Kidnapped · Chapter
Dedication explained
Robert Louis Stevenson dedicates the tale to his friend Charles Baxter, acknowledging historical liberties taken in the story and reflecting on shared memories of youth, friendship, and the passage of time.
What happens
Robert Louis Stevenson dedicates the tale to his friend Charles Baxter, acknowledging historical liberties taken in the story and reflecting on shared memories of youth, friendship, and the passage of time.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Comradeship
The dedication reflects on shared memories and enduring friendship between Stevenson and Charles Baxter.
Honor and Code of Conduct
The discussion of Alan's guilt or innocence and the Highlander's value of a secret touches on honor and reputation.
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
Mentioned as a character in the tale, with the printed trial silent on matters touching him.
- Alan Breck Stewart
Referenced in the context of his guilt or innocence regarding the Appin murder, with tradition favoring him.
- Charles Baxter
The dedicatee, a friend of Stevenson, addressed directly throughout the dedication.
Key passages
“These are nuts beyond my ability to crack.”
These are puzzles I cannot solve.
Stevenson admits he cannot explain certain historical inaccuracies in the tale.
“I might go on for long to justify one point and own another indefensible; it is more honest to confess at once how little I am touched by the desire of accuracy.”
I could spend time defending some choices and admitting others are wrong, but it's more honest to say I care little about being precise.
Stevenson prioritizes storytelling over historical accuracy.
“This is no furniture for the scholar's library, but a book for the winter evening schoolroom when the tasks are over and the hour for bed draws near.”
This book is not meant for scholars, but for children reading by the fire after school before bedtime.
Stevenson describes the intended audience and purpose of the tale.