Ivanhoe Chapter 36

The Templar president, Albert Malvoisin is the brother of Philip de Malvoisin, and one of Bois-Guilbert's cronies. His corruption is remarkable, as is his hypocrisy. He fools the Grand Master with his apologies and remorse. But finding out that Albert harbored a Jewess, who was a mistress of a Templar, gives great offense to the Grand Master. Albert tells him that he took in the Jewess in an effort to keep the lovers apart, and insists he knew nothing of her sorcery. Beaumanoir criticizes his naivety, and pities Bois-Guilbert, whom he believes to be under a spell. The Grand Master announces she will be killed. Albert interjects that this violates the English laws, but the Grand Master does not see it that way. He holds his power as judge absolute, and orders a trial.

Albert goes to find Bois-Guilbert. The Templar had just again had his advances rebuffed by Rebecca, and he complains to Albert about her stubborn race. He tells him that the secret is out, and he must repent from Rebecca, and allow her her punishment. Bois-Guilbert recoils from the idea, but Albert tells him Beaumanoir has deemed her death a penance for the sinful Templars. Bois-Guilbert cannot believe the bigotry of his order. He asks Albert to help Rebecca escape, but he refuses. Albert counsels him to give her up, or else he will be expelled from the order, and lose all his power and influence. He sees no other way for his enraptured friend. Bois-Guilbert comes around, especially since Rebecca has given him no hope of future love. But when Albert leaves him, Bois-Guilbert decides to make one attempt to save his love.

Topic Tracking: Prejudice 13
Topic Tracking: Loyalty 17

The real reason for the execution, Mont-Fitchet explains, is that Bois-Guilbert is too important to the order. They cannot afford to lose him, so they must rid him of the girl. There is little proof in support of the charges being leveled against Rowena, so Mont-Fitchet asks Albert to "find" some, in exchange for a better post. Truth and justice are not important for their ends, as long as evidence of some kind is produced. Now Rebecca is brought to the chamber, the poor girl relieved at the thought of having her life in a fair judge's hands. As she passes through the crowd, someone sneaks a piece of paper into her hand. She does not look at it, but is relieved to have a friend in the crowd.