HKB
60 passages · search this phrase →
Often appears with: counsel and advisers to rulers · political legitimacy and consent · forms of government · faction, party, and civil strife · diplomacy and embassies · justice as a virtue · crime and punishment · conquest, plunder, and captives · religious persecution and toleration · treaties, truces, and peacemaking · elections and representation · censorship and the press
Usually: detachment (528) · narrative (442) · argument (319) · curiosity (161) · injustice endured (146) · skepticism (138) · indignation (123) · exhortation (100) · crisis of belief (90) · the fall of the great (79)
“The Communists disdain to conceal their views and aims. They openly declare that their ends can be attained only by the forcible overthrow of all existing social conditions. Let the ruling classes tremble at a Communistic revolution. The proletarians have nothing to lose but their chains. They have a world to win.” Karl Marx; Friedrich Engels, Manifesto of the Communist Party · precept
“O shame to men! Devil with devil damned Firm concord holds; men only disagree Of creatures rational, though under hope Of heavenly grace, and, God proclaiming peace, Yet live in hatred, enmity, and strife Among themselves, and levy cruel wars Wasting the earth, each other to destroy:” John Milton, Paradise Lost · wit
“next, to those whom you are uncertain whether they will give any thing or not, and show them the list of those who have given; and lastly, do not neglect those who you are sure will give nothing, for in some of them you may be mistaken.” Benjamin Franklin, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin · precept
“O patron of Socrates’ high abodes, Phoebus, the ruling pow’r among the gods,” Virgil, The Aeneid · precept
“I will receive you into this diocese on one condition: no Negro priest can sit in my church convention, and no Negro church must ask for representation there.” W. E. B. Du Bois (William Edward Burghardt Du Bois), The Souls of Black Folk · observation
“The magistrates might deliberate and persuade, the people only could resolve and execute; and the resolutions of the Germans were for the most part hasty and violent.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · observation
“The *truce of God*, so often and so ineffectually proclaimed by the clergy of the eleventh century, was an obvious imitation of this ancient custom.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · insight
“He studied to heal the wounds which Imperial pride, civil discord, and military violence, had inflicted on the constitution, and to restore, at least, the image of the ancient republic, as it had been preserved by the policy of Augustus, and the virtues of Trajan and the Antonines.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · insight
“He resisted, with firmness and humanity, those servile clamors, which were dictated by flattery as well as by resentment.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · insight
“Their decrees, which were styled Canons, regulated every important controversy of faith and discipline; and it was natural to believe that a liberal effusion of the Holy Spirit would be poured on the united assembly of the delegates of the Christian people.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · insight
“I can conceive a society in which all men would profess an equal attachment and respect for the laws of which they are the common authors; in which the authority of the State would be respected as necessary, though not as divine; and the loyalty of the subject to its chief magistrate would not be a passion, but a quiet and rational persuasion.” Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America — Volume 1 · vivid
“In America the principle of the sovereignty of the people is not either barren or concealed, as it is with some other nations; it is recognized by the customs and proclaimed by the laws; it spreads freely, and arrives without impediment at its most remote consequences.” Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America — Volume 1 · observation
After repeating the author’s general thesis about Muhammad’s sincerity and possible self-deception, the passage quotes Qur’anic guidance on praising God’s “help” and victory, proper manners toward the Prophet, trust in God, peacemaking in civil conflict, and social ethics.
for his own family who had been left there. The offence was pardoned, but the revelation was nevertheless published with the view of preventing similar acts of treachery in future. 3 Speaking of the representatives of the different religious systems prevalent in the Roman Empire, as Orpheus, Abraham, Christ, Apollonius of Tyana, enshrined among the household deities of Alexander Severus, Mr. Milman remarks (Hist. of…
Pepys reviews accounts, visits his father, and notes Fleet Street’s new City works at the Conduit while parliamentary factions in Westminster discuss Lambert’s expected moves and “free Parliament” talk.
looking over my accounts; then went with my wife to my father's, and in going observed the great posts which the City workmen set up at the Conduit in Fleet-street. 2nd. Walked a great while in Westminster Hall, where I heard that Lambert was coming up to London: that my Lord Fairfax was in the head of the Irish brigade, but it was not certain what he would declare for. The House was to-day upon finishing the act…
Pepys records a wide range of political talk in London—arguments about seizing a free Parliament, debates about Roman government at coffee clubs, and reports that several officers are voted out or expelled.
came by with his bell just under my window as I was writing of this very line, and cried, "Past one of the clock, and a cold, frosty, windy morning." 17th. In our way to Kensington, we understood how that my Lord Chesterfield [Philip, second Earl of Chesterfield, born. 1634, ob. 1713.] had killed another gentleman about half an hour before, and was fled. I went to the Coffee Club and heard very good discourse; it …
Pepys reports that Monk has begun taking down the City’s gates and chains, the City Council looks helpless, and Parliament orders the Common Council to cease and be replaced by newly qualified members.
had voted that he should pull down their gates and portcullisses, their posts and their chains, which he do intend to do, and do lie in the City all night. To Westminster Hall, where I heard an action very finely pleaded between my Lord Dorset [Richard, 5th Earl of Dorset, ob. 1677.] and some other noble persons, his lady and other ladies of quality being there, and it was about 330l. PER ANNUM, that was to be paid …
From Lord’s Day through the next days Pepys hears Monk’s movements around Whitehall, St Paul’s, and churches, Parliament shifting an oath to a promise, and new rules limiting who may be chosen for Parliament.
it. At one end of the street you would think there was a whole lane on fire, and so hot that we were fain to keep on the further side. 12th. In the morning, it being Lord's day, to White Hall, where Dr. Hones preached; but I staid not to hear, but walking in the court, I heard that Sir Arth. Haselrigge was newly gone into the City to Monk, and that Monk's wife removed from White Hall last night. After dinner I hea…
Pepys notes continuing public celebration in London with bonfires and bells, while MPs vote on returning City gates and voiding proclamations against Major-General Brown and breakage of Barebone’s windows.
where I heard Mr. Harrington, and my Lord of Dorset and another Lord, talking of getting another place at the Cockpit, and they did believe it would come to something. 21st. In the morning I saw many soldiers going towards Westminster Hall, to admit the secluded members again. So I to Westminster Hall, and in Chancery I saw about twenty of them who had been at White Hall with General Monk, who came thither this mo…
Pepys continues travels and then returns to London, where he sees militia and hears thanksgiving for the Parliament’s return, discusses Monk and Pepys’s lord’s naval command, and meets at Parliament-related places.
who told us he had lost his journey, for my Lord was gone from Hinchingbroke to London on Thursday last, at which I was a little put to a stand. 27th. Up by four o'clock: Mr. Blayton and I took horse and straight to Saffron Walden, where at the White Hart, we set up our horses, and took the master of the house to shew us Audly End House, who took us on foot through the park, and so to the house, where the housekee…
Pepys records General Monk’s letter and directions about drafting a Parliament vote for seamen, news that Pembroke and Salisbury are out of the House of Lords, and talk of courtship and offices after supper.
"May it please your Most Excellent Majesty," and so begins. That he yesterday received from General Monk his Majesty's letter and direction; and that General Monk had desired him to write to the Parliament to have leave to send the vote of the seamen before he did send it to him, which he had done by writing to both Speakers; but for his private satisfaction he had sent it thus privately, (and so the copy of the pro…
In early January 1661 Pepys continues his naval-office and patronage work: he locks up papers of a suspected ill man, consults on promised income, travels to Lambeth and Portsmouth, and attends Trinity House and theatre with women on stage.
young Jermyn, [Henry Jermyn, Master of the Horse to the Duke of York.] which is worse than the Duke of York's marrying the Chancellor's daughter, which is now publicly owned. 26th. To White Hall by water, and dined with my Lady Sandwich, who at table did tell me how much fault was laid upon Dr. Frazer and the rest of the Doctors, for the death of the Princesse. My Lord, did dine this day with Sir Henry Wright, in …
Pepys watches plays “The Bondman” and “The Queen’s Maske,” travels with the court including Hinchingbrooke, talks at the office and Tower, hears news of ambassadors and royal gossips, and notes elections in London and arrests of religious dissenters.
common country tale. But above all it was strange to see so little a boy as that was to act Cupid, which is one of the greatest parts in it. 4th. My Lord went this morning on his journey to Hinchingbroke, Mr. Parker with him; the chief business being to look over and determine how, and in what manner, his great work of building shall be done. Before his going he did give me some jewells to keep for him, viz. that …
Pepys watches titles and ceremonies as the King creates the Lord Chancellor and barons, attends court spectacle involving the Duke of York and his duchess, observes public crowds for triumphal arches, and worries about rain for the next day’s show.
the first time that ever I saw him do it; which he did with great gravity, and it seemed to me to be an ugly office and a simple one. 20th. Comes my boy to tell me that the Duke of York had sent for all the principall officers, &c. to come to him to-day. So I went by water to Mr. Coventry's, and there staid and talked a good while with him till all the rest come. We went up and saw the Duke dress himself, and in …
Early November 1661 Pepys welcomes a new Navy comptroller, attends plays (including The Bondman), visits church and court circles, and writes about the Commons meeting again and the King receiving 120,000l to pay debts.
his place in the office. The first time that he had come thither, and he seems in a good fair condition, and one that I am glad hath the office. 4th. With my wife to the Opera, where we saw "The Bondman," which of old we both did so doate on, and do still; though to both our thinking not so well acted here, (having too great expectations) as formally at Salisbury-court. But for Beterton, he is called by us both th…
Pepys continues with Parliament and court news, especially plans to raise an army, factions around Madam Palmer, the ordering of executions under the Act of Indemnity, and household business about his garden, Trinity House, and the fleet.
150 years old, which they count by rains: because every year it rains continually four months together. He also told us, that the Kings there have above 100 wives a-piece. 18th. Comes Mr. Moore to give me an account how Mr. Montagu [Edward Montagu.] was gone away of a sudden with the fleet, in such haste that he hath left behind some servants, and many things of consequence; and among others, my Lord's commission …
Pepys notes the House of Commons’ acts against employing people from the late civil troubles, fears he may be affected, and describes Parliament-men debating Scottish news and possible rebellion.
Church; which will be fatal to a great many, and makes me doubt lest I myself, with all my innocence during the late times, should be brought in, being employed in the Exchequer; but, I hope, God will provide for me. 10th. Put on a black cloth suit, with white lynings under all, as the fashion is to wear, to appear under the breeches. I walked to St. James's, and was there at masse, and was forced in the croud to …
Pepys reports on Parliament’s investigations of revenue and selling offices, discusses an Irish plot among Presbyterians, notes religious and political news, and observes rising public excitement and theatre.
tells me that things do not go right in the House with Mr. Coventry; I suppose he means in the business of selling places; but I am sorry for it. 27th. With Pett to my Lord Ashley, Chancellor of the Exchequer; where we met the auditors about settling the business of the accounts of persons to whom money is due before the King's time in the Navy, and the clearing of their imprests for what little of their debts they…
Pepys watches fencing prizes at the New Theatre, hears of a discovered Irish plot involving the Covenant and Dublin Castle, reports Council business over letters between Scotland and England, and says the French King is well.
well again. I find myself growing in the esteem and credit that I have in the office, and I hope falling to my business again will confirm me in it. JUNE 1, 1663. The Duke having been a-hunting to-day, and so lately come home and gone to bed, we could not see him, and we walked away. And I with Sir J. Minnes to the Strand May-pole; and there light out of his coach, and walked to the New Theatre, which, since the K…
Pepys goes to the Royal Theatre again, worries about Lady Castlemaine’s decline, records Parliament’s debate over supplying the King, and recounts discussions on spirits and the famous Wiltshire “invisible drummer.”
late is become a great fashion among the ladies, which hides their whole face. So to the Exchange, to buy things with my wife; among others, a vizard for herself. 13th. To the Royal Theatre; and in our way saw my Lady Castlemaine, who, I fear, is not so handsome as I have taken her for, and now she begins to decay something. This is my wife's opinion also. Yesterday, upon conference with the King in the Banquetin…
Samuel Pepys stands in a balcony to watch people in the street, then converses with Mr. Coventry about Sir G. Carteret, Jersey’s provisioning, and court politics involving the Chancellor.
streets full of people. I stood in Mr. --'s balcone. They dine all at my Lord Mayor's; but what he do for victualls, or room for them, I know not. 24th. To St.James's,and there an hour's private discourse with Mr. Coventry; he speaking of Sir G. Carteret slightly, and diminishing of his services for the King in Jersey; that he was well rewarded, and had good lands and rents, and other profits from the King, all the…
Pepys notes that Parliament discusses King’s reply regarding Temple, and he records a visit to Kirby Castle at Bednall Green, including a story about lightning striking a Genoese galley in Legorne Roads.
be wholly delivered from the Spaniards. This was on Tuesday last, and yesterday come the very first news that in this valley they had thus routed and killed the Spaniards. 26th. The House is upon the King's answer to their message about Temple, which is, that my Lord of Bristoll did tell him that Temple did say those words; so the House are resolved upon sending some of their members to him to know the truth, and t…
On July 1, Pepys describes Lord Bristol’s Commons speech about Sir Richard Temple, the House voting Temple innocent, and subsequent gossip on Digby’s reception and Sir Charles Sedley’s trial.
Richard Temple innocent; and that my Lord Digby hath cleared the honour of His Majesty, and Sir Richard Temple's, and given perfect satisfaction of his own respects to the House. 2nd. Walking in the garden this evening with Sir G. Carteret and Sir J. Minnes, Sir G. Carteret told us with great content how like a stage-player my Lord Digby spoke yesterday, pointing to his head as my Lord did, and saying, "First, for …
Pepys attends Trinity House, hears a sermon at Whitehall, and notes disputes over repealing the Triennial Parliaments bill, including parliamentary speeches and unrest like apprentices rescuing pilloried men.
order the Act to be read to-morrow before them; and I suppose it will be repealed, though I believe much against the will of a good many that sit there. 23rd. To the Trinity House, and there dined very well: and good discourse among the old men. Among other things, they observed, that there are but two seamen in the Parliament, viz. Sir W. Batten and Sir W. Pen, and not above twenty or thirty merchants; which is …
Pepys describes further parliamentary action: Vaughan’s speech against repealing the Triennial Bill fails, Parliament allows triennial parliaments without coercion, and he then shifts to April events involving the Duke of York and a petition involving Lady Peters’ debt.
masters or such like thing, in Cheapside, a company of 'prentices come and rescued them, and pulled down the pillory; and they being set up again, did the like again. 28th. The great matter to-day in the House hath been, that Mr. Vaughan, [John Vaughan, afterwards knighted, and made Chief Justice of the Common Pleas.] the great speaker, is this day come to town, and hath declared himself in a speech of an hour and…
Pepys records London politics and court intrigue around W. Joyce’s case, the King’s Commons billmaking on writs and the Triennial Act, and his own visits and observations at theaters and the park.
he is parted) about this business, saying that she disgraced him. But she hath been a handsome woman, and is, it seems, not only a lewd woman, but very high-spirited. 5th. Lord Peterborough presented a petition to the House from W. Joyce: and a great dispute, we hear, there was in the House for and against it. At last it was carried that he should be bayled till the House meets again after Easter, he giving bond …
Pepys continues the conventicles debate details, emphasizing disputes over what counts as Church ‘practice’ versus ‘practice of the conventicle,’ and mentions parliamentary quarrels over Mr. Prin’s bill language.
5th. My eyes beginning every day to grow less and less able to bear with long reading or writing, though it be by daylight; which I never observed till now. 13th. In the Painted Chamber I heard a fine conference between some of the two Houses upon the Bill for Conventicles. The Lords would be freed from having their houses searched by any but the Lord Lieutenant of the County: and upon being found guilty, to be t…
Pepys walks the Tower amid empty streets and plague death, hears of the king and Parliament speeches, gets messages urging confidence about prize goods, then accepts an appointment as Surveyor-General of victualling.
no expectation but we must fall out with them. The 'Change pretty full, and the town begins to be lively again, though the streets very empty, and most shops shut. 27th. The Duke of Albemarle proposed to me from Mr. Coventry, that I should be Surveyor-Generall of the Victualling business, which I accepted. But, indeed, the terms in which Mr. Coventry proposes it for me are the most obliging that ever I could expec…
Pepys praises God for good fortune after political acts in Parliament, then describes going with his wife and brother to the play while he avoids being seen, and notes news of Scotch rebels’ defeat and the Duke of Cambridge’s honors.
for nothing else) we must; have failed the next year. But God be praised for thus much good fortune, and send us the continuance of his favour in other things! 6th. After dinner my wife and brother [John Pepys, who, being in holy orders, had lately assumed the canonical habit. He died in 1677, at which period he held some office in the Trinity-house. PEPYS'S MS. LETTERS.] (in another habit) go out to see a play; …
At Whitehall and the King’s chapel Pepys sees Lady Castlemaine, then meets officials in chambers including Coventry, antiquities losses from the fire, and scholars like John Wallis, ending with conversation about the Duke of Monmouth.
in the evening from the play; which I was glad of, it being cold and dark, and she having her necklace of pearl on, and none but Mercer with her. 19th. Talked of the King's family with Mr. Hingston, the organist. He says many of the musique are ready to starve, they being five years behind hand for their wages: nay, Evens, the famous man upon the Harp, having not his equal in the world, did the other day die for …
From 22nd to 23rd and onward, Pepys visits the Lord Chancellor’s house, notes the King’s irritation about missing council-table paper, celebrates St. George’s Day as a show for departing Swedish ambassadors, and discusses Sir John Duncombe’s reforms and financial oversight.
