The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel · Chapter
III explained
Chauvelin pays Mother Théot for her role in a scheme to use Theresia Cabarrus to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel.
What happens
Chauvelin pays Mother Théot for her role in a scheme to use Theresia Cabarrus to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel. After he leaves, Théot reveals that Chauvelin was hidden behind a curtain, listening to her séance with Robespierre. They discuss manipulating Robespierre into compelling Theresia to cooperate, with Chauvelin confident that Tallien's vulnerability will give him leverage.
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 Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Marguerite’s realization that Bertrand Moncrif—a man her husband saved—has betrayed them, combined with her he…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Deception and Disguise
Chauvelin hides behind a curtain to spy on his own paid agent, and the entire scheme relies on manipulating Robespierre through false prophecy.
- Ambition and Power
Chauvelin's relentless pursuit of the Scarlet Pimpernel and his willingness to use blackmail and manipulation to regain influence.
Characters to notice
- Citizen Chauvelin
Pays Mother Théot and reveals he was hidden behind the curtain during her séance, plotting to use Theresia Cabarrus to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel.
- Mother Théot
Receives payment from Chauvelin and confirms her role in manipulating Robespierre to compel Theresia Cabarrus's cooperation.
- Theresia Cabarrus
Discussed as the key pawn in Chauvelin's scheme; Robespierre is to be persuaded to force her to help Chauvelin.
- Robespierre
Referenced as the dictator whom Mother Théot will influence to compel Theresia Cabarrus to do Chauvelin's bidding.
- Tallien
Mentioned as Theresia's powerful but vulnerable fiancé; Chauvelin believes Tallien's cowardice and moderate actions make him susceptible to being declared 'suspect.'
Key passages
“Silence, remember! And, above all, discretion!”
Chauvelin warns Mother Théot to keep quiet and be discreet about their arrangement.
Emphasizes the secretive nature of their conspiracy.
“I only hope, Mother, that after your séance today, citizen Robespierre himself will see to it that Theresia Cabarrus gives me the help I need.”
Chauvelin expresses his hope that Robespierre, influenced by Théot's séance, will force Theresia to assist him.
Reveals the plan to use Robespierre's authority to coerce Theresia.
