Waverley · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Waverley by Walter Scott.
Chapter 1
Dedication
Walter Scott dedicates his collected works of fiction to King George, expressing humble gratitude for the royal permission to do so, and noting that the stories have provided amusement and relief to readers, thereby contributing to the happiness of the people.
Chapter 2
Editor's Introduction to Waverley
The editor discusses the composition and reception of Waverley, noting Scott's deliberate slow start, his autobiographical reflections on education, and the contrast between English and Scottish settings. The chapter explores Scott's creative process, the novel's historical context, and its enduring appeal through character, humor, and poetry.
Chapter 3
Preface to the Third Edition
The author addresses the public's favorable reception of the novel, acknowledges speculation about his identity, and defends his portrayal of Highlanders against accusations of unfairness, citing historical examples and a poem to illustrate the complexities of the 1745 uprising.
Chapter 4
Epigraph
The epigraph quotes Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part II, posing a question of political allegiance that foreshadows the novel's central conflict between loyalty to the Hanoverian king and the Jacobite cause.
Chapter 5
Waverley
The opening chapter of 'Waverley' introduces the eponymous hero, Edward Waverley, a young man of romantic temperament and desultory education, caught between the influences of his Jacobite uncle Sir Everard and his Hanoverian father Richard. The narrative establishes the historical backdrop of 1745 and sets the stage for Waverley's journey into the Scottish Highlands, where he will encounter conflicting loyalties and the allure of a vanishing world.
Chapter 6
Introductory
The author explains his choice of setting the story 'Sixty Years Since' (around 1745), deliberately avoiding both antiquated chivalric romance and contemporary fashionable tales. He emphasizes that his focus is on universal human passions rather than mere manners, and justifies his selection of the uncontaminated name 'Waverley' for his hero, while playfully critiquing the clichés of various novel genres.
Chapter 7
Waverley-Honour—A Retrospect
This chapter provides a retrospective on the Waverley family history, detailing the political and personal rift between Sir Everard Waverley, a staunch Tory and High-Churchman, and his younger brother Richard, who becomes a Whig placeman. It recounts Sir Everard's disappointed love for Lady Emily Blandeville, his subsequent celibacy, and the eventual reconciliation with Richard through young Edward Waverley, who becomes the heir and a bridge between the two households.
Chapter 8
III: Education
Edward Waverley's education is described as desultory and self-directed, shaped by his family's political divisions and his own romantic temperament. He is allowed to roam freely through the library at Waverley-Honour, reading widely but without discipline, which fosters his imagination but leaves him ignorant of practical knowledge and the habits of serious application.
Chapter 9
Castle-Building
Edward Waverley, now sixteen, develops a fastidious taste from excessive reading, which makes him unfit for serious study and disinterested in field sports and fishing. He feels socially inferior and uncomfortable among his peers, leading him to prefer solitude. He spends time listening to his uncle Sir Everard's genealogical tales and his aunt Rachel's stories of the family's royalist past, which fire his imagination. He often retreats to the library or the Waverley-Chase to indulge in daydreams, constructing vivid fantasies based on these family legends.
Chapter 10
Choice of a Profession
Edward Waverley's family debates his future. Aunt Rachel, concerned about his romantic interest in Miss Cecilia Stubbs, persuades Sir Everard to send him abroad. However, Richard Waverley, influenced by a government minister, secures Edward a commission as a captain in Gardiner's dragoons, overriding Sir Everard's Jacobite sympathies. Edward receives the news with mixed excitement and begins to compose romantic poetry, while Sir Everard reluctantly accepts the decision.
Chapter 11
VI: The Adieus of Waverley
Sir Everard Waverley prepares his nephew Edward for his departure to join the army in Scotland, providing him with horses, a letter of introduction to the Baron of Bradwardine, and parting advice. The chapter also recounts the Baron's history as a Jacobite prisoner in 1715, his rescue by Sir Everard's legal efforts, and the ensuing friendship between the two houses, marked by annual exchanges of gifts. Mr. Pembroke gives Edward a farewell filled with political and religious warnings, and his failed attempt to publish Jacobite manuscripts is recalled.
Chapter 12
VII: A Horse-Quarter in Scotland
Edward Waverley departs for his regiment, traveling to Dundee where he is quartered under Colonel Gardiner. He finds military duty tedious and struggles with attention, feeling inferior. Bored with local society, he obtains leave to visit the Baron of Bradwardine in the Highlands.
Chapter 13
A Scottish Manor-House
Captain Waverley arrives at the village of Tully-Veolan, observing the poverty and squalor of the hamlet before entering the avenue leading to the Baron of Bradwardine's mansion. He notes the contrast between the miserable cottages and the imposing, though antiquated, manor house with its bear motifs, fountain, and monastic atmosphere.
Chapter 14
IX: More of the Manor-House and Its Environs
Edward Waverley explores the grounds of Tully-Veolan, encountering the eccentric Davie Gellatley and the butler, and learns about local customs while waiting to meet the Baron of Bradwardine.
Chapter 15
Rose Bradwardine and Her Father
Edward Waverley is warmly welcomed to Tully-Veolan by the Baron of Bradwardine, who embraces him with both English and French formality. The Baron, a Jacobite with military and legal pretensions, proudly displays his ancestral home and introduces his daughter Rose, a lively and pretty young woman. Other guests arrive for dinner, including Balmawhapple, Killancureit, a clergyman, and Bailie Macwheeble, each described with the Baron's characteristic pedantry.
Chapter 16
The Banquet
At the banquet in Tully-Veolan, the Baron of Bradwardine hosts a lavish feast with guests including Balmawhapple, Killancureit, Bailie Macwheeble, and Edward Waverley. After dinner, the Baron presents the 'Blessed Bear of Bradwardine,' a golden goblet, and toasts to the house of Waverley. Political tensions erupt when Balmawhapple toasts to King William's death, leading to a sword fight that is broken up by Luckie Macleary. The party then moves to the local inn for a stirrup-cup, continuing the revelry.
Chapter 17
Repentance and a Reconciliation
Waverley wakes with a hangover and a sense of insult from the previous night's altercation with Balmawhapple. He resolves to demand satisfaction but is met by the Baron and Balmawhapple, who offer a formal apology mediated by the Baron. Waverley accepts, and the reconciliation is sealed over breakfast. The Baron then invites Waverley to stay longer and go hunting with Davie Gellatley, whose character and history are explained.
Chapter 18
A More Rational Day Than the Last
Edward Waverley and the Baron of Bradwardine spend a day hunting and conversing, finding mutual amusement despite their contrasting temperaments. The Baron shares historical and genealogical anecdotes, while Edward's romantic imagination enriches their discussions. They visit Rose Bradwardine's apartment, where she sings and displays her cultivated tastes, and the company explores local legends, including the superstition of St. Swithin's Chair.
Chapter 19
XIV: A Discovery—Waverley Becomes Domesticated at Tully-Veolan
Edward Waverley becomes more settled at Tully-Veolan, discovering that the Baron of Bradwardine has already fought and wounded Balmawhapple in a duel over the insult to the Bradwardine arms. Edward is mortified but the Baron justifies his actions. Meanwhile, Edward's growing intimacy with Rose Bradwardine deepens as they share literary interests, though Edward's romantic imagination is not captivated by her frank and kind nature. The chapter also reveals the Baron's stubborn adherence to feudal traditions, including the entail of his estate to a male heir, and Bailie Macwheeble's schemes for Rose's marriage.
Chapter 20
XV: A Creagh, and Its Consequences
A party of Highland Caterans steals the Baron's milch cows, causing consternation at Tully-Veolan. The Baron fumes over the affront and considers military retaliation, while Bailie Macwheeble and others counsel caution. Rose explains the system of blackmail and the power of Fergus MacIvor, and reveals the feud between her father and the Highland chief. Waverley learns about the local politics and the precarious security of the Lowland estate.
Chapter 21
An Unexpected Ally Appears
The Baron returns in good spirits and shares stories about Highland chiefs and their customs. Edward expresses a desire to explore the Highlands. Evan Dhu Maccombich arrives as an envoy from Fergus MacIvor to mend the quarrel between the clans. After a ceremonial reconciliation, Evan invites Edward to accompany him into the mountains to recover stolen cattle. Edward accepts, and they set off on a journey through difficult terrain, eventually reaching a lake where Edward reflects on the romantic and uncertain nature of his adventure.
Chapter 22
XVII: The Hold of a Highland Robber
Edward Waverley is taken by boat to the cave of the Highland outlaw Donald Bean Lean. He finds the robber to be a small, unassuming man who greets him with French politeness and Scottish hospitality. They share a meal of soup and roasted meat, and Donald reveals a surprising knowledge of military matters and hints at knowing more about Waverley's purpose than Edward is willing to disclose. Waverley feels uneasy at the bandit's mysterious insinuations and eventually falls asleep in the cave.
Chapter 23
Waverley Proceeds on His Journey
Edward Waverley awakens in the deserted cave of Donald Bean Lean, explores the secret retreat, and is guided by Evan Dhu to the house of Glennaquoich. Along the way, he meets Alice, the daughter of the outlaw, and learns about Highland customs and the character of Fergus MacIvor, who greets him warmly.
Chapter 24
The Chief and His Mansion
Fergus MacIvor's character and political ambitions are revealed as he hosts Edward Waverley at Glennaquoich. The chapter details Fergus's methods of consolidating power among the Highland clans, his loss of military command, and his secret Jacobite plotting. Waverley witnesses a display of the clan's martial prowess, impressing him with their skill and loyalty.
Chapter 25
XX: A Highland Feast
Edward Waverley attends a grand Highland feast at the hall of Ian nan Chaistel, hosted by Fergus MacIvor. The chapter depicts the hierarchical structure of the clan, the rustic hospitality, and the cultural traditions of the Highlanders, including a bardic performance by MacMurrough that stirs deep emotions. Fergus explains the clan's obligations and later invites Edward to retire to his sister Flora's tea-table for further conversation.
Chapter 26
XXI: The Chieftain’s Sister
This chapter introduces Flora MacIvor, the sister of Chieftain Fergus MacIvor. It details her upbringing, education, and character, emphasizing her deep loyalty to the exiled Stuart family, her love for her clan, and her pure, selfless devotion to the Jacobite cause. The chapter contrasts her noble and grave demeanor with her brother's more ambitious and politically motivated nature. It also describes her appearance, her talents in music and Highland poetry, and her close friendship with Rose Bradwardine. The chapter concludes with Fergus introducing Captain Waverley to Flora.
Chapter 27
Highland Minstrelsy
Fergus introduces Waverley to Flora as a worshipper of Celtic poetry. Flora discusses Highland bardic traditions and translates a battle-song that stirs martial feelings, interrupted by Fergus's dog. The chapter deepens Waverley's romantic and cultural fascination with the Highlands.
Chapter 28
Waverley Continued at Glennaquoich
Edward Waverley remains at Glennaquoich, enjoying Highland hospitality. Flora MacIvor sings and discusses character with her brother Fergus, who presses Waverley to stay for a hunting party. The conversation touches on Rose Bradwardine, the Baron, and the dubious figure Donald Bean Lean. Edward loses his seal, borrows Fergus's, and retires with conflicting emotions, dreaming of Flora.
Chapter 29
A Stag-Hunt and Its Consequences
Waverley recovers from a stag-hunt injury under the care of a kind Highland host, while Fergus MacIvor departs on a mysterious expedition. The chapter describes the grand Highland hunt, Waverley's growing infatuation with Flora MacIvor, and his adoption of Highland dress. During the hunt, Waverley is nearly killed by a charging herd of deer but is saved by Fergus, though he suffers severe contusions and a sprained ankle. An old Highland leech performs a ritual 'deasil' before treating him.
Chapter 30
News from England
Edward receives letters from England revealing his father's political disgrace and his own supersession from the army. Enraged and humiliated, he writes a cold resignation to Colonel Gardiner and seeks Fergus MacIvor's counsel on revenge, while Fergus hesitates due to the strict bounds of duty and his own secret reasons.
Chapter 31
An Eclaircissement
Fergus MacIvor, observing Waverley's attachment to his sister Flora, sees a politically advantageous match and leads Edward to her. Flora, while devoted to the Jacobite cause, refuses to let Waverley commit to it in a moment of pique, gently rejecting his romantic advances. Fergus dismisses her scruples and pulls Waverley away to review newly arrived arms and recruits.
Chapter 32
XXVII: Upon the Same Subject
Fergus MacIvor avoids discussing his sister's rejection of Waverley, instead focusing on military preparations. He urges Waverley to join the Jacobite cause, but Waverley hesitates due to his recent commission and loyalty to the government. Fergus then advises Waverley to pursue Flora, hinting at her devotion to the Stuart cause. Waverley finds Flora by the waterfall, where she gently but firmly rejects his suit, explaining that her passion for the restoration of the royal family leaves no room for romantic love. She warns him that a marriage without shared devotion would lead to unhappiness.
Chapter 33
A Letter from Tully-Veolan
Waverley receives a letter from Rose Bradwardine warning him of the danger he is in due to the political unrest and the search for him by government soldiers. He decides to leave the Highlands and go to Edinburgh to clear his name, despite Fergus MacIvor's warnings. The chapter explores Waverley's internal conflict between loyalty to the established government and the allure of the Jacobite cause.
Chapter 34
Waverley's Reception in the Lowlands After His Highland Tour
Edward Waverley parts from Fergus MacIvor at the pass of Bally-Brough and travels to a Lowland town, accompanied by Callum Beg disguised as a Low-Country groom. He reflects on his feelings for Flora MacIvor, idealizing her in her absence. Upon arriving, he observes a Sunday sermon and receives a letter from Fergus containing Flora's verses on Captain Wogan's grave. He then departs with the puritanical landlord Mr. Cruickshanks, who begrudgingly serves as his guide toward Perth.
Chapter 35
Shows That the Loss of a Horse's Shoe May Be a Serious Inconvenience
Waverley and his guide Ebenezer Cruickshanks arrive at Cairnvreckan, where the smithy is in full activity repairing weapons amid rumors of a Highland uprising. A confrontation with the blacksmith John Mucklewrath leads to Waverley firing his pistol in self-defense, wounding the smith. The local minister, Mr. Morton, intervenes to calm the mob and arranges for Waverley to be taken before the justice of the peace.
Chapter 36
An Examination
Edward Waverley is formally examined by Major Melville of Cairnvreckan on charges of mutiny, desertion, and high treason. The magistrate presents a warrant from the Supreme Criminal Court of Scotland, and Waverley's papers are scrutinized. Through a series of pointed questions, the Major connects Waverley to Sergeant Houghton, the nonjuring clergyman Mr. Pembroke, and the Highland chieftain Fergus MacIvor, building a case that Waverley has been involved in the Jacobite rising. Waverley denies the accusations, but the evidence—including a letter from Aunt Rachel and his own movements—casts him in a suspicious light.
Chapter 37
A Conference and the Consequence
Major Melville and Mr. Morton discuss Edward Waverley's case after his examination. Melville presents a damning chain of circumstantial evidence linking Waverley to Jacobite conspiracy, while Morton argues for mercy and the possibility of innocence. They debate Waverley's character, his family background, his conduct in the regiment, and his association with known Jacobites. Melville decides to hand Waverley over to Gilfillan's armed volunteers for transport to Stirling Castle, though Morton requests a private interview with the prisoner. The chapter ends with both men reflecting anxiously on the state of the country.
Chapter 38
A Confidant
Waverley awakens to the full horror of his situation, fearing military law or a Scottish trial. He bitterly regrets not joining Fergus MacIvor and the Jacobite cause. Mr. Morton, a Presbyterian clergyman, visits and offers his help. Waverley confides in him, recounting his visit to Donald Bean Lean. Morton warns him about his upcoming escort by the Cameronian Gilfillan and promises to assist in his exculpation.
Chapter 39
Things Mend a Little
Mr. Morton returns with an invitation from Major Melville for Waverley to dine with him, hoping to clear his name. The Major's mood improves upon hearing that the Highlanders may have withdrawn. Waverley reluctantly accepts the invitation and the dinner party becomes lively. Their merriment is interrupted by the sound of a drum, announcing the arrival of Gifted Gilfillan and his party.
Chapter 40
A Volunteer Sixty Years Since
Major Melville hands Edward Waverley over to the Cameronian leader Gilfillan and his motley band of armed volunteers for transport to Stirling Castle. Despite Melville's advice on military discipline, Gilfillan dismisses him with religious scorn. Waverley departs under guard, jeered by villagers who believe he will be hanged for shooting the smith.
Chapter 41
VII: An Incident
Mr. Gilfillan, a Cameronian Covenanter, marches with his prisoner Edward Waverley toward Stirling, engaging him in a lengthy theological diatribe against prelacy and Erastianism. A pedlar joins the party and flatters Gilfillan, but his repeated whistling for his dog proves to be a signal for an ambush by Highlanders, who attack the party, rescue Waverley, and carry him away.
Chapter 42
Waverley Is Still in Distress
Waverley, injured and disoriented, is carried by Highlanders to a remote hovel where he is confined and tended by an old woman and a Highland guard. During his recovery, he glimpses a mysterious female figure and receives a secret packet from Alice, Donald Bean Lean's daughter. As he regains strength, he contemplates escape but is ultimately prepared to be moved again by his captors.
Chapter 43
IX: A Nocturnal Adventure
Waverley is led by Highlanders through a perilous night journey, evading English soldiers. After a clever diversion by Duncan Duroch, they reach the Castle of Doune, where Waverley is welcomed by Governor Donald Stewart, a Jacobite officer.
Chapter 44
X: The Journey Is Continued
Waverley continues his journey under escort, encountering Balmawhapple and his troop. After a brief stay at Doune Castle, he is led through Stirling, where a cannon shot from the castle forces a hasty retreat, and the party halts at Falkirk.
Chapter 45
An Old and a New Acquaintance
Edward Waverley is presented to Prince Charles Edward Stuart at Holyrood Palace by Fergus MacIvor. The Prince, after acknowledging the proclamation against Waverley, offers him a choice to leave or join the Jacobite cause. Waverley, swayed by the Prince's romantic appeal and his own family's royalist traditions, pledges his allegiance. Charles Edward grants him a brevet rank of major, but Waverley declines, preferring to serve as a volunteer under Fergus. The Prince gifts him a broadsword and pistols, and the chapter ends with Fergus and Waverley leaving to prepare for the eve of battle.
Chapter 46
XII: The Mystery Begins to Be Cleared Up
Waverley meets Prince Charles Edward Stuart and is deeply impressed. Fergus MacIvor explains the political maneuvering at court and outfits Waverley in Highland dress. Fergus reveals that Waverley was held by Donald Bean Lean, who acted independently. The Baron of Bradwardine arrives, discusses Waverley's lost commission, and invites him to visit Rose. Waverley learns that Flora MacIvor is in Edinburgh but will not see him until evening.
Chapter 47
A Soldier's Dinner
Waverley dons Highland dress and joins Fergus MacIvor, the Baron of Bradwardine, Bailie Macwheeble, and Ensign Maccombich for a dinner at Mrs. Flockhart's. The conversation turns to financing the campaign, with the Baron revealing his financial difficulties and Fergus making light of death and bequests. The Bailie's lament over the potential loss of the Bradwardine estate to Inch-Grabbit is interrupted by laughter, and the party discusses the impending battle.
Chapter 48
The Ball
At the ball at Holyrood, Edward Waverley is deeply affected by Flora MacIvor's cold reception, which she emphasizes by calling him a 'second brother.' Prince Charles Edward Stuart notices his distress, engages him in conversation, and advises him to restrain his feelings. Waverley rallies, using pride and the Prince's favor to regain composure, and captivates the company with his eloquence and charm. Rose Bradwardine watches with admiration, while Flora remains reserved.
Chapter 49
XV: The March
Waverley awakens to the sound of the pibroch and learns from Callum Beg that the Prince and Fergus have already departed for the King's Park. He dresses in his tartans and joins the Highland army as it prepares to march out of Edinburgh. The chapter describes the assembling of the clans, their banners and mottoes, the motley appearance of the troops—from well-armed gentlemen to half-naked peasants—and the departure of the column, with Waverley reflecting on the daring and precarious nature of the enterprise.
Chapter 50
An Incident Gives Rise to Unavailing Reflections
Waverley encounters his former sergeant, Humphrey Houghton, dying after a skirmish. Houghton reveals that he and others were deceived by a forged seal (lost by Waverley in the robber's cave) into mutiny. Waverley feels deep remorse for his indolence and indecision. Fergus MacIvor and the Highland army prepare for battle, and Waverley's care for the dying man earns him respect among the Highlanders. Houghton dies, and Waverley rejoins the marching column, reflecting on his failures.
Chapter 51
XVII: The Eve of Battle
The Highland army takes position on the heights overlooking the plain near Preston, facing General Cope's English forces. Both armies form lines of battle, with skirmishes and maneuvers throughout the day. Fergus and Waverley visit the Baron of Bradwardine, who conducts evening prayers. As night falls, the armies rest on their arms, and Waverley struggles with feelings of betrayal and identity. Callum Beg nearly shoots Colonel Gardiner but is stopped by a seer's prophecy.
Chapter 52
The Conflict
The chapter depicts the Battle of Prestonpans, focusing on the Highland charge, the death of Colonel Gardiner, and the fate of Balmawhapple. Waverley experiences the chaos of battle, attempts to save Gardiner but fails, and later intervenes to spare an English officer. The victory is complete for the Jacobites.
Chapter 53
XIX: An Unexpected Embarrassment
After the battle, the Baron of Bradwardine seeks Fergus and Edward to discuss a feudal obligation: the right to remove the Prince's boots (or brogues) after battle. Fergus humorously indulges the Baron's pedantic legal and etymological debate, while the Baron prepares a formal protest to preserve his hereditary privilege. Fergus later reveals to Edward that he intends to inform the Prince of the Baron's quirk to ensure the moment is handled with appropriate gravity.
Chapter 54
XX: The English Prisoner
Waverley meets Colonel Talbot, a friend of his uncle Sir Everard, who rebukes him for joining the Jacobite rebellion and reveals the danger and distress his actions have caused his family. Despite Waverley having saved his life, Talbot's stern words leave Edward mortified. Fergus interrupts their conversation, summoning Waverley to the Prince, and later escorts him to Pinkie House, where the Baron forces Bailie Macwheeble onto the battlefield.
Chapter 55
Rather Unimportant
Fergus chides Edward for his melancholy after the battle, while Edward learns of his family's imprisonment and release. The Chevalier entrusts Colonel Talbot to Edward's charge, hoping to win him over. A gazette describes the Baron of Bradwardine's ceremonial act of homage to the Prince, which Edward misses.
Chapter 56
XXII: Intrigues of Love and Politics
Waverley learns of the machinations that led to his troop's mutiny, orchestrated by Donald Bean Lean using Waverley's seal. Colonel Talbot advises Waverley to avoid further entanglement, and they travel to Edinburgh. Waverley examines his mysterious packet, finding letters from Colonel Gardiner that reveal the consequences of his absence.
Chapter 57
Intrigues of Society and Love
Colonel Talbot's character is further revealed as he becomes more cordial with Waverley, though he remains critical of the Scottish Highlanders and their leaders. Waverley continues to visit Flora and Rose during the siege of Edinburgh Castle. Flora maintains her strict indifference towards Edward, while Rose gradually rises in his estimation. Flora, recognizing Rose's feelings for Waverley, subtly encourages a match between them, believing Waverley's domestic nature is better suited to Rose than to her own ambitious brother Fergus.
Chapter 58
Fergus a Suitor
Fergus MacIvor, furious after a private audience with Prince Charles Edward Stuart, reveals to Waverley that his suit for Rose Bradwardine has been rejected and his request to assume an earldom denied. He vents his rage and sense of betrayal, while Waverley reflects on the intrigues and disappointments of the Jacobite court.
Chapter 59
XXV: “To One Thing Constant Never”
Waverley reflects on his capricious feelings, comparing Rose Bradwardine's gentle nature to Flora MacIvor's distant demeanor. At a social gathering, he observes the two women, noting Rose's naturalness and feeling. A debate on language and poetry leads to a reading of Romeo and Juliet, where Flora defends Romeo's transfer of affection as natural. Waverley resolves to abandon his pursuit of Flora and leave his future to circumstance.
