Jeeves in the Morning

By P.G. Wodehouse

I regret not keeping the original, "Joy in the Morning", regardless of it being a hardcover, but alas, it is done. So I begin this movie-scenic story with the easing lightness it throws, with gladness. Bertie relates how he'd only recently gotten out of a dire situation at Steeple Bumpleigh and confided to Jeeves the moments in which he had been close to losing hope. Bertie is then helped to remember the quote of "Joy cometh in the morning...", he believing it was the most succinct way of describing the Steeple Bumpleigh Horror.

Bertie had the foresight to want to avoid Steeple Bumpleigh, but believed the place should've had a sign warning those unaware. The surrounding area told of as being idyllic, but what brought it down was Bertie's Aunt Agatha, her second husband, Lord Percival Worplesdon, his daughter Florence, and another demon, his son Edwin. Those were the reasons Bertie continuously refused the invite of Boko Fittlesworth's to get together at his home, he living nearby. Bertie also had to swat Jeeves' suggestion to rent a cottage there for reasons above, Jeeves in for the fishing, but letting Bertie believe he'd let it go.

Bertie therefore, was completely taken off-guard when Steeple Bumpleigh entered his life forcefully, the day beginning quite comfortably. Jeeves informs him of a Miss Hopwood insistent on seeing him, but having been turned away since he'd still been sleeping. Bertie liked Jeeves' looking out, but also wished to have seen her, Zenobia (Nobby) Hopwood being a good friend and also happens to be Worplesdon's ward, he taking responsibility for her when a buddy of his left the country. Bertie then learns how long she'd be in the city, her visits infrequent lately, and having come up to see Aunt Agatha, who was in town for Thomas, her son from her first hubby, the boy having the mumps and still at school.

Bertie regards this with the passing entertainment of Agatha getting infected, then learning Nobby had come by, since they hadn't seen each other for awhile, Bertie agreeing with the sentiment, but once hearing she'd been hoping he would come see her at Steeple Bumpleigh, he again refusing the idea. Jeeves then mentions of Nobby having dropped by with a fellow called Stilton, who claimed to know Bertie, he deducing the young man with a pumpkin-shaped head must be a friend from long ago called, G. D'Arcy Cheesewright, his nickname being Stilton. Bertie thinks it strange he was acquainted with Nobby, learning how he also resided at Steeple Bumpleigh, Jeeves then answering a call from Worplesdon, Bertie's reaction being looked back on with astonishment, since not having felt the bad juju of the call. Jeeves then relates of Worplesdon having requested to speak with him and more detail given upon his arrival, Bertie sensing the man needed his expertise and bidding him his blessing, offering to pick him up a gift, he asking for the new edition of philosophy by Spinoza (the TV show must having covered this one as well, since I confused having read it already).

Bertie makes his way out, thinking about what sort of situation Worplesdon could have needed counseling, he then reveals how Agatha had hooked this new man eighteen months previously, he feeling sorry for him before learning who it was, due to Agatha's rough and torturous nature. Then when he found out it was Worplesdon, he realized she had met her violent match, Bertie recalling having a run-in with the man over a cigar he had taken. Worplesdon's personality only making Bertie wonder of the severity of the situation he could be in, then begins his correspondence of making his book order, and as the shop-keeper goes to uncover the work, Bertie is startled by Florence Cray, Worplesdon's daughter, who walked up behind him, he still reeling from the not-so-distant time they'd been engaged, he traumatized from the close call, hence his reaction to her, and attempting to recover with a "hullo". Bertie weighs Madeline Bassett and Honoria Glossop against Florence Craye for the most traumatizing, and Florence wins for her attempts at changing Bertie.

Bertie provides an example by a book she'd given him, he quoting from the text, it heavy on explanation of ethical theory. Florence then shares why she was in town and inquires whether he was stopping in the shop for brain dead reading material, but upon seeing what he'd been given by the shop-keeper, Bertie is taken aback with her reaction of light tone and blushing. He gets the picture though, when she inscribes the book for him, she now even more impressed when learning what the shop-keeper was looking for, and needing to order for him, Bertie knowing he was too deep to back out, but having terrible fear consume him. He regrets his endorsement of Spinoza and being caught with her work in his hands, realizing his mistake now building him up in Florence's mind.

Bertie saw his main way to escape was to state of a previous engagement, but he not out the door before having to agree to a hang-out sesh, finally dismissed and alighting to a bar. After giving his nerves a bit of a break, he sees outside something which caught his interest. The area around the Bollinger bar also gave plenty of entertainment, but currently especially across the street, which Bertie was at this moment deciding whether to check in at the jeweler's for a cigarette case, he normally going upon the whim of wanting to purchase some kind of bijouterie, or collection of jewelry or trinkets. As he looks upon the jeweler's entrance, he sees a man attempting to cross the threshold a few times, but stopping short.

Bertie then places the large figure being his old buddy Stilton, he completely in the dark as to why he'd be bouncing back and forth outside the shop. Bertie plans on inquiring into it, but whilst crossing the street, Stilton had slung himself through the door. Bertie found him poring over some product the assistant was helping him with at the case when Bertie poked his butt with his umbrella, and cordially greeted him, Stilton looking shifty, and Bertie sensing he wasn't wanted at the mo to reminisce over their youth, Stilton setting him straight when leading him away from the counter to confess he hadn't enjoyed the booty poke, Bertie apologizing, but couldn't resist a good opp. knocking. Bertie attempts to continue their pleasantries which didn't last long before Stilton was trying to bid him farewell, Bertie surprised he thought he could stop him so simply.

Bertie confides his thoughts plainly, then reminds Stilton of his drop-in with Nobby. Bertie getting his quiz since Stilton answered the following questions as monosyllabic as possible. Bertie fails to learn what Stilton did at Steeple Bumpleigh, so decides to try the question which had brought him to his verbal harassment, the reason for Stilton's dancing about outside, and his buying plans, he relenting and confessing he was getting an engagement ring, Bertie believing he had laughed jovially, but had stopped when Stilton took it as insult, he flashing back to their school days when Bertie had pouted his tummy out whilst being taught to row by Stilton. As Bertie back-pedaled his insulting laugh, then his terrible explanation of said laugh, only to have to explain his attempting to agree with Stilton on his being allowed to engage a girl, Bertie finally reaches a point where he's able to wish their happiness together, which doesn't get met with defensiveness, but also not getting the level of gratitude he had expected.

Bertie then receives details of, whilst not Nobby, who he thought, she being engaged to Boko, but to Florence. Bertie's reaction brought defensive questioning again, he believing he no longer needed to fear Florence going after him what with Stilton's hand secured. Bertie tries to veer the questions away with nonchalance, the table having turned, and he not wanting Stilton to know he also had been engaged to his love. Bertie halfway explained his way out with her father having married his aunt, but Stilton's suspicion stays noticeable as he spoke of how odd it was Florence hadn't mentioned Bertie regardless of their acquaintanceship, Bertie "pip-pip"-ing on his way out.

Bertie has a spectrum of feelings as he walks home, one in particular to do with Stilton, he at first placated by being off the hook with Florence, but then feeling sorry and fearing for what Stilton was about to put himself through. He then describes Stilton's character as one who is all for his immortal betterment, but Bertie looking after the side which would decide he'd grown enough, whilst Florence would still be on the path to further growth. Bertie was on the case though, light-bulbing of writing to Nobby to gently put the chap straight since she'd known Florence since youth. Bertie added some bullet-points of his own to build from as a back-up for her, if needed, and when satisfied, posted it.

