Simon · Chapter
XXXVII: Bisset's Advice explained
Ned Cromarty returns home to find Bisset has brought Cicely Farmond to Stanesland after a confrontation at Keldale.
What happens
Ned Cromarty returns home to find Bisset has brought Cicely Farmond to Stanesland after a confrontation at Keldale. Bisset explains that Simon Rattar denied advising Cicely to flee, and Lady Cromarty attempted to detain her. Bisset resigned his position to help Cicely escape. Ned proposes to Cicely, and she accepts. Lilian Cromarty arrives with a telegram from Carrington summoning Ned to an urgent meeting.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Silence
Simon Rattar's denial of his advice to Cicely exemplifies the theme of concealment and falsehood.
Justice and Investigation
Bisset's principled stand against unlawful detention and Carrington's urgent summons highlight the pursuit of justice.
Family and Betrayal
Lady Cromarty's siding with Rattar over Cicely suggests familial betrayal and tension.
Characters to notice
- Ned Cromarty
Returns home, proposes to Cicely, and receives a telegram from Carrington.
- Cicely Farmond
Brought to Stanesland by Bisset after Rattar's denial; accepts Ned's proposal.
- James Bisset
Advises Cicely to leave Keldale, resigns his position, and brings her to Stanesland.
- Lilian Cromarty
Arrives with a telegram from Carrington and offers congratulations on the engagement.
- Simon Rattar
Reported to have denied advising Cicely to flee, leading to her departure from Keldale.
- Lady Cromarty
Attempted to detain Cicely and believed Rattar's denial.
Key passages
“It was a mere matter of principle, sir. Detention of luggage like yon is no legal. I tellt her ladyship flatly that she’d find herself afore the Shirra’, and that I was no going to abet any such proceedings.”
Bisset explains that he resigned over the principle that detaining Cicely's luggage was illegal, and he warned Lady Cromarty she could face the sheriff.
Bisset's justification for his actions, emphasizing his commitment to legality.
“I want you to stop on too, Cicely—forever. Will you?”
Ned proposes marriage to Cicely, asking her to stay with him permanently.
Ned's direct proposal to Cicely.