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Often appears with: fate, destiny, and necessity · religious persecution and toleration · custom and the manners of a people · poetry and the poets · justice as a virtue · history and the writing of history · books, libraries, and learning · censorship and the press · education and the training of the young · crime and punishment · festivals, games, and spectacle · rhetoric and persuasion
Usually: detachment (123) · narrative (112) · curiosity (97) · argument (77) · wonder (55) · censure (49) · reflection (30) · skepticism (29) · commentary or gloss (24) · record or table (23)
“The work of Herodotus might be put into verse, and it would still be a species of history, with metre no less than without it.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · observation
“The change of fortune should be not from bad to good, but, reversely, from good to bad.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · insight
“But when the tragic incident occurs between those who are near or dear to one another--if, for example, a brother kills, or intends to kill, a brother, a son his father, a mother her son, a son his mother...” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · observation
“The 'Deus ex Machina' should be employed only for events external to the drama,--for antecedent or subsequent events, which lie beyond the range of human knowledge...” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · precept
“But, of all recognitions, the best is that which arises from the incidents themselves, where the startling discovery is made by natural means.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · precept
“It will thus resemble a living organism in all its unity, and produce the pleasure proper to it.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · vivid
“For sameness of incident soon produces satiety, and makes tragedies fail on the stage.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · insight
“The wonderful is pleasing: as may be inferred from the fact that every one tells a story with some addition of his own, knowing that his hearers like it.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · insight
“If a poet has chosen to imitate something, <but has imitated it incorrectly> through want of capacity, the error is inherent in the poetry.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · observation
“If, then, Tragedy is superior to Epic poetry in all these respects, and, moreover, fulfils its specific function better as an art for each art ought to produce, not any chance pleasure, but the pleasure proper to it, as already stated it plainly follows that Tragedy is the higher art, as attaining its end more perfectly.” Aristotle, The Poetics of Aristotle · insight
“Learned naturalists describe these scenes of the tropics by naming a multitude of objects, and mentioning some characteristic feature of each.” Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the Beagle · observation
“Promotion in the army was hopeless, now that Don John was dead and he had no one to press his claims and services, and for a man drawing on to forty life in the ranks was a dismal prospect; he had already a certain reputation as a poet; he made up his mind, therefore, to cast his lot with literature.” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Don Quixote · insight
The editor’s preface praises Pepys’s diary as a detailed source for plays and stage life, and claims it also describes surprising early scientific and military experiments, along with scandalous anecdotes.
the curious, affect dramatic antiquities--a line which has special charms for the present age--no book published in our time has thrown so much light upon plays, playwrights, and play- actors. "Then those who desire to be aware of the earliest discoveries, as well in sciences, as in the useful arts, may read in Pepys's Memoirs, how a slice of roast mutton was converted into pure blood; and of those philosophical gla…
Pepys attends plays “Beggars’ Bush” and “The Silent Woman,” notes women acting onstage for the first time, buys gilt plate for Lord offerings at Whitehall, and hears of Fifth Monarchy (“Fanatiques”) violence in the City and searches at night.
3rd. To the Theatre, where was acted "Beggars' Bush," it being very well done; and here the first time that ever I saw women come upon the stage. 4th. I had been early this morning at White Hall, at the Jewell Office, to choose a piece of gilt plate for my Lord, in returne of his offering to the King (which it seems is usual at this time of year, and an Earle gives twenty pieces in gold in a purse to the King). I …
Pepys begins dressing with coat and sword like other gentlemen, attends drums and dinners, hears of duels and court disputes, visits slaving stories from Algiers, watches theatre performances, and discusses preparations and rumors for the King’s marriage and Lent.
Alban's, and the Queen, and Ambassador Montagu, did way- lay them at their lodgings till the difference was made up, to my Lord's honour, who hath got great reputation thereby. 8th. Captn. Cuttle, and Curtis, and Mootham, and I, went to the Fleece Taverne to drink; and there we spent till four o'clock, telling stories of Algiers, and the manner of life of slaves there. And truly Captn. Mootham and Mr. Dawes (who h…
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 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 details christening at the Wardrobe (Katherine, without the cross sign), theatre attendance near the King, Dr. Williams’s cat-killing dog, and messages about Lord Sandwich’s condition at Argier.
sea, which I believe Mr. Coventry and the Duke do think will make them more absolute; but I hope, for all this, they will not be able to do it. 3rd. Dined at home, and then with my wife to the Wardrobe, where my Lady's child was christened, (my Lord Crewe and his Lady, and my Lady Montagu, my Lord's mother-in-law, were the witnesses), and named Katherine (the Queen elect's name); but to my and all our trouble, the …
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 focuses on Parliament and court religious-political life: chimney-money passage, sermons before the King, the capture and transfer of regicides from Delft, engineering talk about blowing up ships, and ongoing naval movements toward Portugal.
