Introduction

The chapter is a one-act play that features a conversation between two characters, playwright Gerrard and an intruder, a criminal. Due to their similar appearances, the burglar entered Gerrard’s home with the intention of killing him, assuming his identity, and living peacefully. Gerrard talked to the intruder and made up a story about killing a man when he learned about the intruder’s strategy. Additionally, he told him that the police are about to apprehend them. With his cunning, he persuaded the intruder that the tale was true and imprisoned him in the cupboard.

Summary

Gerrard is heard talking on the phone as the play begins. He was a man of average height who resided alone in a cottage in Essex’s wilds. He was dressed in a lounge suit, a long coat, and his glasses. He put the phone down and immediately began packing his bag, giving the impression that he was leaving. A man carrying a revolver entered the home quietly as Gerrard was busy packing. He resembled Gerrard in appearance. He wore a soft hat and a long coat. Gerrard was told to raise his hands, and the intruder also demanded that he respond to a few questions. Gerrard engages the intruder politely while maintaining his composure.

Standing with his hands raised, Gerrard informed the intruder that he was uneasy. As a result, the intruder lets Gerrard sit in the chair while he sits on the diwan. Then he started to enquire. The intrusive person was curious about Gerrard’s basic characteristics, such as full name, habits, and speaking style.
The intruder identified himself to Gerrard as a jewel thief. After killing a police officer, he fled from the authorities. He also revealed to Gerrard his plans to murder him and steal his identity. As Vincent Charles Gerrard, he desired to lead a tranquil and carefree life.

Gerrard carefully concocted a false narrative after hearing the intruder out and informed him that he himself was a criminal. Gerrard had committed murder before escaping. But one of his men had been apprehended. Gerrard had prepared his belongings for flight and was also evading the police. He persuaded the intruder by displaying his disguise, which included a fake moustache and other accessories.

The intrusive man was almost persuaded by Gerrard’s tale. After that, the intruder started to deliberate. Gerrard had the chance to work on his strategy at this time. The police were on their way and Gerrard told the intruder to leave quickly in his car. The door that Gerrard used to leave the house—which was actually the door of a cupboard—was opened.

The intrusive person checked inside to make sure it was a door. Gerrard gave the intruder a push and locked him in the cabinet while he looked inside. The intruder dropped the gun from his hand. In order to apprehend the intruder, Gerrard grabbed the gun and dialled the sergeant. When Gerrard claims that this experience gave him material for his upcoming play, it becomes clear that he was a playwright.