This chapter opens with a flashback to the previous chapter, in which we learn that Polonius has been out of the palace for some time. He is now in the middle of a conversation with the Duke of Guise, and Polonius asks him why he keeps staring at him. Polonius tells him that he has something on his face, but he does not look at him, because he is blushing. He tells Polonius that it would be a relief if he only got red, because then he would not have to lie about his identity. He says that he was not mocking Polonius, but that he had gotten too excited and gone too far. He asks why he is being honored, but Polonius says that it is only proper to talk to one's excellency, and that he is going out with Polonius as friends. He then says that they are going to go out as friends, just like they did when they were younger. He adds that if Polonius wants to change his mind, he can do so, but they can't do so if he talks like this outside the palace. He points out that it will be a long time before Polonius' identity is revealed, and he asks if he can talk about the law or his status, but the Duke says that is not what he wants, and they can only talk about what they are doing. He gives Polonius a medicine, which he says is stronger than he expected, and says that the effects will be stronger after taking it, so it will not be noticeable. He warns that the woman who takes the medicine may become sensitive to smells, so he suggests that they should mix the medicine well so that it doesn't smell. He also warns that if the