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Often appears with: conquest, plunder, and captives · diplomacy and embassies · strategy and the aims of war · crime and punishment · siege and fortification · civil war and rebellion · political legitimacy and consent · counsel and advisers to rulers · naval warfare and sea power · forms of government · empire and the rule of provinces · public finance and debt
Usually: narrative (888) · detachment (743) · argument (384) · indignation (268) · skepticism (238) · betrayal (198) · injustice endured (185) · exhortation (182) · reconciliation (153) · censure (143)
“Nevertheless it is difficult to unite them in one person, it is much safer to be feared than loved, when, of the two, either must be dispensed with.” Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince · insight
“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
“God is not willing to do everything, and thus take away our free will and that share of glory which belongs to us.” Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince · insight
“And he who becomes master of a city accustomed to freedom and does not destroy it, may expect to be destroyed by it, for in rebellion it has always the watchword of liberty and its ancient privileges as a rallying point.” Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince · insight
“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
“No going to law with nations; cannon are the barristers of Crowns; and the sword, not of justice, but of war, decides the suit.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · wit
“And the instant, in which such a mode of defence became necessary, all subjection to Britain ought to have ceased; and the independancy of America, should have been considered, as dating its æra from, and published by, the first musket that was fired against her.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · observation
“In short, Independance is the only Bond that can tye and keep us together.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · insight
“Wherefore, instead of gazing at each other with suspicious or doubtful curiosity; let each of us, hold out to his neighbour the hearty hand of friendship, and unite in drawing a line, which, like an act of oblivion shall bury in forgetfulness every former dissension.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense · precept
“The plan we finally concluded upon was, to get a large canoe belonging to Mr. Hamilton, and upon the Saturday night previous to Easter holidays, paddle directly up the Chesapeake Bay.” Frederick Douglass, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an Amer · observation
“And if we shall not have corrected the transgression (or, in the event of our being out of the realm, if our justiciar shall not have corrected it) within forty days… the four barons aforesaid shall refer that matter to the rest of the five-and-twenty barons, and those five-and-twenty barons shall… distrain and distress us… until redress has been obtained as they deem fit, saving harmless our own person, and the persons of our queen and children.” Anonymous, The Magna Carta · insight
Sura XXVIII continues with Pharaoh rejecting Moses as magic, Pharaoh’s demand to build a tower, God’s seizure and destruction of Pharaoh’s hosts in the sea, and the Quran’s claim to continue guidance from Moses.
And when Moses came to him with our demonstrative signs they said, "This is nought but magical device. We never heard the like among our sires of old." And Moses said, "My Lord best knoweth on whom He hath bestowed His guidance, and whose shall be the recompense of the abode of Paradise. Verily, the wicked shall not prosper." And Pharaoh said, "O ye nobles, ye have no other God that I know of but myself. Burn me th…
Continuing Sura VIII, the text commands battle against infidels, describes God’s role in fighting and punishment, warns against disobedience, and discusses treaties, steadfastness, and the distribution of spoils and prisoners.
But God chose not to chastise them while thou wast with them, nor would God chastise them when they sued for pardon. But because they debarred the faithful from the holy temple, albeit they are not its guardians, nothing is there on their part why God should not chastise them. The Godfearing only are its guardians; but most of them know it not. And their prayer at the house of God is no other than whistling through…
Further from Sura VIII, the passage addresses hypocrites, likens enemies to Pharaoh, urges preparation for war and possible peace, sets proportional expectations of fighting strength, and regulates ransom and lawful eating of spoils.
the hypocrites and the diseased of heart said, "Their Religion hath misled the Muslims:17 But whoso putteth his trust in God. , , , Yes, verily God is Mighty, Wise! If thou didst see, when the angels cause the infidels to die! They smite their faces and their backs, and-"Taste ye the torture of the burning: This, for what your hands have sent on before you:"-and God is not unjust to his servants. Their state is li…
The author again repeats the book’s framing about Muhammad’s motivations and alleged self-deception, then provides Qur’anic commands for dealing with enemies, refugees, marriage rules, oaths, pledges for women, and prohibitions on amity.
Neither your kindred nor your children shall at all avail you on the day of the resurrection. A severance between you will it make! and your actions doth God behold. A good example had ye in Abraham,3 and in those who followed him, when they said to their people, "Verily, we are clear of you, and of what ye worship beside God: we renounce you: and between us and hath hatred and enmity sprung up for ever, until ye be…
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…
It introduces Qur’anic commands about “immunity” to polytheist Arab allies, postponing fighting for four sacred months, then ordering warfare and mercy conditional on conversion, including rules about sacred pilgrimage and sanctuary asylum.
Only the faithful are brethren; wherefore make peace between your brethren; and fear God, that ye may obtain mercy. O Believers! let not men laugh men to scorn who haply may be better than themselves; neither let women laugh women to scorn who may haply be better than themselves!6 Neither defame one another, nor call one another by nicknames. Bad is it to be called wicked after having professed the faith:7 and whoso…
Pepys records political turmoil in London as Parliament orders changes to the common council and a letter from General Monk prompts cheers, soldiers’ support, and debates over oaths and filling House seats.
world to do; the Parliament having this day ordered that the Common- council sit no more, but that new ones be chosen according to what qualifications they shall give them. 11th. I heard the news of a letter from Monk, who was now gone into the City again, and did resolve to stand for the sudden filling up of the House, and it was very strange how the countenance of men in the Hall was all changed with joy in half …
Pepys describes early letters to the King, orders from the House of Lords about transporting commissioners, naval movements toward Flushing, and preparation changes such as removing state arms from flags.
King. And also the whole story of what we did the other day in the fleet, at reading of the King's declaration, and my name at the bottom of it. 9th. Up very early, writing a letter to the King, as from the two Generals of the fleet, in answer to his letter to them, wherein my Lord do give most humble thanks for his gracious letter and declaration; and promises all duty and obedience to him. This letter was carrie…
Pepys discusses Parliament talking about collecting free gifts for the King; he then records early June dealings, including correspondence and business about the Navy and preparations for the Queen’s return.
31st. Great talk now how the Parliament intend to make a collection of free gifts to the King through the Kingdom; but I think it will not come to much. JUNE 4, 1661. To my Lord Crewe's to dinner, and had very good discourse about having of young noblemen and gentlemen to think of going to sea, as being as honourable service as the land war. And among other things he told us how, in Queen Elizabeth's time, one youn…
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 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 reports the House’s presentation to the King for refusing religious indulgence, then follows the ensuing months with Commons’ pressure, sermons against Papists, and other court and parliamentary events into March 1663.
he will never leave to record that he should be said to be unable to do his duty alone; though, God knows, he cannot do it more than a child. 28th. The House have this noon been with the King to give him their reasons for refusing to grant any indulgence to Presbyters or Papists; which he, with great content and seeming pleasure, took, saying, that he doubted not but he and they should agree in all things, though t…
Joyce’s release is ordered after submission, but Lady Peters refuses and demands a humiliating pillory; Pepys then reports parliamentary motions on Dutch war, trade complaints, and conventicles.
they have done us, (when God knows! it is only our own negligence and laziness that hath done us the wrong): and this to be made to the House to-morrow. 21st. At the Lords' House heard that it is ordered, that, upon submission upon the knee both to the House and my Lady Peters, W. Joyce shall be released. I forthwith made him submit, and ask pardon upon his knees; which he did before several Lords. But my Lady wo…
In late 1664, Pepys describes theatrical and administrative meetings (Ordnance, Tower), a monster birth tale, naval council discussions, Dutch hostility beginning, and Parliament financing the war.
good play, but admirably acted. Thence home; the coach being forced to go round by London Wall home, because of the bonfires; the day being mightily observed in the City. 8th. At noon, I and Sir J. Minnes and Lord Barkeley (who with Sir J. Duncum, [M.P. for Bury St. Edmunds.] and Mr. Chichly, are made Masters of the Ordnance), to the office of the Ordnance, to discourse about wadding for guns. Thence to dinner, a…
Pepys records political maneuvering to justify war spending, reports of peace terms with Algiers, ongoing Dutch constraints, and anxieties about an impending Dutch war despite other domestic quiet.
to Portsmouth. And I had letters this afternoon, that three are brought into the Downes and Dover: so that the warr is begun: God give a good end to it! 22nd. To my Lord Treasurer's; where with Sir Philip Warwick, studying all we could to make the last year swell as high as we could. And it is much to see how he do study for the King, to do it to get all the money from the Parliament he can: and I shall be servic…
Pepys records public thanksgiving for the Dutch victory, financial constraints on the Crown’s debt and payments, people leaving London for the countryside, and the growing plague, while further discussing Tangier-related committee business.
of ten per cent, which they have. I find all the town almost going out of town, the coaches and waggons being all full of people going into the country. 23rd. To a Committee for Tangier, where unknown to me comes my Lord of Sandwich, who, it seems, come to town last night. After the Committee was up, my Lord Sandwich did take me aside in the robe-chamber, telling me how much the Duke and Mr. Coventry did, both in …
After Sandwich returns with the King and Duke, Pepys attends church again after the plague, visits Greenwich and the Exchequer for Tangier, wears mourning for the King of Spain, and records the King’s declaration of war against France.
himself, and told me, "Mr. Pepys," says he, "I do give you thanks for your good service all this year, and I assure you I am very sensible of it." 29th. Mr. Evelyn and I into my Lord Brouncker's coach, and rode together with excellent discourse till we come to Clapham. Talking of the vanity and vices of the Court, which makes it a most contemptible thing; and indeed in all his discourse I find him a most worthy per…
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 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…
Pepys watches political and military developments: he discusses Treasury leadership, his improved finances, then records news that peace with Spain for trade is settled and men are to be furnished for Flanders amid fears of France and Dutch naval power.
only as a traveller, not to engage on either side, but only to see the campagne, which will be becoming him much more: than to live as he now do. 3rd. Met Mr. Mills, our parson, whom I went back with to bring him to Sir W. Coventry to give him the form of a qualification for the Duke of York to sign to, to enable him to have two livings; which was a service I did, but much against my will, for a lazy, fat priest. …
Pepys reports Commissioner Pett’s imprisonment in the Tower, a rumored Dutch ship explosion, and talk at the Navy office that money shortages may lead to Parliament being called or not.
they begin to fear the main. He and every body cries out of the office of the Ordnance, for their neglects, both at Gravesend and Upner, and every where else. 18th. To the office, and by and by word was brought me that Commissioner Pett is brought to the Tower, and there laid up close prisoner; which puts me into a fright, lest they may do the same with us as they do with him. Great news to-night of the blowing up…
Pepys records delays and preparations: Parliament will meet, coal costs rise, Dutch ships reappear near the Thames, Buckingham surrenders and is taken to the Tower, and offices shuffle at court.
that about 80 sail of Dutch, great and small, were seen coming up the River this morning; and this tide some of them to the upper end of the Hope. 28th. We find the Duke of York and Sir W. Coventry gone this morning by two o'clock to Chatham, to come home to-night: and it is fine to observe how both the King and Duke of York have in their several late journeys to and again done them in the night for coolnesse. Th…
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 recounts July 12–14 political tension at court over the Duke of Buckingham, including his quarrel with Castlemaine, his Tower confinement, and rising criticism of the peace as the Dutch threaten further attacks.
for certain that the Dutch are with their fleet before Dover, and that it is expected they will attempt something there. The business of the peace is quite dashed again. 12th. The Duke of Buckingham was before the Council the other day, and there did carry it very submissively and pleasingly to the King; but to my Lord Arlington, who do prosecute the business, he was most bitter and sharp, and very slighting. As t…
On July 17 Pepys declines a private offer of prize money, rejoices at a Canary prize brought to Hull, and notes Buckingham’s strange release, framing it as more “fool’s play” in public affairs.
