# IV: The Episode Called “Sweet Adelais” explained — The Line of Love

> Chapter companion for The Line of Love by James Branch Cabell.

## What happens

Adelais Vernon, courted by Fulke d'Arnaye, a French prisoner of war, is confronted by Roger Darke's treacherous plan to force her into marriage. Fulke rescues her, duels and wounds Roger, and Adelais declares her love for Fulke, choosing him over the wealthy Marquis of Falmouth.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love as Illusion

Adelais initially believes love is 'the man's folly, the woman's diversion,' but her encounter with Fulke challenges this view, suggesting a deeper, more genuine connection.

### Marriage and Expediency

Adelais is expected to marry the wealthy Marquis of Falmouth for power and status, while Roger Darke attempts to force a marriage for his own gain, contrasting with her choice to follow Fulke out of love.

### Social Class and Honor

Fulke's status as a prisoner and his lack of wealth are contrasted with the power of the Marquis, and his honor is demonstrated through his defense of Adelais.

## Character check-ins

### Adelais

The central figure, courted by Fulke, resists Roger Darke's forced marriage, and ultimately declares her love for Fulke.

### Fulke d'Arnaye

A French prisoner of war, hopelessly in love with Adelais, rescues her from Roger Darke and duels him.

### Roger Darke of Yaxham

The antagonist who plots to marry Adelais by force, but is thwarted and wounded by Fulke.

### Olivier d'Arnaye

Fulke's brother, present during the rescue and duel.

## Key lines

> You love me. God knows, I am not worthy of it, but you love me. Ever since I was a child you have loved me—always, always it was you who indulged me, shielded me, protected me with this fond constancy that I have not merited.

Adelais acknowledges Fulke's long-standing love and devotion, feeling unworthy of it.

_Adelais reveals her awareness of Fulke's feelings and her own sense of unworthiness._

> I wished to be a great lady—yes. Yet always, I think, I loved you, Fulke, but until tonight I had believed that love was only the man’s folly, the woman’s diversion.

Adelais admits that she always loved Fulke but had previously dismissed love as a trivial game.

_Adelais's realization that love is more than a game, leading to her decision to follow Fulke._

> Dear Lord God, I entreat of Thee that if through my fault this woman ever know regret or sorrow I be cast into the nethermost pit of Hell for all eternity!

Fulke prays that he may be damned if he ever causes Adelais regret or sorrow.

_Fulke's solemn vow to protect Adelais from any harm._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_line_of_love_se/chapters/iv-the-episode-called-sweet-adelais
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_line_of_love_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_line_of_love_se/chapters