# Lord Rupert Makes the Acquaintance of Léonie explained — These Old Shades

> Chapter companion for These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

Lord Rupert Alastair visits the Court to meet his brother's ward, Léonie. He charms Madam Field and quickly befriends Léonie, who asks him to teach her fencing. During their conversation, Rupert reveals family secrets about Justin's past with Jennifer Merivale. Léonie fiercely defends the Duke when Rupert calls him a devil, chasing him with a foil before they reconcile. Rupert becomes her devoted companion.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Belonging

Rupert's visit and his candid discussion of family feuds (e.g., Justin vs. Merivale) highlight the fractured Alastair family dynamics.

### Gender Roles and Performance

Léonie's request to fence and her wearing of breeches challenge contemporary gender norms, while Rupert's amusement reflects a tolerant view.

### Identity and Disguise

Léonie's past as Justin's page is hinted at, and her dual nature as a girl who acts like a boy is central to her character.

## Character check-ins

### Lord Rupert Alastair

Visits the Court to meet Léonie, charms Madam Field, and becomes Léonie's fencing partner and friend.

### Léonie de Bonnard

Eagerly meets Rupert, asks him to teach her fencing, and fiercely defends the Duke of Avon against criticism.

### Madam Field

Receives Rupert cautiously, extracts a promise of decorum, and worries about Léonie's unladylike behavior.

### Justin, Duke of Avon

Mentioned as Rupert's brother and Léonie's guardian; his past with Jennifer Merivale is discussed.

### Jennifer Merivale

Mentioned as the woman Justin wanted to marry, causing a rift with Anthony Merivale.

### Julia Falkner

Mentioned as Rupert's former romantic interest, now abandoned.

## Key lines

> I am come to make the acquaintance of my brother's ward, cousin, as is fitting.

Rupert explains that his visit is a proper family duty to meet his brother's ward.

_Rupert uses this formal excuse to gain Madam Field's approval._

> Will you please fight me with a sword?

Léonie asks Rupert to fence with her.

_This request shows Léonie's adventurous and unconventional nature._

> I wanted to kill you. I will if you say things to me like that of Monseigneur.

Léonie threatens Rupert for insulting the Duke of Avon.

_Her fierce loyalty to Justin is demonstrated through this outburst._

## Links

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