Beau Brocade facts for kids
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| Author | Baroness Orczy |
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| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Historical novel |
| Publisher | Greening & Co |
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Publication date
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1907 |
| Media type | Print (hardback & paperback) |
| Pages | 307 pp |
Beau Brocade is an exciting adventure novel written by Baroness Orczy in 1907. It's a historical story, meaning it takes place in the past. The book was so popular that it was turned into a play in 1908 and even a silent film in 1916. The story is inspired by an older poem called The Ballad of Beau Brocade from 1892.
Contents
What is Beau Brocade About?
A Time of Trouble in Derbyshire
The story takes place in Derbyshire, England, after a big conflict. Soldiers loyal to King George are searching for people who went against him. They are offering a reward for anyone they call a "traitor." It's a dangerous time for anyone suspected of not supporting the King.
Philip's Secret Identity
Our main character is Philip Gascoyne, a nobleman. He is in big trouble because he has been wrongly accused of being a traitor. Sir Humphrey Challoner is the one who made these false accusations. Philip is now hiding and pretending to be someone else to stay safe.
He has been on the run for months, wearing simple clothes and hiding in different places. He doesn't trust anyone. Luckily, a kind blacksmith named John Stitch offers him a safe place to stay. Philip pretends to be John's nephew. He desperately needs to send a secret message to his sister, Lady Patience Gascoyne.
The Mysterious Highwayman
John the blacksmith also knows a famous masked highwayman named Beau Brocade. A highwayman is someone who stops coaches on the road to rob people. But Beau Brocade is different; he steals from the rich to help the poor. The government has offered a large reward for his capture.
Beau Brocade is actually Captain Jack Bathurst, a brave soldier. He is a bit sad, but he is known for his daring acts.
A Dangerous Delivery
John the blacksmith asks Beau Brocade to deliver Philip's important letter to his sister, Lady Patience. A few days later, Lady Patience arrives at the blacksmith's shop in her coach. Philip is so happy to see his beloved sister again.
Philip gives Patience a packet of letters. These letters are very important because they prove he is innocent and not a traitor. He asks her to take them to London to clear his name.
Just as they are talking about when she can leave, they spot Sir Humphrey's coach in the distance. Philip quickly goes back into hiding. Lady Patience decides to head to a nearby inn in Aldwark village. She plans to rest for a couple of hours before starting her important journey to London.
