Catriona · Chapter
The Bass explained
David Balfour is taken to the Bass Rock, a solitary prison island, where he is held by Black Andie Dale.
What happens
David Balfour is taken to the Bass Rock, a solitary prison island, where he is held by Black Andie Dale. He attempts to bribe Andie and argues the injustice of his secret detention, but Andie remains unmoved. David observes a warship, the Seahorse, which fires a volley near the rock, and he notes its rigging for future recognition. Despite his imprisonment, David lives decently and reflects on the plight of James Stewart.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Injustice
David argues the illegality and underhanded nature of his secret detention, contrasting it with true law and justice.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Andie's refusal to be bribed shows loyalty to his orders, while David feels betrayed by those who arranged his imprisonment.
Exile and Belonging
David is isolated on the Bass Rock, a place of exile, cut off from society and the ongoing trial of James Stewart.
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
Narrator and protagonist; imprisoned on the Bass Rock, he tries to bribe Andie and argues the illegality of his detention.
- Black Andie
The keeper of the Bass Rock; a sensible, religious man who refuses David's bribe and holds him until September 23rd.
- James More Macgregor
Referenced indirectly as 'James Stewart' in David's thoughts about the man in the dungeon and his wife's lamentations.
- Lord Advocate Prestongrange
Mentioned by David as the likely authority behind his secret imprisonment.
- Symon Fraser
Mentioned by David as the Master of Lovat, implicated in the intrigue.
- Captain Palliser
Captain of the warship Seahorse; his ship's volley and rigging are noted by David.
Key passages
“I could not forgive myself to sit there idle; it seemed (if I were a man at all) that I could fly or swim out of my place of safety”
David felt guilty for being safe while James Stewart suffered, and thought he should escape at any cost.
David's internal conflict between safety and duty.
“Hout! It shaws me ye can bribe; but I'm no to be bribit.”
Andie acknowledges David's ability to offer a bribe but firmly refuses it.
Andie's integrity and resistance to corruption.
“It's there you're taking me! ... Just to the Bass, mannie, whaur the auld sants were afore ye”
David realizes he is being taken to the Bass Rock, a former prison for saints (Covenanters).
David's shock at his destination and its historical significance.