# Confession explained — The Portent

> Chapter companion for The Portent by George MacDonald.

## What happens

In this chapter, the narrator describes the deepening of his connection with Lady Alice, who begins to sleepwalk and sing a ballad. He watches her in her trance-like state, and when she awakens, she confesses her love for him, breaking the previous promise. The chapter explores the power of will and the supernatural bond between them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Second Sight and the Supernatural

The narrator experiences a waking dream and hears Lady Alice's singing from a distance, suggesting a supernatural connection.

### Love and Sacrifice

The narrator struggles to keep his promise, but love overcomes his resolve, and Lady Alice sacrifices her pride to come to him.

### The Power of Will and Desire

The narrator's will strengthens his hearing, and Lady Alice's desire to express herself breaks through her sleepwalking state.

## Character check-ins

### The Narrator

He struggles with his promise but is drawn to Lady Alice, experiencing a profound spiritual and emotional connection.

### Lady Alice

She sleepwalks and sings, revealing her inner self, and finally confesses her love, breaking the previous promise.

### Annie

Referenced in the ballad 'Annie of Lochroyan' that Lady Alice sings, symbolizing the theme of love and longing.

## Key lines

> I was lying on the floor of my room one midnight, with my face to the ground, when suddenly I heard a low, sweet, strange voice singing somewhere.

I was prostrate on the floor at midnight when I heard a soft, unfamiliar singing voice.

_Highlights the supernatural and the narrator's heightened sensitivity._

> I am glad you have broken your promise.

I'm happy that you've broken your vow.

_Shows Lady Alice's acceptance and the shift in their relationship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se/chapters/xii-confession
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se/chapters