The Great Impersonation · Chapter
XXVII explained
As war is declared, Dominey meets with Prince Terniloff, who entrusts him with a secret diary detailing his peace efforts.
What happens
As war is declared, Dominey meets with Prince Terniloff, who entrusts him with a secret diary detailing his peace efforts. Dominey then informs Rosamund of his intention to return to Norfolk and enlist, while she questions his identity and expresses a desire to see Doctor Harrison.
Themes in this chapter
Espionage and National Loyalty
Dominey serves his country despite his German alias, and Terniloff's diary is a tool for future political leverage.
War and Pacifism
The chapter captures the shock of war's arrival and Terniloff's failed peace efforts.
Identity and Impersonation
Rosamund's question about Dominey's consistency highlights the theme of dual identity.
Characters to notice
- Sir Everard Dominey
Receives Terniloff's memoirs and decides to return to Norfolk and join the war effort.
- Prince Terniloff
Distraught by the outbreak of war, he entrusts his diary to Dominey and prepares to leave England.
- Rosamund Dominey
Agrees to go to Norfolk and questions whether Dominey is the same person in town and country.
- Caroline
Mentioned as having commented on Rosamund's social success.
Key passages
“I am a German and a patriot, although my heart is bitter against those who are bringing this blot upon our country. For that reason, these memoirs must be kept in a safe place until I see a good use for them.”
Terniloff explains that despite his patriotism, he opposes the war and wants his diary preserved for future political change.
Reveals Terniloff's conflicted loyalty and the strategic importance of the memoirs.
“Are you the same person, Everard, when you are in town as when you are in the country?”
Rosamund questions whether Dominey's identity is consistent across different settings.
Highlights the theme of identity and Rosamund's lingering doubts.