The Scarlet Pimpernel to obey", is engaged in rescuing their French counterparts from the daily executions of the Reign of Terror. Their leader, the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel, takes his nickname from the small red flower he draws on his messages. Despite being the talk of London society, only his followers and possibly the Prince of Wales know the Pimpernel's true identity. Like many others, Marguerite is entranced by the Pimpernel's daring exploits. At a ball attended by the Blakeneys, a verse by Percy about the "elusive Pimpernel" makes the rounds and amuses the other guests. Meanwhile, Marguerite is blackmailed by Citizen Chauvelin, the
Cardinals created by Benedict XV Austrian Cardinal Andreas Frühwirth, who was made a cardinal at the preceding consistory, received his red hat from Pius a few days earlier. In deference to wartime conditions, Benedict created Adolph Bertram a cardinal "in pectore", that is, without his name being announced. Bertram's Polish homeland was fighting alongside Germany and Austria-Hungary against Italy and its allies. Benedict created six cardinals on 15 December 1919, three Italians, two Poles, and one Spaniard. All attended but Juan Soldevilla y Romero, Archbishop of Zaragoza, who received his red hat from King Alfonso XIII of Spain on 25 December. Bertram, created a cardinal