If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you…
"Ah! Chauvelin," said the Scarlet Pimpernel. "I was wondering when you might turn up. My dear fellow, what is that cravat? You know I would retie it for you properly if I could?" He shook his arms gently. The chains rattled.
Chauvelin entered the cell. His mouth twitched in reflexive annoyance that did nothing to dim the light of triumph in his eyes.
"You're looking uncommonly happy, my dear sir," said the Pimpernel. "Plots going right for a change?"
"Oh, no," said Chauvelin, more pleasantly than was his wont. "I think you'll find there are no plots, sir. Merely justice being carried out as it ought. All of today's executions right on schedule—and the Scarlet Pimpernel within my grasp!"
"Well, proceed with plans, I suppose," said Sir Percy, drawling imperturbably. "I presume my execution is the next business of the day?"
"Oh, I'm not executing you yet. Something special planned, you know. Today I just wanted to tell you—" he leaned closer, almost whispering in the other's ear— "that, once again, you really must choose better allies. Betrayal, from one of your oh-so-secret, oh-so-loyal band?" Sarcasm dripped from his tongue. "It was bribery that got this one, Pimpernel. You really must be less trusting—it will be your downfall. Oh! Wait!" He drew back to smirk in the other man's face, "It already has been."
"Hmm…" said Sir Percy, conversationally, never losing the gleam in his eye, "that's really to bad. You're absolutely right, sir; I will take more care next time in choosing a replacement for our unfortunate traitor."
"There won't be a next time!" Chauvelin snarled. "What about this situation don't you understand, Blakeney? I've won!"
"Oh!" he returned, with affected surprise. "Congratulations, then, on your glorious victory. Shall I see you tomorrow? I really don't know what I'd do without these little chats. The boredom," he sniffed disdainfully, "would kill me."
Growling helplessly, Chauvelin strode out, slamming the door behind him. Alone in his cell, the Scarlet Pimpernel smiled.