# IV: Her Ladyship's Perplexity explained — The Great Roxhythe

> Chapter companion for The Great Roxhythe by Georgette Heyer.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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