Pimpernel and Rosemary · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Pimpernel and Rosemary by Baroness Orczy.
Chapter 1
Prologue
The prologue opens with the execution of a woman spy, setting a tone of sacrifice and political tension. The narrative hints at the intersecting lives of characters bound by love, honor, and betrayal within a repressive regime.
Chapter 2
I
Peter Blakeney learns of Rosemary Fowkes's engagement to his friend Jasper Tarkington and struggles to accept the news. At the Albert Hall ball, he feels detached from reality, observing the crowd as puppets in a newly invented world. When Rosemary asks him to dance, the world fades away and he dances with her.
Chapter 3
II
At the Albert Hall ball, Lady Orange hosts a box for distinguished guests, including General Naniescu and M. de Kervoisin. The conversation turns to Rosemary Fowkes, whom Miss Fairfax praises for her beauty and intellect, noting her authorship of the 'Uno' articles. Naniescu and de Kervoisin exchange significant glances upon learning this.
Chapter 4
I
Peter Blakeney learns of Rosemary Fowkes's engagement to his friend Jasper Tarkington and struggles to accept the news. At the Albert Hall ball, he feels detached from reality, observing the crowd as puppets in a newly invented world. When Rosemary asks him to dance, the world fades away and he dances with her.
Chapter 5
II
At the Albert Hall ball, Lady Orange hosts a box for distinguished guests, including General Naniescu and M. de Kervoisin. The conversation turns to Rosemary Fowkes, whom Miss Fairfax praises for her beauty and intellect, noting her authorship of the 'Uno' articles. Naniescu and de Kervoisin exchange significant glances upon learning this.
Chapter 6
III
At the Five Arts' Ball, Rosemary Fowkes captivates with her beauty and Venetian gown. General Naniescu and M. de Kervoisin, foreign guests, are introduced to English society through Lady Orange and Miss Fairfax. They learn of Peter Blakeney's fame as a cricketer and of Rosemary's engagement to Jasper Tarkington, a wealthy peer and former journalist. Naniescu reveals his resentment over Rosemary's political articles that harmed Romania, while Lady Orange tries to steer conversation away from politics. The chapter ends with a failed attempt to summon Rosemary to the box, and the party moves to supper.
Chapter 7
IV
Peter and Rosemary share an intense, private farewell at the ball. Peter confesses his enduring love and regret over her engagement to Jasper, while Rosemary struggles between her feelings and her commitment. They part with a sense of inevitability and fatality, acknowledging the barriers of pride, honor, and loyalty.
Chapter 8
V
Rosemary meets Sir George Orange after the ball and is introduced to General Naniescu, who proposes she travel to Transylvania to write articles about Romanian-occupied territory. She reflects on her lingering love for Peter Blakeney and her decision to marry Jasper Tarkington, resolving to remain loyal to Jasper despite her inner turmoil.
Chapter 9
VI
Rosemary Fowkes, torn between her duty to Jasper and her lingering feelings for Peter, turns to prayer for guidance. She discusses with Jasper her plans to accept General Naniescu's invitation to travel to Transylvania and write articles with an open mind, defending the Romanian government's case. Jasper, though supportive, asks her to marry him before she leaves, placing her in a difficult position as she struggles with her emotions and sense of gratitude.
Chapter 10
VII
Rosemary Fowkes, having resolved to marry Jasper Tarkington and accept General Naniescu's proposal for journalistic freedom, enters a dreamlike state over the next few weeks. She marries Jasper with Peter Blakeney as best man, exchanges polite farewells with Peter, and then journeys to Budapest with Jasper, who cares for her devotedly. Amidst the travel, she grapples with her emotions, finding a fragile peace in her new path.
Chapter 11
VIII
Rosemary and Jasper dine on a terrace in Budapest, where General Naniescu visits to check their passports before their trip to Transylvania. Naniescu reveals he now lives in the Imreys' house in Cluj, and discusses censorship of English and American articles critical of Romania. He assures Rosemary that her articles will be transmitted without interference, while she feels a vague unease about his intentions.
