# III: The Forethought of Self-Sacrifice explained — Toilers of the Sea

> Chapter companion for Toilers of the Sea by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

Gilliatt facilitates the marriage of Déruchette and Reverend Caudray by providing a forged letter from Mess Lethierry and his own wedding ring, silently sacrificing his own love for Déruchette's happiness.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Gilliatt's selfless act of giving up Déruchette and providing the ring exemplifies profound sacrifice.

### Deception and Moral Ambiguity

Caudray and Gilliatt engage in deception through the forged letter, yet it enables a happy union.

## Character check-ins

### Gilliatt

Provides the forged letter and his own ring, silently giving away Déruchette.

### Déruchette

Marries Caudray, dressed in white, experiencing a mix of sorrow and joy.

### Rev. Mr. Caudray

Marries Déruchette, aware of deception but accepting the happiness.

### Reverend Jaquemin Hérode

Dean who officiates the marriage, noting irregularities but proceeding.

### Mess Lethierry

Mentioned as the uncle who consents to the marriage, though absent.

## Key lines

> Gilliatt answered, 'I do!'

Gilliatt gives the bride away.

_Gilliatt formally presents Déruchette to Caudray._

> Gilliatt took off the gold ring which he wore upon his little finger.

Gilliatt removes his own ring to serve as the wedding ring.

_Gilliatt provides the ring for the ceremony._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se/chapters/iii-the-forethought-of-self-sacrifice
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se/chapters