19th. Some talk about Sir W. Pen's being to buy Wanstead-House of Sir Robert Brookes. 20th. Met Mr. Rolt, who tells me the reason of no play today at the King's house. That Lacy had been committed to the porter's lodge for his acting his part in the late new play, and being thence released to come to the King's house, he there met with Ned Howard, the poet of the play, who congratulated his release; upon which Lac…
Pepys reports early July 1667 meetings amid the Dutch advance along England’s coast, including news of their landing near Harwich and an exhausting two-hour Council debate about a father’s complaint against his son.
up and down with his hackney coach and six horses at the King's charge, and is not able to do so much good as a good boatswain in this business. JULY 2, 1667. To the office, where W. Pen and myself and Sir T. Harvey met, the first time we have had a meeting since the coming of the Dutch upon this coast. 3rd. Sir Richard Ford tells us how he hath been at the Sessions- house, and there it is plain that there is a c…
Pepys continues mid-July reflections: Buckingham’s release, Parliament’s praise for Pepys’s civility, rumours about court favour, and the Dutch situation described as still dangerous and uncertain.
me how I am mightily in esteem with the Parliament; there being harangues made in the House to the Speaker, of Mr. Pepys's readiness and civility to show them everything. 13th. Mr. Pierce tells us what troubles me, that my Lord Buckhurst hath got Nell away from the King's house, and gives her 100l. a-year, so as she hath sent her parts to the house, and will act no more and yesterday Sir Thomas Crewe told me that L…
July 24–25 shifts to maritime reporting: Pepys receives fast-arriving news from Gravesend about Dutch fleets entering the Hope, fighting British ships, and the political drama of Parliament’s meeting and adjournment.
letters say at Plymouth, and now gone to Dartmouth to destroy our Streights' fleet lately got in thither: but God knows whether they can do it any hurt, or no. 22nd. Up to my Lord Chancellor's, where was a Committee of Tangier in my Lord's roome, where he sits to hear causes, and where all the Judges' pictures hung up, very fine. But to see how Sir W. Coventry did oppose both my Lord Chancellor and the Duke of Yor…
Pepys learns the Great Seal has been taken from the Lord Chancellor and delivered to Sir Orlando Bridgeman, notes changes in high offices, and records Sir W. Coventry leaving the Duke of York’s service for the Treasury.
obedience to the King's commands; and that he did not think any man fit to serve a prince, that did not know how to retire and live a country life. 31st. At the office all the morning; where by Sir W. Pen I do hear that the Seal was fetched away to the King yesterday from the Lord Chancellor by Secretary Morrice; which puts me into a great horror. In the evening Mr. Ball of the Excise-office tells me that the Seal…
Pepys attends the first performance of "The Black Prince" at the King’s house, then reports Parliamentary questioning about naval accountability, including claims that the Duke of York’s sail-shortening cost a great victory.
Coventry answered, and the Duke of York merrily agreed to it, that it was very hard to know what it was that the Parliament would call conformity at this time. 19th. Full of my desire of seeing my Lord Orrery's new play this afternoon at the King's house, "The Black Prince," the first time it is acted; where, though we came by two o'clock, yet there was no room in the pit, but were forced to go into one of the uppe…
Pepys misses the Duke of York at Whitehall, sees the King lay the first stone of the Royal Exchange, watches "The Black Prince" again, and records Commons debate over impeaching high officials.
very briske to see themselves so well acquitted; which makes me a little proud, but yet not secure but we may yet meet with a back-blow which we see not. 23rd. To White Hall, there to attend the Duke of York; but came a little too late, and so missed it: only spoke with him, and heard him correct my Lord Barkeley who fell foul on Sir Edward Spragg, (who, it seems, said yesterday to the House, that if the officers …
Pepys reports Chatham-related business is going well in the House and notes Laurence Hyde’s Roman-style remark about prosecuting Lord Chancellor Clarendon if only one charge were true.
instrumentall musick. Here was the King and Queene, and some of the ladies; among whom none more jolly than my Lady Buckingham, her Lord being once more a great man. 19th. I was told this day that Lory Hide, [Laurence Hyde, Master of the Robes, afterwards created Earl of Rochester.] second son of my Lord Chancellor, did some time since in the House say, that if he thought his father was guilty but of one of the th…
Pepys learns via Cooling that the Lords resist Clarendon to protect themselves, fears Commons committees and Parliament actions, and records several meetings and preparations in the Temple and beyond.
