# The Dupe explained — The Sea Hawk

> Chapter companion for The Sea Hawk by Rafael Sabatini.

## What happens

Asad confronts Sakr-el-Bahr about secretly bringing Rosamund aboard, accusing him of treachery. Sakr-el-Bahr claims he intended to land her in France and then pursue the Spanish galley, but his explanations are met with scorn. Marzak and Asad see through his lies, and Asad considers having him put in irons, but hesitates due to the risk of mutiny among Sakr-el-Bahr's loyal followers. Ultimately, Asad agrees to consider Sakr-el-Bahr's words, avoiding an immediate confrontation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance

Sakr-el-Bahr's secretive actions and lies are exposed, revealing the gap between his public loyalty and private intentions.

### Honor and Betrayal

Asad feels betrayed by his most trusted lieutenant, while Sakr-el-Bahr claims his actions are driven by love and honor.

## Character check-ins

### Sakr-el-Bahr

Defends his secretive actions regarding Rosamund, claiming love and a desire to undo past wrongs, but is accused of treachery by Asad and Marzak.

### Asad-ed-Din

Feels duped by Sakr-el-Bahr, whom he trusted most; struggles between anger and caution, ultimately deciding to consider the matter further to avoid a mutiny.

### Marzak

Eagerly exposes Sakr-el-Bahr's deception, urging his father to act against the traitor.

### Mistress Rosamund Godolphin

Present during the confrontation, veils her face at Sakr-el-Bahr's command, straining to hear the proceedings.

### Biskaine-el-Borak

Cautiously mutters a warning to Asad, influencing his decision to hold back from immediate action.

## Key lines

> Years ago in England where I was born I loved this woman and should have taken her to wife. But there were men and circumstances that defamed me to her so that she would not wed me, and I went forth with hatred of her in my heart.

Sakr-el-Bahr explains that he once loved Rosamund in England, but slander prevented their marriage, leading him to leave with bitterness.

_Sakr-el-Bahr reveals his past relationship with Rosamund to justify his current actions._

> I will consider thy words. I would not be unjust, nor steer my course by appearances alone. Allah forbid!

Asad decides to think over what Sakr-el-Bahr said, not wanting to judge solely on what seems obvious.

_Asad hesitates to act rashly, aware of the potential for mutiny._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sea_hawk_se/chapters/xvii-the-dupe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sea_hawk_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sea_hawk_se/chapters