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Chapter 26
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Kidnapped, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Political Conflict and National Identity
Trust and Betrayal
Justice vs. Injustice
Coming of Age
Summary
Analysis
David and Alan part ways for the day near Mr. Rankeillor’s home in Queensferry. Alan hides in the fields until nightfall while David walks into town alone, dressed in rags and unsure how to approach anyone. Lacking any proof of identity and fearing ridicule from the townspeople, he wanders the streets without speaking to anyone. Finally, a well-dressed man asks David what he is looking for. When David states his business, the man reveals himself as Mr. Rankeillor, the very lawyer David has come to see.
At this point, David has nothing and most rely on the goodwill of others to ensure his safety. Although he has gone through a large amount of personal growth throughout the novel, his circumstances are quite similar to those he experienced aboard the Covenant. Luckily, it seems that Mr. Rankeillor is far more understanding of his plight than Hoseason’s crew.
Themes
Rankeillor invites David into his home and listens to his story with a mixture of caution and growing interest. David explains who he is, names his parents, and recounts how his uncle Ebenezer and Captain Hoseason arranged to have him kidnapped and shipped off. The lawyer cross-references David’s answers with his own records and tells David that others, including Mr. Campbell, had already raised alarm at his disappearance. Rankeillor reveals that he no longer works for Ebenezer and has reason to distrust him. David, sensing that he has gained the lawyer’s trust, promises to tell the rest of his story—but only if Rankeillor swears to keep Alan’s name secret. Rankeillor agrees and suggests that David use pseudonyms to avoid the issue. Then, David continues his story, calling Alan “Mr. Thomson” and giving other Jacobite figures similarly false names.
In Rankeillor's home, the lawyer’s cross-referencing of David’s story establishes his professionalism and cautious nature. David's request to keep Alan’s name secret shows the weight of loyalty and the lengths David will go to protect his friend, even when doing so requires deception. This moment also speaks to the tension between truth and safety in a world where survival often necessitates falsehood. Rankeillor’s decision to honor this request and use pseudonyms for other figures further illustrates the moral compromises necessary for both protection and trust. Rankeillor understands exactly what has happened but wants to make sure that David’s legal bases are covered.
Themes
When David finishes, Rankeillor praises the tale as a full “Odyssey” and remarks on David’s loyalty to Alan despite the danger. Though he would prefer Alan safely out of the country, he respects David’s attachment and tells him that their troubles may soon end. David feels a deep sense of relief in the lawyer’s kindness and intelligence, especially after so long among outlaws and fugitives. Rankeillor, seeing David’s embarrassment over his clothing, offers him a bath, fresh clothes, and dinner. As David prepares to clean up and change, he feels the weight of his journey begin to lift—he has finally found safety, civility, and the promise of justice.
The comfort Rankeillor offers—food, fresh clothes, and a bath—marks a turning point for David. After so long in fear and danger, these small acts of care bring a sense of normalcy and relief. For David, it’s not just about physical comfort but about feeling human again, something he hasn’t had the luxury of experiencing for a long time. The care Rankeillor shows contrasts sharply with the violence and manipulation David has endured, offering a glimmer of hope for the future.
Themes
