# Farewell explained — The Scarlet Pimpernel

> Chapter companion for The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy.

## What happens

Marguerite returns to her room after the ball, reflecting on her love for Percy and her hope for reconciliation. She confronts Percy about his sudden departure, learns he is going to help Armand, and bids him farewell with renewed hope and trust.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Betrayal

Marguerite's internal conflict over her love for Percy and the past betrayal that caused their estrangement.

### Secrecy and Trust

Percy's hidden identity as the Scarlet Pimpernel and Marguerite's growing trust in him despite his secretive departure.

## Character check-ins

### Marguerite Blakeney

Reflects on her love for Percy, feels hopeful after their exchange, and trusts him to help Armand.

### Sir Percy Blakeney

Bids Marguerite farewell, reveals he is going to help Armand, and departs on Sultan.

### Chauvelin

Mentioned as having failed to discover the Scarlet Pimpernel's identity; Marguerite feels less fear of his schemes.

### Armand St. Just

Marguerite's brother, still in danger; Percy has pledged to help him.

## Key lines

> She realised that she had never ceased to love him; that deep down in her heart she had always vaguely felt that his foolish inanities, his empty laugh, his lazy nonchalance were nothing but a mask; that the real man, strong, passionate, wilful, was there still.

Marguerite understood that her love for Percy had never died; she had always sensed that his foolish behavior was a disguise hiding his true, passionate nature.

_Marguerite's realization about Percy's true character beneath his facade._

> My business, as I had the honour to tell you, Madame, is as unexpected as it is urgent.

Percy explains that his sudden departure is due to an urgent and unforeseen matter.

_Percy's evasive explanation for leaving._

> I will always remember, Madame, that you have honoured me by commanding my services.

Percy formally acknowledges Marguerite's request, maintaining his cold demeanor despite his inner feelings.

_Percy's cold but telling response to Marguerite's plea._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters/xvii-farewell
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_scarlet_pimpernel_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters