In Search of the Castaways · Chapter
LX: Paganel’s Last Entanglement explained
The Duncan returns to Scotland after successfully rescuing Captain Grant and his companions.
What happens
The Duncan returns to Scotland after successfully rescuing Captain Grant and his companions. The travelers are celebrated, and John Mangles marries Mary Grant. Paganel, despite his heroic exploits, hesitates to marry the major's cousin, Miss Arabella, due to a secret: he was tattooed by Maoris during his captivity. The secret eventually spreads among the company.
Themes in this chapter
Perseverance and Hope
The successful rescue of Captain Grant and the joyful return to Scotland underscore the rewards of persistent hope and effort.
Nobility and Generosity
Lord Glenarvan's patronage of Robert Grant's future colonial project exemplifies noble generosity.
Characters to notice
- Jacques Paganel
Tattooed by Maoris, he keeps his body covered and hesitates to marry Miss Arabella out of shame.
- Major MacNabb
Acts as Cupid's messenger between Paganel and his cousin Miss Arabella, and learns Paganel's secret.
- Lord Glenarvan
Patron of the expedition and of Robert Grant's future plans; learns Paganel's secret from the major.
- Lady Helena
Informed of Paganel's secret by Lord Glenarvan.
- Mary Grant
Marries John Mangles in the old cathedral of St. Mungo.
Key passages
“This was the only adventure of his great voyage for which Paganel could never be consoled or pardon the New Zealanders.”
Paganel could never forgive the New Zealanders for tattooing him, considering it the one blemish on his journey.
Highlights Paganel's enduring embarrassment over his tattoo.
“The return of Captain Grant to Scotland was welcomed as a cause for national rejoicing, and he became the popular man of old Caledonia.”
Captain Grant's homecoming sparked nationwide celebration in Scotland, making him a beloved figure.
Emphasizes the public's joyous reception of the rescued captain.