# Dedication explained — Kidnapped

> Chapter companion for Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se/chapters/dedication
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se/chapters