The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
III: Her Ladyship explained
The negotiations between France and England stall, leading Roxhythe to amuse himself with Lady Crewe.
What happens
The negotiations between France and England stall, leading Roxhythe to amuse himself with Lady Crewe. The arrival of Lady Frances Montgomery, Roxhythe's cousin and former potential match, stirs London society. At her reception, Roxhythe presents his secretary Christopher Dart, who instantly falls in love with her. Roxhythe and Frances share a private, witty reunion, revealing their deep but platonic bond.
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 stalled Franco-English negotiations and Roxhythe's secret visits to Paris highlight the clandestine diplomacy of the era.
- Love and Obsession
Christopher Dart's instant infatuation with Lady Frances and Roxhythe's witty but platonic bond with her explore different facets of love.
- Appearance vs. Reality
Roxhythe's public flirtation with Lady Crewe contrasts with his private, genuine friendship with Frances; Christopher's idealization of Frances clashes with Roxhythe's knowing 'minx' remark.
Characters to notice
- Lord Roxhythe
Resumes negotiations with France, flirts with Lady Crewe, and reunites with his cousin Lady Frances Montgomery at her reception.
- Lady Frances Montgomery
Returns from Spain and hosts a reception where she reconnects with Roxhythe and captivates Christopher Dart.
- Christopher Dart
Accompanies Roxhythe to Lady Frances's reception and falls in love with her at first sight.
- Lady Crewe
A young bride who becomes Roxhythe's amusement during the lull in negotiations.
- Sir Jasper Montgomery
Lady Frances's husband, recalled from Spain, appears briefly at the reception.
Key passages
“Thus began the negotiations between the Kings of France and England. They were necessarily slow, and they entailed many journeys for the favourite to and from Paris.”
The secret talks between Charles II and Louis XIV started slowly, requiring Roxhythe to travel frequently to Paris.
Sets the stage for the Treaty of Dover negotiations.
“She was young, beautiful and rather unsophisticated. She was very much in love with her husband, but she was flattered by Roxhythe’s attentions.”
Lady Crewe, a new bride, was innocent and devoted to her husband yet enjoyed Roxhythe's flirtation.
Highlights Roxhythe's charm and the social games of the court.
“Christopher fell in love with her on the spot.”
Christopher instantly became infatuated with Lady Frances.
Marks the beginning of Christopher's romantic obsession.
“You know, I am very glad I did not marry you. So am I, said my lord. We should have quarrelled. ’Tis ever the way when both have wit.”
Frances and Roxhythe agree that their similar intelligence would have led to constant conflict, so they are better as friends.
Reveals the nature of their deep, platonic relationship.
