# VIII: “Bonnie Dundee” explained — Toilers of the Sea

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

## What happens

This chapter describes Déruchette's charming room at the Bravées, her love for the Scottish air 'Bonnie Dundee,' and her joyful, graceful nature. It also details the household of Mess Lethierry, including the servants Grace and Douce, the history of the lower room as a Huguenot meeting place, and the steamboat office for the Durande.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Reputation

The household structure and the servants' secret lives reflect the social hierarchies and reputations in Guernsey society.

### Love and Sacrifice

Déruchette's pure and joyful nature contrasts with the hidden romantic entanglements of Grace and Douce, hinting at themes of love and sacrifice.

## Character check-ins

### Déruchette

Occupies the prettiest room at the Bravées, sings 'Bonnie Dundee,' and is described as joyful, beautiful, and graceful.

### Mess Lethierry

Uncle of Déruchette, keeps the steamboat office for the Durande, and has a room with a hammock, chronometer, and marine map.

### Grace

One of the two servants; coquettish, good-looking, and anxious about the possible return of a sailor husband.

### Douce

One of the two servants; good-natured, unmarried, and secretly has a 'gallant.'

## Key lines

> Déruchette had her music and piano in this chamber; she accompanied herself on the instrument when singing the melody which she preferred—the melancholy Scottish air of 'Bonnie Dundee.'

Déruchette kept her piano in her room and often played and sang her favorite song, the sad Scottish tune 'Bonnie Dundee.'

_Highlights Déruchette's musical talent and her connection to the chapter's title._

> She never addressed her uncle otherwise than as father.

She always called her uncle 'father.'

_Emphasizes the close, familial bond between Déruchette and Mess Lethierry._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se/chapters/viii-bonnie-dundee
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/toilers_of_the_sea_se/chapters