an angry fretful woman, was so himself; and then being advised to take it of a good-natured patient woman, he did become so beyond the common temper of his age. 22nd. Met with Cooling, my Lord Chamberlain's Secretary, and from him learn the truth of all I heard last night; and understand further, that this stiffness of the Lords is in no manner of kindness to my Lord Chancellor, for he neither hath, nor do, nor for…
Pepys records Sir G. Carteret’s anxiety about the kingdom’s breakup, hears the King justify Lord Sandwich’s actions regarding Dutch ships, and notes the King’s message adjourning Parliament to February.
with the wooden leg, and Wildman, the Fifth-Monarchy man (a great creature of the Duke of Buckingham's), are in nomination to be Commissioners, among others, upon the Bill of Accounts. 8th. To White Hall, where I saw the Duchesse of York (in a fine dress of second mourning for her mother, being black edged with ermin) go to make her first visit to the Queene since the Duke of York's being sick; and by and by she be…
Pepys notes Commons choosing Parliament Account-commission members, debates Sir John Talbot’s anger over Wildman, and reports votes declaring Chief Justice Keeling’s actions illegal while Parliament stops further proceedings.
all, though I am likely to escape as well as any, if any can escape. And I think he is in the right, and I do look for it accordingly. 12th. My bookseller did give me a list of the twenty who were mentioned for the Commission in Parliament for the Accounts: and it is strange that of the twenty the Parliament could not think fit to choose their nine, but were fain to add three that were not in the list of the twent…
Pepys continues on January 4-8 with criticism of an Act for Accounts, debate over putting council members out, attendance at plays, and questions about how Parliament seats are chosen by sheriffs.
of Compliments" at the Duke of York's house, and "Henry the Fourth" at the King's house; but not liking either of the plays, I took my coach again, and home. 8th. To White Hall, and by coach home, taking up Mr. Prin at the Court gate (it raining), and setting him down at the Temple: and by the way did ask him about the manner of holding of Parliaments, and whether the number of Knights and Burgesses were always th…
Pepys hears Coventry’s complaints about court enemies, reduced charges in Ireland, and then notes he has learned a cousin was made marshal to Lord Coke, showing how careers have fallen and risen.
was Marshall to my Lord Coke when he was Lord Chief Justice; which beginning of his I did not know to be so low; but so it was, it seems. 31st. Up; and by coach, with W. Griffin with me, and our Contract-books, to Durham Yard, to the Commissioners for Accounts; the first time I ever was there; and staid awhile before I was admitted to them. I did observe a great many people attending about complaints of seamen con…
Pepys perfects his prize-goods narrative for the Commissioners of Accounts, attends Duke of York and King business about a ship’s value and tickets, and describes parliamentary hostility and possible dissolution.
put into it. I do hear of in hands that there is great difference at this day between my Lord Arlington and Sir W. Coventry; which I am sorry for. 14th. I to my office to perfect my Narrative about prize-goods; and did carry it to the Commissioners of Accounts, who did receive it with great kindness, and express great value of and respect to me: and my heart is at rest that it is lodged there in so full truth and …
Pepys and Sir W. Coventry review a list of fleet commanders killed in the war, talk with Coventry about Rupert and secretaries, and describes a Bill requiring more frequent Parliaments while he also visits Kate Joyce.
have reason every hour to expect that they will vote the like of our paying men off by ticket; and what the consequence of that will be, I know not. 18th. Sir W. Coventry and I did look over the list of commanders, and found that we could presently recollect thirty- seven commanders that have been killed in actuall service this war. He tells me that Sir Fr. Hollis is the main man that hath prosecuted him hitherto …
Pepys notes Sir W. Coventry alone with the Duke of York, hears reports of La Roche’s provocative raid at Plymouth, and celebrates Sandwich’s peace between Spain and Portugal while fearing parliamentary incivility.
above all to my Lord's honour more than any thing he ever did; and yet I do fear it will not prevail to secure him in Parliament against incivilities there. 20th. The House most of the morning upon the business of not prosecuting the first victory: which they have voted one of the greatest miscarriages of the whole war, though they cannot lay the fault any where yet, because Harman is not come home. Dined, and by…
Pepys tells how a parliamentary action and Navy ticketing complaints threaten his office, while he visits officials and hears that officers may be summoned before the House to defend themselves.
hath that real command over the soul of a man as this did upon me; and makes me resolve to practice wind-musique, and to make my wife do the like. 28th. After dinner with Sir W. Pen to White Hall, where we and the rest of us presented a great letter of the state of our want of money to his Royal Highness. I did also present a demand of mine for consideration for my travelling-charges of coach and boat-hire during …
Pepys records celebrations and speeches praising his Parliamentary performance, discusses a Lords’ petition for precedence, and continues social and political activity in London’s official circles.
at conferences with the Lords did stand bare. It was mighty worth my hearing; but the King did say only that he would consider of it, and so dismissed them. 8th. With Sir W. Coventry, who I find full of care in his own business, how to defend himself against those that have a mind to cheque him; and though I believe not for honour and for the keeping his employment, but for safety and reputation's sake, is desirous…
Pepys walks with the King in the Park, dines at Sir Thomas Clifford’s with major courtiers, then hears excise-office talk about Parliament seeking funds and attacking political and religious opponents.
in expectation that they will do the more of themselves at this juncture; and I do hear that Sir W. Coventry did make a speech in behalf of the clergy. 18th. To White Hall, where we and my Lord Brouncker attended the Council, to discourse about the fitness of entering of men presently for the manning of the fleet, before one ship is in condition to receive them. Sir W. Coventry did argue against it: I was wholly s…
On 26th Pepys watches “The Man is the Master,” praises his wife’s dress, comments on strict city watch measures after recent disturbances, and notes political maneuvering around calling Pen to account.
speakes people's minds; and then they do say that there are men of understanding among them, that have been of Cromwell's army: but how true that is, I know not. 26th. To the Duke of York's house to see the new play, called "The Man is the Master:" [A comedy, by Sir Wm. Davenant, taken from Moliere's "Joddelet."] where the house was, it being not one o'clock, very full. By and by the King came; and we sat just un…
On 30th Pepys visits painters and theatres, then attends political and financial business involving Parliament raising funds and Navy assignments, arguing the current Parliament lacks accountability and attendance.
adjourned at Whitsuntide, and that they might make haste to raise their money; but this, I fear, will displease them, who did expect to sit as long as they pleased. APRIL 2, 1668. With Lord Brouncker to the Royall Society, where they had just done; but there I was forced to subscribe to the building of a college, and did give 40l.; and several others did subscribe, some greater and some less sums; but several I saw…
Between 16th and 22nd Pepys follows impeachment and parliamentary proceedings against W. Pen and others, hears Harman’s case details, and reports shifts in custody and a proposal to make ships faster.
Harman, how he prevaricated, and hath undoubtedly been imposed on and wheedled; and he is like the miller's man that in Richard the Third's time was hanged for his master. 20th. To White Hall, and there hear how Brouncker is tied, which I think will undo him; but what good it will do Harman I know not, he hath so befouled himself; but it will be good sport to my Lord Chancellor to hear how his great enemy is fain t…
On late May 25th through 29th Pepys describes the Commons and Lords handling of Sir W. Pen’s Lords impeachment, delays meant to block his planned voyage, and continued conflict over Conventicles.
4th of May, and then only adjourne for three months; and this message being only about an adjournment did please them mightily, for they are desirous of their power mightily. 27th. To Westminster Hall, and up to the Lords' House; and there saw Sir W. Pen go into the House of Lords, where his impeachment was read to him and he used mighty civilly, the Duke of York being there; and two days hence, at his desire, he i…
Pepys records tense parliamentary conflict over the East India Company, involving the Lords and Commons at Westminster, and notes theatre visits, including performances of The Impertinents and gossip about Sir Robert Howard.
for some wrong done him heretofore; and the former appealing to the Commons, the Lords vote their petition a libell; and so there is like to follow very hot work. 3rd. To church, where I saw Sir A. Rickard, though he be under the Black Rod, by order of the Lords' House, upon the quarrel between the East India Company and Skinner; which is like to come to a very great heat between the two Houses. To Old-street, to …
Continuing from Pepys’s account, the Lords debate late into the night over the East India Company, and Pepys notes court factional disputes between Lady Castlemaine and Mrs. Stewart while attending officials.
