These Old Shades · Chapter
XXV: Léonie Curtsies to the Polite World explained
Léonie makes her debut at a grand ball hosted by the Duke of Avon.
What happens
Léonie makes her debut at a grand ball hosted by the Duke of Avon. She is presented to high society, dances with the Prince de Condé and the Comte de Brionne, and captivates the guests with her charm and innocence. Lady Fanny orchestrates her success, while Avon observes from the sidelines. The chapter highlights Léonie's preparation, her interactions with notable figures, and the admiration she garners.
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 Falling 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
- Social Class and Scandal
Léonie's debut and the mystery surrounding her origins intrigue the aristocracy, emphasizing the importance of birth and reputation in high society.
- Identity and Disguise
Léonie's dual identity as Léon and her presentation as Avon's ward create an undercurrent of hidden truth beneath her social success.
- Power and Control
Avon orchestrates the ball and Léonie's introductions, demonstrating his influence over social perceptions and events.
Characters to notice
- Léonie de Bonnard
The debutante at the center of the ball, presented as Avon's ward, charming guests with her naive and engaging manner.
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Léonie's guardian, orchestrates her introduction to high society and ensures her success at the ball.
- Lady Fanny Marling
Assists in preparing Léonie for the ball and manages the social proceedings, delighted by Léonie's triumph.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Avon's rakish brother, dances with Léonie and is tasked by Avon to lead out Mademoiselle de Vauvallon.
- Prince de Condé
Young prince who dances with Léonie first, enchanted by her frank enjoyment and arranges a later meeting.
- Comte de Brionne
Presented to Léonie by Lady Fanny, amused by her naive questions and helps identify notable guests.
- Hugh Davenant
Present in the cardroom, deflects questions about Léonie's origins and sends her a bouquet.
- Duc de Penthièvre
Arrives late, dances with Léonie, and remarks on her impact on the débutantes.
Key passages
“Condé, accustomed to débutantes who were properly bored, was enchanted with this frank enjoyment.”
Condé, used to debutantes acting disinterested, was delighted by Léonie's genuine excitement.
Highlights Léonie's refreshing innocence compared to typical societal expectations.
“She is like someone. I cannot think who it may be. I have racked my brains, but it eludes me.”
She reminds me of someone, but I cannot recall who.
Foreshadows the mystery of Léonie's identity and possible connections.
“I have the honour to present to you Mademoiselle de Bonnard, madame, my brother’s ward.”
I present Mademoiselle de Bonnard, my brother's ward.
Formal introduction that establishes Léonie's social position as Avon's ward.