Chapter 12
IX
Rosemary arrives in Cluj with Jasper and finds the town changed and desolate. She meets Anna Heves, who is working in a grocery shop under harsh conditions. Anna reveals her secret patriotic work for Hungary, risking her life like Edith Cavell. Rosemary, moved by Anna's plight, tries to help her and introduces her to Jasper, who quickly wins Anna's confidence. The chapter explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the contrast between the old aristocratic world and the new post-war reality.
Chapter 13
Chapter X: The Hospitality of Kis-Imre
Rosemary and Jasper spend a week at Kis-Imre, where Rosemary reconnects with the Imrey family and observes the changes wrought by war and occupation. She reflects on Elza Imrey's transformation from a carefree hostess to a woman marked by suffering, and on the strained dynamics of the household, including Maurus Imrey's neurasthenia and Philip's secret bravery.
Chapter 14
XI
Rosemary, after Philip's arrest, telephones General Naniescu and secures Philip's release on parole until Naniescu's arrival. Elza reveals her fears for Philip's inheritance under Romanian rule. The chapter contrasts the tension of political danger with the release of dancing the csàrdàs, and ends with a moment of intense emotional connection between Rosemary and Jasper, revealing the depth of his passion and her inability to fully reciprocate.
Chapter 15
XII
Rosemary awakens to a beautiful morning, feeling triumphant after securing Philip Imrey's release through her influence with General Naniescu. However, she soon learns from the maid Rosa that Philip has been taken away by Romanian soldiers. Jasper advises her not to interfere in local politics, but Rosemary is torn between her journalistic ideals and her desire to help. She visits Elza Imrey, who remains stoic despite her son's arrest, while Maurus rages in private. Rosemary struggles with her conscience, knowing Anna's secret involvement but unable to betray her confidence.
Chapter 16
XIII
Rosemary confronts General Naniescu, who reveals that Anna Heves has been arrested alongside Philip Imrey for smuggling defamatory articles. He proposes a corrupt bargain: Rosemary must write a series of pro-Romanian articles for the Times to secure their release. Despite her revulsion, she is trapped between her honor and the lives of the young prisoners.
Chapter 17
XIV
Rosemary, after a good cry, feels mentally better but physically exhausted. She waits for Jasper to return from his walk to discuss the situation with Philip and Anna, who have been arrested by General Naniescu. Naniescu has given Rosemary an ultimatum: write propaganda articles to secure their release. When Jasper arrives, he is distracted and unsympathetic, focusing instead on Peter Blakeney's presence in Transylvania, which he learned from Naniescu. Rosemary is shocked and defensive. Jasper suggests Rosemary tell Elza that Philip and Anna will be released provisionally, hiding the conditional nature of their freedom. Rosemary agrees but feels increasingly distant from Jasper and longs for Peter's humanity and understanding.
Chapter 18
XV
Rosemary learns that Philip and Anna are to be released, bringing Elza great joy. However, Rosemary is burdened by the secret of the compromising articles and Jasper's insistence that she not speak of the matter to Peter Blakeney. Jasper extracts a promise from her to keep silent, then departs for Bucharest to appeal to the King on behalf of Philip and Anna, leaving Rosemary torn between loyalty to her husband and her trust in Peter.
Chapter 19
XVI
Philip and Anna return to Kis-Imre, bringing joy to the household, but Rosemary feels like an outsider. Anna confides in Rosemary her fear that they were betrayed by someone close, not by regular spies, and that they are still being watched. Rosemary is haunted by the connection between Jasper's insistence that she not speak to Peter and the mysterious circumstances of the arrest and release.
Chapter 20
Chapter XVII
Rosemary is tormented by the secret she holds about Philip and Anna's impending doom, feeling increasingly isolated as the household joyfully prepares for Peter's arrival. When Peter finally arrives, Rosemary finds him changed—more English, less intense—and their conversation reveals his indifference to the danger facing Anna and Philip. Rosemary realizes she cannot confide in Peter and longs to escape the situation.
Chapter 21
XVIII
Elza learns from Rosemary that Philip and Anna's release is only temporary and they face a charge of treason against the state, which could lead to a military tribunal and possibly a death sentence. Despite Rosemary's attempts to reassure her, Elza is deeply troubled and questions whether Rosemary has the power to save her son. Later, Elza confronts Rosemary about a mysterious gypsy's prophecy, and Rosemary swears she cannot save Philip and Anna. The chapter ends with Elza's quiet despair and Rosemary's insistence on hope and prayer.
Chapter 22
XIX
Rosemary is troubled by the mystery of the gipsy and his connection to Philip and Anna's release, wrestling with her promise to Jasper and her loyalty to Peter. The household erupts into excited preparations for a grand ball and cricket match, with Elza and Anna masking their fears behind gaiety. Peter warns Rosemary of Elza's mad plan, and Rosemary finds a moment of solace in music.
Chapter 23
XX
Rosemary learns of Elza's plan for Philip and Anna's escape, but is troubled by Peter's mysterious knowledge of it and his sudden departure. She grapples with her mistrust of Peter and longs for Jasper's guidance. The family is tense after Elza reveals the gipsy's warning, and Peter insists on leaving for Hódmezö to handle hotel arrangements for his cricketers.
Chapter 24
XXI
Rosemary wrestles with her suspicions of Peter, feeling torn between her promise to Jasper and her loyalty to Peter. She confronts Peter about his changed behavior and his knowledge of the escape plan, but their conversation ends in frustration and mistrust. Rosemary ultimately decides not to break her promise to Jasper, leaving Peter to go on his errand.
Chapter 25
XXII
Rosemary avoids Peter before his departure, feeling a revulsion toward his callousness. She immerses herself in household affairs and gaieties at Kis-Imre, while Anna Heves visits her at night to discuss Hungarian fatalism and childlike faith. The next day is a whirl of festivities as Rosemary resolves to play the part of the cheerful guest, suppressing her inner turmoil to help in the fateful events ahead.
Chapter 26
XXIII
At the great ball at Kis-Imre, Rosemary discovers that Peter lied about his whereabouts, shattering her trust. The Romanian cricket team departs for Hódmezö, and Rosemary overhears a conversation revealing that no telephone message was sent to Peter, deepening the mystery.
Chapter 27
XXIV
After the ball, Elza and Rosemary oversee the departure of Philip and Anna. The guests silently understand the escape and leave. Elza maintains composure until alone, then collapses briefly. Rosemary keeps vigil, listening for the motor's sound, and Elza joins her on the balcony after hearing it start. They wait for a coded message confirming safety.
Chapter 28
XXV
After the failed escape attempt, Elza Imrey struggles to maintain composure while breaking the news to her husband. Rosemary comforts her and later discovers a letter from General Naniescu revealing that Philip and Anna are now under his direct care, with a demand for her to write compromising articles.
Chapter 29
XXVI
General Naniescu and M. de Kervoisin discuss Naniescu's scheme to have Rosemary write favorable articles about his administration in Transylvania. Naniescu laments his government's suspicion and the trouble caused by Philip Imrey's articles. De Kervoisin advises caution about their spy, Number Ten, whose motives he attributes to a love of adventure and sport. Number Ten arrives, reports success in his mission, and departs, leaving de Kervoisin to ponder the deeper passions behind his actions.
Chapter 30
XXVII
Rosemary, overwhelmed by the events at Kis-Imre, experiences a period of emotional numbness and self-pity before regaining her composure. She learns that Count Maurus Imrey has fallen ill after being told the news about Philip and Anna, and the doctor warns he must be kept quiet. Elza, aged and weary, confides in Rosemary, who offers comfort and insists on staying. Jasper Tarkington is expected to arrive later that afternoon.
