Pimpernel and Rosemary · Chapter
Chapter XVII explained
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.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Rosemary's internal struggle reflects her willingness to sacrifice her own peace for the safety of Philip and Anna.
Deception and Betrayal
Rosemary hides the truth from the Imrey family, feeling complicit in their impending doom.
Honor vs. Compromise
Rosemary grapples with the moral compromise of keeping her promise to Jasper versus her desire to warn the family.
Characters to notice
- Rosemary Fowkes
Torn by guilt and anxiety over Philip and Anna's fate; feels unable to share her burden with Peter.
- Peter Blakeney
Arrives at Kis-Imre appearing more English and carefree; dismisses the danger to Anna and Philip.
- Elza Imrey
Radiates happiness and plans festivities, unaware of the looming catastrophe.
- Maurus Imrey
Unbends and joins in the family joy, oblivious to the threat.
- Philip Imrey
Almost feverishly gay, unaware of the danger he and Anna face.
- Anna Heves
Thoughtful and unaware; Peter suggests she should leave Transylvania.
Key passages
“And it was that spectre which from that hour haunted Rosemary; it would not allow her to rest at night; it dogged her steps by day.”
Rosemary is haunted day and night by the secret she carries.
Highlights Rosemary's torment and the central conflict of the chapter.
“He seemed younger, more boyish—more English in many ways.”
Peter appears more youthful and typically English to Rosemary.
Shows Rosemary's perception of Peter's change and her growing distance from him.
“It was all wrong, all wrong. Peter used to be so fond of little Anna.”
Rosemary feels that Peter's indifference to Anna is a betrayal of his former self.
Emphasizes Rosemary's disillusionment with Peter.