for a day to this place, and then quit to another place; and there is more variety and as little charge, and no trouble, as there is in a country-house. 17th. Home, where I was saluted with the news of Hogg's bringing a rich Canary prize to Hull: and Sir W. Batten do offer me 1000l. down for my particular share, beside Sir Richard Ford's part; which do tempt me; but yet I would not take it;, but will stand and fal…
Pepys records Commons action on an Act of Indemnity and voices fear that only pardoning loyalists will save Charles II, then describes Coventry’s connections, news of failed Dutch-fire-ship actions, and Court vice amid news of peace.
of the Government; and I pray God they may be permitted to do it, for nothing else, I fear, will save the King and kingdom than the doing it betimes. 27th. To the office, where I hear that Sir John Coventry [Nephew to Sir William and Henry Coventry; created K.B. at Charles II.'s coronation, and M.P. for Weymouth in several Parliaments. The outrage committed on his person by Sir Thomas Sandys, O'Bryan, and others, …
Pepys continues noting the unusually dry, dusty London weather, then on the 28th drafts a resignation letter to Sir William Coventry, offering to give up his Victualling office to help stabilize the peace.
think, this month before, so as the ground was every where so burned and dry as could be; and no travelling in the road or streets in London, for dust. 28th. All the morning close to draw up a letter to Sir W. Coventry upon the tidings of peace, taking occasion (before I am forced to it) to resign up to his Royall Highness my place of the Victualling, and to recommend myself to him by promise of doing my utmost to …
On the 29th Pepys meets Coventry and the Duke of York about resigning the Victualling post and improving wartime logistics under the confirmed peace, then debates why Sir Jos. Jordan’s fire-ship raid failed.
the Victualling, and to recommend myself to him by promise of doing my utmost to improve this peace in the best manner we may, to save the kingdom from ruin. 29th. Up, and with Sir W. Batten to St. James's, to Sir W. Coventry's chamber; where, among other things, he came to me and told me that he had received my yesterday's letters, and that we concurred very well in our notions; and that as to my place which I had o…
Pepys describes Parliament’s disgust at being ‘fooled’ by the peace, their belief the King is driven by lust and court rogues, and the growing expectation that the King will prorogue Parliament to avoid further sessions.
yet De Ruyter (or he that commanded this fleet) had notice of it, and told it to a fisherman of ours that he took and released on Thursday last, which was the day before our fleet came to him. But then, that that seems most to our disgrace, and which the Duke of York did take special and vehement notice of, is, that when the Dutch saw so many fire-ships provided for them, themselves lying, I think, about the Nore, th…
Pepys records a duel death of Sir Henry Bellasses, talks with Mr. Evelyn about looming ruin, and hears Sir W. Coventry explain Treasury-Navy disputes and fears for the kingdom’s financial collapse.
to offend her no more so: and that, indeed, she did threaten to bring all his bastards to his closet door, and hath nearly hectored him out of his wits. 8th. Sir Henry Bellasses is dead of the duell he fought about ten days ago with Tom Porter; and it is pretty to see how the world talk of them as of a couple of fools that killed one another out of love. I to my bookseller's; where by and by I met Mr. Evelyn, and …
Pepys attends Council at Whitehall about discharging the fleet after ratified peace, describes officials planning to force Exchequer officers to lend money, and observes public silence and shame about peace terms.
that all is finished: which for my life I know not whether to be glad or sorry for, a peace being so necessary, and yet so bad in its terms. 23rd. To White Hall to attend the Council. The King there: and it was about considering how the fleet might be discharged at their coming in shortly, the peace being now ratified, and it takes place on Monday next. To the Treasury-chamber, where I waited talking with Sir G.…
On St. Bartholomew’s Day Pepys records proclamations of peace with the United Provinces and others, notes lack of bonfires from popular dissatisfaction, and relates a plan to lend the King money with 10% interest.
give 10 per cent. to all lenders; which make some think that the Dutch themselves will send over money, and lend it upon our publick faith, the Act of Parliament. 28th. To the office, where we sat upon a particular business all the morning: and my Lord Anglesy with us; who, and my Lord Brouncker, do bring us news how my Lord Chancellor's seal is to be taken away from him to-day. The thing is so great and sudden t…
Pepys observes that people hold their tongues due to uncertain court power, then discusses funding by lending to the King, prisoner provisions in the treaty with the Dutch, and interactions around Bartholomew Fair.
