Pimpernel and Rosemary · Chapter
III explained
At the Five Arts' Ball, Rosemary Fowkes captivates with her beauty and Venetian gown.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Aristocracy
The chapter contrasts English aristocratic pride (Lady Orange's reverence for titles) with foreign confusion, and highlights Jasper Tarkington's wealth and social standing.
Political Oppression and Nationalism
General Naniescu's resentment of Rosemary's articles reveals nationalist tensions and the political impact of journalism on Romania's image.
Journalism and Truth
Rosemary's articles in the International Review are portrayed as powerful political tools that harmed Romania, raising questions about the influence of media.
Characters to notice
- Rosemary Fowkes
Described as exceptionally beautiful, dressed in a Venetian gown; her charm is attributed to her pixie-like eyes. She is the subject of admiration and political resentment from General Naniescu.
- Peter Blakeney
Identified as the finest cricketer from Eton and Oxford; dances with Rosemary at the ball, causing curiosity among the foreigners.
- General Naniescu
Romanian general who expresses bitterness over Rosemary's articles harming his country; shows interest in meeting her and is puzzled by English social customs and titles.
- Jasper Tarkington
Rosemary's fiancé, a wealthy peer and former journalist; his past as a correspondent in Hungary is noted, and he is described as able to provide Rosemary with wealth and position.
- Lady Orange
Hostess in the box; vague but proud of English aristocracy, she tries to avoid political talk and arranges for Rosemary to meet Naniescu.
- Miss Fairfax
Practical and slightly malicious; provides information about Rosemary and Jasper, and teases Naniescu about meeting Rosemary.
Key passages
“Indeed no lyrical effusion would seem exaggerated if dedicated to Rosemary Fowkes. She was one of those women on whom Nature seemed to have showered every one of her most precious gifts.”
Rosemary Fowkes is described as extraordinarily beautiful, as if nature had given her every possible gift.
Opening description emphasizing Rosemary's exceptional beauty.
“Peter Blakeney is the finest cover-point England ever had.”
Lady Orange declares that Peter Blakeney is the best cricket player England has ever seen.
Introduction of Peter Blakeney's fame as a cricketer.
“Lord Tarkington only came into the title on the death of his uncle a year ago.”
Jasper Tarkington inherited his title after his uncle died a year ago.
Explanation of Jasper's recent inheritance.
“The sight of that lovely lady who did my poor country so much harm brought words to my tongue which should have remained unspoken in your presence.”
General Naniescu says that seeing Rosemary, who harmed his country with her articles, made him speak out of turn.
Naniescu's resentment of Rosemary's political influence.
