Chapter Six Summary

When the Baudelaire children hear the news about Count Olaf's arrest, they immediately jump to the conclusion that it must be true. They are thrilled, hoping this means they, and the Quagmire triplets, will be free of his treachery. The Elders describe the man they arrested prowling around the village, and his description matches Count Olaf's. The Council of Elders has called an emergency meeting to decide on Olaf's punishment, but they assume it will be the traditional punishment for criminals: burning at the stake. Even though the Baudelaires despise Count Olaf, they can't bear to see anyone murdered for their crimes, however terrible. Klaus tries to convince the Elders to turn Olaf in to the appropriate authorities, but they refuse. A rule is a rule.

A few hours later, the children rush to Town Hall to witness Olaf's trial. As...