Pimpernel and Rosemary · Chapter
XXXV explained
Peter Blakeney finalizes a deal with General Naniescu, exchanging Lady Tarkington's manuscript for the sale of Kis-Imre and the freedom of Philip Imrey and Anna Heves.
What happens
Peter Blakeney finalizes a deal with General Naniescu, exchanging Lady Tarkington's manuscript for the sale of Kis-Imre and the freedom of Philip Imrey and Anna Heves. M. de Kervoisin probes Peter's motives, suggesting love or hate as the driving force. Naniescu reveals his plan to send the manuscript to London and hints at a surprise for 'friend Number Ten.'
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Betrayal
Peter's manipulation of the manuscript deal and Naniescu's secret plans highlight layers of deceit.
Honor vs. Compromise
Peter's actions are questioned by Kervoisin, who wonders if he acted out of love or hate, and whether the ends justify the means.
Characters to notice
- Peter Blakeney
Negotiates the sale of Kis-Imre and secures passports for the Imreys, while deflecting Kervoisin's probing questions about his motives.
- M. de Kervoisin
Observes Peter shrewdly, questioning whether love or hate drove his actions, and remains thoughtful after Peter's departure.
- General Naniescu
Completes the deal with Peter, expresses satisfaction, and outlines his plan to send the manuscript to London with a courier.
- Number Ten
Mentioned by Naniescu as the one who will be most surprised by his actions.
Key passages
“Are you trying to make up your mind, sir, just what kind of a blackguard I am?”
Peter asks Kervoisin if he is trying to decide what sort of villain he is.
Peter's self-deprecating humor masks his true intentions.
“I wonder which of the two levers youth pulled in order to make you act as you did. Love or hate.”
Kervoisin speculates whether Peter was motivated by love or hate.
Kervoisin's analysis of Peter's motives reflects the theme of deception.