Book VII - Feeding the Monster (Chapters XXXIII-XXXVII) Summary

Jason fills in a gap in Polemides' story in Chapter XXXIII. Polemides speaks little to Jason of his second bride, Aurore, but Jason presents letters between them that show how deeply Polemides loved her and how much that love was reciprocated. Peace becomes everything to Polemides as his dearest wish is to return to Athens and settle down with his bride.

In Chapter XXXIV, Polemides resumes his story with Alcibiades' return to Athens. Even before his return, Alcibiades is reelected to the Board of Generals even though his death sentence has not yet been rescinded. Despite his new found popularity, Alcibiades still fears treachery, but his fears are unfounded. He returns to a rapturous welcome. As the consummate politician, he plays the crowd, making them fear that he has...