# XIV: The Strange Behaviour of Mistress Cleone explained — The Transformation of Philip Jettan

> Chapter companion for The Transformation of Philip Jettan by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

Sir Maurice visits Philip in his luxurious Parisian apartment, where he expresses concern over Cleone's changed behavior since Philip's return. Philip reveals that Cleone now flirts openly with other men, including young Winton, and seems indifferent to him. Meanwhile, Lady Malmerstoke confronts Cleone about her flirtatious conduct, suggesting she is trying to attract Philip out of revenge. Cleone vehemently denies this, insisting she hates Philip. The chapter ends with the arrival of James and Jennifer Winton.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

Cleone's flirtatious behavior contrasts with her true feelings for Philip, as noted by Lady Malmerstoke.

### Love and Authenticity

Philip questions whether Cleone's new persona reflects her true self, and struggles with his own authentic feelings.

### Gender Roles and Coquetry

Cleone adopts coquettish manners, which Lady Malmerstoke criticizes as unbecoming and cheap.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Jettan

Discusses Cleone's changed behavior with his father; admits he still cares for her greatly.

### Cleone Charteris

Behaves flirtatiously with Philip and other men; denies any interest in Philip but is confronted by Lady Malmerstoke.

### Sir Maurice Jettan

Visits Philip to discuss Cleone's puzzling behavior; expresses worry and confusion.

### Lady Malmerstoke

Criticizes Cleone's flirtatious ways and suggests she is seeking revenge on Philip.

### James Winton

Arrives with his sister Jennifer; Cleone flirts with him earlier in the chapter.

### Jennifer Winton

Visits Cleone with her brother; described as shy and sweet.

## Key lines

> She is not the Cleone I knew, and not the Cleone I love. She makes herself as⁠—Clothilde de Chaucheron. Charmante, spirituelle, one to whom a man makes trifling love, but not the one a man will wed.

Philip says Cleone has become like a shallow society woman, charming but not marriage material.

_Philip expresses his disillusionment with Cleone's transformation._

> You make yourself cheap by your flirtatious ways.

Lady Malmerstoke tells Cleone that her flirting diminishes her worth.

_Lady Malmerstoke criticizes Cleone's behavior as unfashionable and unbecoming._

> Are you determined that he shall fall in love with you? For the pleasure of seeing him at your feet, and then kicking him away. Revenge, my love, revenge.

Lady Malmerstoke accuses Cleone of trying to make Philip fall in love with her just to hurt him.

_Lady Malmerstoke suggests Cleone's actions are motivated by revenge._

## Links

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