These Old Shades · Chapter
His Grace of Avon Astonishes Everyone for the Last Time explained
The chapter opens with the Duke of Avon's family and friends anxiously awaiting news of him and Léonie, who have been missing for over a week.
What happens
The chapter opens with the Duke of Avon's family and friends anxiously awaiting news of him and Léonie, who have been missing for over a week. Avon eventually returns with Léonie, now married, and presents her as his Duchess. The household rejoices, and Madame de Saint-Vire is reconciled with her daughter.
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 Resolution.
- 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
- Family and Belonging
The reunion of Léonie with her mother and the acceptance into Avon's family highlight the theme of belonging.
- Love and Sacrifice
Avon's journey to find Léonie and their secret marriage demonstrate love and personal sacrifice.
- Redemption and Moral Complexity
Madame de Saint-Vire's confession and the resolution of past wrongs suggest redemption.
Characters to notice
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Returns with Léonie as his wife, presenting her as his Duchess.
- Léonie de Bonnard
Returns married to Avon, joyfully embraces her new role as Duchess.
- Hugh Davenant
Expresses relief and happiness at Avon's return and marriage.
- Lady Fanny Marling
Anxious over Avon's absence, overjoyed at the marriage.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Optimistic about Avon's success, toasts the new Duchess.
- Armand de Saint-Vire
Frequent visitor seeking news, grateful for Avon's actions.
- Madame de Saint-Vire
Appears in the doorway, reconciled with Léonie.
- Anthony Merivale
Visits to check for news, congratulates Avon.
Key passages
“My dear Comte, I have not seen Justin since that terrible night.”
Fanny tells Armand she hasn't seen Avon since the night of the abduction.
Highlights the ongoing anxiety over Avon's disappearance.
“I have the honour to present to you all—my Duchess.”
Avon introduces Léonie as his wife.
Climactic moment revealing the marriage.
“You have learned to love another better than yourself at last, and I believe that you will make your Duchess a good husband.”
Hugh tells Avon he has finally learned to love someone else more than himself.
Shows Avon's character growth.
