Chapter 1 (Rudolf Rassendyll)
The story unfolds with Rose (Rudolf Rassendyll`s sister-in-law), telling Rassendyll that he needs to get himself a job. Rudolf`s brother (Robert), finds an interesting job for him as an “attaché” to Sir Jacob Borrodaile. Borrodaile will be the Ambassador of Ruritania in six months` time. Ruritania, located in central Europe is the only country, Rudolf has not visited. So, he feels happy with the idea. Rudolf decides to witness the coronation of King Rudolf the Fifth in Strelsau, the capital of Ruritania.
Chapter 2 (Rassendyll Arrive in Zenda)
Rassendyll travels by train from London. The train stops at Paris, where he meets his old friend, George. Rassendyll sees Antoinette de Mauban, a rich widow, who is on her way to Strelsau for the coronation. Rassendyll notices that the customs officer stares at him. He thinks it is because of his hair which looks flaming red. The newspaper reports that the coronation date is postponed. The new date is a day after tomorrow. Strelsau is packed with people and there is no accommodation or lodging available. Rassendyll decides to stop at Zenda, a small town, 50 miles away from the capital. Rassendyll learns about Duke Michael and the King is staying in the Duke`s hunting lodge in Zenda while the Duke is making the necessary coronation arrangement in Strelsau.
Johann, the Duke`s forest guard enters the inn and is astonished to see Rassendyll. Rassendyll learns from the inn keeper`s daughter that the King`s hair is of the exact colour with his. The royal family members of Ruritania have red hair!
Chapter 3 (Rudolf Rassendyll Meets King Rudolf the Fifth)
Rassendyll goes for a walk and gets closer to the famous old castle of Zenda. Rassendyll feels so carefree. He falls asleep after the tiring walk. Rassendyll wakes up to find two men looking at him with deep interest. They are Colonel Sapt and Fritz Von Tarlenheim, who serve the King of Ruritania. Colonel Sapt informs Rassendyll that he