These Old Shades · Chapter
XVIII: The Indignation of Mr. Manvers explained
The Duke of Avon reveals that Léonie has been taken to France by the Comte de Saint-Vire, and that Lord Rupert is in pursuit.
What happens
The Duke of Avon reveals that Léonie has been taken to France by the Comte de Saint-Vire, and that Lord Rupert is in pursuit. Avon explains to Merivale that Léonie is actually Saint-Vire's daughter, the result of a child exchange. Amidst Mr. Manvers' frantic demands for his stolen horse, Avon prepares to follow to France, leaving behind a reconciled Jennifer and a stunned household.
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 Rising action.
- 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
The revelation that Léonie is Saint-Vire's daughter and the child exchange with Bonnard underscores the theme of hidden identities.
- Family and Belonging
Léonie's true parentage and the deception surrounding her upbringing highlight questions of family and belonging.
- Redemption and Moral Complexity
Avon's past enmity with Merivale is set aside, and Jennifer's forgiveness suggests a path toward redemption.
Characters to notice
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Reveals Léonie's true parentage and Saint-Vire's abduction; prepares to pursue to France.
- Léonie de Bonnard
Revealed to be Saint-Vire's daughter; has been taken to France by Saint-Vire.
- Comte de Saint-Vire
Abducts Léonie and takes her to France; revealed to be her father.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Has been staying with the Merivales; is in pursuit of Saint-Vire and Léonie.
- Jennifer Merivale
Shows concern for Léonie and reconciles with Avon, acknowledging his changed heart.
- Anthony Merivale
Learns the truth about Léonie's parentage from Avon; assists in the household.
- Madam Field
Hysterical over the apparent elopement; calmed by Jennifer.
- Mr. Marling
Demands the return of his horse, which Rupert took; indignant throughout.
Key passages
“Léonie is Saint-Vire's daughter.”
Léonie is the Comte de Saint-Vire's biological daughter.
Avon reveals the secret of Léonie's parentage to Merivale.
“He has her hard on his heels—and me.”
Rupert is pursuing Saint-Vire, and Avon will follow.
Avon explains that Rupert is chasing Saint-Vire and that he will join the pursuit.
“I am weary of your horse. It has served its turn, and shall be restored to you.”
Avon dismisses Mr. Manvers' complaints about his horse, promising its return.
Avon brushes off Mr. Manvers' demands, indicating the horse's role in the escape.
