The Secret Glory · Chapter
Epilogue explained
The narrator laments the lack of detailed material for Ambrose Meyrick's later life, describing his eccentricities: becoming a strolling player, writing curious books, and ultimately undertaking a final journey to the East to deposit a Celt
What happens
The narrator laments the lack of detailed material for Ambrose Meyrick's later life, describing his eccentricities: becoming a strolling player, writing curious books, and ultimately undertaking a final journey to the East to deposit a Celtic cup at a hidden shrine. Ambrose is captured by Turks or Kurds, refuses to blaspheme, kisses an icon of Christ, and is crucified, achieving what the narrator calls 'Red Martyrdom' and the 'Quest of the Sangraal.'
Themes in this chapter
Mysticism vs. Materialism
Ambrose's mystical vision of the Hathaway Company as a celestial archetype contrasts with the grimy reality of strolling players.
The Meaning of Failure and Success
Ambrose's life appears as a series of failures (not becoming a scholar, writing unpopular books), yet he achieves redemptive martyrdom.
Celtic Identity and Heritage
The Celtic cup, preserved for centuries in one family, is central to Ambrose's final quest and martyrdom.
Characters to notice
- Ambrose Meyrick
Protagonist whose later life is sketched: becomes a strolling player, writes books, journeys East, and is martyred by crucifixion.
- Nelly Foran
Mentioned as wondering whether the lad was quite right in his head.
Key passages
“I take off my hat when I hear the old music, for I think of the old friends and the old days; of the theatre in the meadows by the sacred river, and the swelling song of the nightingales on sweet, spring nights.”
Ambrose nostalgically recalls his time with the acting company, evoking the beauty of outdoor performances and nightingales.
Ambrose's apostrophe to his old company blends earthly memory with Platonic idealism.
“But he kissed the icon with great joy and penitence and devotion. So they bore him to a tree outside the village and crucified him there.”
Ambrose reverently kissed the crucifix instead of desecrating it, leading to his crucifixion by the attackers.
Ambrose's martyrdom echoes the Passion of Christ, emphasizing his final act of faith.