# XXI explained — Beauvallet

> Chapter companion for Beauvallet by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

Dominica is abducted by her cousin Don Diego de Carvalho and taken to a hunting lodge. She defiantly refuses his marriage proposal, asserting her loyalty to Beauvallet and threatening to choose a cloister over him. Don Diego locks her in a room, but she begins to search for a means of escape.

## Themes in this chapter

### Honor and Reputation

Dominica's defiance and Don Diego's threat to ruin her name underscore the importance of honor and the consequences of scandal.

### Power and Authority

Don Diego uses physical force and imprisonment to assert control over Dominica, while she resists through verbal defiance and cunning.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Dominica's unwavering loyalty to Beauvallet contrasts with Don Diego's betrayal of family trust through abduction.

## Character check-ins

### Doña Dominica de Rada y Sylva

Abducted by her cousin, she remains defiant and scornful, refusing to submit to Don Diego's marriage proposal.

### Don Diego de Carvalho

The abductor, who attempts to force Dominica into marriage, revealing his obsessive love and ruthless methods.

### Doña Beatrice de Carvalho

Mentioned as Dominica's aunt, suspected by Dominica of being involved in the plot.

### Sir Nicholas Beauvallet

Referenced by Don Diego as Dominica's supposed lover; Dominica's loyalty to him is a key point of contention.

### Chevalier Claude de Guise

Mentioned by Dominica as a possible alternative suitor to taunt Don Diego.

## Key lines

> She fought desperately to rein in her horse, but the bridle was wrenched from her straining hands.

Dominica struggled to control her horse, but her bridle was forcibly taken from her.

_Illustrates her physical resistance during the abduction._

> I can ruin you, my dear. If you go from here unwed you can never show your face abroad again.

Don Diego threatens to destroy Dominica's reputation if she refuses to marry him.

_Highlights the theme of honor and reputation._

> There are no lengths to which I would not go for the purpose of frustrating your foul designs.

Dominica declares she will do anything to thwart Don Diego's evil plans.

_Shows her determination and defiance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beauvallet_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beauvallet_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beauvallet_se/chapters