# The Perspicacity of Master Scaufflaire explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

M. Madeleine arranges to rent a horse and tilbury from Master Scaufflaire for a journey of twenty leagues, paying generously and insisting on secrecy. Afterward, he returns home, where his unusual behavior and late-night activity arouse the curiosity of his cashier.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Human Condition and Fate

M. Madeleine's secretive preparations and restless night suggest an internal struggle with fate and impending decisions.

## Character check-ins

### Jean Valjean

As M. Madeleine, he arranges the rental of a horse and tilbury for a long journey, displaying a preoccupied and secretive demeanor.

### Master Scaufflaire

The Fleming who rents out horses and carriages; he shrewdly negotiates the terms and later deduces M. Madeleine's destination.

## Key lines

> M. Madeleine drew three napoleons from his purse and laid them on the table. 'Here is the pay for two days in advance.'

M. Madeleine paid for two days in advance with three gold coins.

_Demonstrates his urgency and willingness to pay generously for the journey._

> The Fleming picked it up and studied it. 'Five, six, eight and a half? That must designate the posting relays.' He turned to his wife: 'I have found out.' 'What?' 'It is five leagues from here to Hesdin, six from Hesdin to Saint-Pol, eight and a half from Saint-Pol to Arras. He is going to Arras.'

Master Scaufflaire deduced from the figures that M. Madeleine was traveling to Arras via Hesdin and Saint-Pol.

_Highlights Scaufflaire's shrewdness and the secretive nature of M. Madeleine's journey._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/ii-the-perspicacity-of-master-scaufflaire
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