The Courts of the Morning · Chapter
V explained
Archie and Janet return to find their permits to the Gran Seco refused, blamed on the American Consul Wilbur.
What happens
Archie and Janet return to find their permits to the Gran Seco refused, blamed on the American Consul Wilbur. They settle into Olifa society, playing polo and dining, until they are invited to a presidential luncheon. There, they meet the enigmatic Señor Castor, Gobernador of the Gran Seco, who charms them, reverses the permit refusal, and engages in wide-ranging conversation. Afterward, Archie is impressed by Castor's competence, but Janet senses a potential cruelty beneath his beard.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Megalomania
Castor's commanding presence and control over the Gran Seco and the luncheon conversation highlight his immense power and self-assurance.
Identity and Disguise
Castor's hidden mouth and Janet's suspicion of cruelty beneath his beard suggest a concealed true nature.
Imperialism and Exploitation
The Gran Seco is described as a closed, company-run industrial enclave in a 'rude hill-country,' echoing colonial exploitation and administrative control.
Characters to notice
- Archie Roylance
Relieved at permit refusal, enjoys polo, attends presidential luncheon, impressed by Castor's intelligence and friendliness.
- Janet Roylance
Giggles at the formal dress at the luncheon, sits beside the President, converses with Castor about Ossian and Proust, senses cruelty in him.
- Castor
Arrives late to the luncheon, sits by Janet, displays broad knowledge and charm, reverses the permit refusal, impresses Archie but unsettles Janet.
- Don Alejandro Gedd
Incensed by the permit refusal, blames the American Consul Wilbur, advises Archie on attire for the presidential luncheon.
- Don Mario Sanfuentes
Mentioned as a kinsman of Don Alejandro, present at the luncheon.
- Señor Aribia
Minister of Finance, present at the luncheon, makes caustic comments about U.S. policy.
Key passages
“On their return to the city they were met by an incensed Don Alejandro. Not only had the permits for the Gran Seco not arrived, they had been definitely refused.”
When Archie and Janet got back to the city, Don Alejandro was furious because their permits to the Gran Seco had been denied outright.
Sets up the conflict over access to the Gran Seco.
“Suddenly there was a movement in the company. Someone had entered and taken the vacant chair by Janet's side. The light in the room was very dim, and Archie saw only a tall figure, to greet whom the President and the other men rose and bowed.”
The luncheon was interrupted by a late arrival who sat next to Janet, and everyone stood to greet him.
Dramatic entrance of Castor.
“I never in my life got so strong an impression of all-round competence. … I like him, too. I think he's a good fellow. Don't you?”
Archie told Janet he found Castor incredibly capable and likeable.
Archie's favorable impression of Castor.
“I'm not so sure. I should like to see him clean-shaven. I've an idea that the mouth under that beard of his might be horribly cruel.”
Janet was less convinced, suspecting that Castor's hidden mouth might reveal a cruel nature.
Janet's intuitive distrust of Castor.
