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diff --git a/1879-h/1879-h.htm b/1879-h/1879-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2a4c42f --- /dev/null +++ b/1879-h/1879-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,12558 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Royalty Restored, by J. Fitzgerald Molloy + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Royalty Restored, by J. Fitzgerald Molloy + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Royalty Restored + or, London under Charles II. + +Author: J. Fitzgerald Molloy + +Release Date: November 7, 2008 [EBook #1879] +Last Updated: February 6, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ROYALTY RESTORED *** + + + + +Produced by An Anonymous Volunteeer, and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + ROYALTY RESTORED + </h1> + <h2> + or, LONDON UNDER CHARLES II. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By J. FITZGERALD MOLLOY + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="mynote"> + <p> + Original Transcriber's Note: + </p> + <p> + Footnotes have been inserted into this etext in square brackets close to + the place where they were indicated by a suffix in the original text. + </p> + <p> + The pound sterling symbol has been written as 'L'. + </p> + <p> + Text in italics has been written in capital letters. + </p> + <br /> + <p> + PG Editor's Note: Archaic spelling and grammar retained. + </p> + <br /> + </div> + <p> + TO THOMAS HARDY, ESQ. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + DEAR MR. HARDY, + + In common with all readers of the English language, I owe you a + debt of gratitude, the which I rejoice to acknowledge, even in so + poor a manner as by dedicating this work to you. + + Believe me, + + Faithfully yours always, + + J. FITZGERALD MOLLOY. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION. + </h2> + <p> + No social history of the court of Charles II. has heretofore been written. + The Grammont Memoirs, devoid of date and detail, and addressed "to those + who read only for amusement," present but brief imperfect sketches of the + wits and beauties who thronged the court of the merry monarch whilst the + brilliant Frenchman sojourned in England. Pepys, during the first nine + years of the Restoration, narrates such gossip as reached him regarding + Whitehall and the practices that obtained there. Evelyn records some + trifling actions of the king and his courtiers, with a view of pointing a + moral, rather than from a desire of adorning a tale. + </p> + <p> + To supply this want in our literature, I have endeavoured to present a + picture of the domestic life of a king, whose name recalls pages of the + brightest romance and strangest gallantry in our chronicles. To this I + have added a study of London during his reign, taken as far as possible + from rare, and invariably from authentic sources. It will readily be seen + this work, embracing such subjects, could alone have resulted from careful + study and untiring consultation of diaries, records, memoirs, letters, + pamphlets, tracts, and papers left by contemporaries familiar with the + court and capital. The accomplishment of such a task necessitated an + expenditure of time, and devotion to labour, such as in these fretful and + impatient days is seldom bestowed on work. + </p> + <p> + As in previous volumes I have writ no fact is set down without authority, + so likewise the same rule is pursued in these; and for such as desire to + test the accuracy thereof, or follow at further length statements + necessarily abbreviated, a list is appended of the principal literature + consulted. And inasmuch as I have found pleasure in this work, so may my + gentle readers derive profit therefrom; and as I have laboured, so may + they enjoy. Expressing which fair wishes, and moreover commending myself + unto their love and service, I humbly take my leave. + </p> + <p> + J. FITZGERALD MOLLOY. <a name="link2H_LIST" id="link2H_LIST"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LIST OF THE PRINCIPAL BOOKS, PAMPHLETS, TRACTS, AND NEWSPAPERS, CONSULTED + IN WRITING THIS VOLUME. + </h2> + <p> + "Elenchus Motuum Nuperorum." Heath's "Flagellum; or, the Life and Death of + Oliver Cromwell." Banks' "Life of Cromwell." "Review of the Political Life + of Cromwell." "A Modest Vindication of Oliver Cromwell." "The Machivilian + Cromwellist." Kimber's "Life of Cromwell." "The World Mistaken in Oliver + Cromwell"(1668). "A Letter of Comfort to Richard Cromwell." "Letters from + Fairfax to Cromwell." "Cromwell's Letters and Speeches." "A Collection of + Several Passages concerning Cromwell in his Sickness." "The Protector's + Declaration against the Royal Family of the Stuarts." "Memoirs of Cromwell + and his Children, supposed to be written by himself." "Narrative of the + Proceedings of the English Army in Scotland." "An Account of the Last + Houres of the late renowned Oliver, Lord Protector" (1659). "Sedition + Scourged." Heath's "Chronicles of the late Intestine War." Welwood's + "Memoirs of Transactions in England." "Memoirs of Edmund Ludlow, M.P., in + the year 1640." Forster's "Statesmen of the Commonwealth." "Killing No + Murther." Thurloe's "State Papers." Lord Clarendon's "State Papers." + Tatham's "Aqua Triumphalis." "The Public Intelligencer." "Mercurius + Politicus." "The Parliamentary Intelligencer." Lyon's "Personal History of + Charles II." "The Boscobel Tracts, relating to the Escape of Charles II." + "An Exact Narrative of his Majesty's Escape from Worcester." Several + Passages relating to the "Declared King of Scots both by Sea and Land." + "Charles II.'s Declaration to his Loving Subjects in the Kingdom of + England." "England's Joy; or, a Relation of the most Remarkable Passages + from his Majesty's Arrival at Dover to his Entrance at Whitehall." "Copies + of Two Papers written by the King." "His Majesty's Gracious Message to + General Monk." "King Charles, His Starre." "A Speech spoken by a Blew-Coat + of Christ's Hospital to his Sacred Majesty." "Monarchy Revived." "The + History of Charles II., by a Person of Quality." Lady Fanshawe's + "Memoirs." "The Character of Charles II., written by an Impartial Hand and + exposed to Public View." "Sports and Pastimes of the English People." "A + History of Domestic Manners and Sentiments in England." Wright's "Homes of + Other Days." Idalcomb's "Anecdotes of Manners and Customs of London." + Pepys' "Diary." Evelyn's "Diary." Grammont's "Memoirs." Lord Romney's + "Diary of the Times of Charles II." "The Life and Adventures of Colonel + Blood." "Diary of Dr. Edward Lake, Court Chaplain." Bishop Burnet's + "History of His Own Times." Oldmixon's "Court Tales." Madame Dunois' + "Memoirs of the English Court." Heath's "Glories and Triumphs of Charles + II." "Continuation of the Life of Edward, Earl of Clarendon." "Original + Correspondence of Lord Clarendon." "The Memoirs of Sir John Reresby." + Lister's "Life of Clarendon. Brain Fairfax's "Memoirs of the Duke of + Buckingham." "Letters of Philip, Second Earl of Chesterfield." Aubrey's + "Memoirs." "The Life of Mr. Anthony a Wood, written by Himself." Elias + Ashmole's "Memoirs of his Life." Luttrell's "Diary." "The Althorp Memoirs" + (privately printed). Lord Broghill's "Memoirs." "Memoir of Barbara, + Duchess of Cleveland" (privately printed). Aubrey's "Lives of Eminent + Men." Count Magalotti's "Travels in England." "The Secret History of + Whitehall: consisting of Secret Memoirs which have hitherto lain conceal'd + as not being discoverable by any other hand." "Athenae Oxonienses." Lord + Rochester's Works. Brown's "Miscellanea Aulica." The Works of Andrew + Marvell. "State Tracts, relating to the Government from the year 1660 to + 1689." "Antiquities of the Crown and State of Old England." "Narrative of + the Families exposed to the Great Plague of London." "Loimologia; or, an + Historical Account of the Plague in 1665." "A Collection of very Valuable + and Scarce Pieces relating to the Last Plague in 1665." "London's Dreadful + Visitation." "Letter of Dr, Hedges to a Person of Quality." "God's + Terrible Voice in the City: a Narrative of the late Dreadful Judgments by + Plague and Fire." "Pestis; a Collection of Scarce Papers relating to the + Plague." "An Account of the Fire of London, published by authority." Lord + Clarendon's "Account of the Great Fire." "A Voyage into England, + containing many things relating to the State of Learning, Religion, and + other Curiosities of that Kingdom," by Mons. Sorbiere. Carte's "Life of + James, Duke of Ormond." Carte's "History of England." Lord Somers' + "Collection of Scarce and Valuable Tracts." "Memoirs of the Duchess of + Mazarine." "Secret History of the Duchess of Portsmouth." St. Evremond's + "Memoirs." "Curialia; or, an Historical Account of some Branches of the + Royal Household." "Parliamentary History." Oldmixon's "History of the + Stuarts." Ellis's "Original Letters." Charles James Fox's "History of + James II." Sir George L'Estrange's "Brief History of the Times." Lord + Romney's "Diary of the Times of Charles II." Clarke's "Life of James II." + "Vindication of the English Catholics." "The Tryals, Conviction and + Sentence of Titus Oates." "A Modest Vindication of Oates." "Tracts on the + Popish Plot." Macpherson's "Original Papers." A. Marvell's "Account of + Popery." "An Exact Discovery of the Mystery of Iniquity as Practised among + the Jesuits." Smith's "Streets of London." "London Cries." Seymour's + "Survey of the Cities of London and Westminster." Stow's "Survey of London + and Westminster." "Angliae Metropolis." Dr. Laune's "Present State of + London, 1681." Sir Roger North's "Examn." "The Character of a Coffee + House." Stow's "Chronicles of Fashion." Fairholt's "Costume in England." + "A Just and Seasonable Reprehension of Naked Breasts and Shoulders." Sir + William Petty's "Observations of the City of London." John Ogilvy's + "London Surveyed." R. Burton's "Historical Remarks." Dr. Birch's "History + of the Royal Society of London." "A Century of Inventions." Wild's + "History of the Royal Society." "The Philosophical Transactions of the + Royal Society." Richardson's "Life of Milton." Philip's "Life of Milton." + Johnson's "Lives of the Poets." Aubrey's "Collections for the Life of + Milton." Langbaine's "Lives and Characters of the English Dramatic Poets." + "Some Remarkable Passages in the Life of Mr. Wycherley." "Some Account of + what Occurred at the King's Death," by Richard Huddlestone, O.S.B. "A True + Narrative of the late King's Death." + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_LIST"> LIST OF THE PRINCIPAL BOOKS, PAMPHLETS, ETC. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_TOC"> DETAILED CONTENTS. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> <b>ROYALTY RESTORED</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <a name="link2H_TOC" id="link2H_TOC"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + DETAILED CONTENTS. + </h2> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER I. <br /> Cromwell is sick unto death.—Fears and + suspicions.—Killing no <br /> Murder.—A memorable storm.—The + end of all.—Richard Cromwell <br /> made Protector,—He + refuses to shed blood. Disturbance and <br /> dissatisfaction.—Downfall + of Richard.—Charles Stuart proclaimed <br /> king.—Rejoicement + of the nation.—The king comes into his own.—Entry <br /> into + London.—Public joy and festivity. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER II. <br /> The story of the king's escape.—He accepts the + Covenant, and lands in <br /> Scotland.—Crowned at Scone.—Proclaimed + king at Carlisle.—The <br /> battle of Worcester,—Bravery of + Charles.—Disloyalty of the Scottish <br /> cavalry.—The + Royalists defeated.—The king's flight.—Seeks refuge <br /> in + Boscobel Wood. The faithful Pendrells.—Striving to cross the <br /> + Severn.—Hiding in an oak tree.—Sheltered by Master Lane. + Sets out <br /> with Mistress Lane.—Perilous escapes.—On the + road.—The king is <br /> recognised.—Strange adventures.—His + last night in England. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER III. <br /> Celebration of the king's return. Those who flocked + to Whitehall.—My <br /> Lord Cleveland's gentlemen.—Sir + Thomas Allen's supper.—Touching for <br /> king's evil.—That + none might lose their labour—The man with the fungus <br /> nose.—The + memory of the regicides.—Cromwell's effigy.—Ghastly scene + <br /> at Tyburn.—The king's clemency.—The Coronation + procession.—Sights and <br /> scenes by the way.—His majesty + is crowned <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER IV. <br /> The king's character.—His proverbial grace.—He + tells a story well.—"A <br /> warmth and sweetness of the blood."—Beautiful + Barbara Palmer.—Her <br /> intrigue with my Lord Chesterfield.—James, + Duke of York. His <br /> early days.—Escape from St. James's.—Fights + in the service of <br /> France.—Marriage with Anne Hyde.—Sensation + at Court.—The Duke of <br /> Gloucester's death.—The Princess + of Orange.—Schemes against the <br /> Duke of York's peace.—The + "lewd informer."—Anne Hyde is acknowledged <br /> Duchess of York. + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER V. <br /> Morality of the restoration.—Puritan piety.—Cromwell's + <br /> intrigues.—Conduct of women under the Republic.—Some + notable <br /> courtiers.—The Duke of Ormond and his family.—Lord + St. Albans and <br /> Henry Jermyn.—His Grace of Buckingham and + Mistress Fairfax.—Lord <br /> Rochester.—Delights all hearts.—The + king's projected <br /> marriage.—Catherine of Braganza.—His + majesty's speech.—A royal <br /> love-letter.—The new queen + sets sail. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER VI. <br /> The king's intrigue with Barbara Palmer.—The + queen arrives at <br /> Portsmouth.—Visited by the Duke of York.—The + king leaves town.—First <br /> interview with his bride.—His + letter to the lord chancellor.—Royal <br /> marriage and + festivities.—Arrival at Hampton Court Palace.—Prospects + <br /> of a happy union.—Lady Castlemaine gives birth to a second + child.