# XV: Farewell explained — The Elusive Pimpernel

> Chapter companion for The Elusive Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_elusive_pimpernel_se/chapters/xv-farewell
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_elusive_pimpernel_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_elusive_pimpernel_se/chapters