Waverley · Chapter
XX: The English Prisoner explained
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.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Loyalty and Allegiance
Colonel Talbot's loyalty to Sir Everard Waverley drives him to confront Edward about his allegiance to the Jacobite cause, highlighting the conflict between family duty and political rebellion.
Honor and Duty
Talbot's sense of duty to his benefactor and his military honor clash with Edward's actions, while Fergus asserts the honor of the Highland cause.
Identity and Belonging
Edward's adoption of Highland dress and his involvement in the rebellion create a rift with his English identity and family, as emphasized by Talbot's shock and reproach.
Characters to notice
- Edward Waverley
Saves Colonel Talbot's life and is confronted by him about the consequences of joining the rebellion.
- Colonel Talbot
English prisoner who reveals his debt to Sir Everard Waverley and rebukes Edward for his Jacobite involvement.
- Fergus MacIvor
Haughtily defends the Highland cause, interrupts the conversation between Edward and Talbot, and summons Edward to the Prince.
- Dugald Mahony
Guards Colonel Talbot with his Lochaber-axe, ensuring he is not plundered, and expects a reward from Waverley.
- Baron of Bradwardine
Drags Bailie Macwheeble to the battlefield to discuss a protest, ignoring the Bailie's fear of guns.
- Bailie Macwheeble
Forced by the Baron onto the battlefield, terrified of armed Highlanders and gunfire.
- Callum Beg
Brings horses for Fergus and Edward, adjusting Waverley's stirrups.
- Sir Everard Waverley
Mentioned as having been imprisoned due to Edward's conduct and as Colonel Talbot's benefactor.
Key passages
“I am just returned; and being in Scotland, thought it my duty to act where my services promised to be useful. Yes, Mr. Waverley, I am that Colonel Talbot, the husband of the lady you have named; and I am proud to acknowledge that I owe alike my professional rank and my domestic happiness to your generous and noble-minded relative.”
Colonel Talbot introduces himself to Waverley, explaining that he has come to Scotland out of duty and that he owes his career and marriage to Sir Everard Waverley.
Talbot reveals his identity and his debt to Edward's uncle, setting up the moral confrontation.
“Are you aware, Mr. Waverley, of the infinite distress, and even danger, which your present conduct has occasioned to your nearest relatives?”
Talbot asks Edward if he realizes the severe trouble and risk his actions have caused his family.
Talbot emphasizes the serious consequences of Edward's rebellion for his family.
“I am indebted to your uncle for benefits greater than those which a son owes to a father. I acknowledge to him the duty of a son; and as I know there is no manner in which I can requite his kindness so well as by serving you, I will serve you, if possible, whether you will permit me or no.”
Talbot declares his deep gratitude to Sir Everard, vowing to help Edward regardless of Edward's wishes.
Talbot's sense of obligation drives his determination to rescue Edward from his predicament.
“Another such day as this, and I trust the cause of your regrets will be removed, and all will again return to peace and order.”
Waverley expresses hope that another Jacobite victory will end the conflict and restore peace.
Edward's optimism contrasts with Talbot's skepticism about the rebellion's success.
