Beauvallet · Chapter
VII explained
Sir Nicholas Beauvallet reveals to his brother Gerard and sister-in-law Kate his intention to travel to Spain to bring back Doña Dominica de Rada, a Spanish lady he has fallen in love with.
What happens
Sir Nicholas Beauvallet reveals to his brother Gerard and sister-in-law Kate his intention to travel to Spain to bring back Doña Dominica de Rada, a Spanish lady he has fallen in love with. Despite their protests, he remains resolute. He then travels to London, meets with Sir Francis Drake and other notable seamen at the Devil tavern, and shares his daring plan. Drake is amused but concerned, while others like Frobisher are skeptical. Nicholas also visits the court of Queen Elizabeth I, where he awaits an audience.
Themes in this chapter
Adventure and Risk
Nicholas's plan to travel to Spain to rescue Dominica is a central act of daring, defying the dangers of enemy territory.
Love and Romance
Nicholas's determination to bring Dominica to England is driven by his love for her, as shown by his description of her and his oath on her ring.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Nicholas's loyalty to his promise to Dominica contrasts with the concerns of his family and friends who fear for his safety.
Characters to notice
- Sir Nicholas Beauvallet
Reveals his plan to fetch Dominica from Spain; visits court and meets with Drake and other seamen.
- Gerard Beauvallet
Argues with Nicholas about his dangerous plan, trying to dissuade him.
- Dame Margery
Listens to Gerard's complaints and tries to persuade Nicholas to reconsider.
- Joshua Dimmock
Rides behind Nicholas on the journey to London, commenting on his master's restlessness.
- Sir Francis Drake
Meets with Nicholas at the Devil tavern; learns of the plan to go to Spain and reacts with amusement and concern.
- Frobisher
Present at the gathering; expresses skepticism about Nicholas's venture.
Key passages
“If you have more influence than I have, Kate, I pray you use it now.”
Gerard asks Kate to use her influence to change Nicholas's mind.
Gerard appeals to Kate to help dissuade Nicholas from his dangerous plan.
“I shall go to Spain to fetch her.”
Nicholas declares his intention to travel to Spain to bring Dominica back.
Nicholas states his plan directly to Drake.
“Trust me to amend that.”
Nicholas says he will change Dominica's Spanish ways.
Nicholas responds to Kate's concern that Dominica is a Spaniard.