# XIX: A Friendly Rival explained — The Slaves of Paris

> Chapter companion for The Slaves of Paris by Émile Gaboriau.

## What happens

M. de Breulh-Faverlay, after leaving the Mussidan estate, struggles with his emotions upon learning that Sabine loves another. He writes a letter withdrawing his marriage proposal, then visits André's studio under the pretense of commissioning a painting. During their conversation, he offers André financial help, but André refuses out of pride and self-respect. After De Breulh leaves, André receives a letter from Modeste informing him that Sabine is seriously ill, prompting him to rush out.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love vs. Duty

M. de Breulh struggles between his love for Sabine and his duty to honor her choice; André's refusal of help is driven by his sense of duty to his own self-respect.

### Social Class and Inequality

The contrast between De Breulh's wealth and André's poverty is central; André's pride prevents him from accepting aid from a social superior.

### Deception and Secrecy

De Breulh uses a false pretext (Prince Crescensi's recommendation) to visit André; the portress's curiosity about the letter hints at hidden motives.

## Character check-ins

### M. de Breulh-Faverlay

Struggles with his feelings after Sabine's rejection; writes a withdrawal letter; visits André to assess his character and offers help.

### André

Receives M. de Breulh in his studio; refuses financial aid out of pride; learns of Sabine's illness from Modeste's letter.

### Sabine de Mussidan

Referenced as the object of both men's affections; reported to be seriously ill in Modeste's letter.

### Modeste

Sabine's maid; writes to André informing him of Sabine's illness.

## Key lines

> And this is what we call being a man of the world. We think ourselves true philosophers, and a look from a pair of beautiful, pleading eyes scatters all our theories to the winds.

De Breulh reflects on how his worldly wisdom crumbles in the face of genuine emotion.

_Highlights his internal conflict and the power of love over reason._

> If he is worthy of her, I will do my best to aid her; but if not, I will open her eyes.

De Breulh decides to investigate André's character to ensure Sabine's choice is honorable.

_Shows his protective nature and sense of honor._

> I would, however, sooner give up her hand than be indebted for it to you.

André refuses De Breulh's financial help because accepting it would compromise his pride.

_Illustrates André's fierce independence and self-respect._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_slaves_of_paris_se/chapters/xix-a-friendly-rival
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_slaves_of_paris_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_slaves_of_paris_se/chapters