ambushed by Tennant, and fights back before being subdued. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Arrested and brought to the Hall of Justice, he orchestrates Kelly's confession by producing the empty shell and accusing him of Gilmore's murder. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Explains his reasoning for suspecting Kelly, accepts the dropping of the assault charge, and refuses Tennant's bribe by knocking him down the steps. ### [The Golden Horseshoe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-golden-horseshoe) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the case. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Hired by Vance Richmond to find Norman Ashcraft; reflects on his fifteen years with the agency and diminished appetite for violence. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Conducts surveillance at the post office, stages a fall to read an envelope address, and interrogates Ryan. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Reports to Richmond and visits Mrs. Ashcraft to update her on the investigation. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Arrives in Tijuana to find Ed Bohannon; uses alias 'Parker'; engages in a drinking contest while feigning drunkenness. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Discovers the bodies, works with O'Gar, travels to Tijuana to investigate Ashcraft, and returns to report to Richmond. ### [San Diego and the Golden Horseshoe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Arrives in San Diego, meets operative Gorman, travels to Tijuana, and confronts Kewpie at the Golden Horseshoe. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Receives telegrams, travels to Tijuana, confronts the Englishman and Kewpie, and chases the Englishman after the shootout. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Pursues and captures the impostor in the desert, wounds him, and interrogates him about the impersonation and murders. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Interrogates the Englishman, deduces his scheme, and threatens to send him to Seattle for Ashcraft's suicide. ### [Who Killed Bob Teal?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/who-killed-bob-teal) The narrator and lead investigator, who had trained Bob Teal and is now tasked with finding his killer. ### [Mike or Alec or Rufus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/mike-or-alec-or-rufus) Investigates the Coplin robbery for the insurance company, interviews witnesses, and gathers descriptions of the robber. ### [The Whosis Kid](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-whosis-kid) The protagonist and narrator, a detective for the Continental Detective Agency, who is hired by Mrs. Almad and becomes embroiled in a complex case involving murder and deception. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Narrator and operative; recalls first seeing the Whosis Kid in Boston and later shadows him in San Francisco. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Stakes out the Whosis Kid's rooming house for nine hours, pursues the Cadillac after the shooting, and tails the passenger to the Marquis Hotel. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Investigates Maurois at the Marquis Hotel, eats, and tails the Cadillac. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Surveils the Venetian Café, intervenes in a kidnapping attempt, and escorts the woman to her apartment. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Searches Inés Almad's apartment for intruders, questions her about her story. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) The Op poses as bootlegger Jerry Young, struggles to resist Inés's advances while maintaining his cover, and prepares for Billie's arrival. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Engages in a physical fight with Billie, using technique to overcome size disadvantage. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Unlocks the door and moves the curtain to signal the Whosis Kid. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Observes the standoff and search, remaining detached and confident in his survival. ### [The Whosis Kid's Brutal Search](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Observes the violence, restrained by Big Chin's gun; chooses not to intervene. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Recovers strength and decides to act, orchestrating the dark-room chaos to retrieve the jewels. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Hides in the dark, sets a trap with his watch, exchanges gunfire with the Whosis Kid, and is knocked unconscious by a lamp. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiii) Narrates the chapter; kept his identity hidden from Inés and testified to the coroner's jury. ### [The Scorched Face](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-scorched-face) The protagonist and investigator, driving the narrative forward. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The detective interviewing Alfred Banbrock about his missing daughters. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Conducts interviews and investigates the disappearance of the Banbrock sisters. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Investigates Mrs. Correll's suicide and its connection to the Banbrock case; pressures Stewart Correll and reports to Alfred Banbrock. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Investigates the Banbrock case, interviews Mrs. Banbrock, and travels to Knob Valley after a charred photograph of Ruth Banbrock is found. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Discovers Ruth Banbrock's body and reports findings to the office. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Investigates the Banbrock case, discusses leads with Pat Reddy, and compiles a list of related crimes. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Investigates the Banbrock-Correll case, connects three women to Raymond Elwood, surveils the yellow house on Telegraph Hill, and plans a raid after spotting Myra Banbrock entering through a cellar window. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Leads the raid on the yellow house with Pat Reddy, fights through the chaos, and kills the attacking doorman. