The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
VIII: Madame explained
Roxhythe arrives in Paris and stays with the Comte de Saint-Aignan.
What happens
Roxhythe arrives in Paris and stays with the Comte de Saint-Aignan. He attends the King's levée, where he flirts with various ladies and avoids Monsieur. Later, he has a private audience with Madame (Henrietta Stuart, Duchesse d'Orléans), who reveals that Louis XIV seeks a treaty with England to ensure neutrality in his wars against Holland and Spain, violating the Triple Bond. Roxhythe presses for plain speaking about France's demands.
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
Roxhythe's mission to Paris involves secret negotiations for a treaty that would shift England's allegiance.
- Appearance vs. Reality
Roxhythe presents himself as a frivolous glove-maker while engaging in serious diplomacy.
Characters to notice
- Lord Roxhythe
Arrives in Paris, attends the levée, and negotiates with Madame about the treaty.
- Madame d'Orléans
Receives Roxhythe privately and discusses the proposed treaty with France.
- M. Colbert de Croissy
Mentioned as having presented the treaty proposal to King Charles.
- King Charles II
Referenced as the English king who must decide on the treaty.
- La Kéroualle
Identified as Mademoiselle de Kéroualle, who wishes to join the English court.
- Marquis de Dangeau
Accompanies Roxhythe from the levée to the gardens.
Key passages
“Roxhythe, it is only in France that you are appreciated.”
Saint-Aignan tells Roxhythe that his talents are truly valued in France, not England.
Highlights the theme of appearance vs. reality, as Roxhythe is seen as a dandy but is a skilled diplomat.
“I want plain speaking; that is why I recall it. Till now you have refused to speak plainly.”
Roxhythe insists that Madame be direct about France's intentions, as previous explanations have been vague.
Shows Roxhythe's determination to uncover the truth in the negotiations.
