The Borough Treasurer · Question
How does The Borough Treasurer develop the theme of Fate and Consequence?
Answer
The Borough Treasurer by J. S. Fletcher develops Fate and Consequence across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The past inevitably catches up with the characters; Kitely's chance arrival in Highmarket triggers a chain of events leading to murder, flight, and ruin, illustrating that past crimes have inescapable consequences.
Cotherstone's wish for Kitely's death is immediately followed by the news of his murder, suggesting a grim chain of cause and effect.
The calculations of interest over thirty years and Stoner's decision to investigate set in motion consequences tied to past actions.
Stoner's decision to blackmail leads directly to his fatal fall; Mallalieu's past crimes catch up with him.
Evidence in the book
- III: Murder
Cotherstone's wish for Kitely's death is immediately followed by the news of his murder, suggesting a grim chain of cause and effect.
- XIV: The Sheet of Figures
The calculations of interest over thirty years and Stoner's decision to investigate set in motion consequences tied to past actions.
- XVI: The Lonely Moor
Stoner's decision to blackmail leads directly to his fatal fall; Mallalieu's past crimes catch up with him.
- The Scrap Book
The past crimes of Mallows and Chidforth catch up with them decades later, leading to murder and impending disgrace.
- XXII: The Hand in the Darkness
Mallalieu's escape attempt is interrupted by a mysterious hand in the darkness, suggesting an inescapable fate.
- No Further Evidence
Mallalieu's escape seals his perceived guilt, while Cotherstone's calculated defense leads to his discharge.
- The Virtues of Suspicion
Mallalieu's fate hangs in the balance as he faces the consequences of his actions, with the threat of the gallows looming over every decision.
- Without Thought of Consequence
Mallalieu's impulsive shooting seals his fate, forcing him into a desperate flight with no thought of consequence.
