# VII: William of Orange explained — The Great Roxhythe

> Chapter companion for The Great Roxhythe by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

Roxhythe meets with Prince William of Orange in secret, presenting a proposition from King Charles II and Lord Ashley for an alliance that would make William Stadtholder in exchange for a yearly tribute to England. William's shrewdness and suspicion force Roxhythe to be more candid, revealing the political maneuvering between England, France, and the Dutch Republic.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Intrigue and Espionage

The entire chapter revolves around a secret meeting, covert passages, and a hidden proposition, highlighting the espionage and political maneuvering between England and the Dutch Republic.

### Power and Ambition

William's ambition to become Stadtholder and King Charles's desire for financial independence drive the negotiations, showcasing the pursuit of power.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Roxhythe and Roderick maintain a facade of hostility while collaborating; William feigns illness to deceive De Witt's spies, underscoring the theme of deception.

## Character check-ins

### Lord Roxhythe

Presents the secret proposition to Prince William, navigating the tense and suspicious atmosphere of the Dutch court.

### Roderick Dart

Acts as a cautious intermediary, smuggling Roxhythe into the palace and maintaining a cold, hostile demeanor.

### William of Orange

Receives Roxhythe in secret, displaying sharp intelligence and skepticism about King Charles's motives.

### Mynheer Heenvliet

Assists in the covert meeting, guarding the door and instructing Roxhythe on hiding if needed.

### King Charles II

Referenced as the instigator of the proposition to William, seeking financial support through an alliance.

### Lord Ashley-Cooper

Authored the written proposition presented to William, though his exact role is questioned by the Prince.

## Key lines

> “His Highness commands me to say that he will receive you this evening, sir.”

Roderick informs Roxhythe that Prince William will see him tonight.

_Roderick delivers the Prince's message, setting up the secret meeting._

> “I do not see what King Charles stands to gain by this,” he flicked the parchment.

William questions the proposition, suspecting hidden motives from King Charles.

_William's shrewdness is evident as he challenges the apparent generosity of the offer._

> “His Majesty’s scruples are very nice,” said William. “He will not make England a catspaw of France, but he would like to make the Provinces a catspaw of England. A subtle distinction, milor’.”

William accuses King Charles of wanting to use the Dutch Provinces as a tool for England's benefit, similar to how France might use England.

_William exposes the underlying self-interest in Charles's proposal._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_great_roxhythe_se/chapters/vii-william-of-orange
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_great_roxhythe_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_great_roxhythe_se/chapters