# Exit Miss Merriot explained — The Masqueraders

> Chapter companion for The Masqueraders by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

Lord Barham scolds Robin, John, and Thérèse for deviating from his careful plans regarding Prudence's rescue and Robin's escape. He reveals his displeasure at their meddling but ultimately forgives them and outlines a new plan: Robin must flee to France via the coast with John, then return under his true name. Thérèse is instructed to feign ignorance about the Merriots' flight. Lord Barham departs, maintaining his pretense of non-involvement.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Loyalty

Lord Barham's anger stems from his family's deviation from his plans, yet he ultimately forgives them and orchestrates Robin's safe escape, underscoring familial bonds and loyalty.

### Deception and Ingenuity

Lord Barham's intricate schemes and the cover story for Thérèse highlight the theme of calculated deception and clever maneuvering to control outcomes.

## Character check-ins

### Robin Tremaine

Sits patiently while his father scolds him for meddling in the plan; accepts his father's instructions to flee to France and return under his rightful name.

### Viscount Barham

Delivers a lengthy reproach to Robin, John, and Thérèse for disrupting his perfect schemes; then forgives them and issues new orders for Robin's escape and Thérèse's cover story.

### John Burton

Defends his actions to Lord Barham, insisting he was on his way to report when intercepted by Sir Anthony; is eventually forgiven and tasked with escorting Robin to the coast.

### Thérèse de Brûton

Listens to Lord Barham's scolding with a coaxing air; agrees to play the dupe and pretend she was imposed upon by the Merriots after their flight.

## Key lines

> I have a forbearance passing anything one could imagine

Lord Barham claims his patience is extraordinary, despite his evident irritation.

_Ironically underscores his self-righteousness and dramatic nature._

> I had an alibi for her—I should have intervened in a manner quiet, and convincing.

Lord Barham insists he had a subtle plan to free Prudence without fuss.

_Reveals his preference for discreet, controlled interventions over bold rescues._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_masqueraders_se/chapters/xxviii-exit-miss-merriot
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_masqueraders_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_masqueraders_se/chapters