# II explained — The Painted Veil

> Chapter companion for The Painted Veil by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

Kitty and Charlie Townsend wait anxiously after suspecting someone may have seen them together. Charlie reassures Kitty that even if it was Walter, he would likely ignore the affair to avoid scandal. They share a passionate moment before Charlie leaves, promising to protect her if trouble arises.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Illusion

Kitty and Charlie's passionate encounter is built on mutual desire and self-deception, ignoring the potential consequences of their affair.

### Self-Deception and Truth

Charlie convinces himself and Kitty that Walter would ignore the affair, revealing his willingness to avoid facing the truth.

## Character check-ins

### Kitty Fane

Anxious about being discovered, but still passionately in love with Charlie; expresses hatred for Walter.

### Charles Townsend

Reassures Kitty, flirts with her, and promises to get her out of trouble if needed; shows confidence and complacency.

## Key lines

> I don't believe for a minute it was Walter, but even if it was my impression is that he'll do nothing. I think he'll ignore it.

Charlie suggests that Walter would avoid a scandal and pretend nothing happened.

_Charlie's assumption reveals his belief in Walter's passive nature and his own desire to avoid confrontation._

> I hate Walter.

Kitty expresses her resentment toward her husband.

_This moment shows Kitty's emotional distance from Walter and her justification for the affair._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_painted_veil_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_painted_veil_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_painted_veil_se/chapters