The Diary of Samuel Pepys
by
Samuel Pepys
Part 1 out of 18
This etext was produced by John Hill.
THE DIARY OF SAMUEL PEPYS, ESQ., F.R.S.
FROM 1659 TO 1669
WITH MEMOIR
Edited by LORD BRAYBROOKE
Notes about the etext:
There are over a thousand footnotes in the printed text that were
added by the editor. Most of these are very short biographical
and similar notes, and have been inserted into the etext in square
brackets close to the point where they were originally referred
to by a suffix. A few of the longer notes have been given a
separate paragraph which has also been placed in square brackets.
Text that was in italics in the printed book has been written in
capitals in the etext. Accents etc. have been omitted.
Where sums of money are referred to, the abreviations 'l.', 's.'
and 'd.' are used to designate 'Pounds', 'Shillings', and
'Pence'.
In the printed text, the year was printed at the top of each page.
As this was not possible in the etext, years have been added to
the first entry for each month to make it easier for readers to
keep track of the year. Because the old-style calendar
was in use at the time the diary was written, in which the New
Year began on March 25th, the year has been given a dual number
in January, February and March, as has been done elsewhere in the
diary, (eg. 1662-63 during the first months of 1663).
Pepys' spelling and punctuation have been left as they were in
the printed text.
The copy from which this etext was taken was published in 1879
by Frederick Warne and Co. (London and New York), in a series
called "Chandos Classics."
PREFACE TO THE PRESENT EDITION.
The Celebrated work here presented to the public under peculiar
advantages may require a few introductory remarks.
By the publication, during the last half century, of
autobiographies, Diaries, and Records of Personal Character; this
class of literature has been largely enriched, not only with
works calculated for the benefit of the student, but for that
larger class of readers--the people, who in the byeways of
History and Biography which these works present, gather much of
the national life at many periods, and pictures of manners and
customs, habits and amusements, such as are not so readily to be
found in more elaborate works.
The Diary and Correspondence of John Evelyn, published in the
year 1817, is the first of the class of books to which special
reference is here made. This was followed by the publication, in
1825, of the Diary and Correspondence of Samuel Pepys, a work of
a more entertaining character than that of Evelyn. There is,
moreover, another distinction between the two: the Diary of
Pepys was written "at the end of each succeeding day;" whereas
the Diary of Evelyn is more the result of leisure and after-
thought, and partakes more of the character of history.
Pepys's account of the Great Fire of London in 1666 is full as
minute as that of Evelyn, but it is mingled with a greater number
of personal and official circumstances, of popular interest: the
scene of dismay and confusion which it exhibits is almost beyond
parallel. "It is observed and is true in the late Fire of
London," says Pepys, "that the fire burned just as many parish
churches as there were hours from the beginning to the end of the
fire; and next, that there were just as many churches left
standing in the rest of the city that was not burned, being, I
think, thirteen in all of each; which is pretty to observe."
Again, Pepys was at this time clerk of the Acts of the Navy; his
house and office were in Seething-lane, Crutched Friars; he was
called up at three in the morning, Sept. 2, by his maid Jane, and
so rose and slipped on his nightgown, and went to her window; but
thought the fire far enough off, and so went to bed again, and to
sleep. Next morning, Jane told him that she heard above 300
houses had been burnt down by the fire they saw, and that it was
then burning down all Fish-street, by London Bridge. "So," Pepys
writes, "I made myself ready presently, and walked to the Tower,
and there got upon one of the high places, and saw the houses at
that end of the bridge all on fire, and an infinite great fire at
the other end of the bridge." On Sept. 5, he notes, "About two
in the morning my wife calls me up, and tells me of new cries of
fire, it being come to Barking Church, which is at the bottom of
our lane." The fire was, however, stopped, "as well at Mark-lane
end as ours; it having only burned the dyall of Barking Church,
and part of the porch, and there was quenched." This narrative
has all the advantage of being written at the time of the event,
which kind of record has been pronounced preferable to "a cart-
load of pencillings." Of this very attractive particularity is
the Diary of Pepys, which is here submitted to the reader in the
most elegant and economical as well as complete form.
Of the origin of this work, details are given the accompanying
Preface, by the noble Editor--Lord Braybrooke. The diarist--Mr.
Secretary Pepys--was a great virtuoso in collections of English
history, both by land and sea, much relating to the admiralty and
maritime affairs. He gathered very much from records in the
Tower, had many fine models, and new inventions of ships, and
historical paintings of them; had many books of mathematics and
other sciences; many very costly curiosities relating to the City
of London, as views, maps, palaces, churches, coronations,
funerals, mayoralties, habits, heads of all our famous men, drawn
as well as painted, the most complete collection of anything of
its kind. He was a man whose free and generous spirit appeared
in his pen, and his ingenious fancy at his finger's end.
The original MS. of the Diary, which gives so vivid a picture of
manners in the reign of Charles II., is preserved in Magdalene
College, Cambridge; it is in six volumes, containing upwards of
3000 pages, closely written in Rich's system of shorthand, which
Pepys doubtless adopted from the possibility of his journal
falling into unfriendly hands during his life, or being rashly
communicated to the public after his death. The original
spelling of every word in the Diary, it is believed, has been
carefully preserved by the gentleman who deciphered it; and
although Pepys's grammar has been objected to, it is thought that
the entries derive additional interest from the quaint terms in
which they are expressed.
The period of the Diary was one of the most interesting and
eventful decades in our history. We have here the joyous
pictures of the Restoration, as well as much about "the merry
monarch," his gaieties and his intrigues. The Plague of 1665,
with the appalling episodes of this national calamity, is
followed by the life-like record of the Great Fire, and the
rebuilding of London. Then, what an attractive period is that of
the history of the London theatres, dating from the Restoration,
with piquant sketches of the actors and actresses of that day.
Pepys, in his love of wit and admiration of beauty, finds room to
love and admire Nell Gwyn, whose name still carries an odd
fascination with it after so many generations. In those busy
times coffee-houses were new, and we find Pepys dropping in at
Will's, where he never was before, and where he saw Dryden and
all the wits of the town. The Diarist records sending for "a cup
of tea, a China drink he had not before tasted." Here we find
the earliest account of a Lord Mayor's dinner in the Guildhall;
and Wood's, Pepys's "old house for clubbing, in Pell Mell,"--all
pictures in little of social life, with innumerable traits of
statesmen, politicians, wits and poets, authors, artists, and
actors, and men, and women of wit and pleasure, such as the town,
court, and city have scarcely presented at any other period.
Shortly after the publication of the Diary, there appeared in the
Quarterly Review, No. 66, a charming paper from the accomplished
pen of Sir Walter Scott, upon this very curious contribution to
our reminiscent literature. Sir Walter's parallel of Pepys and
Evelyn is very nicely drawn. "Early necessity made Pepys
laborious, studious, and careful. But his natural propensities
were those of a man of pleasure. He appears to have been ardent
in quest of amusement, especially where anything odd or uncommon
was to be witnessed. To this thirst after novelty, the
consequence of which has given great and varied interest to his
Diary, Pepys added a love of public amusements, which he himself
seems to have considered as excessive." "Our diarist must not be
too severely judged. He lived in a time when the worst examples
abounded, a time of court intrigue and state revolution, when
nothing was certain for a moment, and when all who were possessed
of any opportunity to make profit, used it with the most
shameless avidity, lest the golden minutes should pass away
unimproved.
"In quitting the broad path of history," says Sir Walter, "we
seek for minute information concerning ancient manners and
customs, the progress of arts and sciences, and the various
branches of antiquity. We have never seen a mine so rich as the
volumes before us. The variety of Pepys's tastes and pursuits
led him into almost every department of life. He was a man of
business, a man of information if not of learning; a man of
taste; a man of whim; and to a certain degree a man of pleasure.
He was a statesman, a BEL ESPRIT, a virtuoso, and a connoisseur.
His curiosity made him an unwearied as well as an universal
learner, and whatever he saw found its way into his tables.
Thus, his Diary absolutely resembles the genial cauldrons at the
wedding of Camacho, a souse into which was sure to bring forth at
once abundance and variety of whatever could gratify the most
eccentric appetite.
"If 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 glass crackers, which explode
when the tail is broken off (Rupert's Drops) of AURUM FULMINANS,
applied to the purpose of blowing ships out of the water; and of
a newly contrived gun, which was to change the whole system of
the art of war; but which has left it pretty much upon the old
footing. A lover of antique scandal which taketh away the
character, and committeth SCANDALUM MAGNATUM against the nobility
of the seventeenth century, will find in this work an untouched
treasure of curious anecdote for the accomplishment of his
purpose."
PREFACE TO THE ORIGINAL EDITION.
In submitting the following pages to the Public, I feel that it
is incumbent upon me to explain by what circumstances the
materials from which the Work has been compiled were placed at my
disposal. The original Diary, comprehending six volumes, closely
written in short-hand by Mr. Pepys himself, belonged to the
valuable collection of books and prints, bequeathed by him to
Magdalene College, Cambridge, and had remained there unexamined,
till the appointment of my Brother, the present Master, under
whose auspices the MS. was deciphered by Mr. John Smith, with a
view to its publication.
My Brother's time, however, being too much engrossed by more
important duties to admit of his editing the work, the task of
preparing it for the press was undertaken by me at his request.
The Diary commences January 1st, 1659-60 and after being
regularly kept for ten years, it is brought to a sudden
conclusion, owing to the weak state of Mr. Pepys's eyes, which
precluded him from continuing or resuming the occupation. As he
was in the habit of recording the most trifling occurrences of
his life, it became absolutely necessary to curtail the MS.
materially, and in many instances to condense the matter; but the
greatest care has been taken to preserve the original meaning,
without making a single addition, excepting where, from the
short-hand being defective, some alteration appeared absolutely
necessary. It may be objected by those who are not aware how
little is known from authentic sources of the History of the
Stage about the period of the Restoration, that the notices of
theatrical performances occur too frequently; but as many of the
incidents recorded, connected with this subject, are not to be
met with elsewhere, I thought myself justified in retaining them,
at the risk of fatiguing those readers who have no taste for the
concerns of the Drama. The general details may also, in some
instances, even in their abridged form, be considered as too
minute; nor is it an easy task, in an undertaking of this sort,
to please everybody's taste: my principal study in making the
selection, however, has been to omit nothing of public interest;
and to introduce at the same time a great variety of other
topics, less important, perhaps, put tending in some degree to
illustrate the manners and habits of the age.
In justice to Mr. Pepys's literary reputation, the reader is
forewarned that he is not to expect to find in the Diary accuracy
of style or finished composition. We should rather consider the
Work as a collection of reminiscences hastily thrown together at
the end of each succeeding day, for the exclusive perusal of the
Author.
The Journal contains the most unquestionable evidences of
veracity; and, as the writer made no scruple of committing his
most secret thoughts to paper, encouraged no doubt by the
confidence which he derived from the use of short-hand, perhaps
there never was a publication more implicitly to be relied upon
for the authenticity of its statements and the exactness with
which every fact is detailed. Upon this point, I can venture to
speak with the less hesitation, having, in preparing the sheets
for the press, had occasion to compare many parts of the Diary
with different accounts of the same transactions recorded
elsewhere; and in no instance could I detect any material error
or wilful misrepresentation.
The Notes at the bottom of the pages were introduced to elucidate
obscure passages; and I have been tempted occasionally to insert
short Biographical Sketches of the principal persons who are
named, accompanied by such references as will enable the curious
reader to inform himself more fully respecting them. In some
instances I experienced considerable difficulty in identifying
the individuals; but I trust that the notices will be found, on
the whole, sufficiently correct to answer the object intended.
In justice to the Reverend John Smith, (with whom I am not
personally acquainted,) it may be added, that he appears to have
performed the task allotted to him, of deciphering the short-hand
Diary, with diligence and fidelity, and to have spared neither
time nor trouble in the undertaking.
The best account of Mr. Pepys occurs in the Supplement to
Collier's Historical Dictionary, published soon after his death,
and written, as I have reason to believe, by his relative Roger
Gale. Some particulars may also be obtained from Knight's Life
of Dean Colet; Chalmers's Biographical Dictionary; Cole's MSS. in
the British Museum: the MSS in the Bodleian and Pepysian
Libraries, and the Cockerell Papers.
BRAYBROOKE. Audley End, May 14th, 1825
MEMOIR OF SAMUEL PEPYS.
Samuel Pepys, the author of the Diary here presented to the
reader was descended from the family of Pepys originally seated
at Diss, in Norfolk, and who settled at Cottenham, in
Cambridgeshire, early in the sixteenth century. His father, John
Pepys, followed for some time the trade of a tailor; and the
reader may hereafter notice the influence which this genealogy
seems to have exercised over the style and sentiments of his
son's Diary. The father retired to Brampton, in Huntingdonshire,
where he ended his days in 1680. His wife, Margaret, died in
1666-7, having had a family of six sons and five daughters.
Samuel was born February 23, 1632, most probably in London, but
by some it is thought at Brampton; he certainly passed his boyish
days in the Metropolis, and was educated regularly at St. Paul's
School; and afterwards at the University of Cambridge, and
probably went through his studies with success. But little is
known of him as an undergraduate. One record, however, remains
which proves that in his early life, as in later years, he was a
BON VIVANT. The following appears in the register book of the
college respecting his pranks when there:--"October 21, 1653.
Mem. That Peapys and Hind were solemnly admonished by myself and
Mr. Hill for having been scandalously over-served with drink ye
night before. This was done in the presence of all the fellows
then resident, in Mr. Hill's chamber (Signed) John Wood,
Registrar." Early in life, Pepys took one of those decided steps
which tend, according to circumstances, to a man's marring or
making. He appears to have married Elizabeth St. Michel, a
beautiful girl of fifteen, when he himself was only about twenty-
three. She was of good family her mother being descended from
the Cliffords of Cumberland, and her daughter had only just
quitted the convent in which she was educated. She brought her
husband no fortune; but the patronage of Pepys's relation, Sir
Edward Montagu, afterwards first Earl of Sandwich, prevented the
ill consequences with such a step might naturally have been
attended, and young Pepys's aptitude for business soon came to
render him useful. The distresses of the young couple at this
period were subjects of pleasant reflexion during their
prosperity--as recorded in the Diary, 25th February, 1667.
But better times were approaching Mr. Pepys: he accompanied Sir
Edward Montagu upon his Expedition to the Sound, in March, 1658,
and upon his return obtained a clerkship in the Exchequer.
Through the interest of the Earl of Sandwich, Mr. Pepys was
nominated Clerk of the Acts: this was the commencement of his
connexion with a great national establishment, to which in the
sequel his diligence and acuteness were of the highest service.
From his Papers, still extant (says Lord Braybrooke), we gather
that he never lost sight of the public good; that he spared no
pains to check the rapacity of contractors, by whom the naval
stores were then supplied; that he studied order and economy in
the dockyards, advocated the promotion of old-established
officers in the Navy; and resisted to the utmost the infamous
system of selling places, then most unblushingly practised. His
zeal and industry acquired for him the esteem of the Duke of
York, with whom, as Lord High Admiral, he had almost daily
intercourse. At the time of his entering upon this employment,
he resided in Seething-lane, Crutched Friars. He continued in
this office till 1673; and during those great events, the Plague,
the Fire of London, and the Dutch War, the care of the Navy in a
great measure rested upon Pepys alone. He behaved with calm and
deliberate courage and integrity. Nevertheless, he had the
misfortune to experience some part of the calumnies of the time
of "the Popish Plot." The Earl of Shaftesbury, the foster-father
of this most wicked delusion, showed a great desire to implicate
Pepys in a charge of Catholicism, and went so far as to spread a
report that the Clerk of the Acts had in his house an altar and a
crucifix. The absence not only of evidence, but even of ground
of suspicion, did not prevent Pepys being committed to the Tower
on the charge of being an aider and abettor of the plot, and he
was, for a time, removed from the Navy Board. He was afterwards
allowed, with Sir Anthony Deane, who had been committed with him,
to find security in 30,000l.; and upon the withdrawal of the
deposition against him, he was discharged. He was soon, by the
special command of Charles II., replaced in a situation where his
skill and experience could not be well dispensed with; and rose
afterwards to be Secretary of the Admiralty, which office he
retained till the Revolution. It is remarkable that James II.
was sitting to Sir Godfrey Kneller for a portrait designed as a
present to Pepys, when the news of the landing of the Prince of
Orange was brought to that unhappy monarch. The King commanded
the painter to proceed, and finish the portrait, that his good
friend might not be disappointed.
Pepys had been too much personally connected with the King, (who
had been so long at the Admiralty,) to retain his situation upon
the accession of William and Mary; and he retired into private
life' accordingly, but without being followed thither, either by
persecution or ill will.
The Diary, as already explained, comprehends ten years of Mr.
Pepys official life, extending from January, 1659-60, to May,
1669. It is highly necessary to keep in mind that Mr. Pepys was
only thirty-seven years of age when he closed his Diary in 1669,
and that of the remainder of his life we have no regular account;
although the materials for it which exist have encouraged the
hope that this portion of the Life may yet be written. After the
death of Cromwell, Pepys seems to have consorted much with
Harrington, Hazelrigge, and other leading Republicans; but when
the Restoration took place, he became--as, perhaps was natural--a
courtier; still, it is said of him that "were the eulogy of
Cromwell now to be written, abounding particulars and material
for the purpose might be found in and drawn from Pepys' Diary."
Mr. Pepys sat in Parliament for Castle Rising, and subsequently
he represented the borough of Harwich, eventually rising to
wealth and eminence as clerk of the treasurer to the
Commissioners of the affairs of Tangier, and Surveyor-general of
the Victualling Department, "proving himself to be," it is
stated, "a very useful and energetic public servant."
In the year 1700, Mr. Pepys, whose constitution had been long
impaired by the stone, was persuaded by his physicians to quit
York Buildings, now Buckingham-street, (the last house on the
west side, looking on the Thames,) and retire, for change of air,
to the house of his old friend and servant, William Hewer, at
Clapham. Soon after, he was visited here by John Evelyn, who, in
his Diary, Sept. 22, 1700, records, "I went to visit Mr. Pepys,
at Clapham, where he has a very noble and wonderfully well-
furnished house, especially with India and Chinese curiosities.
The offices and gardens well accommodated for pleasure and
retirement." In this retreat, however, his health continued to
decline, and he died in May, 1703, a victim in part, to the
stone, which was hereditary in his constitution, and to the
increase of that malady in the course of a laborious and
sedentary life. In the LONDON JOURNAL of the above year is this
entry: "London, June 5. Yesterday in the evening were performed
the obsequies of Samuel Pepys, Esq., in Crutched Friars Church,
whither his corpse was brought in a very honourable and solemn
manner from Clapham, where he departed this life, the 26th day of
the last month.--POST BOY, June 5, 1703." The burial-service at
his funeral was read at 9 at night, by Dr. Hickes, author of the
THESAURUS which bears his name. There is no memorial to mark the
site of his interment in the church; but there is a monument in
the chancel to Mrs. Pepys, and Mr. Pepys is interred in a vault
of his own making, by the side of his wife and brother.
Pepys had an extensive knowledge of naval affairs. He thoroughly
understood and practised music; and he was a judge of painting,
sculpture, and architecture. In 1684, he was elected President
of the Royal Society, and held that honourable office two years.
He contributed no less than 60 plates to Willoughby's HISTORIA
PISCIUM.
To Magdalene College, Cambridge, he left an invaluable collection
of manuscript naval memoirs, of prints, and ancient English
poetry, which has often been consulted by critics and
commentators, and is, indeed, unrivalled of its kind. One of its
most singular curiosities is a collection of English ballads in
five large folio volumes, begun by Selden and carried down to the
year 1700. Percy's "Reliques" are for the most part, taken from
this collection. Pepys published "Memoirs relating to the State
of the Royal Navy in England for ten years, determined December,
1688," 8vo. London, 1690; and there is a small book in the
Pepysian Library, entitled "A Relation of the Troubles in the
Court of Portugal in 1667 and 1668," by S. P., 12mo., Lond.,
1677, which Watt ascribes to Pepys.
In the Supplement to Collier's Dictionary, published
contemporaneously, is this tribute to the character of Samuel
Pepys:--"It may be affirmed of this Gentleman, that he was,
without exception, the greatest and most useful Minister that
ever filled the same situations in England; the Acts and
Registers of the Admiralty proving this fact beyond
contradiction. The principal rules and establishments in present
use in those offices are well known to have been of his
introducing and most of the officers serving therein, since the
Restoration, of his bringing up. He was a most studious promoter
and strenuous assertor of order and discipline through all their
dependencies. Sobriety, diligence, capacity, loyalty, and
subjection to command, were essentials required in all whom he
advanced. Where any of these were found wanting, no interest or
authority were capable of moving him in favour of the highest
pretender; the Royal command only excepted, of which he was also
very watchful, to prevent any undue procurements. Discharging
his duty to his Prince and Country with a religious application
and perfect integrity, he feared no one, courted no one,
neglected his own fortune. Besides this, he was a person of
universal worth, and in great estimation among the Literati, for
his unbounded reading, his sound judgment, his great elocution,
his mastery in method, his singular curiosity, and his uncommon
munificence towards the advancement of learning, arts, and
industry, in all degrees: to which were joined the severest
morality of a philosopher, and all the polite accomplishments of
a gentleman, particularly those of music, languages,
conversation, and address. He assisted, as one of the Barons of
the Cinque Ports, at the Coronation of James II., and was a
standing Governor of all the principal houses of charity in and
about London, and sat at the head of many other honourable
bodies, in divers of which, as he deemed their constitution and
methods deserving, he left lasting monuments of his bounty and
patronage."
*
PEPYS'S DIARY.
1659-60. Blessed be God, at the end of the last year I was in
very good health, without any sense of my old pain, but upon
taking of cold. I lived in Axe Yard, having my wife, and servant
Jane, and no other in family than us three.
The condition of the State was thus; viz. the Rump, after being
disturbed by my Lord Lambert, [Sufficiently known by his services
as a Major-General in the Parliament forces during the Civil War,
and condemned as a traitor after the Restoration; but reprieved
and banished to Guernsey, where he lived in confinement thirty
years.] was lately returned to sit again. The officers of the
Army all forced to yield. Lawson [Sir John Lawson, the son of a
poor man at Hull, rose to the rank of Admiral, and distinguished
himself during the Protectorate; and, though a republican in his
heart, readily closed with the design of restoring the King. He
was mortally wounded in the sea fight in 1665.] lies still in
the river, and Monk is with his army in Scotland. [George Monk,
afterwards Duke of Albemarle.] Only my Lord Lambert is not yet
come into the Parliament, nor is it expected that he will without
being forced to it. The new Common Council of the City do speak
very high; and had sent to Monk their sword-bearer, to acquaint
him with their desires for a free and full Parliament, which is
at present the desires, and the hopes, and the expectations of
all. Twenty-two of the old secluded members having been at the
House-door the last week to demand entrance, but it was denied
them; and it is believed that neither they nor the people will be
satisfied till the House be filled. My own private condition
very handsome, and esteemed rich, but indeed very poor; besides
my goods of my house, and my office, which at present is somewhat
certain. Mr. Downing master of my office. [George Downing, son
of Calibute Downing, D.D. and Rector of Hackney. Wood calls him
a sider with all times and changes; skilled in the common cant,
and a preacher occasionally. He was sent by Cromwell to Holland
as resident there. About the Restoration he espoused the King's
cause, and was knighted and elected M.P. for Morpeth in 1661.
afterwards, becoming Secretary to the Treasury and Commissioner
of Customs, he was in 1663 created a Baronet of East Hatley, in
Cambridgeshire.] [The office appears to have been in the
Exchequer, and connected with the pay of the army.]
JAN. 1, 1659-60 (Lord's day). This morning (we living lately in
the garret,) I rose, put on my suit with great skirts, having not
lately worn any other clothes but them. Went to Mr. Gunning's
chapel [Peter Gunning, afterwards Master of St. John's College,
Cambridge, and successively Bishop of Chichester and Ely: ob.
1684. He had continued to read the liturgy at the chapel at
Exeter House when the Parliament was most predominant, for which
Cromwell often rebuked him.--WOOD'S ATHENAE.] at Exeter House,
[Essex-street in the Strand was built on the site of Exeter
House.] where he made a very good sermon upon these words:--
"That in the fulness of time God sent his Son, made of a woman,"
&c.; showing, that, by "made under the law," is meant the
circumcision, which is solemnized this day. Dined at home in the
garret, where my wife dressed the remains of a turkey, and in the
doing of it she burned her hand. I staid at home the whole
afternoon, looking over my accounts; then went with my wife to my
father's, and in going observed the great posts which the City
workmen set up at the Conduit in Fleet-street.
2nd. Walked a great while in Westminster Hall, where I heard
that Lambert was coming up to London: that my Lord Fairfax was
in the head of the Irish brigade, but it was not certain what he
would declare for. The House was to-day upon finishing the act
for the Council of State, which they did; and for the indemnity
to the soldiers; and were to sit again thereupon in the
afternoon. Great talk that many places had declared for a free
Parliament; and it is believed that they will be forced to fill
up the House with the old members. From the Hall I called at
home, and so went to Mr. Crewe's [John Crewe, Esq., created Baron
Crewe of Stene at the coronation of Charles II. He married
Jemima, daughter and co-heir to Edward Walgrave, Esq., of
Lawford, co. Essex.] (my wife she was to go to her father's),
and Mr. Moore and I and another gentleman went out and drank a
cup of ale together in the new market, and there I eat some bread
and cheese for my dinner.
3rd. To White Hall, where I understood that the Parliament had
passed the act for indemnity for the soldiers and officers that
would come in, in so many days, and that my Lord Lambert should
have benefit of the said act. They had also voted that all
vacancies in the House, by the death of any of the old members,
should be filled up; but those that are living shall not be
called in.
4th. Strange the difference of men's talk! Some say that
Lambert must of necessity yield up; others, that he is very
strong, and that the Fifth-monarchy-men will stick to him, if he
declares for a free Parliament. Chillington was sent yesterday
to him with the vote of pardon and indemnity from the Parliament.
Went and walked in the Hall, where I heard that the Parliament
spent this day in fasting and prayer; and in the afternoon came
letters from the North, that brought certain news that my Lord
Lambert his forces were all forsaking him, and that he was left
with only fifty horse, and that he did now declare for the
Parliament himself; and that my Lord Fairfax did also rest
satisfied, and had laid down his arms, and that what he had done
was only to secure the country against my Lord Lambert his
raising of money, and free quarter. [Thomas Lord Fairfax,
Generalissimo of the Parliament forces. After the Restoration he
retired to his country seat, where he lived in private till his
death in 1671.]
5th. I dined with Mr. Shepley, at my Lord's lodgings, [Admiral
Sir Edward Montagu, afterwards Earl of Sandwich, uniformly styled
"My Lord" throughout the Diary.] upon his turkey pie. And so to
my office again where the Excise money was brought, and some of
it told to soldiers till it was dark. Then I went home, after
writing to my Lord the news that the Parliament had this night
voted that the members that were discharged from sitting in the
years 1648 and 49, were duly discharged; and that there should be
writs issued presently for the calling of others in their places,
and that Monk and Fairfax were commanded up to town, and that the
Prince's lodgings were to be provided for Monk at Whitehall. Mr.
Fage and I did discourse concerning public business; and he told
me it is true the City had not time enough to do much, but they
had resolved to shake off the soldiers; and that unless there be
a free Parliament chosen, he did believe there are half the
Common Council will not levy any money by order of this
Parliament.
6th. This morning Mr. Shepley and I did eat our breakfast at
Mrs. Harper's, (my brother John being with me,) upon a cold
turkey-pie and a goose.
9th. I rose early this morning, and looked over and corrected my
brother John's speech, which he is to make the next opposition.
[Declamations at St. Paul's school, in which there were,
opponents and respondents.] I met with W. Simons, Muddiman, and
Jack Price, and went with them to Harper's and staid till two of
the clock in the afternoon. I found Muddiman a good scholar, an
arch rogue; and owns that though he writes new books for the
Parliament, yet he did declare that he did it only to get money;
and did talk very basely of many of them. Among other things, W.
Simons told me how his uncle Scobell [H. Scobell, clerk to the
House of Commons.] was on Saturday last called to the bar, for
entering in the journal of the House, for the year 1653, these
words: "This day his Excellence the Lord G. Cromwell dissolved
this House;" which words the Parliament voted a forgery, and
demanded of him how they same to be entered. He said that they
were his own hand-writing, and that he did it by rights of his
office, and the practice of his predecessor; and that the intent
of the practice was to let posterity know how such and such a
Parliament was dissolved, whether by the command of the King, or
by their own neglect, as the last House of Lords was; and that to
this end, he had said and writ that it was dissolved by his
Excellence the Lord G.; and that for the word dissolved, he never
at the time did hear of any other term; and desired pardon if he
would not dare to make a word himself what it was six years
after, before they came themselves to call it an interruption;
that they were so little satisfied with this answer, that they
did chuse a committee to report to the House, whether this crime
of Mr. Scobell's did come within the act of indemnity or no.
Thence into the Hall, where I heard for certain that Monk was
coming to London, and that Bradshaw's lodgings were preparing for
him. [John Bradshaw, Serjeant-at-Law, President of the High
Court of Justice.] I heard Sir H. Vane was this day voted out of
the House, and to sit no more there; and that he would retire
himself to his house at Raby, [Son of a statesman of both his
names, and one, of the most turbulent enthusiasts produced by the
Rebellion, and an inflexible republican. His execution, in 1662,
for conspiring the death of Charles I. was much called in
question as a measure of great severity.] as also all the rest
of the nine officers that had their commissions formerly taken
away from them, were commanded to their farthest houses from
London during the pleasure of the Parliament.
1Oth. To the Coffee-house, where were a great confluence of
gentlemen; viz. Mr. Harrington, Poultny, chairman, Gold, Dr.
Petty, &c., where admirable discourse till 9 at night. Thence
with Doling to Mother Lam's, 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
designs. His intellects appear to have failed afterwards, and he
died 1677. Sir William Poultny, subsequently M.P. for
Westminster, and a Commissioner of the Privy Seal under King
William. Ob. 1691. Sir William Petty, an eminent physician, and
celebrated for his proficiency in every branch of science. Ob.
1687. Thomas Scott, M.P., made Secretary of State to the
Commonwealth Jan. 17th following.]
13th. Coming in the morning to my office, I met with Mr. Fage
and took him to the Swan. He told me how he, Haselrigge, [Sir
Arthur Haselrigge, Bart. of Nosely, co. Leicester, Colonel of a
regiment in the Parliament army, and much esteemed by Cromwell.
Ob. 1660.] and Morley, [Probably Colonel Morley Lieutenant of
the Tower.] the last night began at my Lord Mayor's to exclaim
against the City of London, saying that they had forfeited their
charter. And how the Chamberlain of the City did take them down,
letting them know how much they were formerly beholding to the
City, &c. He also told me that Monk's letter that came by the
sword-bearer was a cunning piece, and that which they did not
much trust to: but they were resolved to make no more
applications to the Parliament, nor to pay any money, unless the
secluded members be brought in, or a free Parliament chosen.
16th. In the morning I went up to Mr. Crewe's, who did talk to
me concerning things of state; and expressed his mind how just it
was that the secluded members should come to sit again. From
thence to my office, where nothing to do; but Mr. Downing came
and found me all alone; and did mention to me his going back into
Holland, and did ask me whether I would go or no, but gave me
little encouragement, but bid me consider of it; and asked me
whether I did not think that Mr. Hawley could perform the work of
my office alone. I confess I was at a great loss, all the day
after, to bethink myself how to carry this business. I staid up
till the bell-man came by with his bell just under my window as I
was writing of this very line, and cried, "Past one of the clock,
and a cold, frosty, windy morning."
17th. In our way to Kensington, we understood how that my Lord
Chesterfield [Philip, second Earl of Chesterfield, born. 1634,
ob. 1713.] had killed another gentleman about half an hour
before, and was fled. I went to the Coffee Club and heard very
good discourse; it was in answer to Mr. Harrington's answer, who
said that the state of the Roman government was not a settled
government, and so it was no wonder that the balance of
prosperity was in one hand, and the command in another, it being
therefore always in a posture of war; but it was carried by
ballot, that it was a steady government, though it is true by the
voices it had been carried before that it was an unsteady
government; so to-morrow it is to be proved by the opponents that
the balance lay in one hand, and the government in another.
Thence I went to Westminster, and met Shaw and Washington, who
told me how this day Sydenham [Colonel Sydenham had been an
active officer during the Civil Wars, on the Parliament side.
M.P. for Dorsetshire, and governor of Melcombe, and one of the
Committee of Safety.] was voted out of the House for sitting any
more this Parliament, and that Salloway was voted out likewise
and sent to the Tower, [In the Journals of that date Major
Salwey.] during the pleasure of the House. At Harper's Jack
Price told me, among other things, how much the Protector is
altered, though he would seem to bear out his trouble very well,
yet he is scarce able to talk sense with a man; and how he will
say that "Who should a man trust, if he may not trust to a
brother and an uncle;" and "how much those men have to answer
before God Almighty, for their playing the knave with him as they
did." He told me also, that there was 100,000l. offered, and
would have been taken for his restitution, had not the Parliament
come in as they did again; and that he do believe that the
Protector will live to give a testimony of his valour and revenge
yet before he dies, and that the Protector will say so himself
sometimes.
18th. 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.
19th. This morning I was sent for to Mr. Downing, and at his bed
side he told me, that he had a kindness for me, and that he
thought that he had done me one; and that was, that he had got me
to be one of the Clerks of the Council; at which I was a little
stumbled, and could not tell what to do, whether to thank him or
no; but by and by I did; but not very heartily, for I feared that
his doing of it was only to ease himself of the salary which he
gives me. Mr. Moore and I went to the French Ordinary, where Mr.
Downing this day feasted Sir Arth. Haselrigge, and a great many
more of the Parliament, and did stay to put him in mind of me.
Here he gave me a note to go and invite some other members to
dinner to-morrow. So I went to White Hall, and did stay at
Marsh's with Simons, Luellin, and all the rest of the Clerks of
the Council, who I hear are all turned out, only the two Leighs,
and they do all tell me that my name was mentioned last night,
but that nothing was done in it.
20th. In the morning I met Lord Widdrington in the street, [Sir
Thomas Widdrington, Knight, Serjeant-at-Law. one of Cromwell's
Commissioners of the Treasury, appointed Speaker 1656, and first
Commissioner for the Great Seal, January, 1659; he was M.P. for
York.] going to seal the patents for the Judges to-day, and so
could not come to dinner. This day three citizens of London went
to meet Monk from the Common Council. Received my 25l. due by
bill for my trooper's pay. At the Mitre, in Fleet-street, in our
way calling on Mr. Fage, who told me how the City have some hopes
of Monk. This day Lenthall took his chair again, [William
Lenthall, Speaker of the Long or Rump Parliament, and made Keeper
of the Great Seal to the Commonwealth, ob, 1662.] and the House
resolved a declaration to be brought in on Monday to satisfy the
world what they intend to do.
22nd. To church in the afternoon to Mr. Herring, where a lazy
poor sermon. This day I began to put on buckles to my shoes.
23rd. This day the Parliament sat late, and revolved of the
declaration to be printed for the people's satisfaction,
promising them a great many good things.
24th. Came Mr. Southerne, clerk to Mr. Blackburne, and with him
Lambert, lieutenant of my Lord's ship, and brought with them the
declaration that came out to-day from the Parliament, wherein
they declare for law and gospel, and for tythes; but I do not
find people apt to believe them. This day the Parliament gave
orders that the late Committee of Safety should come before them
this day se'nnight, and all their papers, and their model of
Government that they had made, to be brought in with them.
25th. Coming home heard that in Cheapside there had been but a
little before a gibbet set up, and the picture of Huson hung upon
it in the middle of the street. [John Hewson, who had been a
shoemaker, became a Colonel in the Parliament Army, and sat in
judgement on the King: he escaped hanging by flight, and died in
1662 at Amsterdam.] I called at Paul's Churchyard, where I
bought Buxtorf's Hebrew Grammar; and read a declaration of the
gentlemen of Northampton which came out this afternoon.
26th. Called for some papers at Whitehall for Mr. Downing, one
of which was an order of the Council for 1800l. per annum, to be
paid monthly; and the other two, Orders to the Commissioners of
Customs, to let his goods pass free. Home from my office to my
Lord's lodgings where my wife had got ready a very fine dinner--
viz. a dish of marrow bones; a leg of mutton; a loin of veal; a
dish of fowl, three pullets, and a dozen of larks all in a dish;
a great tart, a neat's tongue, a dish of anchovies; a dish of
prawns and cheese. My company was my father, my uncle Fenner,
his two sons, Mr. Pierce, and all their wives, and my brother Tom
[Ob.1663]. The news this day is a letter that speaks absolutely
Monk's concurrence with this Parliament, and nothing else, which
yet I hardly believe.
28th, I went to Mr. Downing, who told me that he was resolved to
be gone for Holland this morning. So I to my office again, and
dispatch my business there, and came with Mr. Hawley to Mr.
Downing's lodgings, and took Mr. Squib from White Hall in a coach
thither with me, and there we waited in his chamber a great
while, till he came in; and in the mean time, sent all his things
to the barge that lays at Charing-Cross stairs. Then came he in,
and took a very civil leave of me, beyond my expectations, for I
was afraid that he would have told me something of removing me
from my office; but he did not, but that he would do me any
service that lay in his power. So I went down and sent a porter
to my house for my best fur cap, but he coming too late with it I
did not present it to him: and so I returned and went to Heaven,
[A place of entertainment, in Old Palace Yard, on the site of
which the Committee-Rooms of the House of Commons now stand it is
called in Hudibras, "False Heaven, at the end of the Hall."]
where Luellin and I dined.
29th. In the morning I went to Mr. Gunning's, where he made an
excellent sermon upon the 2nd of the Galatians, about the
difference that fell between St. Paul and St. Peter, whereby he
did prove, that, contrary to the doctrine of the Roman Church,
St. Paul did never own any dependance, or that he was inferior to
St Peter, but that they were equal, only one a particular charge
of preaching to the Jews, and the other to the Gentiles.
30th. This morning, before I was up, I fell a-singing of my
song, "Great, good and just," &c. and put myself thereby in mind
that this was the fatal day, now ten years since, his Majesty
died. [This is the beginning of Montrose's verses on the
execution of Charles the First, which Pepys had probably set to
music:--
Great, good, and just, could I but rate
My grief and thy too rigid fate,
I'd weep the world to such a strain
That it should deluge once again.
But since thy loud-tongued blood demands supplies
More from Briareus' hands, than Argus' eyes,
I'll sing thy obsequies with trumpet sounds,
And write thy epitaph with blood and wounds.]
There seems now to be a general cease of talk, it being taken for
granted that Monk do resolve to stand to the Parliament, and
nothing else.
31st. After dinner to Westminster Hall, where all we clerks had
orders to wait upon the Committee, at the Star-chamber that is to
try Colonel Jones, and to give an account what money we had paid
him; but the Committee did not sit to-day. [Colonel John Jones,
impeached, with General Ludlow and Miles Corbet, for treasonable
practices in Ireland.] Called in at Harper's with Mr. Pulford,
servant to Mr. Waterhouse, who tells me, that whereas my Lord
Fleetwood should have answered to the Parliament to-day, he wrote
a letter and desired a little more time, he being a great way out
of town. [Charles Fleetwood, Lord Deputy of Ireland during the
Usurpation, became Cromwell's son-in-law by his marriage with
Ireton's widow, and a member of the Council of State. He seems
disposed to have espoused Charles the Second's interests; but had
not resolution enough to execute his design. At the Restoration
he was excepted out of the Act of Indemnity, and spent the
remainder of his life in obscurity, dying soon after the
Revolution.] And how that he is quite ashamed of himself, and
confesses how he had deserved this, for his baseness to his
brother. And that he is like to pay part of the money, paid out
of the Exchequer during the Committee of Safety, out of his own
purse again, which I am glad on. I could find nothing in Mr.
Downing's letter, which Hawley brought me concerning my office;
but I could discern that Hawley had a mind that I would get to be
Clerk of the Council, I suppose that he might have the greater
salary; but I think it not safe yet to change this for a public
employment.
FEBRUARY 1, 1659-60. Took Gammer East, and James the porter, a
soldier, to my Lord's lodgings, who told me how they were drawn
into the field to-day, and that they were ordered to march away
to-morrow to make room for General Monk; but they did shout their
Colonel Fitch, [Thomas Fitch, Colonel of a regiment of foot in
1658, M.P. for Inverness.] and the rest of the officers out of
the field, and swore they would not go without their money, and
if they would not give it them, they would go where they might
have it, and that was the City. So the Colonel went to the
Parliament, and commanded what money could be got, to be got
against to-morrow for them, and all the rest of the soldiers in
town, who in all places made a mutiny this day, and do agree
together.
2nd. To my office, where I found all the officers of the
regiments in town, waiting to receive money that their soldiers
might go out of town, and what was in the Exchequer they had.
Harper, Luellin, and I went to the Temple to Mr. Calthrop's
chamber, and from thence had his man by water to London Bridge to
Mr. Calthrop a grocer, and received 60l. for my Lord. In our way
we talked with our waterman, White, who told us how the watermen
had lately been abused by some that had a desire to get in to be
watermen to the State, and had lately presented an address of
nine or ten thousand hands to stand by this Parliament, when it
was only told them that it was a petition against hackney
coaches; and that to-day they had put out another to undeceive
the world and to clear themselves. After I had received the
money we went homewards, but over against Somerset House, hearing
the noise of guns, we landed and found the Strand full of
soldiers. So I took my money and went to Mrs. Johnson, my Lord's
sempstress, and giving her my money to lay up, Doling and I went
up stairs to a window, and looked out and saw the foot face the
horse and beat them back, and stood bawling and calling in the
street for a free Parliament and money. By and by a drum was
heard to beat a march coming towards them, and they got all ready
again and faced them, and they proved to be of the same mind with
them; and so they made a great deal of joy to see one another.
After all this I went home on foot to lay up my money, and change
my stockings and shoes. I this day left off my great skirt suit,
and put on my white suit with silver lace coat, and went over to
Harper's, where I met with W. Simons, Doling, Luellin and three
merchants, one of which had occasion to use a porter, so they
sent for one, and James the soldier came, who told us how they
had been all day and night upon their guard at St. James's, and
that through the whole town they did resolve to stand to what
they had began, and that to-morrow he did believe they would go
into the City, and be received there. After this we went to a
sport called, selling of a horse for a dish of eggs and herrings,
and sat talking there till almost twelve at night.
3rd. Drank my morning draft at Harper's, and was told there that
the soldiers were all quiet upon promise of pay. Thence to St.
James's Park, back to Whitehall, where in a guard-chamber I saw
about thirty or forty 'prentices of the City, who were taken at
twelve o'clock last night and brought prisoners hither. Thence
to my office, where I paid a little more money to some of the
soldiers under Lieut.-Col. Miller (who held out the Tower against
the Parliament after it was taken away from Fitch by the
Committee of Safety, and yet he continued in his office). About
noon Mrs. Turner came to speak with me and Joyce, and I took them
and shewed them the manner of the Houses sitting, the door-keeper
very civilly opening the door for us. We went walking all over
White Hall, whither General Monk was newly come, and we saw all
his forces march by in very good plight and stout officers.
After dinner I went to hear news, but only found that the
Parliament House was most of them with Monk at White Hall, and
that in his passing through the town he had many calls to him for
a free Parliament, but little other welcome. I saw in the Palace
Yard how unwilling some of the old soldiers were yet to go out of
town without their money, and swore if they had it not in three
days, as they were promised, they would do them more mischief in
the country than if they had staid here; and that is very likely,
the country being all discontented. The town and guards are
already full of Monk's soldiers.
4th. All the news to-day is, that the Parliament this morning
voted the House to be made up four hundred forthwith.
6th. To Westminster, where we found the soldiers all set in the
Palace Yard, to make way for General Monk to come to the House.
I stood upon the steps and saw Monk go by, he making observance
to the judges as he went along.
7th. To the Hall, where in the Palace I saw Monk's soldiers
abuse Billing and all the Quakers, that were at a meeting-place
there, and indeed the soldiers did use them very roughly and were
to blame. This day Mr. Crew told me that my Lord St. John is for
a free Parliament, and that he is very great with Monk, who hath
now the absolute command and power to do any thing that he hath a
mind to do.
9th. Before I was out of my bed, I heard the soldiers very busy
in the morning, getting their horses ready when they lay at
Hilton's, but I knew not then their meaning in so doing. In the
Hall I understand how Monk is this morning gone into London with
his army; and Mr. Fage told me that he do believe that Monk is
gone to secure some of the Common-council of the City, who were
very high yesterday there, and did vote that they would not pay
any taxes till the House was filled up. I went to my office,
where I wrote to my Lord after I had been at the Upper Bench,
where Sir Robert Pye this morning came to desire his discharge
from the Tower; but it could not be granted. I called at Mr.
Harper's, who told me how Monk had this day clapt up many of the
Common-council, and that the Parliament had voted that he should
pull down their gates and portcullisses, their posts and their
chains, which he do intend to do, and do lie in the City all
night.
To Westminster Hall, where I heard an action very finely pleaded
between my Lord Dorset [Richard, 5th Earl of Dorset, ob. 1677.]
and some other noble persons, his lady and other ladies of
quality being there, and it was about 330l. PER ANNUM, that was
to be paid to a poor Spittal which was given by some of his
predecessors; and given on his side.
10th. Mr. Fage told me what Monk had done in the City, how he
had pulled down the most part of the gates and chains that they
could break down, and that he was now gone back to White Hall.
The City look mighty blank, and cannot tell what in the 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
an hour's time. So I went up to the lobby, where I saw the
Speaker reading of the letter; and after it was read, Sir A.
Haselrigge came out very angry, and Billing standing at the door,
took him by the arm, and cried, "Thou man, will thy beast carry
thee no longer? thou must fall!" We took coach for the City to
Guildhall, where the Hall was full of people expecting Monk and
Lord Mayor to come thither, and all very joyfull. Met Monk
coming out of the chamber where he had been with the Mayor and
Aldermen, but such a shout I never heard in all my life, crying
out, "God bless your Excellence." Here I met with Mr. Lock, and
took him to an ale-house: when we were come together, he told us
the substance of the letter that went from Monk to the
Parliament; wherein after complaints that he and his officers
were put upon such offices against the City as they could not do
with any content or honour, it states, that there are many
members now in the House that were of the late tyrannical
Committee of Safety. That Lambert and Vane are now in town,
contrary to the vote of Parliament. That many in the House do
press for new oaths to be put upon men; whereas we have more
cause to be sorry for the many oaths that we have already taken
and broken. That the late petition of the fanatique people
prevented by Barebone, for the imposing of an oath upon all sorts
of people, was received by the House with thanks. That therefore
he [Monk] did desire that all writs for filling up of the House
be issued by Friday next, and that in the mean time, he would
retire into the City and only leave them guards for the security
of the House and Council. The occasion of this was the order
that he had last night, to go into the City and disarm them, and
take away their charter; whereby he and his officers said, that
the House had a mind to put them upon, things that should make
them odious; and so it would be in their power to do what they
would with them. We were told that the Parliament had sent Scott
and Robinson to Monk this afternoon, but he would not hear them.
And that the Mayor and Aldermen had offered their own houses for
himself and his officers; and that his soldiers would lack for
nothing. And indeed I saw many people give the soldiers drink
and money, and all along the streets cried, "God bless them!"
and extraordinary good words. Hence we went to a merchant's
house hard by, where I saw Sir Nich. Crisp, [An eminent merchant
and one of the Farmers of the Customs. He had advanced large
sums to assist Charles I., who created him a Baronet. He died
1667, aged 67.] and so we went to the star Tavern, (Monk being
then at Benson's.) In Cheapside there was a great many bonfires,
and Bow bells and all the bells in all the churches as we went
home were a-ringing. Hence we went homewards, it being about ten
at night. But the common joy that was every where to be seen!
The number of bonfires, there being fourteen between St.
Dunstan's and Temple Bar, and at Strand Bridge I could at one
time tell thirty-one fires. In King-street seven or eight; and
all along burning, and roasting, and drinking for rumps. There
being rumps tied upon sticks and carried up and down. The
butchers at the May Pole in the Strand rang a peal with their
knives when they were going to sacrifice their rump. On Ludgate
Hill there was one turning of the spit that had a rump tied upon
it, and another basting of it. Indeed it was past imagination,
both the greatness and the suddenness of it. At one end of the
street you would think there was a whole lane on fire, and so
hot that we were fain to keep on the further side.
12th. In the morning, it being Lord's day, to White Hall, where
Dr. Hones preached; but I staid not to hear, but walking in the
court, I heard that Sir Arth. Haselrigge was newly gone into the
City to Monk, and that Monk's wife removed from White Hall last
night. After dinner I heard that Monk had been at Paul's in the
morning, and the people had shouted much at his coming out of the
church. In the afternoon he was at a church in Broad-street,
whereabout he do lodge. To my father's, where Charles Glascocke
was overjoyed to see how things are now; who told me the boys had
last night broke Barebone's windows. [Praise God Barebones, an
active member of the Parliament called by his name. About this
period he had appeared at the head of a band of fanatics, and
alarmed Monk, who well knew his influence.]
13th. This day Monk was invited to White Hall to dinner by my
Lords; not seeming willing, he would not come. I went to Mr.
Fage from my father's, who had been this afternoon with Monk, who
did promise to live and die with the City, and for the honour of
the City; and indeed the City is very open-handed to the
soldiers, that they are most of them drunk all day, and had money
given them.
14th. To Westminster Hall, there being many new remonstrances
and declarations from many counties to Monk and the City, and one
coming from the North from Sir Thomas Fairfax. [Thomas Lord
Fairfax, mentioned before.] I heard that the Parliament had now
changed the oath so much talked of to a promise; and that among
other qualifications for the members that are to be chosen, one
is, that no man, nor the son of any man that hath been in arms
during the life of the father, shall be capable of being chosen
to sit in Parliament. This day by an order of the House, Sir H.
Vane was sent out of town to his house in Lincolnshire.
15th. No news to-day but all quiet to see what the Parliament
will do about the issuing of the writs to-morrow for the filling
up of the House, according to Monk's desire.
17th. To Westminster Hall, where I heard that some of the
members of the House was gone to meet with some of the secluded
members and General Monk in the City. Hence to White Hall,
thinking to hear more news, where I met with Mr. Hunt, who told
me how Monk had sent for all his goods that he had here, into the
City; and yet again he told me, that some of the members of the
House had this day laid in firing into their lodgings at
Whitehall for a good while, so that we are at a great stand to
think what will become of things, whether Monk will stand to the
Parliament or no.
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 express revenge upon these men, but only to meet and
dissolve themselves, and only to issue writs for a free
Parliament. He told me how Hasselrigge was afraid to have the
candle carried before him, for fear that the people seeing him,
would do him hurt; and that he was afraid to appear In the City.
That there is great likelihood that the secluded members will
come in, and so Mr. Crewe and my Lord are likely to be great men,
at which I was very glad. After dinner there was many secluded
members come in to Mr. Crewe, which, it being the Lord's day, did
make Mr. Moore believe that there was something extraordinary in
the business.
20th. I went forth to Westminster Hall, where I met with
Chetwind, Simons, and Gregory. [Mr. Gregory was, in 1672, Clerk
of the Cheque at Chatham.] They told me how the Speaker Lenthall
do refuse to sign the writs for choice of new members in the
place of the excluded; and by that means the writs could not go
out to-day. In the evening Simons and I to the Coffee House,
where I heard Mr. Harrington, and my Lord of Dorset and another
Lord, talking of getting another place at the Cockpit, and they
did believe it would come to something.
21st. In the morning I saw many soldiers going towards
Westminster Hall, to admit the secluded members again. So I to
Westminster Hall, and in Chancery I saw about twenty of them who
had been at White Hall with General Monk, who came thither this
morning, and made a speech to them, and recommended to them a
Commonwealth, and against Charles Stuart. They came to the House
and went in one after another, and at last the Speaker came, But
it is very strange that this could be carried so private, that
the other members of the House heard nothing of all this, till
they found them in the House, insomuch that the soldiers that
stood there to let in the secluded members they took for such as
they had ordered to stand there to hinder their coming in. Mr.
Prin came with an old basket-hilt sword on, and a great many
shouts upon his going into the Hall. [William Prynne, the
lawyer, well known by his voluminous publications, and the
persecution which he endured. He was M.P. for Bath, 1660, and
died 1669.] They sat till noon, and at their coming out Mr.
Crewe saw me, and bid me come to his house and dine with him,
which I did; and he very joyful told me that; the House had made
General Monk, General of all the Forces in England, Scotland, and
Ireland; and that upon Monk's desire, for the service that Lawson
had lately done in pulling down the Committee of Safety, he had
the command of the Sea for the time being. He advised me to send
for my Lord forthwith, and told me that there is no question
that, if he will, he may now be employed again; and that the
House do intend to do nothing more than to issue writs, and to
settle a foundation for a free Parliament. After dinner I back
to Westminster Hall with him in his coach. Here I met with Mr.
Lock and Pursell, Master of Musique, [Matthew Locke and Henry
Purcell, both celebrated Composers.] and went with them to the
Coffee House, into a room next the water, by ourselves, where we
spent an hour or two till Captain Taylor come and told us, that
the House had voted the gates of the City to be made up again,
and the members of the City that are in prison to be set at
liberty; and that Sir G. Booth's case be brought into the House
to-morrow. [Sir George Booth of Dunham Massey, Bart., created
Baron Delamer; 1661, for his services in behalf of the King.]
Here we had variety of brave Italian; and Spanish songs, and a
canon for eight voices, which Mr. Lock had lately made on these
words: "Domine salvum fac Regem" Here out of the window it was a
most pleasant sight to see the City from one end to the other
with a glory about it, so high was the light of the bonfires, and
so thick round the City, and the bells rang every where.
22nd. Walking in the Hall, I saw Major General Brown, [Richard
Brown, a Major-General of the Parliament forces, Governor of
Abingdon, and Member for London in the Long Parliament. He had
been imprisoned by the Rump Faction.] who had a long time been
banished by the Rump, but now with his beard overgrown, he comes
abroad and sat in the House. To White Hall, where I met with
Will. Simons and Mr. Mabbot at Marsh's, who told me how the House
had this day voted that the gates of the City should be set up at
the cost of the State. And that Major-General Brown's being
proclaimed a traitor be made void, and several other things of
that nature. I observed this day how abominably Barebone's
windows are broke again last night.
23rd. Thursday, my birth-day, now twenty-seven years. To
Westminster Hall, where, after the House rose, I met with Mr.
Crewe, who told me that my Lord was chosen by 73 voices, to be
one of the Council of State, Mr. Pierpoint had the most, 101,
[William Pierrepont, M.P. of Thoresby, second son to Robert,
First Earl of Kingston, ob. 1677, aged 71.] and himself the
next, 100.
24th. I rose very early, and taking horse at Scotland Yard, at
Mr. Garthwayt's stable, I rode to Mr. Pierce's: we both mounted,
and so set forth about seven of the clock; at Puckridge we
baited, the way exceeding bad from Ware thither. Then up again
and as far as Foulmer, within six miles of Cambridge, my mare
being almost tired: here we lay at the Chequer. I lay with Mr.
Pierce, who we left here the next morning upon his going to
Hinchingbroke to speak with my Lord before his going to London,
and we two come to Cambridge by eight o'clock in the morning. I
went to Magdalene College to Mr. Hill, with whom I found Mr.
Zanchy, Burton and Hollins, and took leave on promise to sup with
them. To the Three Tuns, where we drank pretty hard and many
healths to the King, &c.: then we broke up and I and Mr. Zanchy
went to Magdalene College, where a very handsome supper at Mr.
Hill's chambers, I suppose upon a club among them, where I could
find that there was nothing at all left of the old preciseness in
their discourse, specially on Saturday nights. And Mr. Zanchy
told me that there was no such thing now-a-days among them at any
time.
26th. Found Mr. Pierce at our Inn, who told us he had lost his
journey, for my Lord was gone from Hinchingbroke to London on
Thursday last, at which I was a little put to a stand.
27th. Up by four o'clock: Mr. Blayton and I took horse and
straight to Saffron Walden, where at the White Hart, we set up
our horses, and took the master of the house to shew us Audly End
House, who took us on foot through the park, and so to the house,
where the housekeeper shewed us all the house, in which the
stateliness of the ceilings, chimney-pieces, and form of the
whole was exceedingly worth seeing. He took us into the cellar,
where we drank most admirable drink, a health to the King. Here
I played on my flageolette, there being an excellent echo. He
shewed us excellent pictures; two especially, those of the four
Evangelists and Henry VIII. In our going, my landlord carried us
through a very old hospital or almshouse, where forty poor people
was maintained; a very old foundation; and over the chimney-piece
was an inscription in brass: "Orate pro anima, Thomae Bird," &c.
[The inscription and the bowl are still to be seen in the
almshouse.] They brought me a draft of their drink in a brown
bowl, tipt with silver, which I drank off, and at the bottom was
a picture of the Virgin with the child in her arms, done in
silver. So we took leave, the road pretty good, but the weather
rainy to Eping.
28th. Up in the morning. Then to London through the forest,
here we found the way good, but only in one path, which we kept
as if we had rode through a kennel all the way. We found the
shops all shut, and the militia of the red regiment in arms at
the old Exchange, among whom I found and spoke to Nich. Osborne,
who told me that it was a thanksgiving-day through the City for
the return of the Parliament. At Paul's I light, Mr. Blayton
holding my horse, where I found Dr. Reynolds in the pulpit, and
General Monk there, who was to have a great entertainment at
Grocers' Hall.
29th. To my office. Mr. Moore told me how my Lord is chosen
General at Sea by the Council, and that it is thought that Monk
will be joined with him therein. This day my Lord came to the
House, the first time since he come to town; but he had been at
the Council before.
MARCH 1, 1659-60. I went to Mr. Crewe's, whither Mr. Thomas was
newly come to town, being sent with Sir H. Yelverton, my old
school-fellow at Paul's School, to bring the thanks of the county
to General Monk for the return of the Parliament.
2nd. I went early to my Lord at Mr. Crewe's where I spoke to
him. Here were a great many come to see him, as Secretary
Thurloe, [John Thurloe, who had been Secretary of State to the
two Protectors, but was never employed after the Restoration,
though the King solicited his services. Ob. 1668.] who is now by
the Parliament chosen again Secretary of State. To Westminster
Hall, where I saw Sir G. Booth at liberty. This day I hear the
City militia is put into good posture, and it is thought that
Monk will not be able to do any great matter against them now, if
he had a mind. I understand that my Lord Lambert did yesterday
send a letter to the Council, and that to-night he is to come and
appear to the Council in person. Sir Arthur Haselrigge do not
yet appear in the House. Great is the talk of a single person,
and that it would now be Charles, George, or Richard again. For
the last of which my Lord St. John is said to speak high. Great
also is the dispute now in the House, in whose name the writs
shall run for the next Parliament; and it is said that Mr. Prin,
in open House, said, "In King Charles's."
3rd. To Westminster Hall, where I found that my Lord was last
night voted one of the Generals at Sea, and Monk the other. I
met my Lord in the Hall, who bid me come to him at noon. After
dinner I to Warwick House, in Holborne, to my Lord, where he
dined with my Lord of Manchester, Sir Dudley North, my Lord
Fiennes, and my Lord Barkley. [Lord Manchester, the
Parliamentary General, afterwards particularly instrumental in
the King's Restoration, became Chamberlain of the Household,
K.G., a Privy Counsellor, and Chancellor of the University of
Cambridge. He died in 1671, having been five times married. Sir
Dudley North, K.B., became the 4th Lord North, on the death of
his father in 1666. Ob. 1677. John Fiennes, third son of
William, 1st Viscount Say and Sele, and one of Oliver's Lords.
George, 13th Lord Berkeley, created Earl Berkeley 1679. He was a
Privy Counsellor, and had afterwards the management, of the Duke
of York's family. Ob. 1698] I staid in the great hall, talking
with some gentlemen there, till they all come out. Then I, by
coach with my Lord, to Mr. Crewe's, in our way talking of publick
things. He told me he feared there was new design hatching, as
if Monk had a mind to get into the saddle. Returning, met with
Mr. Gifford who told me, as I hear from many, that things are in
a very doubtful posture, some of the Parliament being willing to
keep the power in their hands. After I had left him, I met with
Tom Harper; he talked huge high that my Lord Protector would come
in place again, which indeed is much discoursed of again, though
I do not see it possible.
4th. Lord's day. To Mr. Gunning's, an excellent sermon upon
charity.
5th. To Westminster by water, only seeing Mr. Pinky at his own
house, where he shewed me how he had alway kept the Lion and
Unicorne, in the back of his chimney, bright, in expectation of
the King's coming again. At home I found Mr. Hunt, who told me
how the Parliament had voted that the Covenant be printed and
hung in churches again. Great hopes of the King's coming again.
6th. Shrove Tuesday. I called Mr. Shepley and we both went up
to my Lord's lodgings, at Mr. Crewe's, where he bid us to go home
again and get a fire against an hour after. Which we did at
White Hall, whither he came, and after talking with him about our
going to sea, he called me by myself into the garden, Where he
asked me how things were with me; he bid me look out now at this
turn some good place, and he would use all his own, and all the
interest of his friends that he had in England, to do me good.
And asked me whether I could, without too much inconvenience, go
to sea as his secretary, and bid me think of it. He also began
to talk of things of State, and told me that he should want one
in that capacity at sea, that he might trust in, and therefore he
would have me to go. He told me also, that he did believe the
King would come in, and did discourse with me about it, and about
the affection of the people and City, at which I was full glad.
Wrote by the post, by my Lord's command, for I. Goods to come up
presently. For my Lord intends to go forth with Goods to the
Swiftsure till the Nazeby be ready. This day I hear that the
Lords do intend to sit, a great store of them are now in town,
and I see in the Hall to-day. Overton at Hull do stand out, but
can it is thought do nothing; and Lawson, it is said, is gone
with some ships thither, but all that is nothing. My Lord told
me, that there was great endeavours to bring in the protector
again; but he told me, too, that he did believe it would not last
long if he were brought in; no, nor the King neither, (though he
seems to think that he will come in), unless he carry himself
very soberly and well. Every body now drink the King's health
without any fear, whereas before it was very private that a man
dare do it. Monk this day is feasted at Mercers' Hall, and is
invited one after another to all the twelve Halls in London.
Many think that he is honest yet, and some or more think him to
be a fool that would raise himself, but think that he will undo
himself by endeavouring it.
7th. Ash Wednesday. Going homeward, my Lord overtook me in his
coach, and called me in, and so I went with him to St. James's,
and G. Montagu [George Montagu, afterwards M.P. for Dover, second
son of Edward, second Earl of Manchester, and father of the first
Earl of Halifax.] being gone to White Hall, we walked over the
Park thither, all the way he discoursing of the times, and of the
change of things since the last year, and wondering how he could
bear with so great disappointment as he did. He did give me the
best advice that he could what was best for me, whether to stay
or go with him, and offered all the ways that could be, how he
might do me good, with the greatest liberty and love. This day
according to order, Sir Arthur [Haselrigge.] appeared at the
House; what was done I know not, but there was all the Rumpers
almost come to the House to-day. My Lord did seem to wonder much
why Lambert was so willing to be put into the Tower, and thinks
he had some design in it; but I think that he is so poor that he
cannot use his liberty for debts, if he were at liberty; and so
it is as good and better for him to be there, than any where
else.
8th. To Westminster Hall, where there was a general damp over
men's minds and faces upon some of the Officers of the Army being
about making a remonstrance upon Charles Stuart or any single
person; but at noon it was told, that the General had put a stop
to it, so all was well again. Here I met with Jasper who was to
bring me to my Lord at the lobby; whither sending a note to my
Lord, he comes out to me and gives me directions to look after
getting some money for him from the Admiralty, seeing that things
are so unsafe, that he would not lay out a farthing for the
State, till he had received some money of theirs. This
afternoon, some of the officers of the Army, and some of the
Parliament, had a conference at White Hall to make all right
again, but I know not what is done. At the Dog tavern, in comes
Mr. Wade and Mr. Sterry, secretary to the plenipotentiary in
Denmark, who brought the news of the death of the King of Sweden
[Charles Gustavus.] at Gottenburgh the 3rd of last month.
9th. To my Lord at his lodging, and came to Westminster with him
in the coach; and Mr. Dudley and he in the Painted Chamber walked
a good while; and I telling him that I was willing and ready to
go with him to sea, he agreed that I should, and advised me what
to write to Mr. Downing about it. This day it was resolved that
the writs do go out in the name of the Keepers of the Liberty,
and I hear that it is resolved privately that a treaty be offered
with the King. And that Monk did check his soldiers highly for
what they did yesterday.
13th. At my Lord's lodgings, who told me that I was to be
secretary, and Crewe deputy treasurer to the Fleet. This day the
Parliament voted all that had been done by the former Rump
against the House of Lords be void, and to-night that the writs
go out without any qualification. Things seem very doubtful what
will be the end of all; for the Parliament seems to be strong for
the King, while the soldiers do all talk against.
14th. To my Lord's, where infinity of applications to him and to
me. To my great trouble, my Lord gives me all the papers that
was given to him, to put in order and to give him an account of
them. I went hence to St. James's to speake with Mr. Clerke,
Monk's secretary, about getting some soldiers removed out of
Huntingdon to Oundle, which my Lord told me he did to do a
courtesy to the town, that he might have the greater interest in
them, in the choice of the next Parliament; not that he intends
to be chosen himself, but that he might have Mr. Montagu and my
Lord Mandevill chose there in spite of the Bernards. I did
promise to give my wife all that I have in the world, but my
books, in case I should die at sea. After supper I went to
Westminster Hall, and the Parliament sat till ten at night,
thinking and being expected to dissolve themselves to-day, but
they did not. Great talk to-night that the discontented officers
did think this night to make a stir, but prevented.
16th. To Westminster Hall, where I heard how the Parliament had
this day dissolved themselves, and did pass very cheerfully
through the Hall, and the Speaker without his mace. The whole
Hall, was joyfull thereat, as well as themselves, and now they
begin to talk loud of the King. To-night I am told, that
yesterday, about five o'clock in the afternoon, one came with a
ladder to the Great Exchange, and wiped with a brush the
inscription that was on King Charles, and that there was a great
bonfire made in the Exchange, and people called out "God bless
King Charles the Second!"
19th. Early to my Lord, where infinity of business to do, which
makes my head full; and indeed, for these two or three days, I
have not been without a great many cares. After that to the
Admiralty, where a good while with Mr. Blackburne, who told me
that it was much to be feared that the King would come in, for
all good men and good things were now discouraged. Thence to
Wilkinson's, where Mr. Shepley and I dined; and while we were at
dinner, my Lord Monk's life-guard come by with the Serjeant at
Armes before them, with two Proclamations, that all Cavaliers do
depart the town: but the other that all officers that were
lately disbanded should do the same. The last of which Mr. R.
Creed, I remember, said, that he looked upon it as if they had
said, that all God's people should depart the town. All the
discourse now-a-day is, that the King will come again; and for
all I see, it is the wishes of all; and all do believe that it
will be so.
21st. To my Lord's, but the wind very high against us; here I
did very much business, and then to my Lord Widdrington's from my
Lord, with his desire that he might have the disposal of the
writs of the Cinque Ports. My Lord was very civil to me, and
called for wine, and writ a long letter in answer.
22nd. To Westminster, and received my warrant of Mr. Blackburne,
to be Secretary to the two Generals of the Fleet.
23rd. My Lord, Captain Isham, Mr. Thomas, John Crewe, W. Howe,
and I to the Tower, where the barges staid for us; my Lord and
the Captain in one, and W. Howe and I, &c., in the other, to the
Long Beach, where the Swiftsure lay at anchor; (in our way we saw
the great breach which the late high water had made, to the loss
of many 1000l. to the people about Limehouse.) Soon as my Lord
on board, the guns went off bravely from the ships. And a little
while after comes the Vice-Admiral Lawson, and seemed very
respectful to my Lord, and so did the rest of the Commanders of
the frigates that were thereabouts. We were late writing of
orders for the getting of ships ready, &c.; and also making of
others to all the sea-ports between Hastings and Yarmouth, to
stop all dangerous persons that are going or coming between
Flanders and there.
24th. At work hard all the day writing letters to the Council,
&c.
25th. About two o'clock in the morning, letters came from London
by our Coxon, so they waked me, but I bid him stay till morning,
which he did, and then I rose and carried them into my Lord, who
read them a-bed. Among the rest, there was the writ and mandate
for him to dispose to the Cinque Ports for choice of Parliament-
men. There was also one for me from Mr. Blackburne, who with his
own hand superscribes it to S. P. Esq., of which God knows I was
not a little proud. I wrote a letter to the Clerk of Dover
Castle to come to my Lord about issuing of those writs.
26th. This day it is two years since it pleased God that I was
cut for the stone at Mrs. Turner's in Salisbury Court. [Mrs.
Turner was the sister of Edward Pepys.] And did resolve while I
live to keep it a festival, as I did the last year at my house,
and for ever to have Mrs. Turner and her company with me. But
now it pleased God that I am prevented to do it openly; only
within my soul I can and do rejoice, and bless God, being at this
time, blessed be his holy name, in as good health as ever I was
in my life. This morning I rose early, and went about making of
an establishment of the whole Fleet, and a list of all the ships,
with the number of men and guns. About an hour after that, we
had a meeting of the principal commanders and seamen, to
proportion out the number of these things. All the afternoon
very many orders were made, till I was very weary.
27th. This morning the wind came about, and we fell into the
Hope. I sat the first time with my Lord at table since my coming
to sea. All the afternoon exceeding busy in writing of letters
and orders. In the afternoon, Sir Harry Wright come on board us,
[M.P. for Harwich. He married Anne, daughter of Lord Crewe, and
sister to Lady Sandwich, and resided in Dagenham, Essex; he was
created a Baronet by Cromwell, 1658, and by Charles II., 1660.]
about his business of being chosen a Parliament-man. My Lord
brought him to see my cabbin, when I was hard a-writing. At
night supped with my Lord too, with the Captain.
28th. This morning and the whole day busy. At night there was a
gentleman very well bred, his name was Banes, going for Flushing,
who spoke French and Latin very well, brought by direction from
Captain Clerke hither, as a prisoner, because he called out of
the vessel that he went in, "Where is your King, we have done our
business, Vive le Roi." He confessed himself a Cavalier in his
heart, and that he and his whole family, had fought for the King;
but that he was then drunk, having been taking his leave at
Gravesend the night before, and so could not; remember what it
was that he said; but his words and carriage showed much of a
gentleman. My Lord had a great kindness for him, but did not
think it safe to release him. But a while after, he sent a
letter down to my Lord, which my Lord did like very well, and did
advise with me that the gentleman was to be released. So I went
up and sat and talked with him in Latin and French; and about
eleven at night he took boat again, and so God bless him. This
day we had news of the election at Huntingdon for Bernard and
Pedley, [John Bernard and Nicholas Pedley, re-elected in the next
Parliament.] at which my Lord was much troubled for his friends'
missing of it.
29th. We lie still a little below Gravesend. At night Mr.
Shepley returned from London, and told us of several elections
for the next Parliament. That the King's effigies was new making
to be set up in the Exchange again. This evening was a great
whispering that some of the Vice-Admiral's captains were
dissatisfied, and did intend to fight themselves, to oppose the
General. But it was soon hushed, and the Vice-Admiral did wholly
deny any such thing, and protested to stand by the General.
30th. This day, while my Lord and we were at dinner, the Nazeby
came in sight towards us, and at last came to anchor close by us.
My Lord and many others went on board her, where every thing was
out of order, and a new chimney made for my Lord in his bed-
chamber, which he was much pleased with. My Lord in his
discourse, discovered a great deal of love to this ship. [Lord
Sandwich's flag was on board the Nazeby, when he went to the
Sound.]
APRIL 1st, 1660. (Lord's day). Mr. Ibbot [Minister of Deal,
1676.--PEPYS'S MS. LETTERS.] preached very well. After dinner
my lord did give me a private list of all the ships that were to
be set out this summer, wherein I do discover that he hath made
it his care to put by as much of the Anabaptists as he can. By
reason of my Lord and my being busy to send away the packet by
Mr. Cooke, of the Naseby, it was four o'clock before we could
begin sermon again. This day Captain Guy come on board from
Dunkirk, who tells me that the King will come in, and that the
soldiers at Dunkirk do drink the King's health in the streets.
2nd. Up very early, and to get all my things and my boy's packed
up. Great concourse of commanders here this morning to take
leave of my Lord upon his going into the Nazeby. This morning
comes Mr. Ed. Pickering, [Brother to Sir Gilbert Pickering,
Bart.] he tells me that the King will come in, but that Monk did
resolve to have the doing of it himself or else to hinder it.
3rd. There come many merchants to get convoy to the Baltique,
which a course was taken for. They dined with my Lord, and one
of them by name Alderman Wood talked much to my Lord of the hopes
that he had now to be settled, (under the King he meant); but my
Lord took no notice of it. This day come the Lieutenant of the
Swiftsure (who was sent by my Lord to Hastings, one of the Cinque
Ports, to have got Mr. Edward Montagu to have been one of their
burgesses, but could not, for they were all promised before.)
4th. This morning come Colonel Thomson with the wooden leg, and
G. Pen, and dined with my lord and Mr. Blackburne, who told me
that it was certain now that the King must of necessity come in,
and that one of the Council told him there is something doing in
order to a treaty already among them. And it was strange to hear
how Mr. Blackburne did already begin to commend him for a sober
man, and how quiet he would be under his government, &c. The
Commissioners come to-day, only to consult about a further
reducement of the Fleet, and to pay them as fast as they can. At
night, my Lord resolved to send the Captain of our ship to
Waymouth and promote his being chosen there, which he did put
himself into readiness to do the next morning.
9th. This afternoon I first saw France and Calais, with which I
was much pleased, though it was at a distance.
11th. A Gentleman came from my Lord of Manchester to my Lord for
a pass for Mr. Boyle, [The celebrated Robert Boyle, youngest son
of Richard first Earl of Cork.] which was made him. All the news
from London is that things go on further towards a King. That
the Skinners' Company the other day at their entertaining General
Monk had took down the Parliament arms in their Hall, and set up
the King's. My Lord and I had a great deal of discourse about
the several Captains of the Fleet and his interest among them,
and had his mind clear to bring in the King. He confessed to me
that he was not sure of his own Captain, to be true to him, and
that he did not like Capt. Stokes.
14th. This day I was informed that my Lord Lambert is got out of
the Tower, and that there is 1001. proffered to whoever shall
bring him forth to the Council of State. My Lord is chosen at
Weymouth this morning; my Lord had his freedom brought him by
Capt. Tiddiman of the port of Dover, by which he is capable of
being elected for them. This day I heard that the Army had in
general declared to stand by what the next Parliament shall do.
15th (Lord's day). To sermon, and then to dinner, where my Lord
told us that the University of Cambridge had a mind to choose him
for their burgess, which he pleased himself with, to think that
they do look upon him as a thriving man, and said so openly at
table. At dinner-time Mr. Cooke came hack from London with a
packet which caused my Lord to be full of thoughts all day, and
at night he bid me privately to get two commissions ready, one
for Capt. Robert Blake to be captain of the Worcester, in the
room of Capt. Dekings, an anabaptist, and one that had witnessed
a great deal of discontent with the present proceedings. The
other for Capt. Coppin to come out of that into the Newbury in
the room of Blake, whereby I perceive that General Monk do
resolve to make a thorough change, to make way for the King.
From London I hear that since Lambert got out of the Tower, the
Fanatiques had held up their heads high, but I hope all that will
come to nothing.
17th. All the morning getting ready commissions for the Vice-
Admiral and the R. Admiral, wherein my Lord was very careful to
express the utmost of his own power, commanding them to obey what
orders they should receive from the Parliament, &c., of both or
either of the Generals. My Lord told me clearly his thoughts
that the King would carry it, and that he did not think himself
very happy that he was now at sea, as well for his own sake, as
that he thought he might do his country some service in keeping
things quiet.
18th. Mr. Cooke returned from London, bringing me this news,
that the Cavaliers are something unwise to talk so high on the
other side as they do. That the Lords do meet every day at my
Lord of Manchester's, and resolve to sit the first day of the
Parliament. That it is evident now that the General and the
Council do resolve to make way for the King's coming. And it is
clear that either the Fanatiques must now be undone, or the
gentry and citizens throughout England, and clergy must fall, in
spite of their militia and army, which is not at all possible I
think.
19th. At dinner news brought us that my Lord was chosen at
Dover.
20th. This evening come Mr. Boyle on board, for whom I writ an
order for a ship to transport him to Flushing. He supped with my
Lord, my Lord using him as a person of honour. Mr. Shepley told
me that he heard for certain at Dover that Mr. Edw. Montagu
[Eldest son of Edward, second Lord Montagu, of Boughton, killed
at Berghen, 1685.] did go beyond sea when he was here first the
other day, and I am apt to believe that he went to speak with the
King. This day one told me how that at the election at Cambridge
for knights of the shire, Wendby and Thornton by declaring to
stand for the Parliament and a King and the settlement of the
Church, did carry it against all expectation against Sir Dudley
North and Sir Thomas Willis. [Willis had represented
Cambridgeshire in the preceding Parliament.]
21st. This day dined Sir John Boys [Gentleman of the Privy-
Chamber.] and some other gentlemen formerly great Cavaliers, and
among the rest one Mr. Norwood, [A Major Norwood had been
Governor of Dunkirk; and a person of the same name occurs, as one
of the Esquires of the body at the Coronation of Charles the
Second.] for whom my Lord give a convoy to carry him to the
Brill, but he is certainly going to the King. For my Lord
commanded me that I should not enter his name in my book. My
Lord do show them and that sort of people great civility. All
their discourse and others are of the King's coming, and we begin
to speak of it very freely. And heard how in many churches in
London, and upon many signs there, and upon merchants' ships in
the river, they had set up the King's arms. This night there
came one with a letter from Mr. Edw. Montagu to my Lord, with
command to deliver it to his own hands. I do believe that he do
carry some close business on for the King. This day I had a
large letter from Mr. Moore, giving me an account of the present
dispute at London that is like to be at the beginning of the
Parliament, about the House of Lords, who do resolve to sit with
the Commons, as not thinking themselves dissolved yet. Which,
whether it be granted or no, or whether they will sit or no, it
will bring a great many inconveniences. His letter I keep, it
being a very well writ one.
22nd. Several Londoners, strangers, friends of the captains,
dined here, who, among other things told us, how the King's Arms
are every day set up in houses and churches, particularly in
Allhallows Church in Thames-street, John Simpson's church, which
being privately done was a great eye-sore to his people when they
came to church and saw it. Also they told us for certain that
the King's statue is making by the Mercers' Company (who are
bound to do it) to set up in the Exchange.
23rd. In the evening for the first time, extraordinary good
sport among the seamen, after my Lord had done playing at nine-
pins.
