A year earlier, Robin visits a London exhibition of Afong Moy, the “Chinese Lady,” an exploitative spectacle that haunts him. Now arriving in Canton with the cohort, Robin finds the foreign Factories insulated and smug. Over a coarse dinner, Mr Baylis and Reverend Gützlaff defend free trade and minimize opium’s harm; Baylis appoints Robin to interpret in upcoming negotiations.

The next day, Robin translates at the harbour while Baylis belittles Chinese officials and their interpreter, Meng. Overwhelmed, Robin later slips into the city with Ramy to find his childhood home, only to discover it erased by redevelopment and an opium den. Compelled, Robin samples opium, then reels with nausea and shame. On a bridge, Ramy describes India’s opium fields and routes, helping Robin grasp the imperial web linking Indian production to Chinese addiction and British profit.

The following morning, Robin interprets for Baylis during an audience with Commissioner Lin Zexu. Baylis demands legalization and compensation; Lin challenges the morality and legality of selling a drug Britain bans at home. The exchange hardens positions: Lin asserts Chinese law and threatens capital penalties for smugglers; Baylis hints at British reprisal.

Lin then requests a private talk with Robin. He probes Robin’s background, language, and views, even debating terms like yi. When Lin asks if compromise is possible, Robin candidly answers no, noting British contempt and fixed aims. Lin’s resolve crystallizes.

Back at the Factory, the cohort witnesses controlled bonfires of opium on the river—Lin has ordered its destruction. Professor Lovell, furious, manhandles Robin and demands immediate departure. He hustles the students to the Hellas for early passage back to England, leaving Canton in crisis.