When returning to see Jeeves attending to household matters, Bertie goes right in with Cheesewright's current difficulty and how he'd handled it, then asking Jeeves for an update on his Uncle Percy, his Uncle wanting Jeeves' opinion, but Bertie unable to coax him into further detail until giving his word it would go no further, the information regarding a sensitive business prospect, which even Jeeves wasn't confided in knowing, but imagined it was the same one written of in the papers, which was about a unification with an American company. Jeeves clarifies how a meeting between Percy and the other company man would need to be planned carefully so no one jumped to conclusions before a deal was made and effect both sides of shares in stock, Bertie on his game currently and completely sensing the hardship. Also deducing Percy wanted to buy some shares before the word got out (oooOOO, bad), Jeeves responding with the Latin: "Rem acu tetigisti" - "You have touched the matter with a needle". Bertie then works out how the two would be seeking a secluded meeting place, Jeeves having supplied the possibility of turning to someone Percy knew to lend them a country cottage to wheel and deal, Bertie sensing a problem with whoever allowed the use of said cottage would come to the same conclusion as Percy, and elbow in to the deal of stocking up on shares, as well.

Jeeves had considered this, so elected Bertie to reside in one of the cottages at Steeple Bumpleigh to be used by the meeting at some point after. Bertie relays his feeling of betrayal, Jeeves apologizing then listing the finer details of the property, he not taken in due to knowing Jeeves' motives, who plays none-the-wiser, but once Bertie hears the name of the place, ends the idea promptly, then whilst temporarily side-tracked, gets "back on the res" - the crux of the matter (Thank you, Madame Eulalie, the only one who could help my quest in finding out what res meant). Jeeves then brings logic to the table as Bertie considers the repercussions he'd be in for by his Aunt Agatha if he backed out now, he then relenting begrudgingly and has Jeeves begin packing. Then, Bertie is told of being the sort who preferred looking for the bright side.

One aspect which supported this being Agatha not being present for a little while during Bertie's first moments at Steeple Bumpleigh. He speaks to Jeeves with high hopes of she being away through all of his stay, for Thos' mumps. Jeeves then saving the good news of a fancy dress ball the next night, Bertie ready to dance better than Fred Astaire, as he puts it, he choosing his costume, then being informed Nobby would be carpooling with him, so Jeeves planned on traveling by train, afterward relaying Agatha had requested Bertie pick up a broach she'd bought, he miffed he'd been chosen to carry out the task, but once learning it was for Florence and he wouldn't need to supply a gift, as well he was a bit more accepting. Bertie admits being one of a hardy character being difficult, and he didn't want Florence getting the wrong impression (She was referred to as a beasel, which presumably is meant in the definition of being like a flapper, since she doesn't seem to have a shaved head and pointed ears).

Bertie then states how he would need one for Nobby what with her engagement, Jeeves agreeing to hope good tidings to them, Bertie allowing how it wasn't usual he'd agreed with the marriage match-ups between his buddies. Bertie then has breakfast and begins his broach-getting, as well as his party costume acquirement, after which Nobby is discovered waiting for Bertie, everything being put up in the vehicle whilst the two chatted, Bertie then beginning their journey and looking forward to hearing about the finer details in regards to the build-up to the proposal. He brings up how he'd heard and how level-headed she was, he readying to pose his quiz on the subj., she content to answer, the engagement having stemmed from the two's immediate affection for each other, Bertie a bit in the dark as to how she'd loved the sight of Boko from the first, due to his quite specific look which was cringe-worthy to even Jeeves. Bertie then becomes more specific about how Boko must've gotten to this point in around two months, the matter going from whether he'd wooed her to Nobby believing it may not happen since her Uncle Percy didn't agree to their union.

Bertie is stunned with this development since Percy's word had clout due to his looking after her, Nobby relaying how even despite Boko's success as a writer, Percy distrusted his ability to stick to his obligations. The idea also being of Boko's popularity not lasting him a lifetime and Percy being left to foot their bills. Nobby then describes how Percy saw Boko as a "butterfly", he having first been engaged to Florence, so this making the wooing impossible. So those two facts soured Percy's view of him, Bertie getting the reasoning, he then remembering Nobby would only need to wait for a certain time, once discovering it was only another year, thinking he'd cracked it, but she reminding him of Boko going to Hollywood in a month, she thinking he'd need a wife to keep his head on straight whilst out there, Bertie is unable to accept her line of reasoning and spouting what he believed was a line from Jeeves about trust, she not buying it because of Boko's simple nature of being easily swayed, Bertie then coming up with a plan of talking Percy into it upon his owing him for his presence at the cottage.

Nobby is immediately warmed by his selfless gesture and starts suggesting ideas to help talk up Boko, Bertie assuring her he had it handled and as they approached, restoring her certainty he would do everything he could. After dropping her off, he goes to Boko's for a nip, Boko responding to Bertie's whistle outside his window by issuing forth a little piece of flying dishware. When Bertie calls out in surprise due to how close he'd almost been clipped on the head, Boko has a look out, at first looking annoyed and after recognizing who it was, couldn't believe it was the one and only. Bertie guessed he'd interrupted Boko at a difficult juncture in his writing due to his frumpiness, Boko then explains why he'd chucked the china being due to Edwin making a nuisance of dropping in.

Bertie shares his reasons for being there involving the party and Jeeves' fishing. They then have some dry-throat-quelling drink as they chat of Boko's marriage halting. Bertie confides how he'd be putting in his word with Percy, Boko warning him his lunch may have made his cause more grueling a task. Bertie then supplies how Boko's appearance might not be helping his cause.

Foregoing further reasoning for this, Boko relates how he'd messed up the lunch by overdoing the happy kindness Nobby had insisted upon. Boko then backtracks to see if Bertie remembered when Freddy Widgeon used to bring his gag toys to the Drones, Bertie reminiscing happily until realizing the implication, especially after learning which gag Boko had used, Bertie deciding to move along, and Boko bidding him farewell as he wrote an apology letter he hoped not to have to send if Bertie worked enough magic on Percy. Bertie wasn't as keen to get into his request of Percy so much now, he only hoping his assistance with the merger-hosting would lighten Percy's view. Bertie then hears his name being called as he drove, and upon stopping, seeing Stilton upon bicycle approaching with an unfriendly gaze.

Bertie sensed Stilton would have an issue with his presence so close to his love, he seeing the problem of being unable to confess his true reasons for being there. What Bertie was truly stumped by though, was Stilton's outfit of a policeman. Bertie inquires after the duds whilst Stilton asks why Bertie was in town, he ignoring the question to repetitiously ask about Stilton's cop-hood. He realizes why Stilton had kept his position secret, Bertie understanding it was due to his penchant for cheeky statements and he unable to deny this, for already having come up with a few.

Bertie instead thinks of how many mates had joined the Force since an academy had been opened, Stilton declaring his drive in becoming a part of Scotland Yard. Bertie's response colored with doubt, considering Stilton's interest in college being out of step with his current goal and believing he'd be the sort to make a mockery of the profession like those read about in Sherlock Holmes. Bertie anticipates Stilton returning to his own line of topic, he giving Stilton the easy answer of taking some time from the city and allowing Jeeves to fish. Stilton gets straight into how he wasn't buying the story since learning from Florence of their engagement, Bertie going on to declare how over they were.