there never was the occasion of men's holding their tongues at Court and every where else as there is at this day, for nobody knows which side will be uppermost. 30th. At White Hall I met with Sir G. Downing, who tells me of Sir W. Pen's offering to lend 500l.; and I tell him of my 300l. which he would have me to lend upon the credit of the latter part of the Act; saying, that by that means my 10 per cent. will con…
Pepys dines with officials, attends the theater, and reports political fears that the King may declare the Duke of Monmouth legitimate, with worries that the Duke of York will be unable to act.
for the use of my Lady Castlemaine's children; and that this did incense her, and she did speak very scornful words and sent a scornful message to him about it. 14th. The King and Duke of York and the whole Court is mighty joyful at the Duchesse of York's being brought to bed this day, or yesterday, of a son; which will settle men's minds mightily. And Pierce tells me that he do think that what the King do, of givi…
After recovering the gold up to about the correct total, Pepys rides back to London safely, learns Sir William Batten’s burial, and records Parliament’s response to the King’s speech and worries about calling Lord Sandwich home.
by this time it was past two in the morning; and so to bed, and there lay in some disquiet all night telling of the clock till it was day-light. 11th. And then W. Hewer and I, with pails and a sieve, did lock ourselves into the garden, and there gather all the earth about the place into pails, and then sift those pails in one of the summer-houses (just as they do for dyamonds in other parts of the world); and there…
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 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…
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 discusses the politics of Parliament meeting and Buckingham’s strategy, describes Anglesy’s petition and the King’s response, and notes ongoing prize disputes involving Sandwich.
to suspect his mismanagement of his money in Ireland did make him think it unfit to trust him with his Treasury in England till he was satisfied in the former. 15th. After dinner, W. How to tell me what hath happened between him and the Commissioners of late, who are hot again, more than ever, about my Lord Sandwich's business of prizes; which I am troubled for, and the more because of the great security and neglec…
On Lord’s day, Pepys visits the Tower and Whitehall, hears of peace talks with Algiers, worries about the Duke of Buckingham’s aggressive actions, and learns the Council plans to send six ships to the Straits.
his being weary of the Treasury, and of the folly, ambition, and desire of popularity of Sir Thomas Clifford; and yet the rudeness of his tongue and passions, when angry. 7th (Lord's day). To the Tower to see Sir W. Coventry, who had H. Jermin and a great many more with him, and more while I was there came in: so that I do hear that there was not less than sixty coaches there yesterday and the other day; which I he…
Pepys follows events around Sir William Coventry’s petition and secret record-keeping, discusses the Navy business, walks near Northumberland’s prison walk, studies Navy accounts, and orders a bookbinding.
bound for my Lord Chancellor's library: and here I did take occasion for curiosity to bespeak a book to be bound, only that I might have one of his binding. 13th. That which put me in good humour both at noon and night, is the fancy that I am this day made a captain of one of the King's ships, Mr. Wren having this day sent me the Duke of York's commission to be Captain of "The Jerzy," in order to my being of a Cour…
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…
The King and court leave London for Newmarket for a week; Pepys then learns plans for an Anglo-French league involving money, fears it will undermine the Dutch and make Parliament and the kingdom unstable.
here, it seems;, and stopped the fire by blowing up of the next house. The King and Court; went out of town to Newmarket this morning betimes, for a week. 28th. Up, and was called upon by Sir H. Cholmly to discourse about some accounts of his of Tangier: and then to other talk. And I find by him that it is brought almost to effect, the late endeavours of the Duke of York and Duchesse, the Queene-Mother, and my Lor…
From the 23rd to 25th Pepys delivers money to Downing, visits Mrs. Jem and clerks’ chambers, falls into a ditch in the dark, attends late pot venison and ale gatherings, and hosts family wedding-related visits and Parliamentary orders about returning the old committee.