Argier is broken down, and many of their ships sunk into the mole. So that God Almighty hath now ended that unlucky business for us; which is very good news. 4th. To Westminster Hall, where it was full terme. Here all the morning, and at noon to my Lord Crewe's, where one Mr. Templer (an ingenious man and a person of honour he seems to be) dined; and, discoursing of the nature of serpents, he told us some in the w…
Pepys travels and watches public events from London to Portsmouth: dispatching ships to Portugal, naval inspections, court changes and queen’s arrivals, performances at the playhouse, and news about the Queen’s landing and the fleet’s departure timing.
and thence, after being on ship-board, to Woolwich, and there eat something. The Sir Williams being unwilling to eat flesh, Captn. Cock and I had a breast of veale roasted. 18th. Having agreed with Sir Wm. Pen to meet him at the Opera, and finding by my walking in the streets, which were every where full of brick-bates and tyles flung down by the extraordinary winde the last night (such as hath not been in memory b…
Pepys describes public observance of the King’s birthday and the Queen’s move to Hampton Court, then notes court relocation there, peace with Argier, and concern over the Act for Uniformity provoking Presbyterian unrest.
a new Master; which is Sir J. Minnes, notwithstanding Sir W. Batten did contend highly for it; at which I am not a little pleased, because of his proud lady. 29th. This day, being the King's birth-day, was very solemnly observed; and the more, for that the Queene this day comes to Hampton Court. In the evening bonfires were made, but nothing to the great number that was heretofore at the burning of the Rump. 31st…
Pepys visits Hide Park for a King’s Guards muster, later attends the Archbishop’s funeral procession too late, and remarks on Roman letters on a hanging while writing lists of ships at his office.
6th. At my office all the morning, writing of a list of the King's ships in my Navy collections with great pleasure. 7th. In Mr. Pett's garden I eat some of the first cherries I have eat this year, off the tree where the King himself had been gathering some this morning. Deane tells me that Mr. Pett did to-day, that my Lord Bristoll told the King that he will impeach the Chancellor of High Treason: but I find tha…
Pepys notes a new practice of dropping an import of “indemnity” at Holehaven, then attends book buying and theatre, hears Dutch portraits mock the King, and records court movements on St Andrew’s Day.
import of the word, though in the general acceptation it signifies now the thing, not the time spent in doing it) in Holehaven, a thing never done by us before. 28th. To Paul's Church Yard, and there looked upon the second part of Hudibras, which I buy not, but borrow to read, to see if it be as good as the first, which the world cried so mightily up, though it hath not a good liking in me, though I had tried but t…
Pepys tears up old papers including his early Cambridge romance “Love a Cheate,” then hears of fatal fights near the new Exchange, visits Gresham College and the theatre, and watches The Indian Queen with praised performers.
very well, and wondered a little at myself at my vein at that time when I wrote it, doubting that I cannot do so well now if I would try. FEBRUARY 1, 1663-64. I hear how two men last night, justling for the wall about the new Exchange, did kill one another, each thrusting the other through; one of them of the King's Chapel, one Cave, and the other a retayner of my Lord Generall Middleton's. Thence to White Hall; w…
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 records a run of September–October 1664 entries: celebrating wealth and gifts, attending plays, describing storms, tracking war news against the Dutch, observing fires, and hearing about French and Dutch military movements.
not be known, and were roundly beaten out of the field, and some deeply wounded and bruised; till at last the weavers went out tryumphing, calling 100l. for a butcher. 28th. I am overjoyed in hopes that upon this month's account I shall find myself worth 1000l. besides the rich present of two silver and gilt flaggons, which Mr. Gauden did give me the other day. My Lord Sandwich newly gone to sea, and he did before…
Pepys attends and studies court theater machinery after plague-era closures, discusses risks to his office and prize administration, reports disputes involving Ashley and Coventry, and notes further portrait work and visiting social life at Whitehall.
shadows, and do almost break my neck looking over my shoulder to make the posture for him to work by. Home, having a great cold: so to bed, drinking butter-ale. 19th. After dinner we walked to the King's play-house, all in dirt, they being altering of the stage to make it wider. But God knows when they will begin to act again; but my business here was to see the inside of the stage and all the tiring-rooms and mac…
Pepys attends his first play since the Plague, judges it as a poor performance, admires courtly spectacle including Lady Castlemaine, and then notes on November 2, 1666 the Ruby French prize vessel details.
any of our enemies this year. It seems a very good ship, but with galleries quite round the sterne to walk in as a balcone, which will be taken down. 4th. My taylor's man brings my vest home, and coat to wear with it and belt, and silver-hilted sword. I waited in the gallery till the Council was up, and did speak with Mr. Cooling, my Lord Chamberlain's secretary, who tells me my Lord Generall is become mighty low …
Pepys buys prints at Faythorne’s, notices Lady Castlemaine’s portrait, hears court rumors of a coming “fatal day” tied to Papists, and records that everyone’s fears are active.
strange, and speaks the melancholy disposition of the City at present, while never more was said of, and feared of, and done against the Papists, than just at this time. 7th. Called at Faythorne's to buy some prints for my wife to draw by this winter, and here did see my Lady Castlemaine's picture, done by him from Lilly's, in red chalke, and other colours, by which he hath cut it in copper to be printed. The pict…
On the Queen’s birthday, Pepys attends court dancing at the ball, describes the King and royal guests’ rich attire and dances, and later hears scientific optimism about a blood-transfer experiment in which one dog’s blood is used to help another.
to confess his fault, and ask pardon for it, as he did also to my Lord Buckingham, for saying that something was not truth that my Lord Buckingham had said. 20th. To church, it being thanksgiving-day for the cessation of the plague; but, Lord! how the town do say that it is hastened before the plague is quite over, there being some people still ill of it, but only to get ground of plays to be publickly acted, which…
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; …
After watching “The Mayd’s Tragedy” Pepys records Parliament passing the “great Proviso,” the King’s hostile reaction, and worries it will inflame court-commons conflict, amid plague-era theatre reopening and coal shortages.
the great plague, they having acted now about fourteen days publickly. But I was in mighty pain, lest I should be seen by any body to be at a play. 8th. The great Proviso passed the House of Parliament yesterday: which makes the King and Court mad, the King having given order to my Lord Chamberlain to send to the playhouses and brothels, to bid all the Parliament-men that were there to go to the Parliament presentl…
During frost Pepys walks through the City’s ruins, worries about Gottenburgh’s mast supply, then attends plays at the Duke’s house and later reports an estate of hundreds per year passed by friendship and deeds handled for years.
for the sexton, But it come into my head why we should be more bold in making the collection while the psalm is singing, than in the sermon or prayer. 31st. To my accounts, wherein at last I find them clear and right; but to my great discontent do find that my gettings this year have been 573l. less than my last: it being this year in all but 2986l.; whereas, the last, I got 3560l. And then again my spendings thi…
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…
After noting his ailing parents, Pepys observes a public hanging display on St. David’s Day, hears of a surgeon killed in a drunken quarrel, and attends “The Maiden Queene,” praising Nell’s performance.
mother, who are both very ill, and have been so for some weeks: whom God help! but I do fear my poor father will hardly be ever naturally well again. March 1, 1666-7. In Mark-lane I do observe (it being St. David's day) the picture of a man, dressed like a Welchman, hanging by the neck upon one of the poles that stand out at the top of one of the merchant's houses, in full proportion, and very handsomely done; whic…
Pepys describes theatre-going at the Duke of York’s playhouse, then discusses naval and commercial affairs: fortifying Medway with chains and guns, and a legal case over seized goods leading toward a partial victory.
stakes, and ships laid there with guns to keep the enemy from coming up to burn our ships; all our care being now to fortify ourselves against their invading us. 24th. With Sir G. Carteret and Sir J. Minnes; and they did talk of my Lord Brouncker; whose father it seems did give Mr. Ashburnham and the present Lord Digby [The Earl of Bristol, frequently called in the Diary Lord Digby, long after he had succeeded to t…
Pepys attends Mr. Lilly’s pictures and sees “The Maiden Queen,” then at Exeter House hears a cause argued against Sir Robert Wiseman, feeling uncertain until the judge delays decision to tomorrow.
which indeed the more I see the more I like, and is an excellent play, and so done by Nell her merry part, as cannot be better done in nature. 26th. To Exeter House, where the Judge was sitting, and there heard our cause pleaded; Sir -- Turner, Sir W. Walker, and Sir Ellis Layton being our counsel against Sir Robert Wiseman [D.C.L. King's Advocate 1669.] on the other. The second of our three counsel was the best,…
At Arundel House Pepys hosts or attends a society event expecting the Duchess of Newcastle, describes her appearance and a show of scientific experiments, and remarks on her reception.
1661, employed on several Embassies, and Governor of Jamaica. Ob. 1684.] and a very pretty young man, the Duke of Somerset. [Francis fifth Duke of Somerset, murdered in Italy 1678.] 31st. At the Treasury chamber. Here I saw Duncomb look as big, and take as much state on him, as if he had been born a lord. Here I met, with Sir H. Cholmly, who tells me that he is told this day by Secretary Morris that he believes we…
Pepys notes poetry being printed, attends church and country leisure at Barnet and Hatfield, buys a book on witches, and criticizes recent comedies while waiting for news of the peace at Breda.
very late, till I could hardly get a coach or link willing to go through the ruines; but I do, but will not do it again, being indeed very dangerous. 10th. Sir John Denham's Poems are going to be all printed together; and, among others, some new things; and among them he showed me a copy of verses of his upon Sir John Minnes's going heretofore to Bullogne to eat a pig. Cowly, he tells me, is dead; who, it seems, w…
Pepys attends multiple theatre performances, mocks the staged “Eighty Eight” under Queen Elizabeth, visits St. Bartholomew/Cree Church to check repairs, and discusses naval retrenchments and requests to lend money.
mighty content to me. Every body wonders that we have no news from Bredah of the ratification of the peace; and do suspect that there is some stop in it. 17th. To the King's playhouse, where the house extraordinary full; and there the King and Duke of York to see the new play, "Queene Elizabeth's Troubles, and the history of Eighty Eight." I confess I have sucked in so much of the sad story of Queene Elizabeth from…
Pepys reassures himself after hearing he might be appointed Secretary to the Duke of York, then attends naval business, hears Coventry’s departure to Mr. Wren, and notes the King’s distraction, theater ‘Mustapha,’ and rumors about the Queen and Castlemaine.
They told me both seriously that they had long cut me out for Secretary to the Duke of York, if ever Sir W. Coventry left him; which agreeing with what I have heard from other hands heretofore, do make me not only think that something of that kind hath been thought on, but do comfort me to see that the world hath such an esteem of my qualities as to think me fit for any such thing: though I am glad with all my heart …
Pepys describes court dinner customs, foreign visitors (Russian envoys), ceremonial clothing lent from the royal wardrobe, and dinner anecdotes including the execution and mutilation of a prisoner at Salisbury.
more believe than the other, it being very wise in her to do it and save all she hath, besides easing the King and kingdom of a burden and reproach. 8th. Lord Brouncker says he do believe that my Lady Castlemaine is compounding with the King for a pension, and to leave the Court; but that her demands are mighty high: but he believes the King is resolved, and so do everybody else I speak with, to do all possible to…
Pepys records the joyful birth of the Duchess of York’s son and the court’s attendant politics, including fears about Parliament, Monmouth’s promotion, and suggestions the Queen could be removed, then he attends multiple plays.
Mad Couple," [Probably "A Mad Couple well Matched" a comedy by Richard Brome, printed in 1653.] my wife having been at the same play with Jane in the 18d. seat. 21st. The King, Duke of York, and the men of the Court have been these four or five days a-hunting at Bagshot. 22nd. At noon comes Mr. Sheres, whom I find a good, ingenious man, but do talk a little too much of his travels. He left my Lord Sandwich well,…
Pepys meets Lady Peterborough about her husband’s pension and debts, discusses with Crewe the ruinous cost of Lord Sandwich in Spain, learns of Sir William Batten’s death, and watches an acting company with painted performers and lewd talk.
at pawne for money, and how they are forced to live beyond their estate, and do get nothing by his being a courtier. The lady I pity, and her family. 4th. To my Lord Crewe's, and there did stay with him an hour till almost night, discoursing about the ill state of my Lord Sandwich, that he can neither be got to be called home, nor money got to maintain him there; [In Spain.] which will ruin his family. And the tr…
Pepys describes the Commons committee hearing on Chatham and the Duke of York’s battle conduct, rehearsing testimony about Brouncker’s advice, Cox’s refusal, and the threat of punishment.
