The chapter initially shows the Prince's flawed method of handling a rat problem, which is contrasted by Baronet Penin's simple and efficient approach using cheese pies. Simultaneously, a hemorrhagic disease is discovered, and Penin identifies rats as the carrier, devising a solution to control the rats, leading to recognition of his talents. The Prince, frustrated by Penin's success, attempts to take over with a military strategy and ends up failing, while Penin makes a special bait to deal with the remaining rat problem. The chapter ends with the main character's shock and frustration at the fact he can't trust the other characters to complete such a simple task.