Kidnapped · Chapter
Goodbye explained
David Balfour, now master of the House of Shaws, consults with Mr.
What happens
David Balfour, now master of the House of Shaws, consults with Mr. Rankeillor about his obligations to Alan Breck and James Stewart. Rankeillor advises caution regarding James but ultimately supports David's decision to help Alan. He provides letters of credit and introduction. David and Alan part ways at Rest-and-be-Thankful, with Alan going into hiding and David entering Edinburgh, feeling lost and lonely.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Comradeship
David and Alan's parting underscores the deep bond forged through shared trials, with David prioritizing Alan's safety despite personal risk.
Honor and Code of Conduct
Rankeillor advises David to choose duty over safety, and David resolves to help Alan even at the cost of his own life.
Justice and Injustice
The discussion of James Stewart's case highlights the precariousness of justice in a politically charged Highland context.
Characters to notice
- David Balfour
David takes leave of his ancestral home and parts ways with Alan, entering Edinburgh with a heavy heart.
- Alan Breck Stewart
Alan and David finalize their plan for Alan's escape; they share an emotional farewell at Rest-and-be-Thankful.
- Mr. Rankeillor
Rankeillor advises David on his duties, writes letters of credit and introduction, and departs for the Ferry.
- Torrance
Torrance accompanies Mr. Rankeillor to the Ferry.
- Ebenezer Balfour
Ebenezer is glimpsed at a top window, watching David leave the House of Shaws.
Key passages
“I would just have to be hanged—would I not?”
David asks if he would simply have to face execution.
David accepts the potential consequence of helping Alan, showing his commitment.
“Go and do your duty; and be hanged, if you must, like a gentleman.”
Rankeillor urges David to act honorably even if it leads to his death.
Rankeillor reverses his earlier caution, endorsing David's moral courage.
“I felt so lost and lonesome, that I could have found it in my heart to sit down by the dyke, and cry and weep like any baby.”
David felt utterly desolate after parting from Alan, overwhelmed with grief.
David's emotional vulnerability contrasts with his newfound status as laird.