Chapter 31
Chapter XXVIII
Jasper pressures Rosemary to accept General Naniescu's proposal to save Philip and Anna by compromising her principles, arguing that her refusal will lead to tragedy. He also reveals that Peter Blakeney has purchased an option on the Kis-Imre estate, implying Peter may have betrayed the Imreys for personal gain. Rosemary is horrified and conflicted, struggling with doubt and the weight of her moral choices.
Chapter 32
XXIX
Rosemary writes the compromising articles based on Jasper's notes, then decides to let Elza decide whether to publish them, as Jasper suggested. She later recalls Jasper's words and reads his notes, realizing their full implications, and locks them away before dinner.
Chapter 33
The Decision
Rosemary shares with Elza the newspaper articles she has written, which General Naniescu wants published in exchange for Philip and Anna's pardon and the preservation of Kis-Imre. Elza is bewildered and must decide whether to allow Rosemary to proceed.
Chapter 34
XXXI
Rosemary, oppressed by a storm and her own turmoil, reflects on Elza's agonizing decision, Jasper's remorse, and her own conflicted feelings about Peter. She sees Peter in a lightning flash, dreams of him, and resolves to live up to a new standard of duty to Jasper despite her inner despair.
Chapter 35
XXXII
Rosemary wakes after a stormy night, uncertain if she saw Peter outside her window. The cricket match is postponed due to weather. Elza returns the compromising articles, refusing to buy Philip and Anna's safety at the cost of betraying their people. Jasper's jealousy and possessiveness escalate into a violent confrontation, revealing his knowledge of Rosemary's enduring love for Peter.
Chapter 36
XXXIII
Jasper accuses Peter of stealing Rosemary's manuscript, claiming he was attacked from behind. Rosemary doubts his story but is torn by the possibility of Peter's betrayal. She resolves to wire the Times to halt publication and return to London, but her telegram is intercepted by Naniescu's agents.
Chapter 37
XXXIV
Peter Blakeney confronts General Naniescu and M. de Kervoisin, revealing he has stolen Rosemary's manuscript of newspaper articles. He proposes a trade: the manuscript for the title-deeds of the Kis-Imre property. Naniescu, after reading the articles and daydreaming about the political benefits, reluctantly agrees to the bargain.
Chapter 38
XXXV
Peter Blakeney finalizes a deal with General Naniescu, exchanging Lady Tarkington's manuscript for the sale of Kis-Imre and the freedom of Philip Imrey and Anna Heves. M. de Kervoisin probes Peter's motives, suggesting love or hate as the driving force. Naniescu reveals his plan to send the manuscript to London and hints at a surprise for 'friend Number Ten.'
Chapter 39
XXXVI
Rosemary waits anxiously for Elza's return to Kis-Imre, torn between her need to travel to London to stop the publication of her articles and her loyalty to Elza. Jasper offers to go in her stead, but Rosemary hesitates, still troubled by his dual nature and her waning trust. She visits Maurus, who is mentally deteriorating, and learns nothing of Elza's whereabouts. The day passes without news, and Rosemary resolves to wait for Elza before making any decision.
Chapter 40
XXXVII
General Naniescu negotiates with Number Ten over the payment for the compromising articles written by Lady Tarkington. After a tense exchange, Naniescu pays ten thousand pounds to secure publication. The conversation reveals that Peter Blakeney obtained the manuscript in exchange for the title-deeds of Kis-Imre, and that Philip Imrey and Anna Heves have been transferred to Sót, a prison near the frontier.
Chapter 41
XXXVIII
Rosemary eagerly awaits Jasper's return for news. Jasper reports that Philip and Anna have been transferred to Sót, and that the Kis-Imre estates have been officially made over to Peter Blakeney. Later, Romanian officials arrive with an eviction order for Maurus Imrey, signed on behalf of the new owner. Maurus, surprisingly calm, reveals he was prepared by Elza's letter and plans to join her in Hungary. Rosemary, shaken by Peter's role, grapples with guilt over her newspaper articles.
