Book of the duchess: Michael pleas for Raoul

Number 13: Michael pleads in vain with the duchess for the life of Raoul

The plot episode 12 (summarised from the text of Lorna’s novel)

Since he was known as the ring leader of the rebels, Michael knew that his plight was hopeless. There was now nothing that he could do to avoid execution. However, he thought it worth begging Duchess Jacqueline to at least spare the life of Raoul.

With Provost marshal Guillot, the leaders of the mercenaries, and a line of steel-clad men at arms within earshot of their conversation, it was impossible for Jacqueline to grant Michael’s wish.

Lorna’s remarks

This being the first picture ever drawn, it is not very successful.

Its chief faults are that: it was never thought of as a whole; an attempt was made to gain an effect without working for it, i.e. in the curtains; and it does not sufficiently explain itself. Without the presence of Raoul or some suggestion of him, there is no reason why anyone would suppose that he had anything to do with the imploring figure. See picture 16 and compare.