# Male Friendship and Loyalty in The Man in Lower Ten

> Theme guide for The Man in Lower Ten by Mary Roberts Rinehart.

The bond between the narrator and McKnight is central, tested by the protagonist's secret romance and the pressures of the crime, yet ultimately enduring through shared humor and mutual support.

## Where it surfaces

- [IX: The Halcyon Breakfast](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/chapters/ix-the-halcyon-breakfast): The narrator's loyalty to Richey McKnight restrains his feelings for Alison, highlighting the theme of friendship.
- [The Name Was Sullivan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/chapters/xi-the-name-was-sullivan): McKnight's concern for Blakeley and their collaborative discussion of the case highlight their bond.
- [The Shadow of a Girl](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/chapters/xvi-the-shadow-of-a-girl): The growing strain between Blakeley and McKnight over Alison West tests their friendship, culminating in a silent, locked-door tension.
- [XXVI: On to Richmond](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/chapters/xxvi-on-to-richmond): McKnight's steadfast support of Blakeley, including turning down Mrs. Conway's offer and sharing a reflective moment about past sacrifices, underscores their bond.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/themes/friendship_and_loyalty
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_man_in_lower_ten_se/themes