The First Sir Percy · Chapter
Mala Fides explained
Nicolaes Beresteyn reports to Stoutenburg that the Stadtholder escaped capture but that Diogenes has been blinded by a powder.
What happens
Nicolaes Beresteyn reports to Stoutenburg that the Stadtholder escaped capture but that Diogenes has been blinded by a powder. Stoutenburg, exultant over his rival's downfall, orders his troops to advance on Amersfoort. The city surrenders without resistance, and Stoutenburg enters as conqueror. Nicolaes returns to his father's house, where he confronts his family. Stoutenburg demands Gilda's submission, but the burgomaster curses his son before being dragged away.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Betrayal
Nicolaes betrays his family and country, while Stoutenburg revels in his rival's downfall, highlighting the collapse of honor.
Power and Tyranny
Stoutenburg's occupation of Amersfoort and his cruel demands over Gilda exemplify tyrannical power.
Love and Sacrifice
Stoutenburg's obsessive love for Gilda and Diogenes' sacrifice (blinding) underscore the theme's dark side.
Characters to notice
- Lord Stoutenburg
Exults in Diogenes' blinding and leads the occupation of Amersfoort, demanding Gilda's submission.
- Mynheer Beresteyn
Returns to Amersfoort as a traitor, confronts his father and sister, and is cursed by his father.
- Gilda Beresteyn
Defends her father and appeals to Nicolaes' honor, but is threatened by Stoutenburg.
- Diogenes
Reported blinded and helpless after the powder attack, no longer a rival to Stoutenburg.
- Burgomaster Beresteyn
Defies Stoutenburg and curses his son Nicolaes before being dragged away by soldiers.
- Maurice of Nassau
Mentioned as the intended target of the failed capture; his escape is reported.
Key passages
“But for that cursed rogue! ... Maurice of Nassau would now be a prisoner in our hands.”
Nicolaes curses the Englishman who thwarted their plan to capture the Stadtholder.
Nicolaes reports the failure to Stoutenburg.
“I saw him sway in the saddle and roll down into the mud.”
Nicolaes describes Diogenes falling blind from his horse.
Confirmation of Diogenes' blinding.
“I'll give the order that every blind beggar found wandering around the city be forthwith hanged on the nearest tree.”
Stoutenburg orders the execution of blind beggars to ensure Diogenes is killed.
Stoutenburg's ruthless plan to eliminate his rival.
“A father's curse is potent yet, remember!”
The burgomaster curses his son Nicolaes for his treachery.
The burgomaster's final defiance before being taken away.