The Prince and the Pauper, Chapter 20 summary

What happens

1. The King flees into dense woods, struggles through gathering darkness, and finds a light in a small hut.
2. The hermit welcomes him as a ruler who abandons worldly power, ignoring his attempts to explain.
3. The hermit claims heavenly rank and blames the King who dissolved his religious house for ruining his destiny.
4. His manner softens, and he treats the boy's injuries, feeds him, and puts him to bed.
5. Learning that the boy is Henry's son, the hermit sharpens a butcher knife and approaches the bed with it raised.
6. He withdraws to prevent an outcry, then binds the sleeping King's ankles, wrists, and jaw.

In this chapter

What to notice

The hermit connects his grievance against Henry to the helpless boy. The line exposes the blame driving his preparations.

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