The Meaning of Betrayal

The novel asks whom its characters betray when friendship, family, nation and conscience demand incompatible forms of loyalty.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Legat Leaves Pamela

Private Loyalty Interrupted An Anniversary Abandoned Legat leaves Pamela at lunch to answer the call of government. Duty’s Cost His public role repeatedly claims the time and attention that his marriage needs.

Hartmann’s Party Membership

Access Through Compromise Career Accommodation Hartmann joins the Party to rise within the diplomatic service. The Moral Price His ability to work inside the regime depends on outward loyalty to a cause he increasingly opposes.

A Friend Betrayed

Legat and Leyna A Private Crossing Legat’s brief affair with Leyna betrays Hartmann’s friendship. Long Remorse The old act returns as the men rebuild trust under far more consequential circumstances.

The State’s Demand

Evidence Against Protocol Legat Acts Without Permission He helps Hartmann reach Chamberlain, risking his career and the conference’s confidence. Official Disappointment The Prime Minister condemns the breach, leaving Legat to choose whether proper procedure was more important than warning.

A Country Not Abandoned

Hartmann Remains Exile Refused Legat offers to help Hartmann escape Germany, but Hartmann insists he is not a traitor to his country. Loyalty Reconsidered His resistance distinguishes loyalty to Germany from obedience to its government.

27 September 1938, afternoon

Before September 1938

Summer 1932, remembered in Munich

29 September 1938, night

30 September 1938, night