The Lerouge Case · Chapter
XIV explained
Old Tabaret, despite being repulsed by the magistrate, resolves to save Albert, whom he believes innocent.
What happens
Old Tabaret, despite being repulsed by the magistrate, resolves to save Albert, whom he believes innocent. He dines, regains confidence, and visits Madame Gerdy's home, where he encounters Noel. He struggles to conceal his involvement in the case while observing the dying Madame Gerdy and discussing Albert's predicament.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
This excerpt is the dramatic climax because it reveals the emotional and psychological peak of resolution: the…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Obsession and Detection
Tabaret's relentless pursuit of the truth and his determination to correct his mistake highlight the theme of obsessive detection.
- Justice and Injustice
The chapter explores the tension between Tabaret's belief in Albert's innocence and the magistrate's prosecutorial certainty, raising questions about justice.
Characters to notice
- M. Tabaret
Determined to save Albert after realizing his own role in the accusations; visits Madame Gerdy's home and conceals his police connections.
- Noel Gerdy
Found at Madame Gerdy's bedside; expresses sadness and still considers her a mother, despite past harshness.
- Madame Gerdy
Dying; shows slight movement and moans; her condition is worsening.
- Albert de Commarin
Imprisoned and under solitary confinement; appears calm and resolute during the magistrate's interrogation.
- M. Daburon
Investigating magistrate; refuses Tabaret's request to see Albert and orders detectives to search for witnesses.
Key passages
“He had plunged an innocent man into the abyss; and he must draw him out, he alone, if no one would help him.”
Tabaret feels responsible for Albert's predicament and believes he alone must rescue him.
Reflects Tabaret's guilt and determination.
“I still love her, my old friend; I shall always regard her as a mother.”
Noel expresses enduring affection for Madame Gerdy despite past conflicts.
Shows Noel's emotional conflict and loyalty.
