The Great Impersonation · Chapter
Chapter XX explained
During a shooting party, Prince Terniloff confronts Dominey (whom he addresses as Von Ragastein) about his espionage role, arguing that peace between England and Germany makes it unnecessary.
What happens
During a shooting party, Prince Terniloff confronts Dominey (whom he addresses as Von Ragastein) about his espionage role, arguing that peace between England and Germany makes it unnecessary. Dominey insists he is acting under orders. Meanwhile, Stephanie Eiderstrom presses Dominey about their relationship, and Caroline warns him against encouraging Stephanie. A message arrives from a man named Miller, claiming to bring word from Doctor Schmidt, an acquaintance from Africa.
Themes in this chapter
Espionage and National Loyalty
Prince Terniloff argues that Dominey's espionage role is unnecessary given the improving diplomatic relations, while Dominey insists he is acting under orders from the Fatherland.
Love and Sacrifice
Stephanie presses Dominey about their past relationship, feeling neglected, while Dominey prioritizes his political mission over personal desires.
Identity and Impersonation
Dominey is addressed as Von Ragastein by Terniloff, highlighting his dual identity as both Sir Everard Dominey and the German spy.
Characters to notice
- Sir Everard Dominey
Hosts the shooting party and is addressed as Von Ragastein by Prince Terniloff; defends his espionage role as acting under orders; resists Stephanie's advances and is warned by Caroline.
- Prince Terniloff
Confronts Dominey about his espionage, arguing that peace between England and Germany makes it unnecessary; expresses pride in his diplomatic work and offers to show his memoirs.
- Princess Eiderstrom
Presses Dominey about their relationship, feeling slighted; warns him about overplaying his part; is observed by Caroline as being fixated on Dominey.
- Caroline
Warns Dominey against encouraging Stephanie; advises him to be careful for Rosamund's sake; observes the dynamics between Dominey and Stephanie.
- Rosamund Dominey
Joins the shooting party, showing improved health and vigor; hangs on Dominey's arm and walks with free grace.
- Mr. Seaman
Mentioned as someone Dominey might send to talk to the visitor Miller.
- Parkins
Delivers the message about Miller's arrival to Dominey during the shoot.
- Doctor Schmidt
Mentioned as the person from whom Miller brings a message; an acquaintance from Africa.
Key passages
“Von Ragastein, I am going to give myself the luxury of calling you by your name. You know my one weakness, a weakness which in my younger days very nearly drove me out of diplomacy. I detest espionage in every shape and form even where it is necessary.”
Prince Terniloff addresses Dominey by his German name and expresses his strong dislike for espionage, calling it a personal weakness.
Terniloff reveals his disdain for espionage, setting up a conflict with Dominey's role.
“I have convinced myself that there is a genuine and solid desire for peace with Germany existing in Downing Street.”
The Prince believes the British government sincerely wants peace with Germany.
Terniloff's optimism about Anglo-German relations contrasts with Dominey's secret mission.
“There might be a greater danger—one that has evaded even your cautious mind—in overplaying your part!”
Stephanie warns Dominey that he risks going too far in his role as Sir Everard.
Stephanie hints at the peril of Dominey's double life.
