XXXIV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Deception and Betrayal

  Peter steals Rosemary's manuscript and deceives Naniescu to achieve his goal, while Naniescu schemes to use the articles for his own political gain.

• Political Oppression and Nationalism

  Naniescu's daydream of using the articles to vindicate his administration and gain favor with the King underscores the oppressive nationalist agenda.

• Honor vs. Compromise

  Peter's willingness to steal and bargain contrasts with Naniescu's initial indignation, yet both compromise their principles for practical outcomes.

Characters to notice

• Peter Blakeney

  Confronts Naniescu and de Kervoisin, having stolen Rosemary's manuscript to drive a bargain for the Kis-Imre property.

• General Naniescu

  Negotiates with Peter, initially resistant but ultimately agrees to exchange the property deeds for the manuscript.

• M. de Kervoisin

  Present during the negotiation, remains largely silent and inscrutable, occasionally observing Peter.

• Rosemary Fowkes

  Her manuscript is the subject of the negotiation; she had written articles and then repented, but Peter stole them.

• Jasper Tarkington

  Mentioned indirectly as Lady Tarkington's husband; Rosemary is referred to as Lady Tarkington.

Key passages

• “Those articles were just what he wanted. They were so beautifully written! So convincingly! What a stir they would make! They were a complete vindication of his administration here in Transylvania.”

  Naniescu imagines the articles will justify his rule and bring him rewards from the King.

  Highlights Naniescu's self-serving political ambitions.

• “I stole it this morning from Lady Tarkington.”

  Peter admits to taking the manuscript without permission.

  Reveals Peter's decisive and morally ambiguous action.

• “The title-deeds of the Kis-Imre property.”

  Peter demands ownership of the estate in exchange for the manuscript.

  Sets the terms of the central bargain of the chapter.