# His Grace of Avon Astonishes Everyone for the Last Time explained — These Old Shades

> Chapter companion for These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters/xxxii-his-grace-of-avon-astonishes-everyone-for-the-last-time
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters