Part 1, Chapter 7 Summary

The chapter begins with Merivel quickly leaving Whitehall, the residence of the King, and landing at the Leg Tavern, where a mess of Starling meat and a few beers cure him of the aftereffects of the King's truth potion. Feeling in good spirits, he proceeds to the residence and laundress workshop of Rosie Pierpont, his old flame (one of many) and immensely enjoys her fleshly charms. Then, wanting to go to Kaw, where Celia has been hidden by the King, which he knows is only accessible by boat, he rents a Tilt-boat and a driver.

Merivel must pay extra for the journey because of the darkness. During a conversation with the boat operator, who Merivel nicknames Fox, Merivel learns that the operator once saw the King on this lake, sailing in the same direction. The pair eventually arrives at the dwelling...