This final division is almost, in itself, a short-story, and with very
little work on the author’s part might have contributed to a brief
narrative of decided power. At the end of so long a one, its value
diminishes; for the dénouement is out of proportion, even out of line,
with the beginning of the narrative.
What does the incident of Magin’s finding the knife mean?
Study the struggle between the two men.
The superb climactic speech of Gaston compels admiration: “This at
least I can do--for that great lady, far away.”
The method of the novelist is again used, by way of epilogue, when the
author turns to the peasant on the bluff.