The Prince and the Pauper · Chapter
XII: The Prince and His Deliverer explained
Miles Hendon escorts the little prince (now King Edward VI) through the crowds on London Bridge, where they learn of King Henry VIII's death.
What happens
Miles Hendon escorts the little prince (now King Edward VI) through the crowds on London Bridge, where they learn of King Henry VIII's death. They lodge at an inn on the Bridge, where John Canty attempts to seize the boy but is thwarted by Hendon. The king, still believing himself royalty, insists on being treated as such, and Hendon humors him. The king hears Hendon's tale of betrayal by his brother Hugh and vows to right his wrongs.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Appearance
The prince insists on his royal identity despite his ragged clothes, and Hendon plays along, highlighting the tension between perceived and true status.
Justice and Injustice
Miles Hendon's story of being framed by his brother and unjustly exiled underscores the theme of wrongful suffering and the hope for redress.
Compassion and Empathy
Hendon gives his doublet to the shivering boy and humors his delusions out of kindness, showing selfless care for a vulnerable stranger.
Power and Corruption
Hugh Hendon's manipulation of his father and false accusations illustrate how power within a family can be corrupted by greed and deceit.
Characters to notice
- Miles Hendon
Protects the prince from the mob and John Canty, humors the boy's royal delusions, and shares his own story of exile and betrayal.
- Edward VI
Learns of his father's death and his own accession; insists on royal treatment; listens to Hendon's tale and vows to help him.
- John Canty
Attempts to seize the prince on London Bridge but is blocked by Miles Hendon.
- Henry VIII
Reported dead; the news spreads through the crowd, causing grief in the prince.
- Hugh Hendon
Miles's younger brother, described as treacherous and covetous, who framed Miles and caused his exile.
- Arthur
Miles's elder brother, of noble character, betrothed to Lady Edith but loved another.
- Lady Edith
Miles's cousin and love, betrothed to Arthur, heiress of a great fortune.
- Sir Richard
Miles's father, a baronet, who was deceived by Hugh into banishing Miles.
Key passages
“I am used to nipping air and scant apparel, 'tis little I shall mind the cold!”
I'm accustomed to cold weather and thin clothing, so I won't suffer much from the chill.
Miles Hendon sacrifices his doublet to keep the boy warm, showing his selflessness.
“Forbear! Wouldst sit in the presence of the king?”
Stop! Would you dare to sit down in front of the king?
The prince asserts his royal dignity, demanding that Hendon stand while he eats.
“The king is dead!”
King Henry VIII has died.
The news of Henry VIII's death spreads through the crowd, marking a major turning point.
“Long live King Edward the Sixth!”
May King Edward VI reign long!
The proclamation of the new king thrills the prince, who realizes he is now the monarch.
