Nicholas has shown himself to be quick-tempered before, which makes Newman nervous about how he might react to the news that Arthur is set to marry Madeline. Newman also hints that the information from Brooker may have a significant impact once it comes out, which foreshadows events that will happen later in the novel. Newman’s comment that Arthur is Ralph’s equal in evil makes the threat that Arthur poses even more clear. In essence, Newman suggests that Arthur will terrorize Madeline in the same way that Ralph has terrorized Nicholas. For Nicholas, as someone who cares deeply about others and Madeline in particular, the situation is untenable.