Unfortunately, Stilton wasn't going for it, also having seen the inscription of the book Bertie left in the shop, he maintaining Bertie return to the city, even after hearing Bertie's explanation of helping Boko and Nobby. Stilton goes on his way with a half spoken threat before leaving, Florence then riding up and relating of having set some flowers in Bertie's cottage, her thoughts of Stilton regarding how he'd been acting foolish lately, since his reason for becoming a cop hadn't struck her as fruitful, especially since his uncle offered to fund him for politics, she leaving after venting. Bertie takes a smoke break for all the new stresses to consider before completing his journey to Wee Nooke. Upon estimating Wee Nooke for himself, he found it to be old, but livable, and once hearing weird sounds, he thought it possible the place haunted, but upon tripping over a bucket, Florence's younger brother, Edwin comes through a door, he greeting Bertie and quite ready to perform first aid in whatever capacity he could, Bertie resisting resolutely.

As Edwin planned on cleaning the chimney, Bertie notices his Aunt Agatha's present to Florence had fallen from out of his jacket, Edwin first to detect it, and Bertie nimbly swiping it back. When the little mite's inquiry has Bertie sharing what and who it was for, he refuses his messenger service, Bertie then concluding their chat amiably and walking back outside, knowing how reacquiring the gift had saved his ass from hearing about it constantly, later. He was then debating repaying Edwin with a present for his keen eye when Wee Nooke burst in flames, giving Bertie a scare. Bertie watched the blaze with the usual satisfaction of fire-gazing, until remembering Edwin could still be inside, and being the only person able to conduct a rescue mission, he debates the thought of whether to save Edwin, regardless of his kindly thoughts from earlier, since it quite possible Edwin had caused the fiery eruption.

When Bertie has decided to attempt the task though, Edwin moseys out looking gratified, minus eyebrows, and explaining how the explosion was caused by gunpowder in the chimney and water-looking petrol when he attempted to douse the flames. Once Bertie realizes what this meant for him, his General Headquarters well and gone, he felt he needed to impose some violence on the boy, but hadn't the means nor felt Edwin's lack of eyebrows warranted a sign of kicking the boy whilst impaired. Bertie was then reminded of why Edwin was obsessed with completing his kindly duties, this being among the tasks given to the ranks of Boy Scouts. He realizes the suitcase containing his costume was currently within the tinderbox, Bertie dashing in without regret, and seeing everything was quite stable at the mo, and so toddles to the case and brings it out unscathed.

Bertie does notice Percy has arrived though, Edwin gone, and Bertie playing calm, collected, and cheerful, he truly none of the above. Percy is in shock whilst Bertie confirms the state of Wee Nooke, then inquires after his uncle, but Percy regains some speech to accuse Bertie of the pyromania and should've expected such behavior from him, and when Bertie attempts to set him straight of his son's good-doings, it doesn't make a dent in Percy's bend, he still blaming him for supplying the gunpowder to Edwin, and when Bertie explains further what the boy had used in lieu of water, Percy reacts like Bertie had done this himself, and settles with the idea in the end, of Bertie and Edwin having egged each other on, team-work style. Percy eventually pushes off after instructing Bertie to direct Jeeves to him when he came, the man doing so not long after by taxi, Bertie ready to unload the woe of Steeple Bumpleigh and hopefully to push Jeeves' buttons for talking him into the mess. Bertie wastes not a mo to point out the trouble of Steeple Bumpleigh and ends with a poetic question to which Jeeves agrees with, Bertie then making plain the current events (Bertie makes a comment about relating to King Herod in reference to seeing his point on doing away with the first born sons, which had me reminded of an episode of Vicar of Dibley, where Geraldine mentions a similar scenario).

Jeeves then confirms having spoken with Percy on his way to Wee Nooke, the man wanting him to settle at the Hall, so his brain could be all the closer. Bertie rightly assumes he wasn't invited and likened he and Jeeves to gazelles per the poet Moore, he then speaking Jeeves' thought of bunking with Boko, he then appraising Jeeves of Boko's situation with Nobby, and his own scapegoated position with Percy, Jeeves aware of the importance his plan-making skills were to the group. Bertie lastly informs Jeeves of Stilton's job title, Jeeves' look making Bertie think he was shocked by the news, and helped Bertie decide he would need to be the model citizen, he then realizing he'd misplaced the brooch, Jeeves noting how worrisome the prospect was, he then retracing his steps to the point of where he'd most likely dropped it whilst retrieving his suitcase in Wee Nooke, the fire now too low to enter, Jeeves taking some time to reflect on the matter. Bertie took the time to decide whether fleeing was a viable way to handle Agatha, when Jeeves shares a possible easy remedy, which involved he going back to London to order a second identical brooch, Bertie warming to the idea as he spoke of the last situation which Jeeves implemented the switcheroo being the Aberdeen McIntosh.

Jeeves then game-plans by allowing first, time to transfer Bertie's luggage to Boko's, then going to make the brooch order, whilst Bertie roamed about the area, to double check the grounds on the off-chance it had fallen outdoors. No luck though, so it's whilst he walked, Nobby rode up upon bicycle, Bertie eager to chat with her about Stilton and his personal affairs. Nobby had freshened up, which Bertie didn't understand, what with she meeting a goofy man dressed to the frumpiness. Bertie bids to have a word with her after agreeing he was off to see Boko, as well.

Nobby interrupts him with the subj. Bertie was after, so wasn't as annoyed by her inattentiveness. She mentions of how mad Stilton was, Bertie sharing the reason for this and how Stilton didn't believe his pure intentions. He then eventually gets to the danger of Stilton's career having affected Florence's love which could affect Bertie's relationship status. Nobby then considers his predicament, and realizes how Florence had seemed attached to Bertie the most out of all her fiancés.

Bertie's necessity to rectify Florence and Stilton's lovey-doveyness hits him hard, and in despair, he asks for Nobby to talk to either side and do some convincing for both to see reason. Nobby agrees to do as best she can, and the two then enter Boko's residence, he letting Bertie know his luggage had arrived safely, and assuring Nobby of his lunch with Percy going fine, but when she heard of Bertie no longer being able to knock home Percy's acceptance, Boko shares his back-up plan of saving Percy's home from a burglar to prove his worth. Then, once describing the finer details, Bertie is readying to back out, due to the part he was meant to play, but Boko and Nobby speak of his goodness so much, his resolve dies and turns to reluctant agreement. The lack of gusto persists until the time was nigh, Bertie's feeling getting worse as the two reached their destination, Boko intermittently makes comment to the nice qualities of the garden about them, but  Bertie wasn't feeling it, and preparing to leave his buddy at his time of need.

Bertie remembers his terrible experiences with trespassing and policemen interruptions, he relating this possibility to Boko, who turns down the idea, believing Stilton would already be in the depths of sleepy-time, which Bertie allowed, but the aunt and uncle still being a worry, Boko disregarding this, as well and making certain Bertie had his accouterments ready to break the window, Boko biffing off to give Bertie time to do his part. Bertie at first is satisfying his imagination by contemplating how burglars must discover ways to aid their stress, but then figures Boko could return soon, since he'd wasted a few minutes with this line of fancy, and sets up the treacled paper upon the window. Then, metaphorically dancing about the window in preference to completing his task, Bertie likens the thought to how he saw Stilton outside the jewelers, acting similarly. As Bertie gathered his nerve, he heard Edwin call from above him, Bertie knowing the boy was baiting him when he'd announced he could see him, so Bertie stayed silent and still, comforted in knowing it was a dark night.

