# XXXIX explained — Sir Percy Hits Back

> Chapter companion for Sir Percy Hits Back by Baroness Orczy.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sir_percy_hits_back_se/chapters