# XV: Sanctuary explained — Scaramouche

> Chapter companion for Scaramouche by Rafael Sabatini.

## What happens

In the aftermath of the bloody day, Mme. de Plougastel and Aline wait anxiously in the Rue du Paradis. The Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr, a fugitive from the mob, seeks sanctuary in their home. Later, a mysterious official arrives, revealing himself to be André-Louis Moreau.

## Themes in this chapter

### Cowardice and Courage

The Marquis's flight and Mme. de Plougastel's composed bravery in the face of danger highlight contrasting responses to peril.

### Identity and Disguise

The Marquis disguises himself as a sansculotte, and André-Louis appears as an official, underscoring the theme of hidden identities.

### Theatre and Performance

The dramatic arrival of the Marquis and the later reveal of André-Louis play out like a staged scene in a sanctuary.

## Character check-ins

### Mme. la Comtesse de Plougastel

Provides sanctuary to the Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr and later receives André-Louis Moreau in disguise.

### Aline de Kercadiou

Waits with Mme. de Plougastel, observes the Marquis's arrival, and is present when André-Louis appears.

### Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr

Flees to Mme. de Plougastel's house for sanctuary after the day's violence, disguised as a sansculotte.

### André-Louis Moreau

Arrives at the house disguised as an official with a tricolour sash, revealing his identity to Mme. de Plougastel.

### Gervais

Not directly mentioned in excerpts; omitted as no evidence.

### Rougane

Expected deliverer who fails to arrive, causing hopes to fade.

### Jacques

The diligent footman who serves food, valets the Marquis, and announces André-Louis's arrival.

## Key lines

> We were timid when we should have been resolute, and resolute at last when it was too late. That is the history of our side from the beginning of this accursed struggle.

The Marquis criticizes the royalist faction for being hesitant when boldness was needed and only showing determination when it was futile.

_Reflects on the failures of the aristocracy during the revolution._

> Allons, enfants de la patrie! Le jour de gloire est arrivé Contre nous de la tyrannie L’étendard sanglant est levé.

The mob sings the revolutionary anthem 'La Marseillaise', calling citizens to arms against tyranny.

_Highlights the shift in revolutionary fervor and the new song's impact._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/scaramouche_se/chapters/xv-sanctuary
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/scaramouche_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/scaramouche_se/chapters