These Old Shades · Chapter
The Hand of Madame de Verchoureux explained
Léonie's social triumph in Paris continues, but she is confronted with the truth of her parentage when Madame de Verchoureux reveals that she is the illegitimate daughter of the Comte de Saint-Vire.
What happens
Léonie's social triumph in Paris continues, but she is confronted with the truth of her parentage when Madame de Verchoureux reveals that she is the illegitimate daughter of the Comte de Saint-Vire. Léonie struggles with the implications for her relationship with Avon, fearing that her low birth would disgrace him. Meanwhile, Lady Fanny inadvertently hints that Avon is in love with Léonie, causing Léonie emotional turmoil. The chapter also features the arrival of Milor Merivale, who discusses the aftermath of Léonie's abduction with Avon.
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
- Identity and Disguise
Léonie's true parentage is revealed, shattering her self-perception and forcing her to confront a hidden identity as Saint-Vire's illegitimate daughter.
- Social Class and Scandal
The chapter explores the rigid class boundaries of 18th-century Parisian society, as Léonie fears that her low birth will disgrace Avon and ruin his reputation.
- Love and Sacrifice
Léonie's love for Avon leads her to consider sacrificing her own happiness to avoid dragging him down in society's eyes.
- Power and Control
Madame de Verchoureux attempts to manipulate Léonie by revealing her parentage, while Avon maintains control over the situation by keeping the secret from Léonie until now.
Characters to notice
- Léonie de Bonnard
Learns from Madame de Verchoureux that she is the illegitimate daughter of Saint-Vire; struggles with the fear that her birth will prevent a future with Avon.
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Observes Léonie's distress but remains composed; discusses Saint-Vire's reaction and his own plans with Merivale.
- Lady Fanny Marling
Accompanies Léonie in society and inadvertently reveals to Léonie that Avon is in love with her, causing Léonie's emotional crisis.
- Hugh Davenant
Intervenes to stop a quarrel between young admirers over Léonie.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Offers to escort Léonie home; greets Merivale warmly.
- Comte de Saint-Vire
Revealed as Léonie's biological father; his displeasure at her success is noted by Avon.
- Madame de Verchoureux
Confronts Léonie and reveals the secret of her parentage, taunting her about Avon's intentions.
- Milor Merivale
Arrives from London to see Léonie; discusses the abduction and Saint-Vire with Avon.
Key passages
“Oh, splendidly done, my love! What a duchess you will make, to be sure!”
Lady Fanny exclaims that Léonie will become a duchess, hinting at Avon's intentions.
This remark triggers Léonie's realization of Avon's feelings and her own social anxieties.
“All Paris knows, and you are ignorant!”
Madame de Verchoureux claims that everyone in Paris is aware of Léonie's true parentage.
This revelation forces Léonie to confront the scandal of her birth.
“Monseigneur has no love for those who are lowborn. Many, many times I have heard him say so.”
Léonie recalls Avon's disdain for lowborn individuals, deepening her fear that he would not marry her.
This internal conflict highlights the theme of social class and love.
