The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel · Chapter
Chapter VI explained
Chauvelin arranges for the transfer of the Scarlet Pimpernel (disguised as Paul Molé) to the Abbaye prison, confident in his capture but troubled by the prisoner's apathy.
What happens
Chauvelin arranges for the transfer of the Scarlet Pimpernel (disguised as Paul Molé) to the Abbaye prison, confident in his capture but troubled by the prisoner's apathy. Hébert ensures tight security, but Chauvelin remains anxious about a possible escape attempt.
Themes in this chapter
Revolutionary Terror and Injustice
Chauvelin and Fouquier-Tinville plan a swift, summary execution without a fair trial, reflecting the arbitrary violence of the Revolution.
Cunning and Wit
Chauvelin is troubled by the Scarlet Pimpernel's assumed apathy, suspecting a hidden plot or escape attempt.
Characters to notice
- Citizen Chauvelin
Arranges the prisoner's transfer to the Abbaye, feels anxious and nervy about the Scarlet Pimpernel's apathy.
- Citizen Fouquier-Tinville
Notified by Chauvelin about the capture; instructed to expedite the prisoner's execution.
- Hébert
Commended for his zeal; personally guards the prisoner and ensures tight security at the Abbaye.
- The Scarlet Pimpernel
Imprisoned as Paul Molé, shows assumed apathy that puzzles Chauvelin; crouches dejectedly in his cell.
- Commissary Cuisinier
Dismisses the prisoner as not very dangerous, questioning Chauvelin's assessment.
Key passages
“There goes the most dangerous enemy our glorious revolution has had.”
Chauvelin declares the prisoner the greatest threat to the revolution.
Chauvelin's triumphant remark to Cuisinier as the carriage departs.
“Set your mind at rest, citizen... That accursed Englishman has not been one second out of my sight, from the moment I arrested him in the late citizen Marat’s lodgings, and by Satan! he shall not be either, until I have seen his impudent head fall under the guillotine.”
Hébert reassures Chauvelin that he has kept constant watch on the prisoner and will continue until execution.
Hébert's vow to ensure the Scarlet Pimpernel cannot escape.