—The <br /> king's infatuation.—Mistress and wife.—The + queen's misery.—The king's <br /> cruelty.—Lord Clarendon's + messages.—His majesty resolves to break the <br /> queen's spirit.—End + of the domestic quarrel. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER VII. <br /> Their majesties arrive at Whitehall.—My Lady + Castlemaine a <br /> spectator.—Young Mr. Crofts.—New + arrivals at court.—The Hamilton <br /> family.—The Chevalier + de Grammont.—Mrs. Middleton and Miss Kirke.—At <br /> the + queen's ball.—La belle Hamilton.—The queen mother at + Somerset <br /> House.—The Duke of Monmouth's marriage.—Fair + Frances Stuart.—Those <br /> who court her favour.—The king's + passion. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER VIII. <br /> The Duke of York's intrigues.—My Lady + Chesterfield and his royal <br /> highness.—The story of Lady + Southesk's love,—Lord Arran plays the <br /> guitar.—Lord + Chesterfield is jealous.—The countess is taken from <br /> court.—Mistress + Margaret Brooks and the king.—Lady Denham and the <br /> duke.—Sir + John goes mad.—My lady is poisoned. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER IX. <br /> Court life under the merry monarch.—Riding in + Hyde Park.—Sailing on <br /> the Thames.—Ball at Whitehall.—Petit + soupers.—What happened at <br /> Lady Gerrard's.—Lady + Castlemaine quarrels with the king.—Flight to <br /> Richmond.—The + queen falls ill.—The king's grief and remorse.—Her <br /> + majesty speaks.—Her secret sorrow finds voice in delirium.—Frances + <br /> Stuart has hopes.—The queen recovers. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER X. <br /> Notorious courtiers.—My Lord Rochester's satires.—Places + a watch on <br /> certain ladies of quality.—His majesty becomes + indignant.—Rochester <br /> retires to the country.—Dons a + disguise and returns to town.—Practises <br /> astrology.—Two + maids of honour seek adventure.—Mishaps which befell <br /> them.—Rochester + forgiven.—The Duke of Buckingham.—Lady Shrewsbury <br /> and + her victims.—Captain Howard's duel.—Lord Shrewsbury avenges + <br /> his honour.—A strange story.—Colonel Blood attempts an + <br /> abduction.—Endeavours to steal the regalia.—The king + converses with <br /> him. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XI. <br /> Terror falls upon the people.—Rumours of a + plague.—A sign in the <br /> heavens.—Flight from the + capital.—Preparations against the dreaded <br /> enemy.—Dr. + Boghurst's testimony.—God's terrible voice in the <br /> city.—Rules + made by the lord mayor.—Massacre of animals.—O, dire <br /> + death!—Spread of the distemper.—Horrible sights.—State + of the <br /> deserted capital.—"Bring out your dead."—Ashes + to ashes.—Fires are <br /> lighted.—Relief of the poor.—The + mortality bills. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XII <br /> A cry of fire by night.—Fright and confusion.—The + lord mayor is <br /> unmanned.—Spread of the flames.—Condition + of the streets.—Distressful <br /> scenes.—Destruction of the + Royal Exchange.—Efforts of the king and the <br /> Duke of York.—Strange + rumours and alarms, St. Paul's is doomed.—The <br /> flames + checked.—A ruined city as seen by day and night.—Wretched + state <br /> of the people.—Investigation into the origin of the + fire.—A new city <br /> arises. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XIII. <br /> The court repairs to Oxford—Lady Castlemaine's + son.—Their majesties <br /> return to Whitehall.—The king + quarrels with his mistress.—Miss Stuart <br /> contemplates + marriage.—Lady Castlemaine attempts revenge.—Charles <br /> + makes an unpleasant discovery.—The maid of honour elopes.—His + majesty <br /> rows down the Thames.—Lady Castlemaine's intrigues.—Fresh + quarrels at <br /> court.—The king on his knees. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XIV. <br /> The kingdom in peril.—The chancellor falls + under his majesty's <br /> displeasure.—The Duke of Buckingham's + mimicry.—Lady Castlemaine's <br /> malice.—Lord Clarendon's + fall.—The Duke of Ormond offends the king's <br /> mistress.—She + covers him with abuse.—Plots against the Duke of <br /> York.—Schemes + for a royal divorce.—Moll Davis and Nell Gwynn.—The <br /> + king and the comedian.—Lady Castlemaine abandons herself to great + <br /> disorders.—Young Jack Spencer.—The countess intrigues + with an <br /> acrobat.—Talk of the town.—The mistress + created a duchess. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XV. <br /> Louise de Querouaille.—The Triple Alliance.—Louise + is created Duchess <br /> of Portsmouth,—Her grace and the impudent + comedian.