24th. We were on board the London, which hath a state-room much
bigger than the Nazeby, but not so rich. After that, with the
Captain on board our own ship, where we were saluted with the
news of Lambert's being taken, which news was brought to London
on Sunday last. He was taken in Northamptonshire by Colonel
Ingoldsby, in the head of a party, by which means their whole
design is broke, and things now very open and safe. And every
man begins to be merry and full of hopes. [Colonel Richard
Ingoldsby had been Governor of Oxford under his kinsman Cromwell,
and one of Charles the First's Judges; but was pardoned for the
service here mentioned, and made K.B. at the Coronation of
Charles II. He afterwards retired to his seat at Lethenborough,
Bucks, and died 1685.]
25th. Dined to-day wth Captain Clerke on board the Speaker (a
very brave ship) where was the Vice-Admiral, R. Admiral, and 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 Speaker of the House of Lords (the young Lords that
never sat yet, do forbear to sit for the present); and Sir
Harbottle Grimstone, Speaker for the House of Commons, [He was
made Master of the Rolls, November following, and died 1683.]
which, after a little debate, was granted. Dr. Reynolds preached
before the Commons before they sat. My Lord told me how Sir H.
Yelverton (formerly my schoolfellow) [Of Easton Mauduit, Bart.,
grandson to the Attorney General of both his names. Ob. 1679.]
was chosen in the first place for Northamptonshire and Mr. Crewe
in the second, And told me how he did believe that the Cavaliers
have now the upper hand clear of the Presbyterians.
27th. After dinner came on board Sir Thomas Hatton [Of Long
Stanton, co. Cambridge, Bart.] and Sir R. Maleverer [Of Allerton
Maleverer, Yorkshire, Bart.] going for Flushing; but, all the
world know that they go where the rest of the many gentlemen go
that every day flock to the King at Breda. They supped here, and
my Lord treated them as he do the rest, that go thither, with a
great deal of civility. While we were at supper a packet came,
wherein much news from several friends. The chief is that, that
I had from Mr. Moore, viz. that he fears the Cavaliers in the
House will be so high, that the other will be forced to leave the
House and fall in with General Monk, and so offer things to the
King so high on the Presbyterian account that he may refuse, and
so they will endeavour some more mischief; but when I told my
Lord it, he shook his head and told me, that the Presbyterians
are deceived, for the General is certainly for the King's
interest, and so they will not be able to prevail that way with
him. After supper the two knights went on board the Grantham,
that is to convey them to Flushing, I am informed that the
Exchequer is now so low, that there is not 20l. there, to give
the messenger that brought the news of Lambert's being taken;
which story is very strange that he should lose his reputation of
being a man of courage now at one blow for that he was not able
to fight one stroke, but desired of Colonel Igoldsby several
times to let him escape. Late reading my letters, my mind being
much troubled to think that, after all our hopes, we should have
any cause to fear any more disappointments therein.
29th. After sermon in the morning Mr. Cooke came from London
with a packet, bringing news how all the young lords that were
not in arms against the Parliament do now sit. That a letter is
come from the King to the House, which is locked up by the
Council 'till next Thursday that it may be read in the open House
when they meet again, they having adjourned till then to keep a
fast to-morrow. And so the contents is not yet known. 13,000l.
of the 20,000l. given to General Monk is paid out of the
Exchequer, he giving 12l. among the teller's clerks of Exchequer.
My Lord called me into the great cabbin below, where he told me
that the Presbyterians are quite mastered by the Cavaliers, and
that he fears Mr. Crewe did go a little too far the other day in
keeping out the young lords from a sitting. That he do expect
that the King should be brought over suddenly, without staying to
make any terms at all, saying that the Presbyterians did intend
to have brought him in with such conditions as if he had been in
chains. But he shook his shoulders when he told me how Monk had
betrayed him, for it was he that did put them upon standing to
put out the lords and other members that come not within the
qualifications, which he did not like, but however he had done
his business, though it be with some kind of baseness. After
dinner I walked a great while upon the deck with the chyrurgeon
and purser, and other officers of the ship, and they all pray for
the King's coming, which I pray God send.
MAY 1, 1660. To-day I hear they were very merry at Deale,
setting up the King's flags upon one of their Maypoles, and
drinking his health upon their knees is the streets, and firing
the guns, which the soldiers of the Castle threatened, but durst
not oppose.
2nd. Mr. Dunne from London, with letters that tell us the
welcome news of the Parliament's votes yesterday, which will be
remembered for the happiest May-day that hath been many a year to
England. The King's letter was read in the House, wherein he
submits himself and all things to them, as to an Act of Oblivion
to all, unless they shall please to except any, as to the
confirming of the sales of the King's and Church lands, if they
see good. The House upon reading the letter, ordered 50,000l. to
be forthwith provided to send to His Majesty for his present
supply; and a committee chosen to return an answer of thanks to
His Majesty for his gracious letter; and that the letter be kept
among the records of the Parliament; and in all this not so much
as one No. So that Luke Robinson himself stood up and made a
recantation of what he had done, and promises to be a loyal
subject to his Prince for the time to come. [Of Pickering Lyth,
in Yorkshire, M.P. for Scarborough discharged from sitting in
the House of Commons, July 21, 1660.] The City of London have
put out a Declaration, wherein they do disclaim their owning any
other government but that of a King, Lords, and Commons. Thanks
was given by the House to Sir John Greenville, one of the
bedchamber to the King, [Created Earl of Bath, 1661, son of Sir
Bevill Greenville, killed at the battle of Newbury, and said to
have been the only person entrusted by Charles II. and Monk in
bringing about the Restoration.] who brought the letter, and they
continued bare all the time it was reading. Upon notice from the
Lords to the Commons, of their desire that the Commons would join
with them in their vote for King, Lords, and Commons; the Commons
did concur and voted that all books whatever that are out against
the Government of King, Lords, and Commons, should be brought
into the House and burned. Great joy all yesterday at London,
and at night more bonfires than ever, and ringing of bells, and
drinking of the King's health upon their knees in the streets,
which methinks is a little too much. But every body seems to be
very joyfull in the business, insomuch that our sea-commanders
now begin to say so too, which a week ago they would not do. And
our seamen, as many as had money or credit for drink, did do
nothing else this evening. This day come Mr. North (Sir Dudley
North's son) [Charles, eldest son of Dudley, afterwards fourth
Lord North.] on board, to spend a little time here, which my
Lord was a little troubled at, but he seems to be a fine
gentleman, and at night did play his part exceeding well at
first sight.
3rd. This morning my Lord showed me the King's declaration and
his letter to the two Generals to be communicated to the fleet.
The contents of the latter are his offer of grace to all that
will come in within forty days, only excepting them that the
Parliament shall hereafter except. That the sales of lands
during these troubles, and all other things, shall be left to the
Parliament, by which he will stand. The letter dated at Breda,
April 4/14 1660, in the 12th year of his reign. Upon the receipt
of it this morning by an express, Mr. Phillips, one of the
messengers of the Council from General Monk, my Lord summoned a
council of war, and in the meantime did dictate to me how he
would have the vote ordered which he would have pass this
council. Which done, the Commanders all came on board, and the
council sat in the coach [Coach, on board a man-of-war, "The
Council Chamber."] (the first council of war that had been in my
time), where I read the letter and declaration; and while they
were discoursing upon it, I seemed to draw up a vote, which being
offered, they passed. Not one man seemed to say no to it, though
I am confident many in their hearts were against it. After this
was done, I went up to the quarter-deck with my Lord and the
Commanders, and there read both the papers and the vote; which
done, and demanding their opinion, the seamen did all of them cry
out, "God bless King Charles!" with the greatest joy imaginable.
That being done, Sir R. Stayner, [Knighted and made a Vice-
Admiral by Cromwell, 1657, and sent by Charles II. to command
Tangier till the Governor arrived.] who had invited us
yesterday, took all the Commanders and myself on board him to
dinner, which not being ready, I went with Captain Hayward 'to
the Plymouth and Essex, and did what I had to do and returned,
where very merry at dinner. After dinner, to the rest of the
ships quite through the fleet. Which was a very brave sight to
visit all the ships, and to be received with the respect and
honour that I was on board them all; and much more to see the
great joy that I brought to all men; not one through the whole
fleet showing the least dislike of the business. In the evening
as I was going on board the Vice-Admiral, the General began to
fire his guns, which he did all that he had in the ship, and so
did all the rest of the Commanders, which was very gallant, and
to hear the bullets go hissing over our heads as we were in the
boat. This done and finished my Proclamation, I returned to the
Nazeby, where my Lord was much pleased to hear how all the fleet
took it in a transport of joy, showed me a private letter of the
King's to him, and another from the Duke of York in such familiar
style as their common friend, with all kindness imaginable. And
I found by the letters, and so my Lord told me too, that there
had been many letters passed between them for a great while, and
I perceive unknown to Monk. Among the rest that had carried
these letters Sir John Boys is one, and Mr. Norwood, which had a
ship to carry him over the other day, when my Lord would not have
me put down his name in the book. The King speaks of him being
courted to come to the Hague, but to desire my Lord's advice
where to come to take ship. And the Duke offers to learn the
seaman's trade of him, in such familiar words as if Jack Cole and
I had writ them. This was very strange to me, that my Lord
should carry all things so wisely and prudently as he do, and I
was over joyful to see him in so good condition, and he did not a
little please himself to tell me how he had provided for himself
so great a hold on the King.
After this to supper, and then to writing of letters till twelve
at night, and so up again at three in the morning. My Lord
seemed to put great confidence in me, and would take my advice in
many things. I perceive his being willing to do all the honour
in the world to Monk, and to let him have all the honour of doing
the business, though he will many times express his thoughts of
him to be but a thick-skulled fool. So that I do believe there
is some agreement more than ordinary between the King and my Lord
to let Monk carry on the business, for it is he that can do the
business, or at least that can hinder it, if he be not flattered
and observed. This, my Lord will hint himself sometimes. My
Lord, I perceive by the King's letter, had writ to him about his
father, Crewe, [He had married Jemima, daughter of John Crewe,
Esq., created afterwards Baron Crewe of Stene.] and the King did
speak well of him; but my Lord tells me, that he is afraid that
he hath too much concerned himself with the Presbyterians against
the House of Lords, which will do him a great discourtesy.
4th. I wrote this morning many letters, and to all the copies of
the vote of the council of war I put my name, that if it should
come in print my name may be to it. I sent a copy of the vote to
Doling, inclosed in this letter:--
"SIR,
"He that can fancy a fleet (like ours) in her pride, with
pendants loose, guns roaring, caps flying, and the loud "Vive le
Roy's," echoed from one ship's company to another, he, and he
only, can apprehend the joy this inclosed vote was received with,
or the blessing he thought himself possessed of that bore it, and
is
"Your humble servant."
About nine o'clock I got all my letters done, and sent them by
the messenger that come yesterday. This morning come Captain
Isham on board with a gentleman going to the King, by whom very
cunningly my Lord tells me, he intends to send an account of this
day's and yesterday's actions here, notwithstanding he had writ
to the Parliament to have leave of them to send the King the
answer of the fleete. Since my writing of the last paragraph, my
Lord called me to him to read his letter to the King, to see
whether I could find any slips in it or no. And as much of the
letter as I can remember, is thus:-
"May it please your Most Excellent Majesty," and so begins.
That he yesterday received from General Monk his Majesty's letter
and direction; and that General Monk had desired him to write to
the Parliament to have leave to send the vote of the seamen
before he did send it to him, which he had done by writing to
both Speakers; but for his private satisfaction he had sent it
thus privately, (and so the copy of the proceedings yesterday was
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