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Battered and bruised after fighting a large Negro and Raymond Elwood; interrogates Myra Banbrock. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Devises a cover story to protect Myra Banbrock and other women from public scandal, convincing Pat Reddy to take credit for Hador's shooting. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Searches the safe, finds photographs, and persuades Pat to burn them. ### [Corkscrew](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/corkscrew) Arrives in Corkscrew to investigate Slim Vogel's murder. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Arrives in Corkscrew posing as a deputy sheriff, arms himself with multiple guns, and observes the town and its inhabitants. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) The Op visits the Border Palace, observes the poker game, and arranges to buy a horse. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Visits Adderly's house, meets the 'better element,' receives a list of crimes, and refuses to lead an immediate vice raid. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Endures repeated falls from a bucking horse, showing stubborn persistence despite injury. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Wakes up sore, buys a horse from Milk River, and asserts authority over Slim Vogel's murder investigation. ### [Chapter VI: The Killing of Slim Vogel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Investigates Slim Vogel's murder, questions witnesses, and faces down Peery's men. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Hires Milk River as a guide and explains his undercover mission as a private detective for the Orilla Colony Company. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Dining with Milk River, investigates Nisbet's murder, decides to ride alone to Circle H.A.R. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Investigates Nisbet's murder, confronts Peery, and strategizes with Milk River. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Gets into a street fight with Chick Orr and wins despite taking a beating. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Patches himself up, confronts Big 'Nacio's crew, and sends a warning to Peery. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Rides with Milk River to investigate the battle at Circle H.A.R., provides cover fire, and assists in capturing Gyp Rainey. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiii) Leads the search of the compound, interrogates the immigrants, and shoots Big 'Nacio. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiv) Negotiates with Peery and later Buck Small, maintains control of prisoners, and prevents further bloodshed. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xv) Returns to Canyon House exhausted, interrogates Gyp Rainey, and later comforts Clio Landes. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvi) Wakes to Rainey's confession, arrests Bardell, survives a shootout and a duel with Milk River. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvii) Recovering from injury, directs Milk River to arrest the Jew, forgives Clio Landes, and deduces the Jew's guilt. ### [Dead Yellow Women](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/dead-yellow-women) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the dangerous Chinatown underworld. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The narrator and detective assigned to the case by the Old Man. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Plans investigation, recruits informants, and proposes a trap for the missing servants. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Investigates The Whistler's background, confronts Dummy Uhl, and is shot with a blank cartridge. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Navigates Chinatown, waits at Chang Li Ching's door, survives an ambush, and is disarmed by his guide. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Investigates Garthorne, confronts Lillian Shan, and meets Chang Li Ching in Chinatown. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Spends the night at the Shan house, fights off intruders, and later reports to his office. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Returns to Chang Li Ching's, negotiates with Chang, and agrees to help a frightened Chinese woman escape. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Investigates Lillian Shan's disappearance, captures Yin Hung, and interrogates Jack Garthorne. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Interrogates Garthorne and directs him to hide at Hsiu Hsiu's, aware of the trap. ### [X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Investigates the hidden room, interrogates Lillian Shan, and navigates secret passages to spy on Chang Li Ching and The Whistler. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) The narrator reflects on the resolution of the case, his inability to pin Chang, and his unease with Chinatown. ### [The Gutting of Couffignal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-gutting-of-couffignal) The protagonist and detective hired to protect Couffignal; he investigates the heist and confronts the criminals. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The detective assigned to guard wedding presents at the Hendrixson house on Couffignal. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Guarding wedding presents at the Hendrixson house; investigates the explosions and gunfire. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Short and thick, he argues with Princess Zhukovski about her joining him, then works his way along the shore to investigate the boat. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Directs islanders, scouts the area, and engages in the fight against the bandits. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Chases and captures Flippo, treats his twisted ankle, and learns of the boat's escape. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Investigates the murders of Oliver and Brophy, identifies the Russian gang to Sergeant Roche, and heads to confront Princess Zhukovski. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Presents a twelve-point indictment to the princess, deducing the true perpetrators of the Couffignal raid. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Refuses the woman's bribe, asserting his professional identity as a manhunter. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Disarmed by Flippo, offers a deal, then knocks Flippo out with a crutch and shoots the girl in the leg to stop her escape. ### [Creeping Siamese](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/creeping-siamese) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the case. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Narrator and investigator; witnesses the man's death and begins the case. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Leads the interrogation, exposes the lies about Siamese attackers, and orchestrates the confession. ### [The Big Knock-Over](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-big-knock-over) Narrator and detective; visits Larrouy's dive, interacts with criminals, receives tip from Beno, investigates Beno's murder. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) The narrator spends the morning in the agency file-room and then walks to the Seaman's National Bank, where he becomes embroiled in a violent disturbance. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Reports to the Old Man about the bank robbery and its aftermath. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) The narrator spends the evening surveilling criminal haunts and tailing a young Armenian boy. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Investigates the murder scene and shadows Sylvia Yount. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Investigates the mass murder scenes and coordinates with Duff and Counihan. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Meets with Angel Grace Cardigan, arranges surveillance by Dick Foley. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Stakes out O'Leary with Jack Counihan, observes the gathering of hostile men at Larrouy's, and plans to extract O'Leary and Nancy Regan if violence breaks out. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Narrates the fight, uses blackjack and gun, strategizes to escape. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Leads the group through the dark building, devises the table diversion, and engages in a brief physical confrontation with Red O'Leary. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Shoots O'Leary in the back to maintain his cover, orchestrates the escape, and convinces O'Leary to go to a safe house. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Presents himself as 'Percy Maguire' to infiltrate Big Flora's operation, claiming a share of stolen money. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiii) Captured, disarmed, and choked by Pogy and Big Flora; later guarded by the little old man and Nancy Regan. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiv) Narrator and protagonist; orchestrates ambushes in the cellar, then outmaneuvers the old man. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xv) Frees himself and the police, releases Nancy Regan and the old man, learns Papadopoulos was the brains of the operation. ### [$106,000 Blood Money](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/106-000-blood-money) The protagonist and detective, navigating the criminal underworld and investigating multiple cases. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The narrator and detective, meeting with Tom-Tom Carey to discuss the pursuit of Papadopoulos. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Investigates Newhall's murder, consults Ellert, sends a telegram to Los Angeles, and later agrees to meet Counihan in Sausalito. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Leads the investigation, is ambushed and stabbed, shoots one attacker, and searches the empty cottage. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Narrates the chapter; reads reports, has lunch with the Old Man, investigates a lead, and receives a call from Dick Foley. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Investigates Angel Grace's suicide attempt, interviews Tom-Tom Carey, and arranges for Angel Grace to be jailed with Big Flora. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Recovers from his back wound, returns to work, organizes a poker game, and investigates Angel Grace Cardigan's apartment. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Coordinates surveillance on Carey, arranges protection for Miss Newhall, and plans a night operation with Carey. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Plans and leads the nighttime operation, instructs Jack Counihan on his role, and confronts Nancy Regan. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Interrogates Ann Newhall, learns her story, and orchestrates the plan to raid the house. ### [The Raid on the Newhall House](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Leads the raid, coordinates the operatives, and restrains Jack from shooting. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) Confronts and psychologically deconstructs Jack Counihan, orchestrating the final showdown. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii) Reports to the Old Man, summarizing the case's resolution and his role in shaping the outcome. ### [The Main Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-main-death) Investigates Main's death, recovers stolen money, and reveals the suicide. ### [This King Business](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/this-king-business) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the dangerous underworld of the wealthy. ### [I: “Yes”—and “No”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i-yes-and-no) Arrives in Stefania to investigate Lionel Grantham's activities and potential swindling. ### [II: Romaine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii-romaine) Visits the Minister of Police's office to seek information about Lionel Grantham. ### [III: Shadowing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii-shadowing) The Op shadows Lionel Grantham and later a swarthy man, hiding in a lumber pile and fighting a soldier. ### [IV: Introductions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv-introductions) Intervenes to stop a soldier's ambush, disarms him, and accompanies Grantham and Einarson to the