to my father's where we supt very merry, and so home. This day I began to put on buckles to my shoes, which I have bought yesterday of Mr. Wotton. 23rd. In the morning called out to carry L20 to Mr. Downing, which I did and came back, and finding Mr. Pierce, the surgeon, I took him to the Axe and gave him his morning draft. Thence to my office and there did nothing but make up my balance. Came home and found my w…
Thucydides says tyrants and regional conditions prevented national cooperation until Athens’ and other tyrannies were overthrown by Lacedaemon, after which the Medes fought Athens at Marathon and the Persian armada returned.
long time everywhere in Hellas do we find causes which make the states alike incapable of combination for great and national ends, or of any vigorous action of their own. But at last a time came when the tyrants of Athens and the far older tyrannies of the rest of Hellas were, with the exception of those in Sicily, once and for all put down by Lacedaemon; for this city, though after the settlement of the Dorians, it…
Corcyra’s envoys argue before Athens that Athens should ally with them against Corinth: they stress expediency, gratitude, naval strength, and the danger of Corinth and Lacedaemon acting jointly.
the Athenian, and her prospect of ordering the war according to her wishes being thus impeded. An assembly was convoked, and the rival advocates appeared: the Corcyraeans spoke as follows: “Athenians! when a people that have not rendered any important service or support to their neighbours in times past, for which they might claim to be repaid, appear before them as we now appear before you to solicit their assistan…
Corcyra continues its speech, presenting compliance as safe and honourable, arguing that Corinth’s hostility is immediate, and claiming Corcyra is strategically placed to block naval reinforcements.
if we forswear our old principle of complete political isolation, a principle which was not adopted with any sinister intention, but was rather the consequence of an error in judgment. “Now there are many reasons why in the event of your compliance you will congratulate yourselves on this request having been made to you. First, because your assistance will be rendered to a power which, herself inoffensive, is a vict…
Corcyra answers the treaty objection by claiming neutrality under the Lacedaemonian treaty allows choosing either side, while accusing Corinth of recruiting men from Athens’ dependencies and seeking support by deceit.
deceit, nor to yield to their direct requests; concessions to adversaries only end in self-reproach, and the more strictly they are avoided the greater will be the chance of security. “If it be urged that your reception of us will be a breach of the treaty existing between you and Lacedaemon, the answer is that we are a neutral state, and that one of the express provisions of that treaty is that it shall be competen…
Corinth replies that Corcyra’s moderation is hypocrisy aimed at monopoly of “crime,” and argues Corinth’s war against Corcyra is justified by the seizure of Epidamnus and the rejection of arbitration.
Such were the words of the Corcyraeans. After they had finished, the Corinthians spoke as follows: “These Corcyraeans in the speech we have just heard do not confine themselves to the question of their reception into your alliance. They also talk of our being guilty of injustice, and their being the victims of an unjustifiable war. It becomes necessary for us to touch upon both these points before we proceed to the …
Corinth continues by denying that its dispute was really about arbitration, insisting Corcyra sought arms first, warning Athens not to patronize defection, and arguing that an auxiliary alliance would force Athens to share punishment.
our dependency, which they took no steps to claim in its distress upon our coming to relieve it, was by them seized, and is now held by force of arms. “As to their allegation that they wished the question to be first submitted to arbitration, it is obvious that a challenge coming from the party who is safe in a commanding position cannot gain the credit due only to him who, before appealing to arms, in deeds as well…
After hearing Corinth and deciding against abandoning Corcyra, Athens holds two assemblies, forms a defensive alliance with Corcyra, sends ten ships, and describes the build-up of Corinth’s 150-ship fleet toward Corcyra.
