# XXXVIII explained — Pimpernel and Rosemary

> Chapter companion for Pimpernel and Rosemary by Baroness Orczy.

## What happens

Rosemary eagerly awaits Jasper's return for news. Jasper reports that Philip and Anna have been transferred to Sót, and that the Kis-Imre estates have been officially made over to Peter Blakeney. Later, Romanian officials arrive with an eviction order for Maurus Imrey, signed on behalf of the new owner. Maurus, surprisingly calm, reveals he was prepared by Elza's letter and plans to join her in Hungary. Rosemary, shaken by Peter's role, grapples with guilt over her newspaper articles.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Oppression and Nationalism

The eviction order against Maurus Imrey, signed on behalf of the new owner, exemplifies the oppressive use of state power against perceived political enemies.

### Deception and Betrayal

Rosemary's shock at Peter becoming the owner of Kis-Imre underscores a deep sense of betrayal, as his actions align with the forces displacing her friends.

### Journalism and Truth

Rosemary's guilt over her newspaper articles highlights the moral weight of journalism in justifying political oppression.

## Character check-ins

### Rosemary Fowkes

Welcomes Jasper eagerly, reacts with horror to the eviction order, and struggles with guilt over her articles.

### Jasper Tarkington

Brings news from Naniescu, accompanies Rosemary, and is puzzled by Maurus's calm demeanor.

### Maurus Imrey

Receives eviction order with surprising calm, having been prepared by Elza's letter; plans to leave Kis-Imre.

### Elza Imrey

Mentioned as having written to Maurus from Sót, having seen Philip and Anna, and heading to Hungary.

### Peter Blakeney

Revealed as the new owner of Kis-Imre, causing Rosemary's shock and distress.

### General Naniescu

Briefly mentioned as the source of information about the transfer of Philip and Anna and the Kis-Imre estates.

## Key lines

> I don't think that she has been allowed to do either.

Jasper suggests Elza has not been permitted to return or send a telegram.

_Indicates Elza's restricted communication after visiting Philip and Anna._

> On behalf of the present owner of Kis-Imre by His Excellency the Governor himself.

The eviction order is authorized by the governor acting for the new owner.

_Reveals Peter Blakeney as the new owner, shocking Rosemary._

> I was born in this house, and I always thought that I would die in it; but lately these walls have seen so much sorrow and so many villainies that I would just as soon turn my back on them.

Maurus expresses a willingness to leave Kis-Imre due to the recent tragedies and betrayals.

_Shows Maurus's uncharacteristic calm and resignation._

## Links

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