# The Castaway explained — The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel

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

## What happens

After a cheerful dinner at The Fisherman's Rest, a young French castaway is brought in by sailors, having been found alone in an open boat. Sir Andrew Ffoulkes takes charge, noting the lad's refined features and suspecting a disguise, but defers inquiry to allow the boy to recover.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

The castaway is suspected to be a woman in disguise, hinted by delicate features and tightly fitted cap.

### Heroism and Self-Sacrifice

Sir Andrew's compassionate handling of the castaway reflects the selfless ethos of the Scarlet Pimpernel.

## Character check-ins

### Madame de Serval

Pale and delicate, she smiles at the warmth and welcome of the inn.

### Régine de Serval

Smiles at Lord Hastings' antics; sits next to Bertrand and comforts him.

### Bertrand Moncrif

Sullen and morose throughout the meal, he is comforted by Régine's touch.

### Sir Andrew Ffoulkes

Takes charge of the castaway, orders food and warmth, and keenly observes the boy's refined appearance.

### Master Jellyband

Hosts the dinner and assists in reviving the castaway with brandy.

### Mistress Sally Waite

Capable and compassionate, she supports the exhausted castaway into the inn.

## Key lines

> An excellent dinner served by Mistress Sally and her attendant little wenches put everybody into rare good-humour.

The fine meal prepared by Sally and her helpers lifted everyone's spirits.

_Opening scene sets a cheerful mood at the inn._

> The only one who seemed quite unable to shake off his moroseness was Bertrand Moncrif.

Bertrand remained gloomy and withdrawn throughout the meal.

_Highlights Bertrand's persistent melancholy._

> Even the first glance had revealed to him the fact that here was no ordinary waif.

Sir Andrew immediately sensed that the castaway was not a common beggar.

_Sir Andrew's perceptiveness hints at the castaway's true identity._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters/xiv-the-castaway
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters