Sir Percy Hits Back · Chapter
XXXIX explained
Chauvelin sits alone in the coach after seeing Fleurette carried to safety, lost in thought until Sir Percy Blakeney joins him.
What happens
Chauvelin sits alone in the coach after seeing Fleurette carried to safety, lost in thought until Sir Percy Blakeney joins him. Blakeney reveals that Fleurette and Amédé will sail for England under Lady Blakeney's care, ensuring her happiness. Chauvelin offers his life in surrender, but Blakeney refuses, choosing instead to spare him as his own form of revenge, sending him safely to Nîmes.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and Sacrifice
Sir Percy's decision to spare Chauvelin's life, despite past wrongs, exemplifies heroic mercy and selflessness.
Revolutionary Tyranny and Injustice
Chauvelin's expectation of execution and his reference to enemies in Orange underscore the brutal political climate.
Love and Loyalty
Chauvelin's joy at Fleurette's safety and Blakeney's commitment to her happiness reflect deep familial and protective love.
Characters to notice
- Citizen Chauvelin
Sits in the coach, overwhelmed with relief that Fleurette is safe, then confronts Sir Percy and offers his life.
- Sir Percy Blakeney
Joins Chauvelin in the coach, reveals Fleurette's escape plan, and spares Chauvelin's life as his way of hitting back.
- Fleurette
Mentioned as being safely carried away in her lover's arms and set to sail for England.
- Amédé Colombe
Mentioned as Fleurette's sweetheart who will sail with her to England.
- Marguerite Blakeney
Mentioned as Lady Blakeney, who will care for Fleurette in England.
Key passages
“You see, my dear M. Chambertin, I would not forego the pleasure of bidding you au revoir.”
Sir Percy mockingly greets Chauvelin, refusing to miss the chance to say goodbye.
Blakeney's characteristic wit and defiance toward his enemy.
“Happy, yes! she will soon forget.”
Chauvelin accepts that Fleurette will be happy and move on from the past.
Chauvelin's resigned hope for his daughter's future.
“Can't you see that this is my way of hitting back?”
Blakeney explains that sparing Chauvelin is his chosen form of revenge.
Blakeney's moral superiority and clever retribution.