When Edwin withdraws, Boko returns, not sympathetic to the necessity of silence, Bertie informing him of their little Boy Scout, Boko showing disapproval with tongue-clicking when Bertie blamed Edwin as the cause of not breaking the window, Bertie now hyper-aware of the noise Boko made (his metaphor bringing a pleasant image to mind), he having Bertie stay focused on how this would help he and Nobby. Boko then leaves Bertie with another ten minutes time frame, Bertie thinking the new tactic of taking a stroll could help his resolve, he doing so, but wasn't calmed, esp. when viewing a shadowy shape, but then recognizing Jeeves' voice. The two greet each other cordially and relate the shock they'd received from the other, Jeeves then moving on to Bertie's timing for an evening stroll being an ideal one, even poetically speaking of the stars, which is when Bertie attempts to quiet him. Jeeves then informs of acquiring the brooch and had given it to Florence, Bertie glad for it due to his current issue, which he readily shares with Jeeves.

Upon finishing, Jeeves speaks of the timing certainly being in their favor to go through with such an idea since Percy had yet renewed his security insurance, he having Jeeves send it in the same day, before Agatha became aware, Bertie quite surprised by Percy's place in his household not being the top dog. Bertie was reinforced by this information so he could finish his task, but then Jeeves adds how the real-time timing was a bit off since Percy was about to meet a Chichester Clam at the potting shed, he explaining this was the gentleman Percy was attempting to merge companies with. Bertie felt sympathetic toward the American's ignorance of Steeple Bumpleigh, he knowing the place most likely wouldn't let Clam off with a warning. Bertie then became aware of the hour which Percy was to meet Clam was upon them, Jeeves warning of his approach.

Bertie wasn't quite ecstatic with being viewed by the uncle-figure, but greets him as he got closer, scaring him to bits, which helped Bertie's mood toward the positive, even getting Percy's usual repetitive response of whatting, whilst Bertie shared how Jeeves and he had been chatting of stars, and during the quotation Jeeves had spoken earlier, Percy "what"-ed his way through the retelling. Percy then gets a closer look at Bertie, who has to explain he had only been walking about the premises. Percy demands he be off and away, Bertie catching the clue, and about to do so when Stilton scares him into the air, possibly more so then Uncle. Percy loses his shit by this point and indignantly demands why there's so many people milling in his garden, expletives included. Stilton didn't take this outburst without offense, due to Percy's upper-hand on more than one level, Stilton apologizes and shares his reason for coming was caused by a call from Edwin, Percy momentarily adrenalized upon why Edwin had contacted the Force, but calmed when Jeeves confirms his letter had been sent, Boko next to arrive with pride of detaining a burglar in the potting shed.

Bertie realizing Clam must now have the knowledge of Steeple Bumpleigh's curse. As Boko reached their little pow-wow, Bertie entertained the idea of Clam's viewpoint of this oddness, Bertie listing the typical day he presumed the man was used to, Steeple Bumpleigh being a mismatch for such a normal schedule. So, as Boko is readying to lead Percy to his proud find, he reiterates of the troublemaker he'd trapped in the potting shed, in case they hadn't heard, and was getting too comfortable poking Percy in the chest, which the latter exclaims for the nonsense to end, Boko defending his detection of the thief by relating Bertie's having stuck the treacled paper to the window. Stilton gives Boko props for his foresight and announces of going off to apprehend the fellow, Percy growing more agitated as they speak, whatting reflexively once more.

As Boko attempts to sooth Percy of his feeling of upset, Florence comes out to them, she not at all in pleasant spirit for being awoken by shouting. Boko takes responsibility proudly, not aware of Percy's disfavor of him, Bertie feeling sad for the rube. As Boko then attempts to answer Florence's inquiries as to how and why he was there to offer his services in implementing his gloriously selfless task, Percy pipes in with wanting to learn the same, building off of this framework to add his bewilderment for his tromping about his property when Boko had one of his own. Boko is flummoxed by this tirade against him, and when regaining his speech states of how ungrateful Percy was, having Jeeves quote Shakespeare about "ingratitude".

Percy then decides the man housed in his potting shed was most likely a harmless homeless man, and wouldn't be pressing charges, then gives Jeeves ten shillings to give to the man for shelter. Boko is properly disgusted, stating how next time he'll help the intruder succeed getting inside. Boko then stalks off, Bertie accustomed to this behavior since he understood this response could come from even a not so moody sort, what with the circumstances being as they were. Bertie also felt terrible for Boko's plan being dead in the water, since now the young lovers would remain detached, the odds not in his favor.

Bertie then hears an avian-sounding whistle and recognizes Nobby from afar, he meeting her. Nobby was effervescing with fervor in being updated, Bertie reluctant, but giving the unfortunate mishaps of the night, she thinking Bertie must've dropped the ball, but he explaining how crowded the place had gotten fairly quickly before execution could fully begin. He describes Boko's mistake of communicating so insultingly to Percy, Nobby finally aware of the hole Boko had dug, and she now going after him to give him a piece of her mind. Jeeves appears to inform of having let Clam go, but Bertie focuses on Boko, asking Jeeves to help him remedy the issue, and when sending him off after him, Bertie stresses over the situation when Boko pops back. Boko looks properly put in his place, Bertie thinking Nobby had located him, which Boko confirms after asking if Bertie carried any libation, which he wasn't, Boko then half explaining how Nobby had truly slapped him about with her words, she declaring they were over and Bertie convincing him not to read too much into it.

Boko slowly is convinced Bertie had a point, especially after he quoted Jeeves on the strength of love. Boko was verging on a comeback of confidence when Nobby is heard calling to him, he sobered, and following her command to join her, giving Bertie a moment to think over what had occurred. His thoughts then turn to how common this situation was for his friends who are couples, he believing his estimation of Nobby's next move being proven correct as he sees Boko's look of elation upon returning. Boko relates as much and also shares of Jeeves and Nobby thinking up the next course of action, Bertie stating of the work ahead of them being tough, but Boko explaining how Jeeves had come up with a doozy, Boko needing to have Percy's back, he then sharing a scenario where he'd defend Percy from Bertie, which the latter was horrified upon hearing the description of what Boko thought he would do, Bertie plainly making clear he didn't fit well into this plan whatsoever, Boko shocked by his not rallying round, he taking a similar route as some of his other pals when reminding Bertie of their school days, as well as Bertie's affection for Nobby and how this would upset her, Boko giving him the chance by deciding he hadn't heard him properly, but Bertie sticks to his guns.

Boko makes certain Bertie truly declined to aid him in his plan, Boko stating of his disappointment and not believing the day would ever have arrived to discover Bertie not volunteering his help, his resolve almost breaking when he mentions of hosting him, but the vision of Percy setting him straight. Boko then reminds him of how upset Nobby would be, he then retreating with tsk-tsks, Bertie having then been snuck up on with a hit to the back of his head, sending him grass-ward. Bertie now has an ouchy on the back of his skull, he hearing Edwin above him, impressed with his handiwork and realizing it was Bertie afterward, the latter demanding why he'd conked him, Edwin focusing on the part of his inquiry to do with his weapon of choice, he getting the confirmation of its validity as a painful piece of artillery, Edwin apologizing and confessing Bertie was the second victim he had mistaken for the thief, the first his pop. When Bertie hears how well Edwin had conked his pater, he relates to his heart jumping for joy, Edwin going on to relate how Florence had stuck up for him when Percy was readying to whoop Edwin good.

