Do you think jimmy Well's colleague played his role well? Using words and phrases from the story, explain how he managed to fool bob.
Answers
Bob is no doubt giving away at least some information about his illegal activities in the West. He is the type of man who wants to impress others, which explains his diamond scarf pin and ornate watch with the lid set with small diamonds. Significantly, the arresting officer is "submerged" in his overcoat. He "listened with interest" because this was a way to keep Bob talking rather than asking him questions, and also because this was a good way to collect incriminating information.
When they come to the corner "brilliant with electric lights," the plain clothes man naturally has to disclose his true identity; but he has played his role perfectly up to this point--and O. Henry has succeeded in achieving the surprise ending which is essential to his story.