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Cover of By Right of Sword

By Right of Sword

Written by Arthur W. Marchmont

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Adventure storiesBritishImpostors and impostureMoscow (Russia)

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About this book

"By Right of Sword" by Arthur W. Marchmont is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Hamylton Tregethner, an Englishman who finds himself entangled in a dangerous situation in Russia that involves mistaken identity, dueling, and political intrigue. As he adopts the persona of a cowardly Russian officer named Alexis Petrovitch, he navigates the complexities of his new life and the perils that come with it. At the start of the novel, Tregethner receives a letter from his friend Rupert expressing despair over a romantic relationship, which leads him to reflect on his own troubles. While waiting for a train in Moscow, he unexpectedly encounters a young woman who mistakenly identifies him as her brother, Alexis, who is in danger due to a duel he must face. This chance meeting propels Tregethner into a decision to impersonate Alexis to help protect him, diving into a web of espionage and personal courage forcefully intertwined with love and loyalty. The opening successfully establishes themes of identity, conflict, and ambition, setting the stage for a gripping tale of adventure.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in By Right of Sword, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • adventurous
  • suspenseful
  • intriguing

Arthur W. Marchmont's "By Right of Sword" plunges Hamylton Tregethner, an Englishman, into a perilous web of mistaken identity and political intrigue in late 19th-century Russia. After a chance encounter in Moscow, Tregethner assumes the persona of the cowardly Russian officer Alexis Petrovitch to protect him from a dangerous duel. This act of selfless courage propels him into a world of espionage, where he must navigate complex loyalties and life-threatening situations while maintaining his elaborate deception. The novel masterfully intertwines themes of identity, honor, and love, setting the stage for a gripping adventure as Tregethner's true character is tested under extreme pressure. Ultimately, it explores the transformative power of circumstance and the lengths one will go for justice and affection.

“It is not the sword in your hand, but the courage in your heart, that defines the right.”

Key themes

Identity and Impersonation
The central theme of the novel, explored through Hamylton Tregethner's decision to assume the identity of Alexis Petrovitch. This act forces questions about the nature of self, the performance of identity, and whether one's true character can be hidden or revealed through another's persona.
Courage vs. Cowardice
This theme is central to the moral conflict of the story. Tregethner impersonates a man known for his cowardice, forcing him to confront what true courage means, both in action and in reputation. It challenges the idea that courage is an inherent trait, suggesting it can be a choice made under duress.
Political Intrigue and Espionage
The dangerous backdrop against which Tregethner's personal adventure unfolds. The novel delves into the murky world of late 19th-century Russian politics, secret societies, and the constant threat of betrayal and surveillance, highlighting the high stakes involved in challenging the established order.

Worth discussing

How does Tregethner's initial act of impersonation evolve from a simple rescue to a profound moral commitment?

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