The Great Roxhythe · Chapter
X: May, 1670 explained
Roxhythe spends weeks in France negotiating the treaty with Louis XIV, overcoming initial resistance from the French king and Lord Arlington.
What happens
Roxhythe spends weeks in France negotiating the treaty with Louis XIV, overcoming initial resistance from the French king and Lord Arlington. By March 1670, the negotiations are nearly complete, and Charles II is in high spirits. In May, the Treaty of Dover is signed at Dover, with Madame d'Orléans playing a key role. Charles agrees to prioritize war with Holland over declaring himself Catholic, securing French funds. The Duke of York, James, expresses deep misgivings about the secrecy of the alliance, accusing Roxhythe of undue influence and Charles of carelessness. Madame d'Orléans attempts to soothe James, but tensions remain. The chapter ends with the signing of the treaty and the introduction of La Kéroualle as a potential spy.
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
The secret negotiations for the Treaty of Dover, the use of Madame d'Orléans as a mediator, and the introduction of La Kéroualle as a potential spy highlight the pervasive intrigue and espionage in international diplomacy.
- Loyalty and Betrayal
Roxhythe's unwavering loyalty to Charles contrasts with James's feelings of betrayal and mistrust. The Duke of York fears a trap by Louis and feels excluded from the King's confidence.
- Power and Ambition
Charles's ambition to secure French funds and pursue war with Holland, Roxhythe's skillful diplomacy, and James's desire for a more open and honorable alliance reflect the power struggles and ambitions driving the treaty.
- Appearance vs. Reality
The festive celebrations at Dover mask the secret political maneuvering. James accuses Charles of appearing carefree while engaging in serious plotting, and Roxhythe's flippant demeanor hides his deep involvement in state affairs.
Characters to notice
- Lord Roxhythe
Negotiates the treaty with France, counsels patience, and remains loyal to Charles. He is the subject of James's jealousy and distrust.
- King Charles II
In high spirits as the treaty nears completion. He prioritizes war with Holland over declaring Catholicism, securing French funds, and shows a relaxed attitude toward James's concerns.
- Madame d'Orléans
Key mediator in the treaty negotiations, she travels to Dover to facilitate the signing. She attempts to reconcile James to the alliance and defends Charles and Roxhythe.
- Duke of York
Furious and despairing about the secrecy of the treaty. He expresses jealousy of Roxhythe and mistrust of Louis XIV, fearing a trap.
- M. Colbert de Croissy
French representative involved in the treaty negotiations, working with Roxhythe to finalize the agreement.
- La Kéroualle
Mentioned as a beautiful and cunning woman sent by Louis XIV to Charles, possibly as a spy or secret agent.
Key passages
“My dear Davy, we have come to the end!”
Charles exclaims to Roxhythe that the negotiations are finally complete.
Charles expresses relief and triumph as the treaty with France is finalized.
“I am torn this way and that, Henriette. I scarce know myself what ails me.”
James confesses to Madame d'Orléans that he is deeply conflicted and uncertain about his feelings.
The Duke of York reveals his inner turmoil over the secret treaty.
“Because I am jealous of him; I admit it freely! He hath the place that should be mine!”
James openly admits to Madame that his dislike of Roxhythe stems from jealousy over Roxhythe's influence with the King.
James acknowledges his envy of Roxhythe's close relationship with Charles.
“I really do not wonder that James is annoyed with you.”
Madame d'Orléans tells Charles that she understands why James is upset with him.
Madame comments on the tension between Charles and James over the treaty.
