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The Lost World, Chapter 2 summary

Chapter 2 of 16 · 10 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 2, Edward D. Malone asks McArdle for dangerous work and receives an assignment to investigate Professor Challenger’s disputed account of South America. With Tarp Henry’s help, Malone drafts a letter pretending to understand Challenger’s scientific arguments, hoping to secure an interview that ordinary reporting cannot obtain.

What happens

  1. Malone asks McArdle for an assignment involving danger, but McArdle explains why the paper rarely funds such adventures.
  2. McArdle suggests investigating Professor Challenger, whose disputed expedition claims and attacks on reporters offer a possible story.
  3. Malone reads Challenger’s record and decides that scientific debate offers a way to approach him.
  4. At the Savage Club, Tarp Henry describes Challenger’s hostile conduct and helps Malone find an account of his scientific arguments.
  5. Malone drafts a flattering letter posing as a scientific student and requests a Wednesday interview.
  6. Henry permits the use of his address but warns Malone that Challenger is dangerous.

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In this chapter

MaloneChallenger

What to notice

Malone identifies his professional identity as an obstacle. This leads him to approach Challenger under the guise of scientific interest.

Quick check

How does Malone try to secure an interview with Challenger?

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