Bertie is fearful of trying to destroy the manuscript while he is still at Easeby. He
determines that leaving it the drawer for the time being is the best solution. Sir
Willoughby is concerned because the publishers have not yet received his book. Bertie
attempts to pin the blame on his former butler, but his uncle points out that Meadowes
was not present when he finished the manuscript. Bertie becomes nervous and walks
around the estate chain-smoking. While passing the library window, he overhears a
conversation between Edwin and his uncle. Edwin knows that Bertie has the book and
he convinces Sir Willoughby to search Bertie's room. Bertie dashes back to the room
only to meet his Uncle Willoughby and Edwin. Sir Willoughby uses the story Edwin has
contrived as an excuse to search Bertie's room. The drawer where the book is hidden
remains locked and Bertie, to his relief, cannot find the key. Suddenly, Jeeves, to
Bertie's horror, appears with the key. The drawer is opened, but Bertie is sur- prised to
see that the manuscript is no longer there. After Edwin and Sir Willoughby leave the
room, Bertie questions Jeeves and learns that the butler had overheard his
conversation with Florence regarding the book. Jeeves determined that it would be
more prudent if he took possession of the parcel. Bertie is pleased with his butler's
performance and is satisfied that he has done his duty for Florence.