When Giles and More learn how many nations, primitive as well as civilized, Raphael Hythloday has visited, and recognize how seriously he has examined their several governments, they urge him to enter the council of some monarch in order to place his knowledge at the service of mankind. Hythloday declines and explains at length why he is unwilling to undertake such employment. At first he gives the impression that he is reluctant to give up his present easy way of living, free from responsibilities, but subsequently it becomes clear that he does not believe his counsel would be heeded or appreciated.
