The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
II: The Coming of William explained
Roxhythe and King Charles II discuss the impending marriage of Lady Mary to William of Orange, with Charles expressing hope for peace and concern over Louis XIV's reaction.
What happens
Roxhythe and King Charles II discuss the impending marriage of Lady Mary to William of Orange, with Charles expressing hope for peace and concern over Louis XIV's reaction. The chapter details William's arrival at Whitehall, his formal presentation to the court, and his strained interactions. Meanwhile, Christopher Dart and his brother Roderick have a tense dinner conversation about Christopher's loyalty to Roxhythe and his secretive activities in Flanders.
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 Rising action.
- 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 marriage scheme is a political maneuver to counter Louis XIV, and Christopher's secretive activities in Flanders suggest espionage.
- Power and Ambition
Charles balances alliances with William and Louis, while Danby's patriotism is seen as a tool for political gain.
- Appearance vs. Reality
William's plain dress contrasts with the court's opulence, and Christopher's cheerful demeanor hides deeper tensions.
Characters to notice
- Lord Roxhythe
Discusses the marriage scheme with the King, walks in the Privy Gardens, and later stands by the Queen during William's arrival.
- King Charles II
Walks with Roxhythe, discusses the marriage and political concerns, and formally welcomes William of Orange.
- William of Orange
Arrives at Whitehall, is presented to the court, and later retires to his bedchamber, showing discomfort with the lavish surroundings.
- Roderick Dart
Presented to the King during William's arrival, later dines with Christopher and questions him about his loyalty to Roxhythe.
- Christopher Dart
Dines with Roderick, defends his loyalty to Roxhythe, and deflects questions about his activities in Flanders.
- Lord Danby
Brings news of Buckingham's submission and Shaftesbury's obduracy, and is described by Charles as a waverer.
- Lady Mary
Mentioned as the intended bride for William, described as a child and foolish by Charles.
- Duke of York
Present near the King during William's arrival, and his daughter Mary is discussed in the marriage scheme.
Key passages
“My dear David, it is a marvellous scheme.”
Roxhythe praises the marriage plan to the King.
Opens the chapter with Roxhythe's approval of the political marriage.
“He has refused hitherto, but this time I think he will consent.”
Charles believes William will agree to the marriage now.
Shows Charles's confidence in the diplomatic move.
“I am honoured to be invited once more to Whitehall, Sir.”
William formally greets the King upon arrival.
William's first words in the chapter, highlighting his formal demeanor.
“My lord commands my love and loyalty.”
Christopher declares his enduring loyalty to Roxhythe.
Christopher defends his relationship with Roxhythe to Roderick.
“No Dart ever acted treacherously towards his Country.”
Roderick asserts the family's honor and loyalty.
Roderick's belief in the Dart family's integrity.
