Catriona · Chapter
The Bravo explained
David Balfour visits Lord Advocate Prestongrange, who informs him that his testimony will be accepted at the trial in Inverary.
What happens
David Balfour visits Lord Advocate Prestongrange, who informs him that his testimony will be accepted at the trial in Inverary. Prestongrange attempts to extract information about Alan Breck's whereabouts, but David refuses. David then accompanies Prestongrange's daughters to Hope Park, where he is insulted by Lieutenant Hector Duncansby and challenged to a duel. The duel is interrupted by Sheriff Erskine, Symon Fraser, and others, who reveal that the duel was a setup to test David's courage.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Manipulation
Prestongrange manipulates David by offering acceptance of his testimony while pressing for information about Alan. The duel is revealed to be a setup to test David's character.
Honor and Duty
David's refusal to betray Alan despite pressure from Prestongrange underscores his sense of honor and loyalty.
Loyalty and Betrayal
David remains loyal to Alan, while Prestongrange and Symon Fraser accuse each other of disloyalty in their schemes.
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
David visits Prestongrange, learns his testimony is accepted, refuses to betray Alan, and is drawn into a duel orchestrated by others.
- Lord Advocate Prestongrange
Prestongrange informs David of the acceptance of his testimony and attempts to coax information about Alan Breck from him.
- Alan Breck Stewart
Alan is discussed by Prestongrange, who tries to learn his whereabouts from David.
- Neil of the Tom
Neil is briefly spotted by David, whistling as a signal, after leaving Prestongrange's house.
- Symon Fraser
Symon is present during the aftermath of the duel and is accused by Prestongrange of disloyalty.
- Sheriff Erskine
Sheriff Erskine intervenes to calm the situation after the duel and informs David that his courage is established.
Key passages
“And so much for your gratitude, Mr. David!”
Prestongrange expresses disappointment that David will not help him find Alan.
This occurs after David refuses to reveal Alan's location.
“I will be the offended shentleman, for who effer heard of such suffeeciency as tell a shentlemans that is the king's officer he cannae speak Cot's English?”
Lieutenant Duncansby claims offense at David's insult about his English, challenging him to a duel.
This is part of the setup to test David's bravery.
“I think we should tell Mr. Balfour that his character for valour is quite established. He may sleep in peace.”
Sheriff Erskine informs David that his courage has been proven and he need not worry about further tests.
This reveals the duel was a contrived test.