barracks. ### [V: A Flogging](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v-a-flogging) Witnesses the flogging, maintains a detached demeanor, and fabricates a cover story about his past to Einarson and Grantham. ### [VI: Cards on the Table](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi-cards-on-the-table) Reveals his true mission to Grantham, admits his cover story was false, and declares his job done. ### [VII: Lionel's Plans](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii-lionel-s-plans) Receives a note from Romaine Frankl, listens to Lionel's confession, and agrees to help him. ### [VIII: An Enlightening Interview](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii-an-enlightening-interview) Visits Romaine Frankl's house for an interview about the Muravian revolution. ### [IX: Conjectures](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix-conjectures) Questions Romaine about Vasilije and deduces Einarson's motives; plans to attend a midnight meeting. ### [Einarson in Control](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x-einarson-in-control) Returns to hotel, arms himself, attends revolutionary meeting, later knocks out a tail. ### [XI: A Romantic Interlude](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi-a-romantic-interlude) Visits Romaine, reports on the meeting, and discusses the revolution and their relationship. ### [XII: The Night Before](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xii-the-night-before) Studies Einarson's weaknesses, visits Romaine, and prepares for the revolution. ### [XIII: Progress Goes "Betune"](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiii-progress-goes-betune) Observes the revolutionary gathering with a detective's eye, feeling an unexpected emotional lift from Grantham's words. ### [XIV: Coronation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xiv-coronation) Manipulates Einarson at gunpoint to ensure Grantham's coronation, then escorts Einarson to the hotel. ### [XV: Bargain Hunters](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xv-bargain-hunters) Prods Einarson into the room, subdues him physically, and negotiates the abdication deal with Romaine and Djudakovich. ### [XVI: Lionel Rex](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvi-lionel-rex) Confronts Grantham in the Executive Residence, forces his abdication, and returns to find his room empty. ### [Mob Law](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xvii-mob-law) Observes the mob execution of Einarson, secures the abdication, and departs Muravia. ### [Flypaper](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/flypaper) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the case. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) The operative assigned to deliver money to Sue Hambleton and arrange her return home. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Receives telegram and check from the Old Man, goes to 601 Eddis Street, meets J. M. Wales, and confirms he has brought the money. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Interrogates Joe Wales and Peggy Carroll, arranges for MacMan to guard them. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Investigates Babe McCloor and Sue Hambleton at the St. Martin; discovers Sue's body. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Interrogates Joe Wales and pursues Babe McCloor after the shooting. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Pursues Babe McCloor through the city, using taxis and streetcars, and coordinates with police. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Tails Babe McCloor into the railroad yard and coordinates with police. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Leads the interrogation of Peggy Carroll and later chases Babe McCloor. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Visits McCloor in the hospital and interrogates him about the murder of Holy Joe and Sue Hambleton. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Reports to the Old Man, theorizes suicide and later arsenic immunity plot. ### [The Farewell Murder](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/the-farewell-murder) The protagonist and investigator, navigating the case. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/i) Arrives at Farewell, investigates the scene of a possible murder, and suspects Kavalov's need for a detective. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ii) Arrives at Kavalov's estate, is let in by a boy, and overhears a conversation about a possible killing. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iii) Arrives at Kavalov's home for dinner and is briefed on the Sherry situation. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/iv) Accompanies Ringgo to investigate the fire and the puppy killing; analyzes the scene and footprints. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/v) Visits Captain Sherry for breakfast, surveils the bungalow, and returns to the Kavalov house. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vi) Investigates Kavalov's murder, examines the crime scene, and follows leads on Sherry. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/vii) Leads the investigation, searches for evidence of Sherry's whereabouts, discovers the San Pedro alibi. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/viii) Observes the trial's collapse and advises the district attorney to hold Sherry and Marcus. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/ix) Receives Mrs. Ringgo, agrees to help protect Dolph, and travels to Farewell. ### [The Bungalow Shootout](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/x) Stakes out the bungalow, observes Mrs. Ringgo and Sherry, then breaks in during the shootout and manipulates Sherry to implicate Ringgo. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/xi) The Op explains his reasoning and deduction process, revealing how he suspected Ringgo. ### [Death and Company](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/chapters/death-and-company) Investigates the Chappell kidnapping and murder, ultimately confronting Dick Moley. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/characters/narrator - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/continental_op_stories_se/characters