Summary

The next chapter is titled “Chapter V: The Portrait in the West Wing.” The Prince does not see evidence of a curse as months pass. He feels it is impossible that his loyal servants, including Mrs. Potts and Cogsworth, would threaten him. He is happy with plenty of money, Gaston's companionship, and women falling at his feet. He thinks about his childhood whenever he is beset by fears. Mrs. Potts often tells stories of the Prince and Gaston playing as children. It was Mrs. Potts who urged the Prince to continue his friendship with Gaston despite the fact that he was the gamekeeper's son, therefore not on the Prince's social level. One day, Gaston arrives for a hunting trip. The Prince brings up one of the memories. For Gaston, this is a reminder that they are not social equals. Gaston looks at a...