Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler · Chapters
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Chapter companions for Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler by Norbert Jacques.
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Chapter 1
Translator's Note
The translator explains the difficulty of rendering the German title 'Staatsanwalt' into English, describing Wenk's unique role as a high-status legal official who personally investigates cases in disguise. The note also clarifies the use of 'von' in dialogue and provides a modern currency conversion for Hull's gambling losses.
Chapter 2
Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler
The chapter introduces Dr. Mabuse as a master of disguise and psychological manipulation, who uses his skills to control others and win at gambling. He is shown in various guises, including as a wealthy gentleman and a hypnotist, as he orchestrates a series of events to amass wealth and power. The narrative also follows the character of Hull, who loses heavily at vingt-et-un, and the detective Wenk, who begins to investigate the mysterious gambler.
Chapter 3
I
Young Hull, heir to a fortune, loses heavily at vingt-et-un to a mysterious stranger named Balling. Despite holding a winning hand of twenty-one, Hull inexplicably declares himself the loser and incurs a debt of thirty thousand marks. The stranger leaves an address at the Excelsior Hotel, but when Hull investigates, the real Herr Balling denies any involvement. Hull becomes increasingly uneasy, sensing an unseen malevolent force. He eventually dissipates the debt by spending the money on a jazz dancer.
Chapter 4
II
Wenk, now a special police official, investigates the post-war gambling epidemic in Germany. He recruits Karstens and learns of Hull's mysterious gambling loss. Wenk visits Hull, who reluctantly agrees to introduce him to Cara Carozza. Meanwhile, rumors spread of a mysterious, shape-shifting gambler who wins consistently. Hull visits Cara, who warns him against involving the police. The chapter ends with Wenk and Karstens at Schramm's restaurant, preparing to enter a secret gambling room.
Chapter 5
III
Wenk becomes deeply engrossed in a high-stakes game against a mysterious sandy-bearded banker, losing himself in the play. He later reflects on his lack of self-discipline and resolves to adopt disguises and cunning tactics. At Schramm's, he encounters the beautiful unknown woman, who shares his suspicions about the stranger. She asks for his help to escape unnoticed, and he obliges. Hull receives a disturbing note, and Wenk's suspicions about Cara Carozza as a decoy grow.
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