Kidnapped · Chapter
I Hear of the “Red Fox” explained
Alan Breck tells David the story of the Red Fox, Colin Roy Campbell, the King's factor on the lands of Appin, who is trying to drive out the loyal tenants of Ardshiel by raising rents and using legal force.
What happens
Alan Breck tells David the story of the Red Fox, Colin Roy Campbell, the King's factor on the lands of Appin, who is trying to drive out the loyal tenants of Ardshiel by raising rents and using legal force. Alan explains how the Highlanders pay two rents—one to King George and one to their exiled chief—and vows vengeance against Campbell. David questions the wisdom of revenge, but Alan remains bitter. The chapter also reveals Alan's skills and character, and introduces James Stewart, who manages the collection of rents for Ardshiel.
Themes in this chapter
Loyalty and Betrayal
The Highlanders' loyalty to their exiled chief Ardshiel is contrasted with the perceived betrayal by the Campbell factor, the Red Fox.
Political Conflict and Rebellion
The chapter highlights the ongoing tensions between the Jacobite-supporting Highlanders and the British government, embodied by the Red Fox's actions.
Justice and Injustice
Alan sees the Red Fox's actions as a grave injustice, while David questions whether revenge is a just response.
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
Listens to Alan's tale, questions the morality of revenge, and expresses admiration for the Highlanders' loyalty.
- Alan Breck Stewart
Tells the story of the Red Fox, expresses fierce anger and desire for vengeance, and reveals his skills in music, poetry, and combat.
- Colin Roy Campbell
Referred to as the Red Fox; the King's factor on Appin, depicted as oppressive and hated by Alan.
- James Stewart
Mentioned as Ardshiel's half-brother and agent who manages the collection of rents for the exiled chief.
- Ardshiel
The exiled chief of the Stewarts, for whom the Highlanders pay a second rent out of loyalty.
Key passages
“Ay, David, both. I told a different tale to yon captain man; but this is the truth of it.”
Alan admits he lied to Captain Hoseason about the purpose of his money, revealing that the Highlanders pay two rents.
Alan's confession underscores the theme of loyalty and the secret resistance of the Highlanders.
“But if the day comes, David man, that I can find time and leisure for a bit of hunting, there grows not enough heather in all Scotland to hide him from my vengeance!”
Alan vows that if he ever gets the chance, he will hunt down and kill the Red Fox.
This quote highlights Alan's deep-seated anger and desire for revenge.
“It’s easier than ye would think. A bare hillside (ye see) is like all one road; if there’s a sentry at one place, ye just go by another.”
Alan explains that despite the military presence, he can move freely through the Highlands by using the terrain and local support.
This reveals Alan's resourcefulness and the limitations of British control in the Highlands.