V of F 281- END

This story as a whole, especially the last few chapters, focuses heavily on developing the personalities of the other characters surrounding Holmes. McMurdo, which is an interesting name for a criminal or any person for that matter, is getting too much credit as "schemer" who craftily gets out in front of the law. McMurdo's mental state also seems to be in jeopardy, most notably when he attacks Ettie when she surprises him. Although she is terrified, she frustratingly blames it on the surroundings but not McMurdo himself! I like how Doyle depicted McMurdo with a captivating level of arrogance combined with a slight protagonist feel.

I cannot decide if McMurdo's lack of fear of the police or the Scowrers is bravery or just ignorance, but regardless he seems bold in the face of danger. He also is shown to have a bit of a softer side towards Ettie, despite his attack on her.

McGinty has an episode of his own and reveals he is a "traitor," to which McMurdo reacts calmly. It was satisfying to have the Scowrers finally be defeated and to see McMurdo run off with Ettie, although it was no surprise that something bad was going to happen to them eventually.