# The Escape explained — The Prince and the Pauper

> Chapter companion for The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain.

## What happens

Miles Hendon blackmails the constable into allowing Edward to escape by revealing he knows about the constable's unjust seizure of a pig, threatening him with legal consequences.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice and Injustice

Hendon exploits the constable's own unjust act to achieve a just outcome—freeing the innocent king.

### Power and Corruption

The constable abuses his authority by stealing a pig, and Hendon uses that corruption as leverage.

## Character check-ins

### Edward VI

The true king, being led to jail, observes the indifference of the streets and is aided by Hendon's scheme.

### Miles Hendon

Devises a plan to secure Edward's escape by blackmailing the constable with knowledge of his theft of a pig.

## Key lines

> Bide a moment, good sir, there is none in hearing, and I would say a word to thee.

Wait a moment, kind sir, no one can hear us, and I need to speak with you.

_Hendon asks the constable to pause for a private conversation._

> the pig thou hast purchased for eightpence may cost thee thy neck, man!

That pig you bought for eightpence could get you hanged!

_Hendon threatens the constable with the legal consequences of his theft._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_prince_and_the_pauper_se/chapters/xxiv-the-escape
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_prince_and_the_pauper_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_prince_and_the_pauper_se/chapters