The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
Another Supper at the Bastille explained
Aramis dines with Governor Baisemeaux at the Bastille, using the occasion to manipulate the governor into releasing a prisoner.
What happens
Aramis dines with Governor Baisemeaux at the Bastille, using the occasion to manipulate the governor into releasing a prisoner. Baisemeaux initially resists, preferring to delay the release until morning, but Aramis persuades him to act immediately. During the meal, Aramis subtly switches the order for a different one he has prepared, setting the stage for a secret release.
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 Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because Raoul reaches his emotional and psychological nadir, fully interna…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Court Intrigue and Deception
Aramis deceives Baisemeaux by switching the order paper, using the supper as a cover for his secret plan.
- Power and Ambition
Aramis exerts influence over Baisemeaux, demonstrating his strategic manipulation to achieve his goals.
Characters to notice
- Aramis
Dines with Baisemeaux, disguised in boots and gray, and manipulates him into releasing a prisoner; switches the order paper.
- Baisemeaux de Montlezun
Governor of the Bastille, hosts Aramis for supper, initially reluctant to release the prisoner but is persuaded.
- François
Servant who brings the order and is dismissed by Aramis; later summoned to fetch the major and turnkeys.
Key passages
“I wish that you would do your duty, my friend; yes, at least before this soldier.”
Aramis insists that Baisemeaux obey the order immediately, even in the presence of a soldier.
Aramis pressures Baisemeaux to act without delay.
“An order of release! There, now; excellent news indeed to disturb us!”
Baisemeaux complains that the release order interrupts his supper.
Baisemeaux prioritizes his meal over the prisoner's freedom.
“I implore you; such an action is worth ten Benedicites.”
Aramis urges Baisemeaux to release the prisoner, saying the deed is more valuable than many prayers.
Aramis uses religious rhetoric to persuade Baisemeaux.