hear every body speaks of me; and indeed I think, without vanity, I may expect to be profited rather than injured by this inquiry which the Parliament makes into business. 21st. To Westminster, and up to the lobby, where many commanders of the fleet were, and Captain Cox, and Mr. Pierce the Surgeon; the last of whom hath been in the House, and declared that he heard Brouncker advise and give arguments to Cox: for …
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 notes Parliament’s worsening pressure on Commissioner Pett after narratives from Albemarle and Rupert, then describes court-related smallpox rumors and day-to-day theatre attendance.
and so they sent her away, and were ashamed of their foolery, in giving occasion to 500 seamen and seamen's wives to come before them, as there were this afternoon. 31st. I to Westminster; and there at the lobby do hear by Commissioner Pett, to my great amazement, that he is in worse condition than before, by the coming in of the Duke of Albemarle's and Prince Rupert's Narratives this day; wherein the former do mos…
Pepys recounts Coventry reading the prince and duke’s narratives accusing him, hears fears of the Chancellor’s execution, then watches "The Tempest" and later records continued Commons heat over the Chancellor’s impeachment.
midst of the play, did drop down as dead, being choked; but with much ado Orange Mall did thrust her finger down his throat, and brought him to life again. 4th. To Westminster; and there landing at the New Exchange stairs, I to Sir W. Coventry: and there he read over to me the Prince's and Duke of Albemarle's Narratives; wherein they are very severe against him and our office. But Sir W. Coventry do contemn them;…
Pepys reflects on political faction and uncertainty: the king turns against those not attacking the Chancellor, fears of impeaching even the Duke of York, and he hears about court music where the King and Queen attend.
but I did desire him to speak all he knew, and not to spare me, nor did promise nor give him any thing, but sent him away with good words. 16th. Met Mr. Gregory, my old acquaintance, an understanding gentleman; and he and I walked an hour together, talking of the bad prospect of the times. And the sum of what I learn from him is this: That the King is the most concerned in the world against the Chancellor and all …
Commons orders Clarendon’s left-behind paper burned and asks the King to stop his escape, while Pepys notes Gilsthrop’s burial closing the 65,000l. damage talk and continuing political retaliation.
yield 100l. a year, is now reputed worth 33l. 6s. 8d.; and that this is the common market-price between one man and another, made upon a good and moderate medium. 4th. I hear that the House of Lords did send down the paper which my Lord Clarendon left behind him, directed to the Lords, to be seditious and scandalous; and the Commons have voted that it be burned by the hands of the hangman, and that the King be desi…
Pepys talks about staging Shakespeare’s or heroic tragedy “Catiline” at the King’s house, notes payments for theatrical robes, and hears expectations that the Parliament will purge royal officers even if Pepys may escape.
for it; and I do think it may do me good, for he do happen to be held a considerable person, of a young man, both for sobriety and ability. 9th. Comes Sir G. Carteret to talk with me, who seems to think himself safe as to his particular, but do doubt what will become of the whole kingdom, things being so broke in pieces. He tells me that the King himself did the other day very particularly tell the whole story of …
Pepys receives a book from his bookseller Martin and hears an eyewitness account of the Great Fire’s causes and spread to St. Faith’s, then discusses court performances and King Charles II’s mistresses.
another play, called "The Duke of Lorane:" besides "Catiline," which she thinks, for want of the clothes which the King promised them, will not be acted for a good while. 14th. To my bookseller, Martin, and there did receive my book I expected of China, a most excellent book with rare cuts; and there fell into discourse with him about the burning of Paul's when the City was burned, his house being in the church-yar…
Pepys attends dinner at Sir D. Gauden’s Victualling-office, notes social behavior like kissing ladies, meets local officials and chaplain associates, and then dines with Bishop of Lincoln and discusses toleration and church lands.
pretty humoured little man he is: and Mr. Talents the younger, of Magdalene College, Chaplain to the Sheriffe; which I was glad to see, though not much acquainted with him. 23rd. At the office all the morning; and at noon find the Bishop of Lincolne [Dr. William Fuller, translated from Limerick 1667.] come to dine with us; and after him comes Mr. Brisband. And there mighty good company. But the Bishop a very extr…
Pepys describes a debate about Buckingham’s pardon, reports the King and the Duke of York’s presence at a crowded playhouse, critiques the play’s quality, and describes actor blame and public reactions.
world; as one whom, he says, he hath infallible assurances that he will remaine his friend: which is very high, but indeed they say the gentleman is a fine man. 6th. Sir H. Cholmly tells me how the Parliament (which is to meet again to-day) are likely to fall heavy on the business of the Duke of Buckingham's pardon; and I shall be glad of it: and that the King hath put out of the Court the two Hides, my Lord Chanc…
Pepys attends a court performance of the old comedy “Albumazar,” connected in rumor with Jonson’s “Alchymist,” and records general mirth at mimicked tricks during the King’s presence.
thing extraordinary in it, but was indeed wary of it before it was done. The King here; and indeed all of us pretty merry at the mimique tricks of Trinkilo. 23rd. I met with Sir W. Coventry, and he and I walked awhile together in the Matted Gallery; and there he told me all the proceedings yesterday: that the matter is found in general a miscarriage, but no persons named; and so there is no great matter to our pre…
Pepys goes to Westminster Hall where a vote grants the King 300,000 pounds without land-tax, attributed to Wren’s estimates, then attends “The Virgin Martyr” and is powerfully moved by wind-music.
them so well satisfied with so small a sum, Sir John Duncomb swearing (as I perceive he will freely do) that it was as much as the nation could beare. 27th. With my wife to the King's House to see "The Virgin Martyr," [A Tragedy, by Massinger.] the first time it hath been acted a great while: and it is mighty pleasant; not that the play is worth much, but it is finely acted by Beck Marshall. But that which did p…
Pepys notes that after the successful Parliamentary defence he goes to the King’s house to watch part of the tragedy The Discontented Colonel.
mightily overjoyed at this success. After dinner to the King's house, and there saw part of "The Discontented Colonell." [Brennoralt, or The Discontented Colonel; a tragedy, by Sir John Suckling.] 6th. Up betimes, and with Sir D. Gauden to Sir W. Coventry's chamber; where the first word he said to me was, "Good-morrow, Mr. Pepys, that must be Speaker of the Parliament-house:" and did protest I had got honour for ev…
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 29th Pepys attends church, finds sermons and church practice odd, discusses portrait commissions, hears that Sir W. Pen dislikes Parliament and is attacked as a coward by aristocrats.
the confidence to offer to go to sea again to the endangering the nation, when he knew himself such a coward as he was; which, if true, is very severe. 30th. By coach to Common-garden Coffee-house, where by appointment I was to meet Harris; which I did, and also Mr. Cooper the great painter, and Mr. Hales. And thence presently to Mr. Cooper's house to see some of his work; which is all in little, but so excellent …
On 7th Pepys attends “The English Monsieur,” learns gossip about theatre succession and Castlemaine’s affair with Hart, then on 8th buys a recorder to learn music.
stepping with the Duke of York into St. James's Park, it rained; and I was forced to lend the Duke of York my cloak, which he wore through the Park. 7th. To the King's playhouse, and there saw "The English Monsieur" [A Comedy by James Howard.] (sitting for privacy sake in an upper box): the play hath much mirth in it as to that particular humour. After the play done I down to Knipp, and did stay her undressing h…
Pepys attends council about Hemskirke’s shipbuilding scheme, then describes Sir Thomas Teddiman’s illness and death, including his funeral procession, last words, and ballads in the sea-related burial crowd.
believe it did in good part, that the business of the Parliament did break his heart, or at least put him into this fever and disorder that; caused his death. 15th. To a Committee for Tangier; where God knows how my Lord Bellasses' accounts passed: understood by nobody but my Lord Ashly, who, I believe, was allowed to let them go as he pleased. But here Sir H. Cholmly had his propositions read about a greater pric…
Pepys attends church and then visits theatres and court spectacles, including Sedley’s The Mulbery Garden, while commenting on court behavior and ongoing social gossip about judges and aristocratic affairs.
a shoulder-belt according to the new fashion, and the hands of my vest and tunique laced with silk-lace of the colour of my suit: and so very handsome to church. 18th. To my Lord Bellasses, at his new house by my late Lord Treasurer's; which indeed is mighty noble, and good pictures, indeed not one bad one in it. It being almost twelve o'clock, or little more, to the King's playhouse, where the doors were not then…
Pepys continues his trip with water travel to the Temple, notes court and naval directions about the fleet, and later records London theatre outings and late-night company talk at Fox Hall.
