# XIII: The First Trick explained — The Talleyrand Maxim

> Chapter companion for The Talleyrand Maxim by J. S. Fletcher.

## What happens

Pratt reveals to Eldrick that he has obtained a general power of attorney from Mrs. Mallathorpe, giving him control over her personal affairs. Eldrick, Robson, and Collingwood discuss the implications, and Pratt defends his actions by claiming a familial relationship with Mrs. Mallathorpe. Nesta is furious and vows to prevent Pratt from seeing her mother.

## Themes in this chapter

### Power and Manipulation

Pratt manipulates Mrs. Mallathorpe into signing a general power of attorney, using a claimed familial connection and a letter to justify his actions, while others suspect undue influence.

### Deception and Secrecy

The power of attorney is obtained without Nesta's knowledge, and Pratt's true motives are questioned, highlighting the secrecy surrounding Mrs. Mallathorpe's decisions.

### Greed and Its Consequences

Pratt's ambition to control Mrs. Mallathorpe's wealth sets off conflict with the family and solicitors, foreshadowing potential fallout.

## Character check-ins

### Linford Pratt

Pratt has obtained a general power of attorney from Mrs. Mallathorpe and set up his own office. He claims a familial relationship with her and defends his actions against accusations of undue influence.

### Charles Eldrick

Eldrick visits Pratt to inquire about the power of attorney, examines the evidence of kinship, and is somewhat swayed by Pratt's explanations.

### Bartle Collingwood

Collingwood reports Nesta's concerns to the solicitors and later informs Nesta of the developments, witnessing her anger and determination.

### Nesta Mallathorpe

Nesta is furious upon learning of the power of attorney and insists that Pratt shall not visit her mother, suspecting coercion.

### Richard Mallathorpe

Mrs. Mallathorpe is the one who signed the power of attorney, but her motives and awareness are questioned by the others.

### Robson

Robson, the family solicitor, is disgusted by Pratt's actions and warns that more will be heard of the matter.

## Key lines

> It’s not a bit of use appealing to me to know what it means! I know no more than what I’ve told you. That chap walked into my office as bold as brass, half an hour ago, and exhibited to me a power of attorney, all duly drawn up and stamped, executed in his favour by Mrs. Mallathorpe yesterday.

Robson expresses his shock at Pratt presenting a fully legal power of attorney signed by Mrs. Mallathorpe, admitting he has no further explanation.

_Robson's reaction sets the tone of surprise and concern over Pratt's sudden authority._

> I will not have Mr. Pratt coming here! He shall not see my mother—under my roof, at any rate. I don't believe she sent for him.

Nesta firmly declares that Pratt is forbidden from visiting her mother at Normandale Grange, doubting that her mother truly requested his visit.

_Nesta's defiance underscores her distrust of Pratt and her protective stance over her mother._

## Links

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