The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel · Chapter
VI explained
Marguerite, moments from execution, is saved when Barras arrives to recall the soldiers, leaving only two guards.
What happens
Marguerite, moments from execution, is saved when Barras arrives to recall the soldiers, leaving only two guards. Sir Percy Blakeney, disguised as the branded coalheaver Rateau, overpowers Chauvelin and binds him. He reveals his plan: by endangering Theresia Cabarrus, he spurred Tallien to revolt against Robespierre. Percy shows his branded arm, a copy of Rateau's mark, and explains his deception. The chapter ends with their reunion and Percy's lighthearted regret that he and Chauvelin will no longer match wits.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Disguise
Percy's coalheaver disguise, the false brand, and his earlier denunciation of Theresia are all layers of deception that fool Chauvelin.
Heroism and Self-Sacrifice
Percy endures branding and risks his life to save Marguerite, embodying selfless heroism.
Revolution and Tyranny
Chauvelin's tyranny is overthrown by Barras's authority; the fall of Robespierre is imminent, symbolizing the revolution's turn.
Characters to notice
- Marguerite Blakeney
Saved from execution; reunited with Percy; horrified by his branded arm but kisses it.
- Sir Percy Blakeney
Disguised as the branded coalheaver; overpowers Chauvelin; reveals his plan to provoke Tallien's revolt.
- Citizen Chauvelin
Bound and gagged by Percy; helpless and furious; his soldiers are taken away by Barras.
- Citizen Barras
Arrives to recall the soldiers; defies Chauvelin; leaves two men until sundown.
- Theresia Cabarrus
Mentioned as the one whose life was risked to goad Tallien into revolt.
- Tallien
Mentioned as being spurred into open revolt by the threat to Theresia.
- Captain Boyer
Follows Barras out of the house with the soldiers.
Key passages
“It was only by risking the fair Theresia’s life that I could save your own. No other spur would have goaded Tallien into open revolt.”
Percy explains that endangering Theresia was the only way to provoke Tallien to rebel against Robespierre.
Percy justifies his risky strategy to Marguerite.
“I only regret one thing, my dear M. Chambertin. And that is, that you and I will never measure wits again after this.”
Percy tells Chauvelin he will miss their intellectual duel, but expects Chauvelin to be guillotined.
Percy's lighthearted taunt to his bound enemy.
“Think it all out, my dear Monsieur Chambertin! You have plenty of time.”
Percy sarcastically encourages Chauvelin to reflect on how he was outwitted.
Percy mocks Chauvelin's helplessness.
“I must indeed crave your ladyship’s forgiveness. In very truth, I am a disgusting object!”
Percy apologizes to Marguerite for his filthy appearance as the coalheaver.
Percy's characteristic modesty and humor after the rescue.
