# VIII explained — Pimpernel and Rosemary

> Chapter companion for Pimpernel and Rosemary by Baroness Orczy.

## What happens

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.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Oppression and Nationalism

Naniescu defends censorship as a necessary weapon against foreign propaganda, highlighting the oppressive nationalist policies of the Romanian government.

### Deception and Betrayal

Naniescu's elaborate politeness and assurances to Rosemary mask a potential threat; his occupation of the Imreys' house suggests underlying hostility.

### Journalism and Truth

The chapter discusses the role of the English and American press in reporting on Hungarian grievances, and the Romanian government's efforts to suppress such reporting.

## Character check-ins

### Rosemary Fowkes

Dines with Jasper on the terrace; feels tired and uneasy with Naniescu's presence and his gallantry.

### Jasper Tarkington

Retrieves passports for Naniescu's inspection; discusses censorship and politics with the general.

### General Naniescu

Visits to check passports; reveals he lives in the Imreys' house in Cluj; discusses censorship and assures Rosemary her articles will be transmitted.

### Captain Payson

Briefly present with his wife; leaves to avoid quarreling with Naniescu.

## Key lines

> I fear my irresponsible prattle is keeping Lady Tarkington away from the rest she so much needs. Dear lady, pray accept my humble homage, and my earnest wish that your stay in our poor country will afford you all the delight that you anticipate.

Naniescu apologizes for talking too long and wishes Rosemary a pleasant stay in Hungary.

_Naniescu's overly formal and gallant tone masks his manipulative intent._

> Let me once more assure you, dear lady, that as far as you are concerned every word you write will be transmitted in its entirety and with all possible speed to its destination. All that you need do is to send your articles and letters in a sealed packet undercover to me. I give you my word of honour that you will be satisfied.

Naniescu promises Rosemary that her articles will be sent uncensored if she sends them through him.

_This promise is likely a trap, given Naniescu's earlier defense of censorship._

> Oh, the house was a great deal too big for the occupation of a small family. On public grounds we cannot allow the many to suffer for the whims of a few.

Naniescu justifies his occupation of the Imreys' house by claiming it was necessary for the public good.

_This reveals the Romanian government's confiscation of property from the Hungarian aristocracy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pimpernel_and_rosemary_se/chapters/viii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pimpernel_and_rosemary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pimpernel_and_rosemary_se/chapters