Kidnapped · Chapter
I Come to Mr. Rankeillor explained
David Balfour arrives in Queensferry to seek out Mr.
What happens
David Balfour arrives in Queensferry to seek out Mr. Rankeillor, the lawyer who managed his father's affairs. After initial hesitation due to his ragged appearance, David gains an audience with Rankeillor, who cautiously hears his story. David recounts his adventures, including his association with Alan Breck, whom he refers to as 'Mr. Thomson' at Rankeillor's cautious suggestion. The lawyer, impressed by David's tale, offers him hospitality and clothes, and begins to piece together the truth about David's inheritance and his uncle's treachery.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Injustice
David seeks legal justice for his inheritance, while the shadow of the Appin Murder and the hunt for Alan Breck highlight the broader injustices faced by Highlanders.
Class and Identity
David's ragged appearance causes him shame and hesitation in approaching the lawyer, reflecting the social barriers of class and appearance in 18th-century Scotland.
Friendship and Comradeship
David's loyalty to Alan Breck is evident as he risks legal trouble to protect his friend, and Mr. Rankeillor acknowledges Alan as David's 'true companion.'
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
David arrives in Queensferry, meets Mr. Rankeillor, and recounts his adventures, including his association with Alan Breck.
- Mr. Rankeillor
The lawyer listens to David's story, offers him hospitality, and reveals his knowledge of David's uncle's deceit.
- Alan Breck Stewart
Alan is referred to as 'Mr. Thomson' during David's account to avoid legal complications.
- Ebenezer Balfour
Ebenezer is mentioned as having lied to Mr. Rankeillor about David's whereabouts and finances.
- Mr. Campbell
Mr. Campbell is mentioned as having sought David after his disappearance and confronted Ebenezer.
- Captain Hoseason
Hoseason is mentioned as having reported David's drowning, which led to the case being dropped.
Key passages
“I would name no unnecessary names, Mr. Balfour; above all of Highlanders, many of whom are obnoxious to the law.”
Mr. Rankeillor advises David to avoid mentioning names, especially Highlanders, to stay out of legal trouble.
Rankeillor's caution reflects the political climate and the danger of associating with Jacobites.
“Well, well, this is a great epic, a great Odyssey of yours. You must tell it, sir, in a sound Latinity when your scholarship is riper; or in English if you please, though for my part I prefer the stronger tongue.”
Mr. Rankeillor praises David's story as an epic adventure and suggests he write it down in Latin or English.
Rankeillor's classical allusion underscores the literary and historical significance of David's journey.
“I have come from a great many strange places, sir; but I think it I shall not be very well contented until it is set right.”
David tells Mr. Rankeillor that he has traveled widely but will not be satisfied until his affairs are resolved.
David expresses his determination to reclaim his inheritance and set things straight.