These Old Shades · Chapter
His Grace of Avon Becomes Further Acquainted with His Page explained
Léon becomes more accustomed to his luxurious new life in Paris, fiercely defending the Duke of Avon against the household staff who criticize him.
What happens
Léon becomes more accustomed to his luxurious new life in Paris, fiercely defending the Duke of Avon against the household staff who criticize him. Gaston the valet recounts how Avon ruined a young nobleman at cards in Vienna. At a ball, the Comte de Saint-Vire questions Léon about his origins, and later Avon gently interrogates Léon about the encounter. Léon confesses his love for the Duke, and Avon invites him to talk, learning about Léon's past in Anjou.
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
- Identity and Disguise
Léon's mysterious origins are probed by Saint-Vire, and Avon's cryptic responses hint at hidden truths about the page's identity.
- Power and Control
Avon's calm, soft-spoken authority over his household and his manipulation of social interactions demonstrate his control, while Gaston's tale reveals the ruthless power of wealth and gambling.
- Love and Sacrifice
Léon's unwavering loyalty and declaration of love for Avon contrast with the Duke's admission of never having loved anyone, highlighting the theme of sacrificial devotion.
Characters to notice
- Léon the Page
Léon continues to adapt to Parisian high society, fiercely loyal to the Duke, and reveals his love for Avon during a private conversation.
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Avon observes Léon's loyalty, questions him about Saint-Vire's interrogation, and shows an unusual interest in the boy's past.
- Comte de Saint-Vire
Saint-Vire confronts Léon at the ball, asking about his birthplace, and later brushes past Avon in the ballroom.
- Gaston
Gaston, the Duke's valet, tries to turn Léon against Avon by recounting how Avon ruined a young nobleman at cards in Vienna.
- Madame Dubois
The housekeeper, Madame Dubois, defends Léon's youth and loyalty, and allows him to chatter.
- Florimond de Chantourelle
Florimond converses with Avon at the ball, mentioning Saint-Vire's interest in the page and the enmity between Saint-Vire and his brother Armand.
Key passages
“Mon petit, it is ridiculous. It is unthinkable. Même, it is outrageous. It is against all custom. The Duke, he is not human. Some call him Satanas, and mon Dieu, they have reason!”
Gaston insists that it is absurd and improper for Léon to defend the Duke, whom he and others consider inhuman and devilish.
Gaston's speech reveals the household's fear and resentment of Avon, contrasting with Léon's devotion.
“I am his dog. He is kind to me, and I love him.”
Léon declares his complete loyalty and affection for the Duke, comparing himself to a faithful dog.
This line underscores Léon's unconditional love and the theme of devotion.
“I only said that I loved you, Monseigneur.”
Léon repeats his declaration of love to Avon, who is taken aback by the sentiment.
This moment marks a rare emotional exchange between the Duke and his page.
