# III explained — The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel

> Chapter companion for The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy.

## What happens

Chauvelin pays Mother Théot for her role in a scheme to use Theresia Cabarrus to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel. After he leaves, Théot reveals that Chauvelin was hidden behind a curtain, listening to her séance with Robespierre. They discuss manipulating Robespierre into compelling Theresia to cooperate, with Chauvelin confident that Tallien's vulnerability will give him leverage.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

Chauvelin hides behind a curtain to spy on his own paid agent, and the entire scheme relies on manipulating Robespierre through false prophecy.

### Ambition and Power

Chauvelin's relentless pursuit of the Scarlet Pimpernel and his willingness to use blackmail and manipulation to regain influence.

## Character check-ins

### Citizen Chauvelin

Pays Mother Théot and reveals he was hidden behind the curtain during her séance, plotting to use Theresia Cabarrus to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel.

### Mother Théot

Receives payment from Chauvelin and confirms her role in manipulating Robespierre to compel Theresia Cabarrus's cooperation.

### Theresia Cabarrus

Discussed as the key pawn in Chauvelin's scheme; Robespierre is to be persuaded to force her to help Chauvelin.

### Robespierre

Referenced as the dictator whom Mother Théot will influence to compel Theresia Cabarrus to do Chauvelin's bidding.

### Tallien

Mentioned as Theresia's powerful but vulnerable fiancé; Chauvelin believes Tallien's cowardice and moderate actions make him susceptible to being declared 'suspect.'

## Key lines

> Silence, remember! And, above all, discretion!

Chauvelin warns Mother Théot to keep quiet and be discreet about their arrangement.

_Emphasizes the secretive nature of their conspiracy._

> I only hope, Mother, that after your séance today, citizen Robespierre himself will see to it that Theresia Cabarrus gives me the help I need.

Chauvelin expresses his hope that Robespierre, influenced by Théot's séance, will force Theresia to assist him.

_Reveals the plan to use Robespierre's authority to coerce Theresia._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters/iii
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters