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Often appears with: conquest, plunder, and captives · treaties, truces, and peacemaking · counsel and advisers to rulers · strategy and the aims of war · religious persecution and toleration · forms of government · faction, party, and civil strife · empire and the rule of provinces · conspiracy and assassination · political legitimacy and consent · naval warfare and sea power · siege and fortification
Usually: narrative (1575) · detachment (1185) · argument (383) · betrayal (350) · curiosity (345) · indignation (317) · skepticism (298) · injustice endured (218) · crisis of belief (183) · exhortation (183)
“Thus it will always happen that he who is not your friend will demand your neutrality, whilst he who is your friend will entreat you to declare yourself with arms.” Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince · observation
“Never let any Government imagine that it can choose perfectly safe courses; rather let it expect to have to take very doubtful ones.” Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince · insight
“All the world is at a loss to think what Monk will do: the City saying that he will be for them, and the Parliament saying he will be for them.” Samuel Pepys, Diary of Samuel Pepys — Volume 02: January 1659-1660 · observation
“First.--It is the custom of nations, when any two are at war, for some other powers, not engaged in the quarrel, to step in as mediators, and bring about the preliminaries of a peace; but while America calls herself the Subject of Great-Britain, no power, however well disposed she may be, can offer her mediation.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · observation
“The Speech if it may be called one, is nothing better than a wilful audacious libel against the truth, the common good, and the existence of mankind; and is a formal and pompous method of offering up human sacrifices to the pride of tyrants.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · vivid
“Brutality and tyranny appear on the face of it. It leaves us at no loss: And every line convinces, even in the moment of reading, that He, who hunts the woods for prey, the naked and untutored Indian, is less a Savage than the King of Britain.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · vivid
“That independance being a single simple line, contained within ourselves; and reconciliation, a matter exceedingly perplexed and complicated, and in which, a treacherous capricious court is to interfere, gives the answer without a doubt.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · insight
“I seek To kill thee, woman; not to hear thee speak!” Euripides, The Trojan women of Euripides · observation
“The number of wars which have happened or will happen in the world will always be found to be in proportion to the number and weight of the causes, whether REAL or PRETENDED, which PROVOKE or INVITE them.” Alexander Hamilton; John Jay; James Madison, The Federalist Papers · observation
“If a single member should attempt to usurp the supreme authority, he could not be supposed to have an equal authority and credit in all the confederate states.” Alexander Hamilton; John Jay; James Madison, The Federalist Papers · precept
“But what shall we think of a governor's playing such pitiful tricks, and imposing so grossly on a poor ignorant boy?” Benjamin Franklin, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin · wit
“Once in the hands of Mr. Ruggles, I was comparatively safe. I was hidden with Mr. Ruggles several days.” Frederick Douglass, My Bondage and My Freedom · observation
Pepys moves through London society—dining at Lord’s lodgings, paying excise-related money to soldiers, and reporting Parliament’s calls for Monk and Fairfax to come to town.
who told me how this day Scott was made Intelligencer, and that the rest of the members that were objected against last night were to be heard this day se'nnight. [James Harrington, the political writer, author of "Oceana," and founder of a club called The Rota, in 1659, which met at Miles's coffee-house in Old Palace Yard, and lasted only a few months. In 1661 he was sent to the Tower, on suspicion of treasonable d…
Pepys describes escalating negotiations between secluded members and the Rump, Speaker Lenthall blocking writs, Monk secretly admitting members with soldiers, and later Parliament voting on City gates and prisons.
18th. This day two soldiers were hanged in the Strand for their late mutiny at Somerset-house. 19th (Lord's day). To Mr. Gunning's, and heard an excellent sermon. Here I met with Mr. Moore, and went home with him to dinner, where he told me the discourse that happened between the secluded members and the members of the House, before Monk last Friday. How the secluded said, that they did not intend by coming in to…
Pepys shows the King’s Breda declaration to fleet commanders, holds a council of war on board, reads a vote, and hears seamen cry “God bless King Charles,” while he later debates Monk’s role with his lord.
many other commanders. After dinner home, not a little contented to see how I am treated, and with what respect made a fellow to the best commander in the Fleet. 26th. This day come Mr. Donne back from London, who brought letters with him that signify the meeting of the Parliament yesterday. And in the afternoon by other letters I hear, that about twelve of the Lords met and had chosen my Lord of Manchester Speake…
Over the 5th–8th, Pepys writes to London, attends visits aboard ship as Dr. Clarges and others go to the King, observes public rejoicing in the streets, and prepares for the King’s proclamation and attendants.
borrowed of the City for the present use of the King, the twelve companies of the City do give every one of them to his Majesty, as a present, 1000l. 5th. All the morning very busy writing letters to London, and a packet to Mr. Downing, to acquaint him with what has been done lately in the fleet. And this I did by my Lord's command, who, I thank him, did of himself think of doing it, to do me a kindness, for he wr…
From the Hagueward journey, Pepys watches Dutch port city life, notes the Prince of Orange and the Queen of Bohemia visits, and tours churches while adjusting fleet arrangements for the King’s expected arrival.
but that I hear that he keeps a great deal of prating and talking on shore, on board, at the King's Courts, what command he had with my Lord, &c. 14th. In the morning the Hague was clearly to be seen by us. My Lord went up, in his nightgown into the cuddy, to see how to dispose thereof for himself and us that belong to him, to give order for our removal to-day. Some nasty Dutchmen came on board to proffer their b…
Pepys records writing a French letter ordered by Lord and then a ceremonial welcome of King Charles II aboard ship, including gun salutes, renaming ships, and royal hand-kissing.
to- night. This evening I was late writing a French letter by my Lord's order to Monsieur Wragh, Embassador de Denmarke a la Haye, which my Lord signed in bed. 23rd. In the morning come infinity of people on board from the King to go along with him. My Lord, Mr. Crewe, and others, go on shore to meet the King as he comes off from shore, where Sir R. Stayner, bringing His Majesty into the boat, I hear that His Maje…
Pepys prays to be able to pay for something, then attends an Abbey sermon, meets senior Navy officers about Council orders to act, and dines with his patron in a private room.
and I pray God to make me able to pay for it. In the afternoon to the Abbey, where a good sermon by a stranger, but no Common Prayer yet. 2nd. All the afternoon with my Lord, going up and down the town; at seven at night he went home, and there the principal Officers of the Navy, among the rest myself was reckoned one. We had order to meet to-morrow, to draw up such an order of the Council as would put us into act…
Pepys attends Mass at York House as the Spanish Ambassador’s affair, dines and socializes, then recounts a dangerous frolic by Capt. Ferrers who jumps through open balcony windows and is badly injured before recovering.
the Hall in the condition it is now, with the Judges on the benches at the further end of it, which I had not seen all this terme till now. 19th (Lord's day). I walked in the morning towards Westminster, and, seeing many people at York House, I went down and found them at masse, it being the Spanish Ambassador's; and so I got into one of the gallerys, and there heard two masses done, I think, not in so much state a…
Pepys vividly recounts a street fight rivalry between Spanish and French ambassadors over precedence, watches the aftermath in London, and records the need to send forces to Tangier and the King’s continued financial neglect of the Navy.
some of the grapes in a basket for to be sent to the King we took coach and home, were we found a hampire of millons sent to me also. 30th. This morning up by moone-shine, at 5 o'clock, to White Hall, to meet Mr. Moore at the Privy Seale, and there I heard of a fray between the two Embassadors of Spaine [The Baron de Vatteville.] and France; [Godfrey, Count D'Estrades, Marshal of France, and Viceroy of America. He…
In October 1661 Pepys discusses ambassador complaints after the Spanish-French incident, forecasts Parliament trouble over offices and money, meets news about Lisbon/Portugall, and advises preparations for the Queen’s provision and Portsmouth.
the Navy, out of order; and yet I do not see that the King takes care to bring in any money, but thinks of new designs to lay out money. OCTOBER 4, 1661. By coach to White Hall with Sir W. Pen. So to Mr. Montagu, where his man, Mons. Eschar, makes a great complaint against the English, that they did help the Spaniards against the French the other day; and that their Embassador do demand justice of our King, and th…
Pepys continues describing Parliament’s session and court tensions: letters from Tangier about Sandwich’s actions against Turks, meetings with the Duke of York, and disputes over foreign ships’ practice of striking sails.
of the fleet at its coming again: and so do endeavour to bring disgrace upon my Lord. But I hope all that will not do, for the King loves him. 21st. At the office all the afternoon; it being the first afternoon that we have sat, which we are now to do always, so long as the Parliament sits, who this day have voted the King 120,000l. to be raised to pay his debts. [According to the Journals 1,200,000l.] 28th. Le…
Pepys reports Queen Catherine’s fleet near the Isles of Scilly and Mount’s Bay, news from the Exchange about Ottoman raids by Sir John Lawson, and court and navy personnel tensions involving Prince Rupert, the Duke of Buckingham, and commissioners under Coventry.
of York is brought to bed of a girle, at which I find nobody pleased; and that Prince Rupert and the Duke of Buckingham are sworne of the Privy Councell. 7th. Walked to Westminster; where I understand the news that Mr. Montagu is last night come to the King with news, that he left the Queene and fleete in the Bay of Biscay, coming this wayward; and that he believes she is now at the Isle of Scilly. Thence to Paul'…
Pepys stays with the Earl of Sandwich, learning his plans to clear debts, seek a pardon, and manage sea employment, while Sandwich describes Argier terms and political maneuvering against Coventry and Lawson.
26th. Mr. Nicholson, [Thomas Nicholson, A.M., 1672.] my old fellow-student at Magdalene, come, and we played three or four things upon the violin and basse. 27th. To my Lord, who rose as soon as be heard I was there; and in his night-gowne and shirt stood talking with me alone two hours, I believe, concerning his greatest matters of state and interest,--among other things, that his greatest design is, first, to get…
Pepys describes further Tower investigations and Navy/commission work: inspecting the Chest’s revenues dating to 1617, attending court and theatre, receiving news of Dunkirk money, and discussing fishery subsidies and governance disputes.
I have great confidence that there is no cheat in these people, but that they go upon good grounds, though they have been mistaken in the place of the first. 13th. To my office, and there this afternoon me had our first meeting upon our commission of inspecting the Chest. Sir Francis Clerke, [M.P. for Rochester.] Mr. Heath, Atturney of the Dutchy, Mr. Prinn, Sir W. Rider, Captn. Cooke, and myself. Our first work…
Pepys continues noting a Tangier-related court business involving the Duke and Lady Castlemaine, then describes his meeting with Lord Coventry about Navy payments, and court intrigues over precedence and mistreatment.
but bid me to go through some other way, which I did; so that I see that he is a servant of the King's pleasures too, as well as business. 19th. Singled out Mr. Coventry into the matted gallery, and there I told him the complaints I meet every day about our Treasurer's or his people's paying no money, but at the goldsmith's shops, where they are forced to pay fifteen or twenty sometimes per cent, for their money, w…
On 17th Pepys hears a secret quarrel between Lord Sandwich and Edward Montagu about embassy money and abuses, then proceeds to 18th–19th Parliament business, royal speeches on religious toleration, and office-related imprisonment worries.
says the same for the Papists, but declares against their ever being admitted to have any offices or places of trust in the kingdom; but, God knows, too many have. 21st. To the office, where Sir J. Minnes (most of the rest being at the Parliament-house,) all the morning answering petitions and other business. Towards noon there comes a man as if upon ordinary business, and shows me a writ from the Exchequer, calle…
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 visits the Russia Embassador at York House, observes how Court business is neglected, discusses Court rumours about the Queen and her changing behaviour, attends plays, and buys a vizard for his wife.
from Ireland; which it seems hath been hatching, and known to the Lord Lieutenant a great while, and kept close till within three days that it should have taken effect. 4th. In the Hall a good while; where I heard that this day the Archbishop of Canterbury, Juxon, [William Juxon, made Bishop of London 1633, translated to Canterbury, 1660.] a man well spoken of by all for a good man, is dead; and the Bishop of Lond…
Pepys visits Lambeth and examines the Privy Seal Office books, hears rumours about French court behaviour and the Queen’s ignorance, and notes improvements in the City’s streets while Parliament seeks the informer of Sir Richard Temple’s words.
with him; and yet he says that, for all this, the Queene do not know of it, for that nobody dares to tell her; but that I dare not believe. 22nd. To Westminster, where all along I find the shops evening with the sides of the houses, even in the broadest streets; which will make the City very much better than it was. It seems the House do consent to send to the King to desire that he would be graciously pleased to …
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…
Pepys walks with Mr. Coventry and attends sermons, starts writing a sermon in a silver pen, joins the Tangier committee about funding Lord Teviott, and hears news about Quaker arrests, Queen’s favour, Castlemaine, and Bristoll’s trouble.
I with Mr. Coventry down to the water-side, talking, wherein I see so much goodness and endeavours of doing the King service, that I do more and more admire him. 9th. To church, and heard Mr. Mills (who is lately returned out of the country, and it seems was fetched in by many of the parishioners, with great state,) preach upon the authority of the ministers, upon these words, "We are therefore embassadors of Chris…
Pepys investigates the East Indies and the failure of the last voyage due to Portuguese deception, questions misinformation about Bombay, meets Sir Philip Warwick about Navy debts, and hears the King and Queen coming to Oxford while the Turks advance toward Hungary.
doubtfulness of myself, and the haste which he was in, some very great personages waiting for him without, while he was with me, that made him willing to be gone. 28th. To White Hall, where Sir J. Minnes and I did spend an hour in the Gallery, looking upon the pictures, in which he hath some judgement. And by and by the Commissioners for Tangier met: and there my Lord Teviott, together with Captain Cuttance, Capt…
He watches cock-fighting at Shoe Lane, hears music and an anthem by Lord Sandwich in the withdrawing room, learns Lady Castlemaine has converted to Catholicism, and notes court talk about ship hires by France and public tennis.
France hath hired threescore ships of Holland, and forty of the Swede, but nobody knows what to do: but some great designs he hath on foot; against the next year. 2lst. To Shoe Lane to see a cocke-fighting at a new pit there, a spot I was never at in my life: but Lord! to see the strange variety of people, from Parliament-man (by name Wildes, that was Deputy Governor of the Tower when Robinson was Lord Mayor) to …
Pepys continues the diary with gifts to his wife’s brother going to Holland, meetings at Whitehall, news and letters about Dutch dominance near Surat, and talk of royal leases and patronage, alongside visits to notable families.
gold edgeing in each seam, that was the lace of my wife's best pettycoat that she had when I married her. He is going into Holland to seek his fortune. 15th. To White Hall, to the Duke: where he first put on a periwigg to-day: but methought his hair cut short in order thereto did look very prettily of itself, before he put on his periwigg. Great news of the arrivall of two rich ships, the Greyhound and another, …
Pepys discusses war strategy and Dutch grievances with Mr. Coventry, debates Lord Sandwich’s potential to go to sea, describes court preaching and visiting Povy’s lavish house, and notes the King’s birthday dancing at Castlemaine’s lodgings.
23rd. The King is gone down with the Duke and a great crew this morning by break of day to Chatham. 29th. Mr. Coventry and I did a long discourse together of the business of the office, and the war with the Dutch; and he seemed to argue mightily with the little reason that there is for all this. For first, as to the wrong we pretend they have done us; that of the East Indys, for their not delivering of Poleron, it…
Pepys describes further Dutch war gossip, court wit about ‘Old Pen,’ a reported marriage of widow Lady Gold to Neale, and arrangements for Lord Sandwich’s ship visit with planned royal touring.
fifty men of his own ship, of the plague, at Cales: that the Holland Embassador here do endeavour to sweeten us with fair words; and things like to be peaceable. 20th. I to the Duke, where we did our usual business. And among other discourse of the Dutch, he was merrily saying how they print that Prince Rupert, Duke of Albemarle, and my Lord Sandwich, are to be Generalls; and soon after is to follow them "Vieux Pe…
Pepys repeats his assurance to the Chancellor and records his conversation with Lord Sandwich about court influence, debts, and a forthcoming sea voyage, emphasizing patience and mistrust of friends.
I parted with great assurance how I acknowledged all I had to come from his Lordship; which he did not seem to refuse, but with great kindness and respect parted. 15th. Up, and to my Lord Sandwich's; where he sent for me up, and I did give my Lord an account of what had passed with my Lord Chancellor yesterday; with which he was pleased, and advised me by all means to study in the best manner I could to serve him i…
Pepys describes the Royal Society’s book and royal patronage, losses of ships in the Straights, Dutch actions near the North Foreland and Margate Road, and plays like Volpone; he also recounts a Privy Council debate over Turkey ships.
To my Lord of Oxford's, but his Lordship was in bed at past ten o'clock: and, Lord help us! so rude a dirty family I never saw in my life. 9th. I saw the Royal Society bring their new book, wherein is nobly writ their charter and laws, and comes to be signed by the Duke as a Fellow; and all the Fellows' hands are to be entered there, and lie as a monument; and the King hath put his with the word Founder. Holmes wa…
The passage continues Pepys’s diary around February 21 to February 27, mentioning court gossip about Castlemaine’s return from France, Dutch news at the Exchange, and a Council Committee session where pressing men is discussed.
the selling of that towne. And very noble I believe it will be. Near that is my Lord Barkeley beginning another one side, and Sir J. Denham on the other. 21st. My Lady Sandwich tells me how my Lord Castlemaine is coming over from France, and is believed will soon be made friends with his Lady again. What mad freaks the Mayds of Honour at Court have: that Mrs. Jenings, one of the Dutchesse's maids, the other day …
Pepys records late-January details of the plague worsening, the emptying of London, talk of war with France and fleet movements, plus letters and ship orders connected to the Duke of Albemarle and diplomacy.
at the publick charge in the last, plague-time, merely for want of room and now none, but such as are able to pay dear for it, can be buried there. 20th. Walked to Redriffe, where I hear the sickness is, and indeed is scattered almost every where. There dying 1089 of the plague this week. My Lady Carteret did this day give me a bottle of plague-water home with me. I received yesterday a letter from my Lord Sandw…
On a Sunday Pepys avoids possible plague by not going by water, learns his father-in-law is ill, then gets joyous news from Mr. Coventry about Lord Sandwich taking Dutch prizes near the Well-banke.
all the Dutch fleet, men-of-war and merchant East India ships, are got every one in from Bergen the 3rd of this month, Sunday last; which will make us all ridiculous. 10th (Lord's day). Walked home; being forced thereto by one of my watermen falling sick yesterday, and it was God's great mercy I did not go by water with them yesterday, for he fell sick on Saturday night, and it is to be feared of the plague. So I …
Pepys narrates time at Lord Sandwich’s house, visits to theater circles via Mrs. Knipp, and a trip from London to Windsor, filled with social gatherings, fears about pardons, and concerns about Dunkirk.
and others' parts of the play-house, which she do most excellently; and tells me the whole practices of the play-house and players, and is in every respect most excellent company. 25th. With our coach of four horses to Windsor, and so to Cranborne, about eleven o'clock, and found my Lord [Sandwich.] and the ladies at a sermon in the house; which being ended we to them, and all the company glad to see us, and mighty…
Pepys describes visits and negotiations at court, discusses plague totals and fears for new parishes, follows up portrait progress with John Hales, and reports diplomatic news such as Denmark and Sweden favoring England.
and of them but six in the City: though my Lord Brouncker says, that these six are most of them in new parishes where they were not the last week 3rd. To Hales's, and there saw my wife sit; and I do like her picture mightily, and very like it will be, and a brave piece of work. But he do complain that her nose hath cost him as much work as another's face, and he hath done it finely indeed. 5th. News for certain …
After Whit-Sunday news, Pepys records conflicting reports: a ship disabled and Dutch fighting details, reports of flags shot down and fire-ship casualties, and accusations of miscommunication between the Prince and the fleet.
Thursday, and ran from them; but from that hour to this hath not heard one gun, nor any news of any fight. Having put the soldiers on board, I home. 3rd (Lord's-day; Whit-sunday). Up; and by water to White Hall, and there met with Mr. Coventry, who tells me the only news from the fleet is brought by Captain Elliott, of the Portland, which, by being run on board by the Guernsey, was disabled from staying abroad: so…
On the 13th Pepys hears of quarrels between the Duke of York and the Duke of Albemarle, attends Sir Christopher Mings’s funeral, and witnesses a request for a fire-ship in revenge.
for women in any point whatever; which was an odde sight, and a sight did not please me. It was Mrs. Wells and another fine lady that I saw thus. 13th. Sir H. C. Cholmly [Sir Hugh Cholmely of Whitby, Yorkshire, Bart., was employed in constructing the Mole at Tangier, and resided there some years. Ob. 1688.] tells me there are great jarrs between the Duke of York and the Duke of Albemarle, about the latter's turni…
On the 24th Pepys hears from Major Halsey that Albemarle overclaims victory, blames divided fleet and lack of spirit, and Pepys and Sir W. Coventry discuss London talk, intelligence, and naval command blame.
sea in the Providence, who did give me an account of several particulars in the late fight, and how his ship was deserted basely by the York, Captain Swanly, commander. 24th. In the gallery among others met with Major Halsey, a great creature of the Duke of Albemarle's: who tells me that the Duke by name hath said that he expected to have the work here up in the River done, having left Sir W. Batten and Mr. Phipps…
Pepys notes Sir W. Pen’s reluctance to offend Lord Brouncker, then attends the King at White Hall amid complaints from generals about fleet victualling and fire-ships; he also discusses political factions, pardons, and legal reversals.
Sir W. Pen, who is the most fit, is unwilling to displease him, and do not look after it; and so the King's work is like to be well done. 26th. I was a little disturbed with news my Lord Brouncker brought me, that we are to attend the King at White Hall this afternoon, and that it is about a complaint from the Generalls against us. Sir W. Pen and I by coach to White Hall, and there staid till the King and Cabinet …
Pepys reports the fire’s advance after drought, including burning churches and St. Lawrence Poultney’s steeple, then meets the King and Duke of York urging house-pulling; he helps coordinate with the Lord Mayor and watches citizens save goods.
and every thing after so long a drought proving combustible, even the very stones of churches, and among other things, the poor steeple [St, Lawrence Poultney, of which Thomas Elborough was Curate.] by which pretty Mrs. -- lives, and whereof my old schoolfellow Elborough is parson, taken fire in the very top, and there burned till it fell down; I to White Hall (with a gentleman with me, who desired to go off from th…
On 17th Pepys travels by water, still seeing burning, fears French naval movements, notes De Ruyter’s rumored condition, watches naval news, and records uneasy Court and fleet concerns.
joy many rooms clean; and myself and wife lie in our own chamber again. But much terrified in the nights now-a-days with dreams of fire, and falling down of houses. 17th. Up betimes, and shaved myself after a week's growth: but, Lord! how ugly I was yesterday and how fine to-day! By water, seeing the City all the way, a sad sight indeed, much fire being still in. Sir W. Coventry was in great pain lest the Frenc…
Pepys notes Parliament’s moves about retrenching Sir G. Carteret’s salary, the bill against importing Irish cattle, court politics around Lady Denham, and overseas war news like the Dutch taking Bruant’s head.
50,000l. I made my brother in his cassocke to say grace this day, but I like his voice so ill, that I begin to be sorry he hath taken orders. 8th. Towards noon by water to Westminster Hall, and there by several hear that the Parliament do resolve to do something to retrench Sir G. Carteret's great salary; but cannot hear of any thing bad they can lay to his charge. The House did this day order to be engrossed the …
Pepys attends court as Captain Cocke discusses peace negotiations involving Amsterdam, Lord Arlington, and De Witt, while Pepys remarks on Sunday leisure at the Queen’s side.
each name, might be very, pretty. One wonder I observed to-day, that there was no musique in the morning to call up our new-married people; which is very mean methinks. 17th. Staid till the council was up, and attended the King and Duke of York round the Park, and was asked several questions by both; but I was in pain lest they should ask me what I could not answer; as the Duke of York did the value of the hull of …
At “The Maid’s Tragedy,” Pepys enjoys witty masked conversation and later hears court talk about the King’s musicians and French influence; he also hears the French may block Hague peace talks.
men; which I was amazed at to see on a Sunday, having not believed it, but contrarily, flatly denied the same a little while since to my cosen Roger Pepys. 18th. To the King's house to "The Mayd's Tragedy;" but vexed all the while with two talking ladies and Sir Charles Sedley; yet pleased to hear their discourse, he being a stranger. And one of the ladies would and did sit with her mask on all the play; and being…
Pepys meets Lord Arlington, Lord Treasurer’s circle, and Sir Robert Viner; he discusses Spanish and French plans, the Dutch rejecting the Hague for treaty towns, and a debated cause of a destructive city fire.
By and by come to my Lord Chancellor, who heard mighty quietly my complaints for lack of money, and spoke mighty kind to me, but little hopes of help therein. 24th. To White Hall, and there meeting my Lord Arlington, he by I know not what kindness offered to carry me along with him to my Lord Treasurer's, whither I told him I was going. I believe he had a mind to discourse of some Navy businesses, but Sir Thomas C…
Pepys reports beliefs about Dutch treaty locations, rumors of French movement in Flanders, and an attempt to arrest the Duke of Buckingham; he then discusses Buckingham’s alleged crimes and likely fate.
in like a young gallant; and hath the motions and carriage of a spark the most that ever I saw any man have. It makes me, I confess, admire her. 3rd. it is believed that the Dutch will yield to have the treaty at London or Dover, neither of which will get our King any credit, we having already consented to have it at the Hague; which, it seems, De Witt opposed, as a thing wherein the King of England must needs have…
Pepys describes the King’s public statements on France’s dealings with Europe, the French and Spanish diplomatic intrigues, the proclamation against Buckingham, and then court financing for naval needs.
this: and there be many hard circumstances in the proclamation of the causes of this proceeding of the King's, which speak great displeasure of the King's, and crimes of his. 13th. The Duke of Buckingham is concluded gone over sea, and, it is thought, to France. 14th. To my Lord Treasurer's. By and by comes the King and Duke of York, and presently the officers of the Ordnance were called; my Lord Barkeley, Sir J…
Pepys sees court and political officials preparing for the Breda negotiations, hopes for peace while expecting Parliament’s poor support for the war, and walks in April 1 with Sir W. Coventry about the need for peace and money shortages.
this," says he, "and no discipline shall ever be expected." Sir J. Minnes did tell of the discovery of his own great- grandfather's murder, fifteen years after he was murdered. 3rd. To the Duke of York, where Sir G. Carteret did say that he had no funds to raise money on; and being asked by Sir W. Coventry whether the eleven months' tax was not a fund, he answered "No," that the banquers would not lend money upon i…
Coventry and the Duke of York debate funds for the navy and taxes, Pepys hears Dr. Crewe’s sermon on seeking God’s kingdom, receives Dutch letters about a planned passe, and hears rumors about Richmond and Mrs. Stewart angering the King.
Rupert abroad in the vane-room, pretty well as he used to be, and looks as well, only something appears to be under his periwigg on the crown of his head. 4th. I find the Duke of Albemarle at dinner with sorry company, some of his officers of the Army: dirty dishes and a nasty wife at table, and had meat, of which I made but an ill dinner. Pretty to hear how she talked against Captain Du Tel, the Frenchman, that t…
At a dinner with the Duke of Albemarle, Pepys hears disputes about naval battles against the Dutch and French influence, discusses inland “land-admirals,” and notes Maundy Thursday charity done by the Bishop of London rather than the King.
at White Hall to the Maunday, it being Maunday Thursday; but the King did not wash the poor people's feet himself, but the Bishop of London did it for him. 5th. Mr. Young was talking about the building of the City again: and he told me that those few churches that are to be new built are plainly not chosen with regard to the convenience of the City; they stand a great many in a cluster about Cornhill: but that all…
Pepys records July 6–8 concerns over peace terms, speculation about a general excise and Parliament’s fears, Coventry’s projected peace from Breda, and ominous Dutch movements toward Dover.
bed, at Hinchingbroke, of a boy [In 1681 created Baron Carteret of Hawnes, co. Bedford, in consideration of the eminent services rendered by his grandfather and father to Charles II.] 7th (Lord's day). Mr. Moor tells me that the discontented Parliament-men are fearful that the next sitting the King will try for a general excise by which to raise him money, and then to fling off the Parliament, and raise a land-army…
Pepys records late July 19 and 22–23: letters from Holland inflate Dutch confidence, fleets remain around Harwich and Plymouth to Dartmouth, and Pepys attends a Tangier committee where Coventry argues for cost reductions.
used. She saw "The Royal Charles" brought into the river by them; and how they shot off their great guns for joy, when they got her out of Chatham river. 19th. One tells me that, by letter from Holland, the people there are made to believe that our condition in England is such as they may have whatever they will ask; and that so they are mighty high, and despise us, or a peace with us: and there is too much reason…
Pepys secures approval from the Duke of York for his requested ship, hears news that Parliament may seek revenge on the chancellor through suspected parliamentary designs and alleged money-taking bargains, and visits Wren about his warrant.
there is but 800l. found in the world of money; and is in great doubt what we shall do towards the doing ourselves right with them, about the prize money. 13th. To St. James's; and there to the Duke of York's chamber and there he was dressing; and many Lords and Parliament-men come to kiss his hands, they being newly come to town. And then the Duke of York did of himself call me to him and tell me that he had spok…
Pepys notes a conference between Lords and Commons over whether to confine Clarendon, discusses king’s remarks about the Chancellor versus Buckingham and Bristoll, and records pressure and witness summonses relating to prize goods and Sandwich.
his son Jack (Sir John) his going to France, that he may be a witness against my Lord Sandwich: which do trouble me, though he can, I think, say little. 15th. A conference between the two Houses today; so I stayed: and it was only to tell the Commons that the Lords' cannot agree to the confining or sequestring of the Earle of Clarendon from the Parliament, forasmuch as they do not specify any particular crime which…
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…
At year’s end Pepys blesses his family’s health but worries the kingdom may be lost soon due to parliamentary dissatisfaction, faction, and foreign invasion, praying for Parliament’s examination of the Navy.
to examine our Navy matters, which they will now shortly do. I pray God they may do the kingdom service therein, as they will have sufficient opportunity of doing it! JANUARY 1, 1667-8. Dined with my Lord Crewe, with whom was Mr. Browne, Clerk of the House of Lords, and Mr. John Crewe. Here was mighty good discourse, as there is always: and among other things my Lord Crewe did turn to a place in the Life of Sir P…
Pepys advises on making a flageolet, then reports news of a secretly negotiated league with Holland against France, discusses likely toleration for Presbyterians, and notes pressure over Carr’s punishment.
19th. Lord Shrewsbury is likely to do well. 20th. To Drumbleby's the pipe-maker, there to advise about the making of a flageolet to go low and soft; and he do show me a way which do do, and also a fashion of having two pipes of the same note fastened together, so as I can play on one, and then echo it upon the other; which is mighty pretty. So to my Lord Crewe's to dinner; where we hear all the good news of our ma…
Pepys visits Mr. Godolphin, discusses diplomats and a possible peace between Spain and Portugal, then describes Commons opposition to the King’s Bill of Comprehension and their demand to enforce uniformity laws.
seeking of my Lord Gerard himself, cleared himself of in open Court, to the gaining himself the pity of all the world, and shame for ever to my Lord Gerard. 10th. Made a visit to Mr. Godolphin at his chamber; and I do find him a very pretty and able person, a man of very fine parts, and of infinite zeal to my Lord Sandwich; and one that says, he is (he believes) as wise and able a person as any prince in the world …
After meeting Sir W. Coventry, Pepys recounts preparations for defending against inquiries, discussions of Sandwich’s parliamentary troubles, and a committee inquiry about foreign nations avoiding hostilities in the presence of English ships.
hath above 150l. worth of jewells of one kind or other; and I am glad of it, for it is fit the wretch should have something to content herself with. 24th. Meeting Dr. Gibbons, [Christopher Gibbons, Organist to the King and of Westminster abbey. He was admitted Doctor of Music at Oxford 1664, and died 1676.] he and I to see an organ at the Dean of Westminster's lodgings at the abby, the Bishop of Rochester's; [Joh…
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 …