Book 6: Chapter 12 Summary

Leicester House

Eliza, Duchess of Qwghlm and bookkeeper of the Minerva, has returned to London. Dappa, a Negro author and shipmate of the Minerva, greets her on arrival and they discuss the publication of his next work. Throughout the conversation, Eliza intently watches her front entrance from the upper story of her home. Eliza is certain that Tory and Whig spies gather on her front lawn.

Book 6: Chapter 12 Analysis

Stephenson introduces Eliza and Dappa and highlights their association. The connection between them is one the reader would not anticipate. Eliza's concern about being watched and followed seems far-fetched for Dappa until Eliza points out several suspicious people. With her doubts put at ease, Eliza talks to Dappa about his latest publications. She says that while his stories are touching people, they need to appeal to a larger audience instead of a...