The Man Who Was Thursday

After Syme reveals he is a policeman, Gregory grabs a revolver from the table and points it at Syme, who reminds him of their promises: “Don’t you see we’ve checkmated each other? I can’t tell the police you are an anarchist. You can’t tell the anarchists I’m a policeman” (15).

The other anarchists enter the room and assume Syme is a member of a local anarchist branch. As acting president, Comrade Buttons calls the meeting to order and asks for nominations. Gregory receives a nomination to be Thursday, but afraid of revealing too much in front of Syme, he gives a lackluster speech. None of the council members are impressed.

Before Gregory’s selection is approved, Syme stands and objects. He calls Gregory’s speech apologetic and picks it apart. Syme’s animated speech elicits applause and murmurs of agreement from the council. He nominates himself for the position. Gregory is furious but cannot reveal Syme’s true identity. He tries to disqualify Syme because of Syme’s lack of experience, but despite Gregory’s opposition, the council confirms Syme as the new Thursday.

The other members leave the room, and Gregory accuses Syme of trapping him with his promise. Syme denies a trap is possible because their promises put them in the same situation.