# XXIV: By Order of the State explained — The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel

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

## What happens

Chauvelin, after a tense confrontation with Theresia Cabarrus in Mother Théot's apartment, hears the mocking voice of the Scarlet Pimpernel. He chases down the stairs and attacks a figure he believes to be the English spy, only to discover it is the asthmatic coalheaver Rateau. The National Guard arrives and finds the helpless Rateau, while Chauvelin's plan to use Theresia as a lure continues.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

The Scarlet Pimpernel's use of disguise is central, as Chauvelin mistakes Rateau for the English spy, highlighting the theme of mistaken identity and theatrical deception.

### Ambition and Power

Chauvelin's ambition to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel and gain influence over Robespierre drives the plot, reflecting the pursuit of power.

## Character check-ins

### Citizen Chauvelin

Chauvelin orchestrates the trap for the Scarlet Pimpernel, attacks Rateau in a mistaken identity, and commands the National Guard.

### Theresia Cabarrus

Theresia is recruited by Chauvelin as a coadjutor and decoy to lure the Scarlet Pimpernel.

### Mother Théot

Mother Théot's apartment serves as the setting; she is ordered away by Chauvelin after the confrontation.

### Citizen Rateau

Rateau is mistaken for the Scarlet Pimpernel by Chauvelin, who attacks and nearly kills him.

### Robespierre

Robespierre is mentioned as fearing the Scarlet Pimpernel and being superstitiously convinced of his downfall.

## Key lines

> Bring the Scarlet Pimpernel to his knees, citoyenne, and Robespierre will be as much your slave as he is now the prey to a strange dread of that one man.

If you help bring down the Scarlet Pimpernel, Robespierre will be completely in your debt, as he is currently terrified of that one man.

_Chauvelin promises Theresia power over Robespierre if she aids in capturing the Pimpernel._

> I have that arch-devil, his laugh, his voice, his affectations, on the brain!

I can't stop thinking about that devilish man—his laugh, his voice, his mannerisms are driving me mad.

_Chauvelin expresses his obsessive fixation on the Scarlet Pimpernel._

## Links

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