These Old Shades · Chapter
Introducing the Comte de Saint-Vire explained
The Duke of Avon interrogates his new page, Léon Bonnard, about his past, learning of his upbringing in Anjou, his education by the curé, and his strained relationship with his brother Jean.
What happens
The Duke of Avon interrogates his new page, Léon Bonnard, about his past, learning of his upbringing in Anjou, his education by the curé, and his strained relationship with his brother Jean. Later, at the gaming tables, Avon introduces Léon to the Comte de Saint-Vire, who takes an unsettling interest in the boy. The chapter establishes the tension between Avon and Saint-Vire, and hints at deeper schemes.
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
This chapter is the dramatic climax because it marks the psychological and emotional peak of the Duke of Avon’…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Power and Control
Avon exerts control over Léon through interrogation and commands, while also using him as a tool to unsettle Saint-Vire.
- Identity and Disguise
Léon's mysterious origins and his transformation from a grimy child to a neat page hint at hidden identity and performance.
- Social Class and Scandal
The contrast between Léon's humble farming background and his presence among aristocrats highlights class tensions.
Characters to notice
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Interrogates Léon about his past and later uses him to provoke Saint-Vire at the gaming tables.
- Léon Bonnard
The page, now neatly dressed, answers Avon's questions about his origins and serves wine at the gaming house, catching Saint-Vire's attention.
- Comte de Saint-Vire
Introduced as a heavy-browed, red-haired man who takes a keen interest in Léon, causing tension with Avon.
- Hugh Davenant
Present at the gaming tables, he tries to deflect attention from Léon and advises Avon to send the boy away.
- Lavoulère
A foppish gentleman who comments on Léon's striking appearance and questions Avon about his family.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Mentioned as Avon's mad brother, possibly in a sponging house or living on Edward Marling's bounty.
- Lady Fanny Marling
Mentioned as Avon's sister, married to Edward Marling, and fond of Avon.
- Edward Marling
Mentioned as Lady Fanny's husband, upon whose bounty Rupert may be living.
Key passages
“I am Léon Bonnard, Monseigneur. My mother was the Mère Bonnard, and my father—”
Léon introduces himself as the son of the Mère and Père Bonnard.
Léon states his parentage during Avon's interrogation.
“My mother had once a daughter who died. Then—then I came.”
Léon explains that his mother had a daughter who died before he was born.
Léon reveals a detail about his family history.
“He is almost unique, my dear Comte. Pray look your fill.”
Avon invites Saint-Vire to examine Léon, implying the boy is a rare specimen.
Avon taunts Saint-Vire by drawing attention to Léon.
“Your page is of no interest to me, m’sieur.”
Saint-Vire dismisses Avon's provocation, claiming indifference to the page.
Saint-Vire attempts to deflect Avon's goading.
