The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
In Which the Unknown of the Hostelry of Les Medici Loses His Incognito explained
The unknown man from the inn reveals himself as King Charles II of England, who seeks an audience with Louis XIV at Blois.
What happens
The unknown man from the inn reveals himself as King Charles II of England, who seeks an audience with Louis XIV at Blois. Charles recounts his tragic history and requests a million francs or two hundred gentlemen to reclaim his throne. Louis XIV, though sympathetic, confesses his own powerlessness under Cardinal Mazarin's control but resolves to plead Charles's case to Mazarin.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Ambition
Charles II's ambition to reclaim his throne contrasts with Louis XIV's lack of real power under Mazarin's control.
Fate and Tragedy
Charles II recounts his tragic history of defeat, exile, and the suffering of his family, highlighting the role of fate in his downfall.
Friendship and Betrayal
Louis XIV's offer to help Charles despite his own powerlessness underscores a bond of brotherhood, while the betrayal of Charles by the Scots is referenced.
Characters to notice
- Charles II
Reveals his identity as the unknown man; seeks aid from Louis XIV to regain his throne.
- Louis XIV
The young king, initially unaware of Charles's presence, listens to his plight and promises to intercede with Mazarin.
- Jules Mazarin
Though not present in the scene, he is the de facto ruler of France, controlling the treasury and overshadowing Louis XIV.
- Anne of Austria
Mentioned as the queen-mother who walks with Madame after the cardinal's departure.
- Philippe d'Orléans
Mentioned as Monsieur, who escorts the cardinal with a flambeau.
- Henrietta of England
Mentioned as Madame, who familiarly gives her arm to the queen-mother.
Key passages
“I am going to the king's apartment.”
The unknown man declares his intention to see the king.
Charles II asserts his royal identity to gain entry to Louis XIV.
“Sire, I have no need to ask if Your Majesty is acquainted with the details of my deplorable history.”
Charles II assumes Louis XIV knows his tragic story.
Charles begins his plea, assuming Louis is aware of his misfortunes.
“I possess nothing. I am no more king of France than you are king of England. I am a name, a cipher dressed in fleur-de-lised velvet—that is all.”
Louis XIV admits he has no real power or wealth, just the title of king.
Louis reveals his own powerlessness under Mazarin's control.
“I will go and find the king of France—the other—the rich, the powerful one, I mean. I will myself solicit this million, or these two hundred gentlemen; and—we will see.”
Louis XIV resolves to ask Cardinal Mazarin for the aid Charles needs.
Louis decides to confront Mazarin on Charles's behalf.