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The Great Roxhythe · Chapter

IX: The King of England explained

Lord Roxhythe returns to Whitehall and reports to King Charles II on his failed mission to William of Orange.

What happens

Lord Roxhythe returns to Whitehall and reports to King Charles II on his failed mission to William of Orange. He describes the humiliating treatment he received, the Prince's shrewdness and integrity, and warns that William is a formidable future adversary. The King, amused yet concerned, realizes he must now turn to France.

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

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Themes in this chapter

  • Political Intrigue and Espionage

    Roxhythe's mission to William of Orange is a covert diplomatic effort, and his report reveals the complex web of alliances and deceptions between England, France, and the Dutch.

  • Power and Ambition

    William of Orange is portrayed as an ambitious young leader who refuses to be used as a pawn, while Charles II seeks to expand his influence through strategic alliances.

  • Honor and Reputation

    William's refusal to barter his country and honor for personal advancement contrasts with the intrigue of the English court, highlighting the theme of integrity.

Characters to notice

  • Lord Roxhythe

    Returns to Whitehall and gives a detailed account of his failed mission to William of Orange, describing his humiliating treatment and the Prince's formidable character.

  • King Charles II

    Receives Roxhythe warmly, listens to his report with amusement and concern, and decides to turn to France after the failure with William.

  • Lord Lauderdale

    Is dismissed by the King when Roxhythe arrives, leaving angrily.

  • William of Orange

    Described by Roxhythe as a remarkable, astute, and honest youth who rejected the King's overtures and is to be feared as a future great leader.

  • Roderick Dart

    Mentioned as the Puritan intermediary who treated Roxhythe with formality and led him through the palace to meet William.

Key passages

  • “He is as honest as the day, and as astute as old Nick himself.”

    William of Orange is both completely honest and extremely shrewd.

    Roxhythe's assessment of William's character to the King.

  • “He bade me tell you that Nassau does not stoop to intrigue behind the backs of his ministers.”

    William instructed me to inform you that he does not engage in secret dealings without his ministers' knowledge.

    William's rebuke of Charles's underhanded diplomacy.

  • “I foresee that he will rise suddenly, and at no very distant date.”

    I predict that he will become powerful very soon.

    Roxhythe's warning to Charles about William's future influence.

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