7th. Sunday. My father, for money lent, and horse-hire, 1l. 11s. 8th. Monday. Father's servants (father having in the garden told me bad stories of my wife's ill words), 14s.; one that helped at the horses, 1s.; menders of the highway, 2s. Pleasant country to Bedford; where, while they stay, I rode through the town; and a good country town; and there drinking, 1s. We on to Newport; and there I and W. Hewer to th…
At Bath’s Cross Bath Pepys soaks in the hot waters, watches high-status visitors and music, then travels in coach to Bristol, touring the quay and shipbuilding and giving to local poor.
expected, but yet pleasant; and the town most of stone, and clean, though the streets generally narrow. I home, and being weary, went to bed without supper; the rest supping. 13th. Saturday. Up at four o'clock, being by appointment called up to the Cross Bath; where we were carried after one another, myself and wife and Betty Turner, Willet, and W. Hewer. And by and by, though we designed to have done before comp…
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 further London life and court/political news: the playhouses, his picture being finished, purchasing an espinette, and intense debate over Navy “tickets” and oaths.
not admire, though my wife prefers him to Browne; nor do I think it like. He does it for W. Hewer, who hath my wife's also, which I like less. 15th. At noon is brought home the espinette I bought the other day of Haward; cost me 5l. My Lady Duchesse of Monmouth is still lame, and likely always to be so; which is a sad chance for a young lady to get only by trying of tricks in dancing. 17th. To White Hall, where …
Pepys notes political unrest in London, travels by water home with pleasure, consults Whitehall officials about state offices, visits a new play at court, and tries paper-tube experiments for his failing eyes.
not men, and almost force the women; which troubled me, to see the confidence of the vice of the age: and so we away by water with much pleasure home. 30th. To White Hall. There met with Mr. May, who was giving directions about making a close way for people to go dry from the gate up into the House, to prevent their going through the galleries; which will be very good. I staid and talked with him about the state …
Pepys visits Chyrurgeons’-hall under construction, weighs buying Holben’s damaged large picture, later goes to Bartholomew Fair for puppet and stage shows, and ends the day at home after public entertainments.
to see Holben's work in the ceiling blotted on and only whited over! My wife this day with Hales, to sit for her hand to be mended in her picture. 29th. Up, and all the morning at the office; where the Duke of York's long letter was read to their great trouble, and their suspecting me to have been the writer of it. And at noon comes by appointment Harris to dine with me: and after dinner he and I to Chyrurgeons'-…
Pepys attends Hamlet with Betterton, then sees fairs and spectacles, buys Hobbes’s Leviathan, watches Bartholomew Fair’s puppets and plays, and visits his friends’ houses and Stourbridge-fair preparations.
and my eyes are such as I am not able to do the business of my office as I used, and would desire to do while I am in it. 31st. To the Duke of York's playhouse, and saw "Hamlet," which we have not seen this year before, or more; and mightily pleased with it, but above all with Betterton, the best part, I believe that ever man acted. SEPTEMBER 1, 1668. To the fair and there saw several sights; among others, the ma…
The Duke of York recounts stories about Spanish discipline, Antwerp, and commanders, while Pepys later watches theatrical spectacles including “Macbeth” and worries about courtly attention toward Moll Davis.
fight as ever I saw in my life. We sat next to Betty Hall, that did belong to this house, and was Sir Philip Howard's mistress; a mighty pretty wench. 20th. The Duke of York in good humour did fall to tell us many fine stories of the wars in Flanders, and how the Spaniards are the best disciplined foot in the world; will refuse no extraordinary service if commanded, but scorn to be paid for it as in other countries…
At year’s start Pepys receives a silver warming-pan from Captain Beckford, later assists committees of Tangier where the Duke of York protects him from Treasury orders without his assent, and attends plays including “The Island Princesse.”
1668-9. JANUARY 1. Presented from Captain Beckford with a noble silver warming-pan. 4th. W. Hewer and I went and saw the great tall woman that is to be seen, who is but twenty-one years old, and I do easily stand under her arms. To White Hall, where a Committee of Tangier met; and I did receive an instance of the Duke of York's kindness to me, and the whole Committee, that they would not order any thing about the …