The Great Impersonation · Chapter
XXII explained
At Dominey Hall, a dinner party unfolds with Prince Terniloff pressing Dominey to abandon his false identity for the sake of peace, while Dominey insists war is inevitable.
What happens
At Dominey Hall, a dinner party unfolds with Prince Terniloff pressing Dominey to abandon his false identity for the sake of peace, while Dominey insists war is inevitable. Princess Eiderstrom, increasingly convinced Dominey is not her lost love Leopold, tests him with a kiss and later confronts him. Seaman advises Dominey to treat the Princess more warmly to avoid making an enemy. Rosamund appears cheerful but shows signs of jealousy toward the Princess.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Impersonation
Dominey's dual identity is tested by the Princess, who suspects he is an impostor and demands a kiss to confirm her doubts.
Espionage and National Loyalty
Dominey and Seaman operate undercover for German interests, while Terniloff's diplomatic mission for peace conflicts with their espionage.
Love and Sacrifice
The Princess's love for Leopold is met with rejection, and she sacrifices her happiness for a man she fears is lost.
War and Pacifism
Terniloff advocates for peace, while Dominey and Seaman believe war is inevitable due to the German military party's influence.
Characters to notice
- Sir Everard Dominey
Hosts the evening, argues with Terniloff about war, resists the Princess's advances, and escorts Rosamund to bed.
- Mr. Seaman
Lectures on mines, advises Dominey to placate the Princess, and suggests he visit her in London.
- Rosamund Dominey
Appears at dinner on Dominey's arm, chats cheerfully, learns a new Patience, and expresses jealousy of the Princess.
- Princess Eiderstrom
Tests Dominey with a kiss, declares he is not Leopold, threatens mischief, and retires early with a headache.
- Prince Terniloff
Argues for peace and urges Dominey to abandon his false position to protect their friendship.
- Mr. John Lambert Mangan
Teaches Rosamund a new Patience.
- Doctor Harrison
Observes Rosamund's behavior with watchful interest and advises her to go to bed.
Key passages
“I have never met anyone, of any nation, whose character I admire more.”
The Princess praises Prince Terniloff's character as unmatched across all nations.
Stephanie expresses deep admiration for Terniloff's nobility.
“Kiss me—upon the lips, Leopold.”
The Princess commands Dominey to kiss her on the lips, calling him Leopold.
She tests his identity through a physical act.
“Now I know the truth.”
After the kiss, the Princess declares she now understands the reality of the situation.
The kiss confirms her suspicion that Dominey is not Leopold.
“I think you have blundered.”
Seaman tells Dominey he made a mistake in how he handled the Princess.
Seaman criticizes Dominey's approach with Stephanie.