Then, Bertie shares how his head still hurt and he had a lump, Edwin inquiring after his physical state, and then the former denying him the honor of performing first aid. Edwin changes topics about the reason for Bertie's presence, and shares how Florence's engagement could be possibly cancelled since he'd overheard a fight between she and Stilton. Bertie takes intent interest in this, and interrogates Edwin on the details, only learning their exchange was decently serious. Bertie's soaring heart takes a dive, he knowing Florence's intellect kept her style of fighting to be reckoned with more soberly than Nobby's kind.

Edwin reveals how he'd been distracted from listening to much by his act of whacking Bertie during their heated back-and-forth. Knowing this gave Bertie slight hope, since the two could've winded down their blow up before going too far. Edwin then confirms whether his acts of kindnesses from earlier still counted, despite his back-step, the two debating the day Edwin had reached, until Bertie realized Edwin had located the brooch twice, the second time at Wee Nooke. After stating of Florence's delight having received the brooch by Edwin's hand and giving Bertie the credit, he dashes away.

Bertie then hears noisy breathing and puts together it was Florence. Bertie couldn't read the look on her face, only knowing she was feeling something compelling, she bluntly speaking of Stilton, to which Bertie regards her phrasing quite soberly, noting how she wasn't seeing Stilton in a pleasant light and her view worried him as to the likelihood of the two working through this. Bertie determines her view would warm her more to his side, which prompted him to speak on Stilton's behalf, this not succeeding in changing her low opinion, she then sharing how Stilton had insulted Percy when he wasn't given permission to arrest the man in the shed. Bertie grasped at the straw of Stilton having been kidding about his harsh statements, but Florence states otherwise.

Bertie feels for Percy's plight as much as one could for the sort of his ilk, he having quite a time what with Boko, Edwin, and now Stilton. Bertie again attempts to spin Stilton's temper in a positive light, Florence denying this by relating how he'd blasted her with his words when she'd voiced supporting her father's side. Bertie was impressed with Stilton's courage to stand up to Florence, but also knew it'd be the death of their love. Florence is unable to repeat Stilton's insult of her reply about the quality of life for those in prison, the thought renewing her anger.

Florence then shares of the fear Bertie'd been thinking of, the cancellation of their wedding, his reaction being to speak of Stilton highly, trying to have her let it go, he then spurring into a well-worded support to Stilton's actions caused by the lack of crime in Steeple Bumpleigh, he unprepared by Florence's response not being to take his words logically, but to become enchanted with him, she thinking he'd said all of this with the idea of wanting to get hitched to her. She then explains the brooch had helped her form her opinion, she accepting her title as hubby, sharing the sort of wedding she'd like, and left him to numbly catch up to her plans for him. Bertie stays frozen to the ground for quite awhile, not moving even when flying pests knocked into his face, nor when other sorts crawled upon his neck. After he finally gets moving and back to Boko's, he discovers the latter in the living room, Bertie buzzing over to the liquid refreshment, Boko not noticing him until hearing him pour, the man welcoming him, but also shocked he could detect the will to make a drink, after all which had occurred.

Boko then eyeballs him as he informs Bertie he'd seen Nobby and she'd been quite upset due to Bertie's stance, Boko again mentioning how he hadn't foreseen the day coming when Bertie would fall through, he going on to inquire what had taken so long to return, he starting with Edwin, which pleased Boko, but Bertie pleading with him to save his chill nature for a later time since he required ideas and pity, he revealing his enchainment to Florence. After hearing Bertie's tale, Boko admits how terrible it was Stilton had screwed up what with his true affection for her being apparent, and if he'd quit being a cop, he would still have a chance at a reunion. Bertie didn't see the value of thinking about Stilton, he wanting a plan, so Boko asks if he could use the one which had worked the first time, Bertie stating to the negative. Boko then mentions how his style of having Florence break it off was tried and true, but Bertie not worthy for not helping Nobby and he, the former now reconsidering, but only after being reassured Boko's plan was solid, he agreeing to share after he'd completed the job of angering Percy, Bertie acquiescing and Boko all smiles afterward, he deciding to jot down some ideas for Bertie to implement.

Bertie sleeps terribly, ridden by nightmares of Percy, but morning brought sunny goodness, birds a-twitter, this not helping Bertie's attitude toward the day, though. He was plagued by his duty, he even having risen earlier for his troubled thoughts. He prepares for a refreshing bath, when he sees a note under his door, and reading of the statements Boko had come up with for him to spout to Percy, which worried him as he read. He brings up his Headmaster and the failed biscuit-stealing again, to relate how Boko had continued from where the Headmaster had left off, Bertie gauging of the estimated six hundred words, six of them acceptable enough for Bertie to muster the courage to speak, only if he were imbibed to the gills.

Boko expected Bertie to follow the plan by ten in the A.M., but Bertie learns Percy was currently river swimming, he discovering him happily sloshing about. When Bertie sees Stilton was along for the water fun, he decides his best course was to stay unnoticed, he puttering along the sloping edge and spotting Jeeves fishing, who he greets aloofly, and explains the reason. Bertie is peeved over what he now had to attempt to say to Percy, he essentially asking if it was worth his head to Jeeves, the reaction from the latter being a slight, quizzical look. Jeeves replies how Bertie could've backed out, to which Bertie derisively singly laughs over the idea, relaying the events of the previous night with Edwin, Florence, and ending with Boko and his information withholding on how to detour Florence.

Jeeves, not having heard of their couple-hood, couldn't guess what Boko had done and offers to inquire the house-staff, Bertie all for this. The two agree to a meeting time and place to speak of Jeeves' findings, Bertie returning to the house and seeing Boko at breakfast, Bertie inquiring about his knowledge of porpentines, Boko ignoring this and asking after Bertie's thoughts regarding his list. He confesses the list's horrifying qualities and confides of possibly deciding to nix going through with the plan, Boko shocked by this being the real Bertie's feelings, again. Boko takes this badly, and states his displeasure on such cowardice, Bertie not phased by Boko's retaliative approach by keeping his secret Florence-begone to himself, the former reminding him he hadn't decided to withdraw yet, and the two leaving each other on good terms, they agreeing to enter the Hall individually.

Bertie meets Jeeves, who he can sense has good news, Jeeves sharing the source of his information coming from the boy who cleans the silverware and boots, he having seen the happenings first-hand. Edwin had played a part in the events, he tracking something which Florence saw as she tended to a part of the garden, Boko walks up to Edwin and speeds up as he bends over some flowers, Boko then whopping him a kick, Florence not accepting his explanation and ending their engagement. Jeeves then points out Edwin was currently hunched over peering at something the ground. Bertie caught Jeeves' point along with the look he gave him to solidify his meaning, but whilst Bertie had the inclination, the circumstances gave him pause.

Bertie could also see Boko's advantage when it came to his enactment, he in mid-question as to Jeeves' surety of this being his best course, and even adding how Florence's presence would and should be had, Jeeves offering to give her a reason to meet Bertie outside. His hesitance still holds him, and when confessing this to Jeeves, he posits Hamlet being in a similar boat, but what gets Bertie on-board though, was knowing the time rounding ten, his qualms bothering him no more, and Jeeves informing the length of time necessary to retrieve Florence. Bertie chats up Edwin in the serene atmosphere as he waits, Edwin sharing how close he was to catching up on his kind deeds and his current preoccupation. Edwin goes off on his ant knowledge until remembering Bertie's bruised head, this having been related to how ants talk to each other, Edwin sharing how much enjoyment he maintained from the memory.

