The Black Arrow · Chapter
The Room Over the Chapel explained
Dick and Matcham (revealed to be Joanna Sedley) hide in a chamber above the chapel, discovering a trapdoor used by an assassin.
What happens
Dick and Matcham (revealed to be Joanna Sedley) hide in a chamber above the chapel, discovering a trapdoor used by an assassin. Sir Daniel's men attempt to break in but are diverted by an alarm. The pair escape through the secret passage.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Disguise
Matcham is revealed to be Joanna Sedley, a girl disguised as a boy, leading to a dramatic shift in the relationship.
Love and Marriage
Dick declares his love for Joanna and proposes marriage, despite the mortal danger they face.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Sir Daniel's men are loyal to him but betray Dick's trust; Matcham/Joanna shows loyalty by staying with Dick.
Characters to notice
- Dick Shelton
Discovers Matcham's true identity as Joanna Sedley; prepares to defend himself and escape.
- Joanna Sedley
Revealed to be Matcham; confesses her love for Dick and helps him flee.
- Sir Daniel Brackley
Leads the search for Joanna and orders the door to be broken down.
- Bennet Hatch
Assists Sir Daniel in the watch and the pursuit.
- Matcham
Alias used by Joanna Sedley; warns Dick of the plot against his life.
Key passages
“I had the proof of it; I have heard them whisper; nay, they as good as told me.”
I have evidence; I overheard them talking, and they practically admitted it.
Matcham warns Dick of the plot against his life.
“Y'are no Jack; y'are Joanna Sedley; y'are the maid that would not marry me!”
You are not Jack; you are Joanna Sedley, the girl who refused to marry me!
Dick realizes Matcham's true identity as Joanna.
“An y'are to die, I will die with you.”
If you are going to die, I will die alongside you.
Matcham/Joanna pledges to share Dick's fate.