# XXII: Waiting explained — The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel

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

## What happens

Marguerite is held captive in a comfortable but locked apartment in an outlying quarter of Paris, treated with unexpected kindness. She rests, eats, and ponders her situation, realizing she is a decoy to lure the Scarlet Pimpernel. After twenty-four hours, Citizen Chauvelin visits, calmly explaining that they will wait for Sir Percy to come, confident he will eventually learn of her whereabouts and attempt a rescue.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Loyalty

Marguerite's thoughts are consumed by her love for Percy, and her willingness to endure captivity rather than betray him underscores the theme of marital loyalty.

### Deception and Disguise

Chauvelin's calm, urbane demeanor masks his ruthless intent, and the comfortable apartment is a deceptive prison designed to lure the Scarlet Pimpernel.

### Innocence vs. Corruption

Marguerite's innocent hope and trust contrast with Chauvelin's corrupt manipulation, as he uses her as a pawn in his scheme.

## Character check-ins

### Marguerite Blakeney

Held prisoner in a comfortable apartment, she experiences anxiety and dread as she waits, realizing she is being used as a decoy for her husband.

### Citizen Chauvelin

Visits Marguerite after twenty-four hours, dressed with scrupulous care and affecting refined manners. He calmly explains the plan to wait for Sir Percy's arrival.

### Sir Percy Blakeney

Referenced as the target of Chauvelin's trap; Marguerite fears he will come to rescue her despite the danger.

## Key lines

> Then he will come. Am I not right?

Chauvelin confidently asserts that Sir Percy will eventually appear to rescue Marguerite.

_This refrain haunts Marguerite, symbolizing her dread and the inevitability of the trap._

> The uncertainty of the situation soon began to prey upon her nerves.

Marguerite's anxiety grows as she remains isolated and unsure of what will happen next.

_Highlights the psychological toll of captivity and waiting._

> She was not in prison. She was not being starved, or threatened, or humiliated.

Despite her confinement, Marguerite is treated with unexpected kindness and comfort.

_Emphasizes the deceptive nature of her captivity, designed to lull her into a false sense of security._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_triumph_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters/xxii-waiting
- 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