The Courts of the Morning · Chapter
Epilogue explained
In the peaceful aftermath of the revolution, the Courts of the Morning have returned to their natural state.
What happens
In the peaceful aftermath of the revolution, the Courts of the Morning have returned to their natural state. Luis de Marzaniga, now President-elect of Olifa, visits Sandy Arbuthnot to offer him the governorship of the Gran Seco, hinting at even greater leadership. Sandy, however, reveals his deep homesickness and desire to return to his own people and land. Janet Roylance perceives that his longing is tied to his love for Barbara Dasent, and she gently teases him about it.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Disguise
Sandy grapples with his identity, torn between the role of a leader in the New World and his deep-rooted longing for his homeland and simple life.
Friendship and Comradeship
Luis's heartfelt offer and Janet's perceptive understanding highlight the deep bonds of friendship and loyalty among the characters.
Power and Megalomania
The offer of a governorship and the hint of a kingdom contrast with Sandy's rejection of ambition, reflecting on the nature of power and its personal cost.
Characters to notice
- Sandy Arbuthnot
Sandy is offered the governorship of the Gran Seco by Luis but declines, expressing homesickness for his native Scotland and a desire to return to a simpler life.
- Luis de Marzaniga
Now President-elect of Olifa, Luis offers Sandy the governorship of the Gran Seco and speaks of a future where Olifa might become a kingdom.
- Janet Roylance
Janet joins Sandy on the plateau and perceptively guesses that his longing for home is tied to his love for Barbara Dasent.
- Barbara Dasent
Barbara is mentioned as being nearby, speaking with Geordie Hamilton about a sick vaquero, and is the object of Sandy's affection.
- Geordie Hamilton
Geordie is seen speaking with Barbara about a sick vaquero.
- Castor
Castor is remembered as the fallen leader; his grave is marked by a wooden cross on the plateau, and Sandy reflects on his death.
- Archie Roylance
Archie is mentioned in Janet's recollection of the triumphal entry into Olifa, where he was embarrassed by the flowers thrown at him.
Key passages
“The Courts of the Morning had recovered the peace which till a year ago had been theirs since the beginning of time.”
The once-busy plateau had returned to its pristine, untouched state, with nature reclaiming the signs of human activity.
Sets the serene, reflective tone of the epilogue.
“I have come to offer you the post of Gobernador of the Gran Seco.”
Luis formally proposes that Sandy become the governor of the Gran Seco region.
Key plot point: Luis's offer to Sandy.
“I'm sick with longing for my own Border hills.”
Sandy confesses his intense homesickness for the Scottish Borders.
Reveals Sandy's emotional conflict and decision to return home.
“When a man like you grows tired of wandering and has a sudden longing for home, it is because he is in love with a woman and wants to take her to the place where he belongs.”
Janet insightfully connects Sandy's homesickness to his love for Barbara.
Janet's perceptive observation about Sandy's true feelings.