Chapter 42
XXXIX
Rosemary and Jasper's train makes an unexpected halt at Sót due to a landslide blocking the line. Rosemary grows increasingly anxious about the delay, fearing it will allow Naniescu's courier to reach London before she can wire Elza. Jasper tries to calm her, suggesting they wait until morning.
Chapter 43
XL
Rosemary, stranded at a remote Transylvanian station due to a reported landslide, struggles with sleeplessness and mounting anxiety over her impending interview with Elza. She suspects Elza has capitulated to mother-love, possibly betraying their cause to save her son Philip. Jasper reports the line will take all day to clear, and the stationmaster claims all horses have been commandeered by soldiers, leaving no conveyance. Rosemary suspects Naniescu's interference and resolves to fight the delays, though Jasper advises acceptance. She decides to wait twenty-four hours before seeking alternative means to reach Hódmezö.
Chapter 44
XLI
Rosemary, having sent Jasper to see after luggage, wanders into a village to find transport to the frontier. After learning that all horses and oxen have been commandeered by the military, she walks along a mountain path and unexpectedly encounters Peter, who is now in Romanian officer's uniform. Peter confesses to being a spy in Romanian pay, having had Philip and Anna arrested, stolen Rosemary's articles, and bought Kis-Imre. Rosemary pleads with him, recalling their past friendship and love, but Peter remains defiant. He kneels, kisses her skirt, says goodbye, and disappears into the woods, leaving Rosemary devastated.
Chapter 45
XLII
Jasper finds Rosemary in the woods after hearing her scream. He is tender and apologetic, trying to make amends for his earlier behavior. Rosemary feels pity and gratitude but remains emotionally distant, reflecting on her unrequited love for another man.
Chapter 46
XLIII
Rosemary and Jasper return to the château, where Jasper rushes ahead upon seeing a car depart. Rosemary is stopped by sentries but bribes a young officer, Lieutenant Uriesu, to gain entry. She overhears Jasper—revealed as 'Number Ten'—angrily reprimanding Major Buriecha for allowing Philip Imrey and Anna Heves to escape, orchestrated by Peter Blakeney. Jasper orders a pursuit and shoot-to-kill orders. Confronted by Rosemary, he shows cruelty but leaves when she commands him to go.
Chapter 47
XLIV
Rosemary waits in a bare room after her meeting with Major Buriecha, feeling a mix of joy and dread. She reflects on the escape of Philip and Anna, orchestrated by Peter, and the roles of Elza and Maurus. She avoids thinking about Peter, aware of her loyalty to Jasper, and plans to cross the frontier with Maurus.
Chapter 48
XLV
In the dead of night, Rosemary and Jasper confront each other after the events of the day. Jasper reveals his cruel past as a spy hunter and his manipulative scheme to trap Rosemary into writing articles for General Naniescu, while also confessing his hatred for civilization and his obsession with her. He threatens to use Peter Blakeney's presence in Transylvania to create a scandal that would ruin Peter. Rosemary declares her intention to leave him, but Jasper warns that the law and his money will prevent her freedom.
Chapter 49
XLVI
Jasper Tarkington returns to his hotel room late at night to find Maurus Imrey waiting for him. Maurus explains that he was turned out of Kis-Imre, which has been bought by Peter Blakeney, and that he is stranded in Sót with no room at the hotel. He asks Jasper to help him arrange lodging at a nearby tavern. Jasper reluctantly agrees, leaving Rosemary alone in the salon, where she stands in despair.
Chapter 50
XLVII
Rosemary learns of the tragic accident on the bridge where Maurus Imrey attacked Peter Blakeney, resulting in Peter's death and Maurus's fatal injury. She watches over Maurus as he dies, forgiving him and understanding his torment.
Chapter 51
XLVIII
Nearly two years after the tragic events in Transylvania, Rosemary has thrown herself into writing powerful articles about the region's oppression under alien occupation. She encounters Peter Blakeney again at the Albert Hall, and he proposes marriage, to which she accepts. The chapter also recounts the successful escape of Philip and Anna, Peter's administration of Kis-Imre, and the lingering mysteries surrounding Jasper's death.
