# X: The Treasures of the Kings of France explained — The Hollow Needle > Chapter companion for The Hollow Needle by Maurice Leblanc. ## What happens Beautrelet is brought to the Hollow Needle and meets Lupin, who reveals himself as Valméras, the very man who had assisted Beautrelet in his hunt for Lupin. Lupin explains how he used Beautrelet's pursuit to marry Raymonde de Saint-Véran. Lupin shows Beautrelet the treasure chambers of the Needle, including the empty bowls once filled by French kings and the intact jewel chest. As Ganimard's forces break down the doors below, Lupin reflects on his reign over the secret kingdom and prepares to abandon it. ## Themes in this chapter ### Treasure and Wealth The chapter reveals the hidden treasure chambers of the French kings, including empty bowls and an intact jewel chest, symbolizing centuries of royal wealth and depletion. ### Hidden History and Secrets The Hollow Needle's secret history as a royal strongroom and refuge is unveiled, with Lupin as its latest discoverer and master. ### Identity and Disguise Lupin's identity as Valméras is revealed, highlighting his mastery of disguise and deception throughout the story. ### Power and Legacy Lupin reflects on his reign over the Needle and the legacy of kings, from Caesar to himself, as he prepares to abandon his kingdom. ## Character check-ins ### Isidore Beautrelet Brought to the Needle, he is stunned to discover that Valméras is Lupin; he witnesses the treasure and Lupin's farewell. ### Arsène Lupin Reveals himself as Valméras, explains his marriage to Raymonde, and shows Beautrelet the treasure chambers and jewel chest. ### Raymonde de Saint-Véran Present as Lupin's wife, Mme. Arsène Lupin; she appears anxious and sad as the police close in. ### Inspector Ganimard Not directly seen, but his forces are heard breaking down the doors of the Needle below. ### Comte de Gesvres Mentioned indirectly as part of the earlier events; not present in this chapter. ## Key lines > Good morning, my dear Beautrelet, you’re a little late. Lunch was fixed for twelve. However, it’s only a few minutes—but what’s the matter? Don’t you know me? Have I changed so much? Lupin greets Beautrelet casually, noting his lateness and asking if he is unrecognizable. _Lupin's first words to Beautrelet after revealing his identity as Valméras._ > Why not? Did you think that you knew me for good and all because you had seen me in the guise of a clergyman or under the features of M. Massiban? Lupin asks why Beautrelet is surprised, pointing out that his disguises are many. _Lupin explains his ability to change identities._ > From Caesar to Lupin—and there it ends. Soon the nameless mob will come to visit the strange citadel. Lupin laments that the list of the Needle's masters ends with him, and the public will soon invade the secret place. _Lupin reflects on the historical lineage of the Needle's owners._ > Beautrelet, you shall tell the world that Lupin has not taken a single one of the stones that were in the royal chest, not a single one, I swear it on my honor! Lupin swears he has not stolen any jewels from the royal chest, calling them the fortune of France. _Lupin's declaration of honor regarding the treasure._ > How sad it is to leave all this! What a wrench! The happiest hours of my life have been spent here, alone, in the presence of these objects which I loved. Lupin expresses deep sorrow at having to abandon the Needle and its treasures. _Lupin's emotional farewell to his hidden kingdom._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hollow_needle_se/chapters/x-the-treasures-of-the-kings-of-france - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hollow_needle_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hollow_needle_se/chapters