# He Makes Peace and Declares War explained — Swallows and Amazons

> Chapter companion for Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome.

## What happens

After Nancy rows away, the Swallows and Peggy set up the Amazons' tent. Captain Flint arrives, makes peace with the children, and they search for his stolen box on Cormorant Island but find nothing. He then declares a mock battle for the next day, joins them for a friendly dinner, and they part as allies-turned-enemies for the coming fight.

## Themes in this chapter

### Conflict and Resolution

The chapter moves from the aftermath of the accusation to a peaceful dinner and a declared mock battle, showing both resolution and new conflict.

### Friendship and Alliance

Captain Flint is welcomed into the camp, sharing a meal and forming a temporary alliance before the planned battle.

### Adventure and Imagination

The treasure hunt on Cormorant Island and the declaration of a mock naval battle highlight the children's imaginative play.

## Character check-ins

### Nancy Blackett

Rows away alone after the confrontation, later returns and helps set up camp.

### Peggy Blackett

Helps the Swallows pitch the Amazons' tent and joins the dinner.

### John Walker

Feels responsible for telling Nancy about Captain Flint; helps with tent and later fetches telescope.

### Susan Walker

Takes charge of camp tasks, invites Captain Flint to dinner, and manages the meal.

### Titty Walker

Insists the burglars left the box on Cormorant Island; leads the search and is disappointed when it's not found.

### Captain Flint

Makes peace with the children, searches for his box, declares war for the next day, and enjoys a friendly dinner.

## Key lines

> Perhaps I ought not to have told her about it

John worries that he made a mistake by sharing the news with Nancy.

_John's guilt over revealing the letter's contents._

> If she'd wanted help she wouldn't have gone alone.

Peggy suggests that Nancy prefers to handle things by herself.

_Peggy's understanding of Nancy's independent nature._

> It really is something like a camp now

Titty feels proud of their established campsite.

_The camp's appearance gives a sense of accomplishment._

> I know they left it here

Titty is certain the burglars deposited the box on Cormorant Island.

_Titty's conviction despite the failed search._

> Three o'clock tomorrow, and the scuppers will be red with blood

Captain Flint promises a fierce mock battle the next day.

_Dramatic declaration of the upcoming war game._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se/chapters/xxvi-he-makes-peace-and-declares-war
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se/chapters