The General of the Order explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Power and Ambition

  Aramis demonstrates his hidden power as General of the Order, overriding the king's authority and Baisemeaux's objections to secure Marchiali's release.

• Court Intrigue and Deception

  The forged order and the confusion over the prisoner's name (Seldon vs. Marchiali) highlight the deceptive maneuvers within the court and the Order.

Characters to notice

• Aramis

  Reveals himself as General of the Order, writes a command using the Order's seal, and orchestrates Marchiali's release.

• Baisemeaux de Montlezun

  Governor of the Bastille, initially resistant and confused about the prisoner's identity, but ultimately obeys Aramis's authority.

• Marchiali

  The prisoner released from the Bastille, who swears secrecy and leaves with Aramis.

Key passages

• “What mellow, fragrant and delicious sherry this is, my dear governor.”

  Aramis compliments the sherry to distract Baisemeaux from his reluctance to release the prisoner.

  Aramis uses casual conversation to maintain control over the tense situation.

• “It is our pleasure that the order brought to M. de Baisemeaux de Montlezun, governor, for the king, of the castle of the Bastille, be held by him good and effectual, and be immediately carried into operation.”

  Aramis writes a command as General of the Order, ordering Baisemeaux to execute the release order without question.

  This demonstrates Aramis's authority overriding the king's signature.

• “I am here, to render the gentleman whatever service he may please to ask.”

  Aramis offers his assistance to the newly freed prisoner, Marchiali.

  Aramis positions himself as Marchiali's protector and guide after the release.