Sir Percy Hits Back · Chapter
Chapter XX explained
Fleurette is brought before Chauvelin, Pochart, and Danou on a charge of treason, instigated by Lieutenant Godet.
What happens
Fleurette is brought before Chauvelin, Pochart, and Danou on a charge of treason, instigated by Lieutenant Godet. Chauvelin struggles to defend her as the men invoke the Law of the Suspect, and he is haunted by visions of retribution for his own past cruelties.
Themes in this chapter
Revolutionary Tyranny and Injustice
The Law of the Suspect is used to threaten Fleurette, highlighting the arbitrary and cruel nature of revolutionary justice.
Family and Paternal Love
Chauvelin's desperate attempts to protect his daughter reveal a deep paternal love, conflicting with his revolutionary duties.
Innocence and Corruption
Fleurette's innocence contrasts with the corrupt and vengeful motives of Godet, Pochart, and Danou.
Characters to notice
- Fleurette
Brought before the tribunal on charges of treason, she is confused but not fully aware of the danger.
- Citizen Chauvelin
Struggles to defend his daughter while grappling with guilt and rage as the men use the Law of the Suspect against him.
- Lieutenant Godet
Arrests Fleurette and accuses her of treason, seeking revenge for his earlier humiliation.
- Pochart
One of the men questioning Fleurette, he is rough and determined, invoking the Law of the Suspect.
- Danou
Speaks in unctuous tones, supporting the accusation and reminding Chauvelin of the law he helped frame.
Key passages
“And through the meshes that tightened round him now, Chauvelin gazing into space saw before his eyes the awful word “Retribution” written in letters of fire and blood.”
Chauvelin feels trapped and envisions retribution for his past sins.
Highlights Chauvelin's guilt and the theme of retribution.
““The Law of the Suspect,” Pochart added, “has been framed expressly to meet such cases as these.””
Pochart invokes the Law of the Suspect to justify the accusation against Fleurette.
Illustrates the arbitrary nature of revolutionary justice.
““A patriot has no sentiment,” Danou echoed suavely.”
Danou claims that true patriots must suppress personal feelings.
Reflects the revolutionary ideology that prioritizes the state over family.