# II: In Which a Nobleman Is Perplexed explained — Midwinter

> Chapter companion for Midwinter by John Buchan.

## What happens

Alastair Maclean travels to Cornbury to meet Lord Cornbury and persuade him to join the Jacobite cause. He arrives at the estate, observes the opulent and peaceful setting, and engages in conversation with the Duchess and other guests. Later, in a private meeting, Lord Cornbury declines to commit, stating he will only join after a Jacobite victory on English soil. The chapter ends with a mysterious night rider arriving at the estate.

## Themes in this chapter

### Romantic Idealism vs. Harsh Reality

Alastair's initial romantic fervor for the Jacobite cause clashes with the pragmatic and cautious response from Lord Cornbury.

### Honor and Duty

Alastair appeals to Lord Cornbury's sense of duty and loyalty to the rightful Stuart succession, but Cornbury prioritizes prudence and the welfare of his followers.

### Class and Social Hierarchy

The opulent setting of Cornbury and the contrast between the Scottish Highlands and English aristocracy highlight class differences.

## Character check-ins

### Alastair Maclean

The protagonist, a Jacobite messenger, arrives at Cornbury to persuade Lord Cornbury to join the cause.

### Duchess Kitty

Lord Cornbury's sister, a lively and irreverent woman who discusses the Stuarts and politics.

### Mr. Secretary Murray

A guest at Cornbury, engages in political banter with the Duchess.

### Mr. Nicholas Kyd

A guest at Cornbury, present during the evening's festivities.

### Sir Christopher Lacy

A guest at Cornbury, attempts a hunting-song during the evening.

### Lady Mary Capell

A pretty young woman present at the tea gathering.

## Key lines

> I am all he has, for he never could find a wife to his taste.

The Duchess says she is Lord Cornbury's only close family member because he never married.

_The Duchess explains her role in her brother's life._

> What will decide you, then?

Alastair asks Lord Cornbury what would make him commit to the Jacobite cause.

_Alastair presses for a clear condition for support._

> A victory on English soil. Nay, I will go farther. So soon as His Royal Highness is in the way of that victory, I will fly to his side.

Lord Cornbury says he will join the Prince only after a victory in England and when the Prince is advancing toward London.

_Lord Cornbury sets his terms for joining the rebellion._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se/chapters/ii-in-which-a-nobleman-is-perplexed
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midwinter_se/chapters