Such were the words of the Corinthians. When the Athenians had heard both out, two assemblies were held. In the first there was a manifest disposition to listen to the representations of Corinth; in the second, public feeling had changed and an alliance with Corcyra was decided on, with certain reservations. It was to be a defensive, not an offensive alliance. It did not involve a breach of the treaty with Peloponne…
Corinth sends men without a herald to challenge the Athenians for breaking the treaty; the Athenians reply they are protecting Corcyra, after which Corinthians set up a trophy in Sybota while Corcyraeans retrieve wrecks and claim the victory.
how their voyage home was to be effected; they feared that the Athenians might consider that the treaty was dissolved by the collision which had occurred, and forbid their departure. Accordingly they resolved to put some men on board a boat, and send them without a herald’s wand to the Athenians, as an experiment. Having done so, they spoke as follows: “You do wrong, Athenians, to begin war and break the treaty. Eng…
Thucydides presents the Peloponnesian Confederacy’s ‘Congress’ at Lacedaemon: Corinth and others accuse Athens of treaty breach through Corcyra and Potidaea, and Megara adds complaints about exclusion from the Athenian market and ports.
Congress of the Peloponnesian Confederacy at Lacedaemon The Athenians and Peloponnesians had these antecedent grounds of complaint against each other: the complaint of Corinth was that her colony of Potidæa, and Corinthian and Peloponnesian citizens within it, were being besieged; that of Athens against the Peloponnesians that they had incited a town of hers, a member of her alliance and a contributor to her revenue…
In the Spartan assembly, Corinthians rebuke Spartan inactivity and argue Athens had time to grow through delayed intervention; they cite earlier warnings, charge Spartans with enabling Athenian subjugation, and urge immediate defensive action.
the siege of Potidæa?—places one of which lies most conveniently for any action against the Thracian towns; while the other would have contributed a very large navy to the Peloponnesians? “For all this you are responsible. You it was who first allowed them to fortify their city after the Median war, and afterwards to erect the long walls—you who, then and now, are always depriving of freedom not only those whom they…
The Corinthians urge Lacedaemonians to invade Attica quickly to help allies like Potidaea, then Athenian envoys arrive and shift the issue from accusations to a comprehensive review of causes.
action must be accompanied by the constant improvement of methods. Thus it happens that the vast experience of Athens has carried her further than you on the path of innovation. “Here, at least, let your procrastination end. For the present, assist your allies and Potidæa in particular, as you promised, by a speedy invasion of Attica, and do not sacrifice friends and kindred to their bitterest enemies, and drive the…
Athens urges Sparta to delay war, settle differences through arbitration and oaths’ witnesses, and offers to repel hostilities if Sparta breaks faith, then Lacedaemonians consult on declaring war.
regulated by rules and institutions incompatible with those of others, but your citizens abroad act neither on these rules nor on those which are recognized by the rest of Hellas. “Take time then in forming your resolution, as the matter is of great importance; and do not be persuaded by the opinions and complaints of others to bring trouble on yourselves, but consider the vast influence of accident in war, before y…
Archidamus argues Spartan slowness is wise moderation, insists on arbitration and calm decisions, and calls for sending to Athens regarding Potidaea and ally wrongs while still preparing for war.
done so: as we shall have the largest share of responsibility for the consequences be they good or bad, we have also a right to a tranquil inquiry respecting them. “And the slowness and procrastination, the parts of our character that are most assailed by their criticism, need not make you blush. If we undertake the war without preparation, we should by hastening its commencement only delay its conclusion: further, …
After a five-year truce, Athens resumes expeditions: Cimon campaigns in Cyprus, later Athens fights in Boeotia and then Euboea under Pericles, while Megara and Samian revolt politics lead to further Athenian action at Samos.
who engaged them, they immediately took with them the Achaeans and, sailing across, marched against and laid siege to Oeniadae in Acarnania. Failing however to take it, they returned home. Three years afterwards a truce was made between the Peloponnesians and Athenians for five years. Released from Hellenic war, the Athenians made an expedition to Cyprus with two hundred vessels of their own and their allies, under …
Thucydides sets the stage for the Peloponnesian War, explaining that Corcyra and Potidaea became pretexts, while Athens strengthened its empire and Sparta finally resolved to break the treaty and start war.
Second Congress at Lacedaemon—Preparations for War and Diplomatic Skirmishes—Cylon—Pausanias—Themistocles After this, though not many years later, we at length come to what has been already related, the affairs of Corcyra and Potidæa, and the events that served as a pretext for the present war. All these actions of the Hellenes against each other and the barbarian occurred in the fifty years’ interval between the re…