The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
I: The King and His Favourite explained
King Charles II summons his favourite, Lord Roxhythe, to his private closet to discuss a secret plan.
What happens
King Charles II summons his favourite, Lord Roxhythe, to his private closet to discuss a secret plan. The King is in financial straits and seeks to avoid dependence on Louis XIV by turning to his nephew, William of Orange. He proposes to use Roxhythe as his envoy to the Hague to negotiate with William, aiming to overthrow De Witt and make William Stadtholder in exchange for yearly tribute to England. Roxhythe expresses skepticism about the scheme and the trustworthiness of Buckingham and Ashley, but agrees to serve the King.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because Christopher experiences a profound emotional and psychological…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Political Intrigue and Espionage
The King's secret plan to use William of Orange as a pawn against De Witt and Louis XIV, and Roxhythe's role as a covert envoy, highlight the intricate political maneuvering at court.
- Loyalty and Betrayal
Roxhythe's unwavering loyalty to Charles is contrasted with the King's distrust of Buckingham and Ashley, and the potential betrayal of William of Orange's trust.
- Power and Ambition
Charles's ambition to secure his throne and financial independence, and his willingness to manipulate his nephew for power, drive the chapter's conflict.
Characters to notice
- Lord Roxhythe
Summoned by the King, he is the trusted favourite who reluctantly agrees to undertake a secret mission to the Hague.
- King Charles II
Reveals his financial desperation and his plan to use William of Orange to gain independence from Louis XIV, showing his manipulative and cynical side.
- Mrs. Chester
A lady of the Queen's household with whom Roxhythe exchanges flirtatious banter before being called to the King.
- William of Orange
Discussed as the King's nephew and potential pawn in the scheme to overthrow De Witt and become Stadtholder.
- Lord Ashley-Cooper
Mentioned as being partially in the plot, though the King does not trust him with the full plan.
- Buckingham
Another confidant of the King in the scheme, but Roxhythe warns the King against trusting him too much.
Key passages
“If I do not obtain money soon I am like to be in a worse one. This Dutch alliance is of no use to me.”
The King admits he is desperate for funds and that the current alliance with the Dutch is unhelpful.
Charles reveals his financial predicament, setting the stage for his risky plan.
“I would not press you, David. I but request.”
The King says he is not forcing Roxhythe, only asking for his help.
Charles uses a gentle tone to secure Roxhythe's loyalty, knowing he cannot refuse.
“I never yet met a statesman I could not bribe.”
The King claims he has always been able to corrupt any politician with money or favors.
Charles's cynical view of politics underscores his manipulative approach to diplomacy.
