There was a silence. Then: ‘What you are saying,’ said…
““There was a silence. Then: ‘What you are saying,’ said Philippa slowly, ‘is that the child Khaireddin would be better unfound?’ The Dame de Doubtance said nothing. ‘Or are you saying,’ pursued Philippa, inimical from the reedy brown crown of her head to her mud-caked cloth stockings, ‘that you and I and Lymond and Lymond’s mother and Lymond’s brother and Graham Malett would be better off if he weren’t discovered?’ ‘Now that,’ said the Dame de Doubtance with satisfaction, ‘is precisely what I was saying.’ ‘How can I find him?’ said Philippa.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character questions whether revealing a child's identity will cause more harm than good, highlighting moral ambiguity in protection versus truth.
In simple terms: Questioning if hiding a child protects or harms.
Key Takeaway
Consider the consequences before revealing hidden truths.
Themes
morality
family
secrets
protection
truth
Mood
tension
uncertainty
thoughtful
Type
dialogue
philosophical
When to use this quote
- family crisis
- legal custody
- war zones
- political intrigue
Key Concepts
ethical dilemma
parental responsibility
consequences
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the risks of keeping secrets?
- When is truth more harmful than protective?
A Different Perspective
Revealing truth may cause immediate danger despite good intentions.