Question

Compare and contrast the character of Jimmy Wells and Bob with suitable references from the story to support your view.

Answer 1

I think Jimmy Wells has been more successful in his career than his friend. It is not because he became a guardian of peace. It is a question of personal ethics. He was concerned with the means to achieve his end. He led a contented life and gained respect from colleagues and the general public as an honest officer. In twenty years Jimmy Wells had developed a good physique and a slight swagger. There was an air of pride about his movements. Bob, on the other hand, wasn’t bothered about the means. He just wanted to make money even violating the laws of the land.

Money is of course a measure of success but the end never justifies means. Bob may have been more successful in making money. But he is haunted by the fear of being arrested all the time. He is cunning and escapes the law. He is hated by the police for breaking the law and hurting innocent citizens of the country. The guardian of law is bold and sure. But Bob is all the time perturbed and afraid. Thus ill-gotten wealth doesn’t give Bob peace of mind. I believe both the characters are well-made Jimmy, an ordinary person without much ambitions but holding on to the path of virtue. But Bob has received his character in order to make money. Bob is like an art lover who has sold his eyes to buy a beautiful painting.