The Venetians · Chapter
IX: “Though Love, and Life, and Death Should Come and Go” explained
Vansittart receives a letter from Lisa (Fiordelisa) summoning him to her lodging.
What happens
Vansittart receives a letter from Lisa (Fiordelisa) summoning him to her lodging. He visits her and la Zia in Stone Court, where they discuss the fatal night in Venice. Lisa promises not to betray him, and Vansittart vows to make atonement by supporting her and her aunt financially and helping Lisa pursue a singing career.
Themes in this chapter
Guilt and Redemption
Vansittart seeks to alleviate his guilt by providing for Lisa and la Zia, hoping to make amends for his past crime.
Secrecy and Identity
Vansittart's hidden past and the promise of secrecy from Lisa and la Zia underscore the theme of concealed identity.
Characters to notice
- Jack Vansittart
Visits Lisa and la Zia, seeks to make amends for the past, and promises to support them.
- Lisa Vivanti
Writes to Vansittart, forgives him, and promises loyalty; she is living with la Zia in modest circumstances.
- la Zia
Welcomes Vansittart warmly and joins in the promise of secrecy and loyalty.
Key passages
“I knew you directly,” she wrote, “and your face brought back the past—that dreadful night, and all I suffered after the of him death.”
Lisa recognizes Vansittart immediately and is reminded of the tragic night and her subsequent suffering.
Lisa's letter sets the stage for the reunion.
“I promise,” she said, “by the Mother of God and by His Saints. I promise to be loyal and true to you all the days of my life.”
Lisa swears an oath of loyalty to Vansittart, promising never to reveal his secret.
This vow is central to the theme of secrecy and redemption.