Twenty Years After · Chapter
A Nightly Patrol explained
Mazarin and his party patrol the agitated streets of Paris, observing the growing unrest and the birth of the 'Fronde' movement.
What happens
Mazarin and his party patrol the agitated streets of Paris, observing the growing unrest and the birth of the 'Fronde' movement. D'Artagnan leads the escort with stoic professionalism. Mazarin questions Guitant about d'Artagnan's past and seeks information on Rochefort. The chapter ends with Mazarin giving d'Artagnan a sealed order for the Bastille.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Corruption
Mazarin's manipulation of the patrol and his secret orders reflect the corrupt use of power to control dissent and gather intelligence.
Revolution and Rebellion
The chapter vividly depicts the early stirrings of the Fronde, with mobs, songs against Mazarin, and the threat of barricades.
Class and Ambition
D'Artagnan's quiet ambition and Mazarin's calculation of loyalty and talent highlight the interplay of class and personal advancement.
Characters to notice
- Mazarin
Leads the nightly patrol, questions Guitant about d'Artagnan and Rochefort, and gives d'Artagnan a secret order for the Bastille.
- D'Artagnan
Leads the patrol with calm authority, impressing Mazarin with his composure and soldierly demeanor.
- Guitant
Captain of the Queen's Guards, accompanies Mazarin, provides information about d'Artagnan and Rochefort, and discusses the unrest.
- Comminges
Lieutenant at the Barrière des Sergens outpost, eager to retaliate against the mob but restrained by Mazarin.
- Villequier
Officer in command near the hill of Saint Roche, still resentful over the arrest of the Duc de Beaufort.
- Rochefort
Mentioned as a former agent of Cardinal Richelieu, now disappeared; Mazarin seeks to find him for information.
Key passages
“They sing—let them pay the piper.”
Mazarin dismisses the people's protests, believing that as long as they express their discontent through songs rather than action, he can ignore them and continue his policies.
Mazarin's cynical view of public unrest, showing his confidence in controlling the situation.
“I know the French as well as if I had made them myself.”
Mazarin claims deep understanding of the French character, implying he can predict and manage their behavior.
Reflects Mazarin's arrogance and his belief in his own political acumen.