Dramatic Climax: “I suppose John would pray,” etc. Jasper Holt ceases to exist; John begins to exist as a constant entity.
Incidents of the Solution Leading to the Climax of Action
1. Jasper “acts” John.
John learns of the theft, calls on the bank president and begs that his house be searched. President gets rid of him. He calls on the detective, who finally searches John’s house. John directs attention to the shed where Jasper kept his car. The police refuse to search. Jasper has thus further entrenched himself, outwardly, as John.
2. Jasper changes, subtly, to John.
John prays for Jasper. He plans a trip south, but continues his religious studies. It is obvious that this modern Frankenstein is rapidly becoming the monster of his own creation. At the end of one and a half years, he has sloughed off most of his Jasper nature and acquired that of John.
3. He endures a period of final struggle.
The John part of him wishes to confess; the dying Jasper refuses to take him back to the bank. But at the Soul Hope Fraternity, he confesses that he stole. For a week he stays at home; then he goes out. On his return he discovers that the money is missing.
Climax of Action: He goes to the bank and confesses; his story is not believed. He has changed natures, completely.
Dénouement: The jail refuses to take him. He finds work at the sand pits.