# XVIII: The Indignation of Mr. Manvers explained — These Old Shades

> Chapter companion for These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters/xviii-the-indignation-of-mr-manvers
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters