The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
IV: Her Ladyship's Perplexity explained
Lady Frances Montgomery discusses Christopher Dart's service under Lord Roxhythe with her husband Sir Jasper, expressing her belief that Roxhythe is far more clever and politically astute than he appears.
What happens
Lady Frances Montgomery discusses Christopher Dart's service under Lord Roxhythe with her husband Sir Jasper, expressing her belief that Roxhythe is far more clever and politically astute than he appears. She argues that Roxhythe's frivolous demeanor is a mask to better serve King Charles II, while Sir Jasper remains skeptical. Later, she reads a letter from her friend Aimée de St. Morny suggesting Roxhythe is romantically involved with Madame d'Orléans, deepening her perplexity.
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
- Appearance vs. Reality
Lady Frances argues that Roxhythe's frivolous demeanor is a deliberate mask concealing his true cleverness and political acumen, contrasting with Sir Jasper's perception of him as a simple court gallant.
- Political Intrigue and Espionage
The conversation centers on Roxhythe's potential role as a secret plotter serving the King, highlighting the pervasive intrigue at Whitehall.
Characters to notice
- Lady Frances Montgomery
Expresses her perplexity about Christopher Dart's loyalty to Roxhythe and her conviction that Roxhythe is a clever plotter hiding behind a mask of frivolity.
- Sir Jasper Montgomery
Dismisses Lady Frances's suspicions about Roxhythe, viewing him as a typical courtier and a source of amusement for the King.
- Lord Roxhythe
Discussed at length; Lady Frances believes he is a cunning political operator feigning ignorance, while Sir Jasper sees him as a harmless gallant.
- Christopher Dart
Mentioned as Roxhythe's secretary; Lady Frances notes his honesty and honor, finding it puzzling that he serves Roxhythe.
- Madame d'Orléans
Referenced in a letter from Aimée de St. Morny as the object of Roxhythe's romantic attentions.
Key passages
“Roxhythe acts a part. Of that I am assured. In his position a man sees many things about Whitehall. Yet he is ever ignorant. He is always indifferent, cynical; he knows nothing. If one speaks of intrigue, he fences, and is flippant.”
Lady Frances believes Roxhythe is deliberately playing a role, pretending ignorance and indifference to hide his true knowledge of court intrigue.
Illustrates the theme of appearance vs. reality and Lady Frances's insight into Roxhythe's character.
“One day you’ll know I was right, Jasper. And you will marvel, even as I do, that Christopher Dart was ever in his service.”
Lady Frances predicts that Sir Jasper will eventually realize she was correct about Roxhythe's true nature and will be surprised that an honest man like Christopher Dart served him.
Highlights Lady Frances's conviction and her concern for Christopher Dart's moral integrity.