This only helps spur Bertie's resolve, and as Edwin speaks, gets up to demonstrate or to stretch his legs as Florence finally comes outside, Bertie quickly coming up with a reason for him to bend again, he bringing his attention to a bit of 'change' under a shrub, Bertie noting his posture perfect for his swing, and upon execution, Edwin flying, but Florence isn't furious, she happy has a clam, calling Edwin back, but he wandering off, and Florence explaining her reason for being pleased being in relation to Edwin's hack job of her clippings being pasted upside down. She leaves Bertie to attend to the issue, he not noticing Nobby had been attempting to engage his attention for a little while, she having come to remind him of his meeting with Percy having arrived. Bertie mentions once more of how adept he was in obtaining those "silver-lining" moments, he declaring to Nobby of having found it in the form of his ability to back out, which Nobby then remembers his letter to her about Florence being a good back-up plan, he realizing the validity in this, and readies his entrance, flying to Percy's sanctum sanctorum. Bertie's description of Percy's study is everything one would expect a study to exude, the one article missing being Percy, himself.

This new situation threw Bertie as to where he should proceed, he deducing by cigar smoke smell he'd been there recently and most likely had gone outside to ponder his Clam troubles, Bertie attempting to decide whether to follow, his fire cooling as he stood, and so upon reluctantly following, he hears the man himself speaking with Boko, Bertie seeing the two walk into his line of sight with a gardener and mutt. As Boko is led away, Percy heads toward Bertie, he realizing there was no point going through with the plan if Boko couldn't hear, and so goes back to the study to notice what he decided must be a painting of his Aunt Agatha he hadn't been aware of earlier, but then hears her voice, which fortunately turns out to be only an audial hallucination, but by this point, Percy had caught up to him, he ranting about Boko turning up regardless of the hour. Percy registers Bertie's presence and speaks unusually cordially to him, throwing Bertie off, understandably what with their troubled history, he continuing by listing his normal temperament, his look similar to a cricketer turned actor (the picture of who gives a fair idea what hilarity could come from the comparison), and who had gone rabid (quite an image). So, to now see Percy looking agreeably at him, he was weak with disbelief, Percy then insisting he have a libation, sharing how he'd tromped on Boko, Bertie empathizing with his bud after imagining what area Percy must have stepped, but then extending his sympathies to Percy, as well.

When Percy inquires about Boko's friendship with Bertie, he sees a return of his old self, he letting this go to inform why the gardener had been pointing a pitchfork at Boko's rump. Percy then offers a cigar to Bertie, he declining, which gives Percy reason to mention the hunting crop incident, and then giving Bertie the cigar so he could speak of why he'd wanted to chat, this an attempt at getting Bertie to loosen up. After they have a drink, Percy commends him on his kick of Edwin, he going so far as to shake Bertie by the hand, and then asking him to excuse his aggressive temper due to his son, he then confessing his change of mood toward Bertie was because of his conduct with Edwin, and now wanted Bertie's opinion about how he should proceed with his meeting with Clam, since the man was so skittish, he now wanting to forget about it and only return home. Percy finally gets around to asking what thoughts Bertie had on where to meet safely, upon his mentioning already having gone to Jeeves and learning he'd been told the man didn't have a plan surprised Bertie, but when discovering when Percy had been told this, remained hopeful due to this being said the previous night.

Bertie goes on to relate there was even better chance, since Jeeves would've most likely dined on his catch from this morning, his brain properly stimulated, Percy adopting Bertie's optimism, and so calling his butler for a refresher on drinks and Jeeves. When the two return and his butler withdraws, Bertie informs Jeeves of what he'd mentioned to Percy about his regiment on producing new ideas, but Jeeves still had nada. Percy didn't let this keep his spirits down though, and put his hope back on Bertie, who decides to have a walk around and think, Nobby popping up when he left. Nobby was close to literally dying to know how it had gone, she describing how little she could hear, but how she'd expected to hear Bertie's voice more and couldn't hear Boko at all, which finally gave Bertie the chance once more to dispel her hopefulness, confessing Boko's absence, and once revealing to her the events, she readying to turn on her beau, but Bertie reminding her of how big Percy's feet were, Boko's inability to escape them slim, he being relatively unharmed and Percy's view of him not positive, still.

Bertie was then able to share the new standing he had with Percy though, and how it may yet help them, he sharing how if he succeeded thinking up a stellar meeting spot, he'd be able to help the two. When she attempts to help him with ideas and can't, she suggests Jeeves be brought in, surprised to learn he couldn't come through, and having Boko help wasn't going to help once Bertie told her why it would only complicate matters. Nobby soon biffs off to locate Jeeves for still disbelieving his failure to formulate a plan, Bertie left to think. Jeeves appears, and when Bertie doesn't see him coming, is reminded of Indians astral projecting, Nobby accompanying him and looking quite happy since stating how Jeeves was no longer blocked, and in fact had pretended to be without plan so Bertie could have the upper hand and could get even more bosomy with Percy, but the plan needed to be handled gently when it came to sharing it with him, and so Jeeves offers to bear the news to him on Bertie's behalf, his plan being for Clam and Percy to meet at the dress party (TV show pops to mind, once more, possibly in a different episode).

Bertie had completely forgotten the party, what with Steeple Bumpleigh's overpowering effects. Bertie then brings up his hope of Percy having the attire needed, Nobby having forgotten this requirement, and Jeeves stating how Bertie would need to lend his costume, which struck him with the strength of a mother cat being separated from her babies, but when being assured it was the only way, agrees bravely, Nobby not getting why he'd care, this being after Jeeves had gone off to speak with Percy, Bertie declaring how he'd wanted to show off his Sinbad costume, which he states of Nobby not having experienced life until she had, also now realizing he and Boko both should be in attendance so as to take advantage of Percy's inevitable good mood once finalizing his deal, and whilst Bertie paces over this, Jeeves returns, he rejoining them, and Jeeves regarding Bertie's idea which Nobby had related to him, he agreeing; this after stating Percy had accepted the idea and Jeeves planned to next see Clam on the subj., deciding Boko would drive him so he could secure the costumes whilst they were in town, Bertie wondering how safe the costume selection was in Boko's hands, but Jeeves certain Bertie should stay to ease Percy's mind, since he had flip-flopped in his agreement every time he saw Agatha's painting, and would need periodic reassurance, Bertie accepting this what with his own run-in with it, Jeeves then confirming with Nobby of Boko being home and off to begin his journey. Bertie discovers how time consuming keeping Percy's spirits up would be, upon viewing the man's anxious manner whilst sitting in his study and staring at his Aunt's portrait. Finally, when evening hit, Percy is called by Clam, who agreed to the scheme, Clam's costume including a bushy beard.

Now everything had been confirmed, Percy opens up to how he used to hit the Ball's fairly hard in his youth (pun most definitely intended), and if not for an indiscretion at one of them, would've had the chance to tie the knot with Agatha thirty years sooner than he had, she having called it off after seeing his negative press in the paper. This episode colored his reason for paranoia she stay in the dark, but then upon stating how he would stealthily get to the party without being spotted by Edwin or Florence, he steps right back into despair, Bertie eventually getting him to calm, and then deciding a good submerging in the river was needed due to his hours long babysit, and once refreshed and drying off, sees Stilton watching him. Bertie knows upon speaking to him, he was definitely sour on his presence, Stilton solidifying this notion with one of his facial expressions of pure hate. Bertie attempts to lighten his mood with conversation on their surroundings, but Stilton uses it as a way to reference Bertie's betrayal.

