How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Their business there was of a private nature, and had something to do with the specific gravity of their beer. (6.2)
There are some big betrayals in this book, but let's start with just a small amount of cheating. Mr. and Mrs. Hall water down their beer. It's a tiny betrayal of their customers – it's not like they're poisoning the beer, right? Still, it shows that the Halls value money more than they value honesty.
Quote #2
"But if you betray me," he said, "if you fail to do as I direct you—" (9.71)
The Invisible Man is not a very trusting individual. As soon as he gets a partner, he starts talking about betrayal. It's almost as if the Invisible Man expects people to turn against him. Why might this be?
Quote #3
But his temper, at no time very good, seems to have gone completely at some chance blow, and forthwith he set to smiting and overthrowing, for the mere satisfaction of hurting. (12.48)
Is it possible to betray yourself? The Invisible Man constantly makes bad decisions or has unhelpful reactions. Instead of being nice to people (which would get him what he wants most of the time), he's kind of a Grinch. Instead of being secretive, he becomes incredibly violent (as he does here). The Invisible Man can't trust others, but it sure seems like he can't trust himself either.