He looked haggard and careworn, like a Borgia who has suddenly remembered that he has forgotten to shove cyanide in the consommé, and the dinner-gong due any moment.
In P.G. Wodehouse's "Carry on, Jeeves," the character is portrayed as visibly exhausted and strained, reminiscent of a member of the infamous Borgia family, known for their historical treachery. The imagery suggests he is grappling with the weight of a forgotten, yet critical, task that could lead to dire consequences, specifically his incomplete preparation of poison in a dinner setting. This situation hints at both anxiety and impending disaster, amplifying the tension of the moment.
The comparison to a Borgia emphasizes the character's inner turmoil and adds a comedic flair typical of Wodehouse's style. The urgent detail about the dinner gong looming suggests that time is running out, intensifying his predicament. This vivid description encapsulates the blend of humor and drama for which Wodehouse is known, showcasing the intricate dynamics of social situations gone awry.