To distract Stilton from this, Bertie brings up Boko's being stepped on by Percy, and Stilton showing confusion why he'd step on Boko rather than Bertie, after which comes silence and then he stating of seeing Florence and a wedding date already having been set, Stilton yearning to have cause to arrest Bertie, he finally giving Bertie the opportunity to leave, but he feeling down for having lost a buddy in such a way. When getting back to Boko's, who had already arrived from his mission and was currently sitting with Nobby, quite pleased, Bertie mentions the need for her to present the letter soon, what with the impending engagement date and she relaying of delivering it to Florence next morning if all concluded positively this evening, easing his mind. Although, when Boko mentions the costumes he'd gotten for himself and Bertie, he gets a slap in the face when hearing he'd been stuck with Pierrot, and he wouldn't fit into the Cavalier outfit for his wonderfully svelte bod. To soothe Bertie, Boko attempts to quiet him with how un-Pierrot-like it truly was, they all getting a shock when seeing it wasn't Pierrot at all, but a footballer outfit.

It remained quiet for some time before Nobby broke the silence by inquiring if they were all seeing the same outfit, she and Bertie confirming certain areas which drew their eyes, she then exclaiming how Boko had flubbed up again, he denying this, but even Bertie being unable to ignore the obvious. Boko then realizes who was actually the cause being a chap called Catsmeat, Boko having taken a detour to the Drones where he and Catsmeat chatted about their collective attendance at parties, he leaving first and most likely having picked up the wrong case, Boko hoping this would get him off the hook as being damned. Nobby and Bertie effectively understanding, Boko offers to wear the get-up, Bertie then reminding him of how he still didn't have anything to wear, the two deflated, but when Jeeves enters, Bertie posing their issue to him. Jeeves decides a brief walk would be required to push an idea out, the trio discussing the problem as they waited, their optimism "conspicuous by its a[bsence]." they aware of time running short, the possibility of securing a fresh costume not applicable due to the lateness of evening, and Steeple Bumpleigh having naught an offering, Boko's plan of Bertie slathering boot polish over himself and going as a Zulu chief being the best they could muster.

Jeeves enters to state of coming up with an idea, everyone waxing impressed feelings, Boko disagreeing when Bertie suggested Napoleon was anywhere near the level of Jeeves, but when he hears where Jeeves had come upon this outfit, he quakes at who it must belong "s[uspicion]" having been correctly felt on Bertie's part. He then attempts to use the mot juste (appropriate expression) to indicate his tone as he commanded Jeeves get the uniform back where he found it, and hastily, shocking both Nobby and Boko from their celebratory backslapping, they attempting to make Bertie see how important it was he use this uniform to everyone's advantage. Bertie again describes how thin of ice he was currently standing in regard to Stilton, Boko reminding him he'd only be wearing it at the party, not constantly, but Bertie makes clear he wouldn't be taking the chance. Until, of course Nobby weighs in with the letter not reaching Florence, Bertie understanding again he was against the wall.

The two satisfied, Boko goes over the order of events, then stating of grabbing a raincoat for Stilton, he and Nobby off to bequeath said coat. Bertie rants to Jeeves after, of how he'd helped stick him in this non-helpful situation, Jeeves relaying he was doing his best at getting Bertie through the party properly, Bertie relenting, but maintaining how precarious a spot he was in. Then he complains a bit by how laughable he was going to look in Stilton's larger-framed uniform, but knew the choice was no longer his own, Jeeves agreeing and quoting Shaw, Bertie gathering courage and requesting Jeeves show him the duds. Boko decides he and Bertie should carpool in case any pressing issues popped to mind, it being more easily dealt with if they rode together.

Bertie wasn't quite as receptive to this idea, since he'd lived through being shotgun to Boko and had no intention of scaring himself repeatedly, Boko's tendency to immerse himself in conversation, and gesturing with his hands at less than fruitful moments keeping Bertie from agreeing willingly. Another reason he'd rather drive himself being so he could get out of uniform with speed, Boko most likely tarrying to finalize his needs with Percy. Bertie also learns Boko, upon supplying Stilton with said coat, had learned of his suspicion Bertie had been behind the missing uniform, Boko redirecting his attention to Edwin seeming a better fit, Boko then thinking he'd detoured Stilton sufficiently. The idea only holding so much water when relying on Stilton not ever seeing Bertie in his work attire, otherwise he wouldn't have a chance with Stilton discovering what he'd done.

Bertie relays his own plan to Boko, it being foiled by his car stalling, but hailing help from a kindly citizen, he getting to the party by midnight. Boko gives him a hard time for being late, he then informing of Percy drinking at the bar, Bertie realizing how serious this could be if he was incapable of comprehension. Once Boko explains how whilst Percy may have met Clam, Bertie still needed to approach him, he pushes him to attend to this immediately. Fortunately, Percy is entertaining a group of revelers, so Bertie has made it in time, and when reaching his uncle, the group scurries off to dance.

Bertie greets Percy, the man hesitantly placing him, since the helmet was larger than expected, Bertie being chortled at more than he liked. When he plainly regards Percy's drinking habits, his uncle doesn't deny them, and admits he planned on celebrating heartily, being well on his way. Bertie senses at this rate he'll be able to mold Percy to his will, he learning Percy and Clam had their meeting, and Percy had made out like a bandit, Bertie buttering his ego for good measure, and Percy quite receptive, but then wishing to hole up somewhere less musical to take his much too small shoes off, which gave Bertie the perfect suggestion of offering Boko's car as a kick-back spot, Percy agreeing and taking extra restorative along. When Percy's nice and comfy, Bertie broaches the subj. of Boko, it not going well, since Percy, whilst in a glorious mood to all men, didn't include Boko among them, he arguing of Nobby's father entrusting her care to him and wouldn't overlook a Boko.

Bertie stays strong though, and attempts to speak the good of Boko, but what stalls Percy is learning he had also booted Edwin, but still not being convinced, until learning where he'd be heading the next month, the miles leaving him starry-eyed, Bertie using the opportunity to send Boko in to finish the kill, and he awaying home, depositing uniform into the lake, and off to sleep, but not before relinquishing a porpentine from his bed to the wilder outdoors, Bertie then easing into sleepy time. Bertie had heard upon awaking in the morning, a saw which he attributed to Boko, wanting to shut him up, but deciding to let him rest due to his return being quite late. Bertie was then about to frolic in the lake when Nobby comes a-bicycling, she essentially swimming with happiness. She relates the news from Boko being quite in their favor, she giving him a peck and going to the house.

As Bertie splashed about in the water though, he remembers how he forgot to see if Nobby had forwarded his letter to Florence, not stressing too much, he moving on to how Boko was set for marrying quickly for already having stored the license for quick and easy use, then easing his mind about the police uniform carrying no indication Bertie had worn it, regardless if Stilton eyed him accusingly. Bertie goes back to change, ready to get closer to the appetizing smells of breakfast, Nobby and Boko chatting, and Boko including him, detailing how he'd fared with Percy, they now thick as thieves. When Boko asks about how Bertie had disposed of police get up, he agrees he'd gotten rid of it correctly, Bertie then hearing boots and sensing Stilton was approaching, his thoughts being realized by viewing the man through the window, and Bertie greeting him warmly, Stilton informing him he was arresting him, the three feigning innocence and wondering why he would choose Bertie as his nick-er, Stilton stating how Edwin had his whereabouts corroborated by many, he then detailing why he believed Bertie was his man, Edwin having planted the porcupine, saw Stilton's uniform, he also hearing an eye-witness at the party see a man in an over-sized cop outfit. Bertie is readying to be taken in, when Boko comes up with he needing a warrant, and since Stilton wasn't certain, would check with his Sergeant first, Boko quickly relating Bertie would have to leg it overseas whilst he still had a chance, Bertie agreeing this to be best and have Jeeves meet him with his belongings, he then hearing a pissed off Percy in Boko's garage. Bertie sharply inhales, stuck to the s[pot], with a look of shock frozen to his face.

