Friend or foe, Flambeau ("That thieving b...") has once again outsmarted Father Brown.

Why does our protagonist turn into such a blundering fool every time Flambeau makes an appearance?

Is it because he truly believes that there is good in everyone, and Flambeau's soul must be saved against all cost, even when it means being made a fool for the umpteenth time?

Father Brown did get the Blue Cross back in their first battle of wits, but this time he lost as the Lannington Rosary was stolen right under his nose.

"Faith is so overrated."

"You forget, I have God on my side."