Chapter 60
A Brave Man in Sorrow
Waverley and Colonel Talbot engage in political debates about the justice of the Jacobite cause. One night, Waverley discovers Talbot weeping over a letter from his sister, revealing that his wife Lady Emily suffered a miscarriage and is dangerously ill after hearing a false report of Talbot's death. Waverley blames himself for Talbot's absence from home and offers to release him from parole, but Talbot refuses, insisting he acted out of duty and that Waverley is not to blame.
Chapter 61
Exertion
Colonel Talbot learns that Waverley has obtained his release from the Chevalier. Waverley recounts his audience with Prince Charles Edward, who grants Talbot a passport to return to England on parole. The two friends part warmly at Leith, with Talbot expressing his disdain for the Highlanders and warning Waverley to shed his Highland dress.
Chapter 62
XXVIII: The March
The Young Chevalier's army marches into England in November, facing a cold reception from the populace. Fergus MacIvor and Edward Waverley, once close, quarrel over Flora's rejection of Edward's suit. Edward transfers to the Baron of Bradwardine's cavalry, where his skills earn him respect.
Chapter 63
The Confusion of King Agramant’s Camp
Waverley narrowly escapes assassination by Callum Beg, leading to a confrontation with Fergus MacIvor. Prince Charles Edward Stuart intervenes, resolving the misunderstanding about Waverley's supposed attachment to Rose Bradwardine and restoring temporary peace between the two officers.
Chapter 64
A Skirmish
The Highlanders retreat from Derby, causing despair among the clans. Fergus MacIvor, deeply affected by the reversal, reconciles with Edward Waverley and reveals his foreboding vision of the Bodach Glas. A skirmish ensues in which Fergus is surrounded and likely captured, while Edward escapes amidst the chaos.
Chapter 65
Chapter of Accidents
Edward Waverley, separated from the Highland army, finds himself in a dangerous situation behind enemy lines. Mistaken for a local suitor by a farmer's daughter, he is taken in by the Jopson family. After learning the Highlanders have retreated and the Duke of Cumberland's forces occupy the area, he adopts a disguise and travels to Farmer Williams's house near Ullswater. There, he reflects on the death of Fergus MacIvor, the fate of Flora and Rose, and the end of his romantic ideals, as he waits for a safe opportunity to leave.
Chapter 66
A Journey to London
Edward Waverley, staying with the Williams family in Cumberland, participates in a wedding and learns from a newspaper of his father's death and his uncle Sir Everard's impending trial for high treason, which can be averted only if Edward surrenders himself. He resolves to go to London, but lacks funds for post travel, so he takes the northern diligence. On the journey, he is trapped in conversation with the loquacious Mrs. Nosebag, who mistakes him for a former dragoon officer; he adopts the alias 'Butler' to avoid detection. At Ferrybridge, she drags him to confront Corporal Bridoon, nearly exposing him, but he escapes further scrutiny and arrives in London relieved to be free of her attentions.
Chapter 67
What’s to Be Done Next?
Colonel Talbot arranges for Waverley's safe passage north under the alias Francis Stanley, provides him with funds from his father's trust, and shares news that Donald Bean Lean's confession has cleared Waverley of misconduct. Waverley resolves to return to Scotland, partly to escape via a Jacobite-held port and partly to be near Rose Bradwardine, whose situation concerns him.
Chapter 68
Desolation
Waverley travels to Scotland after the Battle of Culloden, learning of the defeat and the fates of his friends. He visits his former landlady Mrs. Flockhart, who tells him Fergus MacIvor is captured and to be tried, and that Flora has gone to Carlisle. Waverley proceeds to Tully-Veolan, finding it desolate and ruined. He encounters Davie Gellatley, who leads him to a hut where he hears a voice inside.
Chapter 69
XXXV: Comparing of Notes
The Baron of Bradwardine recounts his misfortunes after the Jacobite defeat, including the loss of his estate to his ungrateful heir-male Malcolm Bradwardine. He and Waverley share a humble supper in a hidden hut, tended by old Janet and her simple son Davie, who once cleverly misled soldiers searching for the Baron. Waverley learns that Rose is safe at Duchran and contemplates his own future, possibly joining the Baron in exile.
Chapter 70
XXXVI: More Explanation
At dawn, the Baron leads Waverley through the glen, explaining that he can safely stay at Tully-Veolan by posing as a surveyor. The Baron shows his hiding place in a cave and speaks with stoic composure about his misfortunes. Later, Janet reveals that Rose Bradwardine bribed Donald Bean Lean to rescue Waverley, using her mother's jewels, and that Alice restored the incriminating papers. The Prince had intended Waverley for Rose, not Flora, and Fergus's jealousy over the earldom and marriage proposals is clarified. Waverley resolves to live for Rose and seeks Bailie Macwheeble.
Chapter 71
Chapter XXXVII
Edward Waverley visits Bailie Macwheeble at Little Veolan to secure his safety and plan his future. He reveals his intention to marry Rose Bradwardine, causing the Bailie to ecstatically anticipate a prosperous match. Edward arranges for his residence under the alias Mr. Stanley and sends for post. A packet from Colonel Talbot arrives containing official protections for both the Baron of Bradwardine and Edward, pardoning them for their involvement in the rebellion.
Chapter 72
XXXVIII
Waverley brings news of the Baron's pardon and arranges his return. The Baron is reunited with Rose at Duchran, and Waverley's proposal to Rose is accepted. Plans are made for Waverley to return to Waverley-Honor and London to arrange the marriage and plead for Fergus MacIvor's fate.
Chapter 73
Chapter XXXIX
Edward Waverley arrives in Carlisle during the trial of Fergus MacIvor and Evan Dhu Maccombich, who are both convicted of high treason. Fergus delivers a defiant speech, and Evan offers to exchange his life and those of six clansmen for Fergus's freedom. The judge sentences both to death. Edward attempts to visit Fergus but is denied; he then visits Flora MacIvor, who is preparing Fergus's burial garment and gives Edward a diamond chain for Rose Bradwardine before planning to retreat to a convent in Paris.
Chapter 74
Chapter XL
Waverley visits Fergus MacIvor in Carlisle Castle on the morning of his execution. Fergus, though heavily fettered, remains composed and inquires about the Prince's escape, his clansmen, and Rose. He speaks of the Bodach Glas apparition, receives last rites, and bids farewell to Waverley, refusing to let him witness the execution. Fergus and Evan Dhu are taken by sledge to the place of execution, with Fergus's last words being 'God save King James!' Waverley, devastated, leaves the castle in a stupor.
Chapter 75
Dulce Domum
Edward Waverley returns to Waverley-Honour, where he is warmly received by Sir Everard and Aunt Rachel. The chapter details the preparations for his marriage to Rose Bradwardine, the legal and financial settlements, and the eventual wedding at the mansion of the Laird of Duchran. The Baron reflects on the reduced company compared to his own wedding, due to the recent political troubles.
Chapter 76
XLII
The nuptial party travels to Tully-Veolan, where they discover that Colonel Talbot has purchased and restored the estate. The Baron learns that Edward Waverley financed the repurchase, securing the property for Rose and her heirs. The Baron is overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, and the party celebrates with old friends and tenants, including a painting of Fergus MacIvor and Waverley.
Chapter 77
A Postscript Which Should Have Been a Preface
The author addresses the reader directly, explaining that this postscript should have been a preface. He reflects on the profound transformation of Scottish society since the 1745 Jacobite rising, noting the destruction of Highland patriarchal power, the abolition of heritable jurisdictions, and the extinction of the Jacobite party. He describes his aim to preserve the memory of ancient Scottish manners and loyalty through fiction, grounding the most romantic incidents in fact. He acknowledges his own doubts about the work, mentions having laid it aside for years, and pays tribute to other writers like Miss Edgeworth, Mrs. Hamilton, and Mrs. Grant. He closes by dedicating the volumes to Henry Mackenzie.
Chapter 78
Glossary
A comprehensive glossary of Scottish terms, phrases, and historical references used throughout the novel, providing definitions and explanations for readers unfamiliar with the dialect and cultural context.
Chapter 79
Endnotes
The endnotes provide historical commentary and clarifications on events and characters in the novel, including the Battle of Culloden, the character of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, the death of Colonel Gardiner, the fate of Balmawhapple, the legal concept of 'letters of slains,' and Scott's own attitudes toward the supernatural, particularly the 'Bodach Glas' apparition.