Bertie understood the issue at hand not being in Boko's favor any longer, he hearing the inclination for blood in Percy's voice and oaths, knowing the headway the two had made was now a fond memory of bygone hours. Bertie was then detecting his need for Jeeves, when the man himself makes himself known behind him. Bertie shares the deets, frustrated once more with Jeeves' calm, unphased, and through the relaying, remembers his own problem with the police, considering how he'd acquire his vehicle with Percy currently lodged there, Bertie likening his feral Uncle to a jungle cat caged, the man would go after Bertie first due to he being within range. Jeeves offers to soothe Percy upon releasing him, though, giving Bertie a chance to retreat, he stating of bringing the car around after, and would later join him with his possessions.

As Bertie returns to Boko's, he hopes his new information would affect Boko in a particularly negative way, due to his absent-minded locking up of Percy. Bertie doesn't get the scene he imagined to break with his fate-crushing news, but Boko's reaction didn't fail in its serious realization, and as Boko walks through how such a misstep could happen, Nobby is interrupting with cursing insults, Boko responding to her with pet names as he quieted her so he could continue, he having left Percy in his car whilst he joined a couple dances, then to the bar, only then thinking to inform Nobby of the news, so rushing to his ride, not seeing Percy, most likely unconscious and scrunched up on the floor by this point, and off to celebrate he and Nobby's good fortune. Percy interrupts Boko as he's forgiving Nobby her rash words, Jeeves following behind, the angered man still attired in his Sinbad the sailor costume, the dead stare enough to get Boko against the wall with intimidation. Percy what'd repeatedly, Boko offering a sardine, Nobby piping in of he feeling better with breakies administered, but Percy not agreeing, asking Bertie for his horse-whip.

After Bertie gets confirmation from Boko of he not owning one, Percy sends Jeeves for his, giving instructions as to where he thought it was, and if not found, to have a look about. Jeeves accepts this task, but nonchalantly slips in of Agatha possibly having a helpful perspective, as well. It takes a few moments before Percy registers this, he sitting heavily and holding onto a jam jar like a life-preserver, Jeeves informing him she'd returned without notice last evening. Bertie regards Percy's state being similar to Lot's wife when she was transformed into a salt container, since he'd gone rigid, except for gently twitching whiskers.

Jeeves informs of Agatha's son, Thomas having recovered and her presence no longer necessary. Bertie felt for the Unc, he knowing what Percy'd be in for if Agatha learned of his gussied up night. Nobby oozing sadness for Percy's situation, stating the obvious of what he'd have to do to go over his reasons for being out all hours, this getting Percy moving again, calling for Jeeves, who relays Agatha's state of agitation and quoting the last words he'd heard before leaving, she questioning the housemaid with disbelief in learning Percy hadn't slept in his bed last night. Percy looks at Bertie helplessly, his suggestion of confessing and hoping she saw reason being shut down, since she'd think he'd have more terrible a motive and females tended to speak with unrelenting speed, he realizing he'd have to take his fate like a man.

Even Bertie's suggestion of Jeeves coming up with a way out seeming impossible to Percy, until Jeeves confirms of working on a plan which had promise, but then retracts it once Percy updates of no longer giving permission to Boko and Nobby's engagement, which Percy begrudgingly considers when realizing it would be required for this idea to work. Unfortunately, Percy didn't see the plan as plausible, since it didn't include why he was dressed up, but Jeeves has a way out by selling Agatha of he being out to discuss wedding plans later, and then staying over could be supported with a change of clothes lent to him by Bertie. The latter watches Percy's wilted demeanor flourish into a healthy flower once more, he following Percy out, Boko then blocking them, making certain Percy confirms his b[lessing] of their marriage, he giving the tormented green light, but this time Boko not leaving it to chance of being backed out on, wanting the agreement on paper. Percy's optimism dips upon realizing he wouldn't be able to get out from living through a wedding, he relenting to this, and the result tucked away by Nobby.

Bertie then is re-consumed by his own dire fate with Stilton's return, he having acquired his warrant, only requiring a signature from a Justice of the P, he then pleasantly greeting Percy, but getting the man up in arms when noting his outfit, Percy denying knowing of the party, and Stilton back-pedaling and apologizing, but Percy now unleashed, goes on a rampage of indignation, even coming up with a reason for the costume due to Boko and Nobby requesting him to don the frivolity. Stilton attempts to get back on [res] the crux of the matter, and asks if he'd sign his warrant, Jeeves detailing what Stilton's reasons were and in the explanation, Percy being Bertie's alibi. Stilton attempts to argue Edwin's testimony sealing the truth, but Percy supports Bertie's scoffing such a witness. Jeeves then tries to give some magnanimous leeway on Stilton's behalf, Percy unaware of Edwin wanting retribution for Bertie's kicking him, but he dismissing this, going on his own steam of the police, as a whole having been going downhill due to their blind ambitions for advancement, ending with sympathy for Bertie's being accused. Stilton doesn't end it there though, pissed Percy would deny him, he gives him one more chance to sign, Percy making it clear what he thought of Stilton's state-of-mind and his warrant, the beat-down cop leaving heavy-footed and broken-spirited.

Percy hastens them to continue, wanting Bertie's unwavering support when confronting Agatha, and so Bertie escorts the man to suit and bathroom, returning to be updated by Nobby of she and Boko's immediate wedding pending upon Boko returning with his car and motoring to London, she concluding by complimenting Jeeves once more. Bertie interrupts her well-deserved praise to inquire of the letter for Florence, she guiltily having forgotten and Edwin having cleaned out her room, offering the Jeeves remedy, then biffing off. Jeeves however, hadn't a clue, Bertie dismissing him to the kitchen to get the only protein he remembered being available for his consumptive needs: anchovy paste. Bertie leaves for the garden to brood about his terrible fate, Edwin being "the Fons et origo" (source of origin) of his problems.

Bertie then fantasizes of how fortunate being in China would be, able to condemn Edwin with "the Death of the Thousand Cuts", Stilton then returning, keeping Bertie in place as he had been attempting to step away from him. Stilton updates the score of Bertie no longer in line to marry Florence, since he'd quit being an officer and Florence had taken him back, Bertie surrounded by light and birdsong, Stilton then off and Bertie streaking to the kitchen to inform the empathetic Jeeves of the good news, hastening they leave, then remembering his agreement to support Percy, Jeeves confessing he'd fabricated Agatha's return, and they should hasten escape before Percy came down, Bertie on board with this train, he half remembering on their journey back of the expression of their experience at Steeple Bumpleigh containing the word "Joy", realizing he'd gone over this bit at the start. Satisfying as usual, Wodehouse staying strong. Still love them and I'm glad I acquired as many as I have so far, and will definitely seek out the rest.