# Goodbye explained — Kidnapped

> Chapter companion for Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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