The Elusive Pimpernel · Chapter
XV: Farewell explained
Marguerite desperately tries to persuade Sir Percy not to leave for France, pleading with him passionately.
What happens
Marguerite desperately tries to persuade Sir Percy not to leave for France, pleading with him passionately. Despite his deep love for her, he is resolved to go on a mission to rescue Abbé Foucquet, and after a tender struggle, he departs, leaving her overwhelmed with foreboding.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and Self-Sacrifice
Percy's decision to leave his wife and risk his life to save Abbé Foucquet exemplifies self-sacrifice for a greater cause.
Love and Marriage
The intense emotional struggle between Marguerite's love for Percy and his sense of duty highlights the tensions within their marriage.
Sacrifice for the Greater Good
Percy prioritizes the rescue of an innocent man over his own happiness and safety, embodying sacrifice for the greater good.
Characters to notice
- Marguerite Blakeney
Pleads with Percy not to leave, clinging to him and expressing her love and despair.
- Sir Percy Blakeney
Struggles between his love for Marguerite and his duty to rescue Abbé Foucquet; ultimately leaves for France.
- Abbé Foucquet
Mentioned as the one Percy intends to rescue from France.
Key passages
“If you really loved me, Percy, you would not go, you would not go …”
Marguerite pleads that if Percy truly loved her, he would stay.
Shows her desperate attempt to use their love to keep him from danger.
“Nay! I think a little sea voyage and English country air would suit the Abbé Foucquet, m'dear, and I only mean to ask him to cross the Channel with me!”
Percy explains his mission is to bring Abbé Foucquet to safety in England.
Reveals his purpose and his characteristic lighthearted tone even in danger.
“Could I refuse the challenge before His Royal Highness and the ladies? I couldn't. … Faith! that was it. … Just a case of couldn't.”
Percy says he had no choice but to accept the duel challenge in front of the Prince and ladies.
Highlights social pressure and the inevitability of his departure.