The Secret City · Chapter
XV explained
Durward recovers from his illness and receives a visit from Henry Bohun, who confides his love for Vera Michailovna.
What happens
Durward recovers from his illness and receives a visit from Henry Bohun, who confides his love for Vera Michailovna. Durward advises him to be a friend to the Markovitches instead. Bohun also shares political gossip and news about Semyonov and Lawrence.
Themes in this chapter
Youth and Idealism
Bohun's romantic confession and Durward's advice reflect youthful idealism and its challenges.
Love and Sacrifice
Bohun's unrequited love and Durward's counsel to be a selfless friend.
Revolution and Disillusionment
Political rumors and societal decay hint at impending revolution.
Characters to notice
- M. Durward
Narrator recovering from illness, advising Bohun.
- Henry Bohun
Visits Durward, confesses love for Vera Michailovna.
- Vera Michailovna
Object of Bohun's affection; has visited Durward during illness.
- Nicholas Markovitch
Husband of Vera; Bohun is advised to befriend him.
- Alexei Petrovitch Semyonov
Visits Markovitches; Bohun finds him decent, Lawrence hates him.
- Jerry Lawrence
Disliked by English community; Vera Michailovna likes him.
Key passages
“Suddenly I was better. I quite recovered from my fever and only lay still on my bed, weak, and very hungry.”
Durward suddenly feels better after his fever, though still weak and hungry.
Opening of the chapter, marking Durward's recovery.
“I say, Durward, what do you think of this uncle that's turned up, the doctor chap?”
Bohun asks Durward about Semyonov, the doctor who has appeared.
Bohun inquires about Semyonov's character.
“I care for her madly! I'd die for her. I would really. I love her, Durward. I see now I've never loved anybody before.”
Bohun confesses his intense love for Vera Michailovna.
Bohun's emotional confession to Durward.
“Be her pal. See that things are all right in the house. Make a friend of Markovitch himself. Look after him!”
Durward advises Bohun to be a supportive friend to Vera and Markovitch.
Durward's practical advice to Bohun.