Pimpernel and Rosemary · Chapter
XXXIII explained
Jasper accuses Peter of stealing Rosemary's manuscript, claiming he was attacked from behind.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Betrayal
Jasper's manipulative account of the scuffle and Rosemary's growing suspicion of Peter's motives highlight the theme of betrayal.
Journalism and Truth
Rosemary's articles for The Times and her urgent efforts to control their publication underscore the power and peril of the press.
Characters to notice
- Rosemary Fowkes
Confronts Jasper after the scuffle, doubts his account of Peter's theft, and decides to wire the Times to stop publication of her articles.
- Jasper Tarkington
Found on the floor of the smoking-room after a scuffle; claims Peter attacked him and stole the manuscript, but his demeanor shifts from rage to a wolfish cunning.
- Peter Blakeney
Seen by Rosemary escaping through the smoking-room window; Jasper accuses him of stealing the manuscript and selling it to Naniescu.
- General Naniescu
Referenced as the likely recipient of the stolen manuscript; the postmistress contacts him after Rosemary sends her telegram.
Key passages
“He had risen and gone over to the mirror to readjust his clothes. She could see his face in the glass, livid with passion, his eyes fixed upon her reflection, while he fumbled with his tie and collar.”
Jasper stood up and straightened his clothes in front of the mirror, his face pale with anger, staring at Rosemary's reflection as he adjusted his tie.
Reveals Jasper's concealed fury and his attempt to compose himself.
“Peter Blakeney sneaked in through that open window. My back was turned that way and I heard nothing, as I was intent on reading your manuscript. He attacked me from behind.”
Jasper claimed that Peter entered through the window while he was reading the manuscript, then attacked him from behind.
Jasper's fabricated story to explain the missing manuscript and his own injury.
“I don't care how it's done, she replied impatiently. If you won't help me I'll manage alone.”
Rosemary declared she would handle the situation herself if Jasper refused to assist her.
Shows Rosemary's determination to act independently despite Jasper's taunts.