# XV explained — The Secret City

> Chapter companion for The Secret City by Hugh Walpole.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_city_se/chapters/xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_city_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_city_se/chapters