incomparable dancer of the King's house. Then we abroad to Marrowbone, and there walked in the garden, the first time I ever was there; and a pretty place it is. 8th. The Lords' House did sit till eleven o'clock last night about the business of difference between them and the Commons in the matter of the East India Company. To my Lord Crewe's, and there dined; where Mr. Case the minister, a dull fellow in his talk…
Pepys reports the Queen miscarrying, recounts Commons and Lords fighting over the East India Company’s judgment, and describes a dramatic parliamentary vote threatening anyone assisting the Lords’ execution.
of him. Then to Brouncker's house, and there sat and talked, I asking many questions in mathematics to my Lord, which he do me the pleasure to satisfy me in. 9th. I hear that the Queene hath miscarryed of a perfect child, being gone about ten weeks; which do show that she can conceive, though it be unfortunate that she cannot bring forth. We are told also that last night the Duchesse of Monmouth dancing at her lod…
Back in London, Pepys attends courts and naval committees, goes to playhouses, consults the doctor for his eyes, and notes political and social talk including fires and elections.
Elector of Saxony in that Order; who, I did hear the Duke of York say, was a good drinker: I know not upon what score this compliment is done him. 22nd. With Balty to St. James's, and there presented him to Mr. Wren about his being Muster-master this year; which will be done. So up to wait on the Duke of York, and thence with Sir W. Coventry walked to White Hall: good discourse about the Navy, where want of money …
Pepys records Parliament adjourning, experiments with paper-tube spectacles, hears about changes to the Duke of York’s naval authority, attends dinners, drafts a report for the Duke of York, and observes ambassadors and art.
his work, and the chrystal and case and gold case comes to 8l. 3s. 4d.; and which I sent him this night, that I might be out of his debt. 11th. The Parliament met enough to adjourne to the 10th of November next. At the office all the afternoon till night, being mightily pleased with a trial I have made of the use of a tube- spectacall of paper, tried with my right eye. This day I hear that, to the great joy of th…
Pepys records a busy stretch: attending women’s day at the playhouse, discussing office management with the Duke of York, visiting aristocratic houses, hosting concerns about Sidney Montagu’s finances, and observing court-linked political appointments.
the French, who was used no otherwise, and who refuses now to take more of him, upon being desired thereto in order to the making an accommodation in this matter. 28th. Knipp's maid comes to me to tell me that the women's day at the playhouse is to-day, and that therefore I must be there to encrease their profit. By water to St. James's, and there had good opportunity of speaking with the Duke of York; who desires…
The diary jumps to October 1668: Pepys checks when the Duke of York returns, helps secure appointments for officials, meets court celebrations on the Duke’s birthday, attends a play, and approves new board warrants for preferment.
But yet the Duke of Buckingham hath it in his mind, and those with him, to make a thorough alteration in things; and, among the rest, Coventry to be out. [A HIATUS occurs in the Diary at this period for thirteen days; during which Mr. Pepys went into the country, as he subsequently alludes to his having been at Saxham whilst the King was there. He had probably been to Impington to fetch his wife, and perhaps omitted…
Pepys visits Sir W. Coventry and learns that Navy office factions may remove him, while Coventry advises the Duke of York to placate them by allowing the King’s preferred appointments.
Richard Browne and Mr. Evelyn in their coach to the church, where Mr. Plume preached. [Thomas Plume, D.D., Vicar of Greenwich 1662, and installed Archdeacon of Rochester 1679. Ob, 1704.] 30th. Up, and to Sir W. Coventry, to see and discourse with him; and he tells me that he hath lately been with my Lord Keeper, and had much discourse about the Navy: and particularly he tells me that he finds they are divided touc…
Pepys and associates sign and submit a Navy administration paper read before the King and Duke of York, then hear discussion of this year’s naval operations and money needs while the Prince of Tuscany visits incognito.
Lord of Northumberland's, so prophetic of the business of Chatham as is almost miraculous. I did desire, and he did give it me to copy out; which pleased me mightily. 18th. To my office again to examine the fair draught; and so borrowing Sir J. Minnes's coach, he going with Colonell Middleton, I to White Hall, where we all met and did sign it. And then to my Lord Arlington's, where the King and the Duke of York and…
Pepys reports meetings and court business on Navy financing and Parliament politics, including fears that attempts to avoid recalling Parliament could ruin relations with Holland.
believe, they will not part with me; so I thank God my condition is such that I can retire and be able to live with comfort, though not with abundance. 21st. To Auditor Wood's, and met my Lord Bellasses upon some business of his accounts. Attended the Duke of York a little, being the first time of my waiting on him at St. James's this summer, whither he is now newly gone. And thence walked to White Hall; and so b…