Chapter 23 Summary

Leamas confesses that he is a British double agent but expresses disappointment at the British intelligence community for botching the mission by contacting Liz. He defends Fiedler and insists that Fiedler was never involved in the plot. The Tribunal judge states that Fiedler is relieved of his duties until the Praesidium decides what to do with him. Leamas remains under arrest. Leamas realizes too late that it has all been a trick.

Chapter 23 Analysis

Leamas' confidence continues to push him down the planned path of the mission without his knowledge. His confidence allows him to play the hand that his bosses and Mundt need him to. Even Fiedler's resigned acceptance of what is going on shows that he has realized that the situation has radically changed and that Mundt is going to win. Leamas does not realize what has happened until Mundt replies...