# Introducing the Comte de Saint-Vire explained — These Old Shades

> Chapter companion for These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters/ii-introducing-the-comte-de-saint-vire
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters