# XCIX explained — Lavengro > Chapter companion for Lavengro by George Borrow. ## What happens The postillion recounts his time in Rome, where the family is manipulated by a red-haired priest who tries to convert them to Catholicism. The postillion resists bribery and threats, and when the young master arrives, he violently disrupts a ceremony involving a fetish image, drives the priests away, and arranges for the family's return to England. ## Themes in this chapter ### Religion and Priestcraft The chapter contrasts true faith with priestly manipulation, as the red-haired priest uses deceit and bribery to convert the family. ### Freedom vs. Convention The postillion and young master resist the oppressive religious conventions imposed by the priests, asserting their own moral freedom. ## Character check-ins ### The Postillion Narrates his experiences in Rome, resists conversion, and assists the young master. ### The Priest The red-haired priest who attempts to convert the family and bribe the postillion. ### The Landlord The governor of the family, easily influenced by the priests and fond of drink. ## Key lines > I told him that the family might do what they pleased, but that I would never forsake the religion of my country for any consideration whatever; that I was nothing but a poor servant, but I was not to be bought by base gold. The postillion declares he will not abandon his Protestant faith for any reward, asserting his integrity despite his lowly status. _Highlights the theme of moral steadfastness against corruption._ > Oh, glad was I to leave that fetish country, and old Mumbo behind me! The postillion expresses relief at departing from Rome, which he views as a land of idolatry and superstition. _Reinforces the anti-Catholic and anti-fetishism sentiment of the chapter._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lavengro_se/chapters/xcix - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lavengro_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lavengro_se/chapters