—Madam Ellen moves <br /> in society. The young Duke of + St. Albans.—Strange story of the <br /> Duchess of Mazarine.—Entertaining + the wits at Chelsea.—Luxurious <br /> suppers.—profligacy and + wit. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XVI. <br /> A storm threatens the kingdom—The Duke of York + is touched in his <br /> conscience.—His interview with Father + Simons.—The king declares his <br /> mind.—The Duchess of + York becomes a catholic.—The circumstances of her <br /> death.—The + Test Act introduced.—Agitation of the nation.—The Duke <br /> + of York marries again.—Lord Shaftesbury's schemes.—The Duke + of <br /> Monmouth.—William of Orange and the Princess Mary.—Their + marriage and <br /> departure from England. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XVII. <br /> The threatened storm bursts.—History of Titus + Oates and Dr. Tonge.—A <br /> dark scheme concocted.—The king + is warned of danger.—The narrative of <br /> a horrid plot laid + before the treasurer.—Forged letters.—Titus Oates <br /> + before the council.—His blunders.—A mysterious murder.—Terror + of the <br /> citizens.—Lord Shaftesbury's schemes.—Papists + are banished from the <br /> capital.—Catholic peers committed to + the Tower.—Oates is encouraged. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XVIII. <br /> Reward for the discovery of murderers.—Bedlow's + character <br /> and evidence.—His strange story.—Development + of the "horrid <br /> plot."—William Staley is made a victim.—Three + Jesuits hung.—Titus <br /> Oates pronounced the saviour of his + country.—Striving to ruin the <br /> queen.—Monstrous story + of Bedlow and Oates.—The king protects <br /> her majesty.—Five + Jesuits executed.—Fresh rumours concerning <br /> the papists.—Bill + to exclude the Duke of York.—Lord Stafford is <br /> tried.—Scene + at Tower Hill.—Fate of the conspirators. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XIX. <br /> London under Charles II.—Condition and + appearance of the <br /> thoroughfares.—Coffee is first drunk in + the capital.—Taverns and <br /> their frequenters.—The city + by night.—Wicked people do creep <br /> about.—Companies of + young gentlemen.—The Duke of Monmouth kills <br /> a beadle.—Sir + Charles Sedley's frolic.—Stately houses of the <br /> nobility.—St. + James's Park.—Amusement of the town.—At Bartholomew <br /> + Fair.—Bull, bear, and dog fights.—Some quaint sports. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XX. <br /> Court customs in the days of the merry monarch.—Dining + in public.—The <br /> Duke of Tuscany's supper to the king.—Entertainment + of guests by <br /> mountebanks.—Gaming at court.—Lady + Castlemaine's losses.—A fatal <br /> duel.—Dress of the + period.—Riding-habits first seen.—His majesty <br /> invents + a national costume.—Introduction of the penny post.—Divorce + <br /> suits are known.—Society of Antiquaries.—Lord + Worcester's <br /> inventions.—The Duchess of Newcastle. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p> + CHAPTER XXI. <br /> A period rich in literature.—John Milton's + early life.—Writing <br /> "Paradise Lost."—Its publication + and success.—His later works and <br /> death.—John Dryden + gossips with wits and players.—Lord Rochester's <br /> revenge.—Elkanah + Settle.—John Crowne.—Thomas Otway rich in <br /> miseries.—Dryden + assailed by villains.—The ingenious Abraham <br /> Cowley.—The + author of "Hudibras."—Young Will Wycherley and Lady <br /> + Castlemaine. The story of his marriage.—Andrew Marvell, poet and + <br /> politician.—John Bunyan. <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + <p> + Time's flight leaves the king unchanged.—The Rye House <br /> + conspiracy.—Profligacy of the court.—The three duchesses.—The + king <br /> is taken ill.—The capital in consternation.—Dr. + Ken questions his <br /> majesty.—A Benedictine monk is sent for.—Charles + professes catholicity <br /> and receives the Sacraments.—Farewell + to all.—His last night on <br /> earth.—Daybreak and death.—He + rests in peace. <br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h1> + ROYALTY RESTORED + </h1> + <h2> + or, LONDON UNDER CHARLES II. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Cromwell is sick unto death.—Fears and suspicions.—Killing no + Murder.—A memorable storm.—The end of all.—Richard Cromwell + made Protector.—He refuses to shed blood.—Disturbance and + dissatisfaction.—Downfall of Richard.—Charles Stuart proclaimed + king.—Rejoicement of the nation.—The king comes into his own.—Entry + into London.—Public joy and satisfaction. +</pre> + <p> + On the 30th of January, 1649, Charles I. was beheaded. In the last days of + August in the year of grace 1658, Oliver Cromwell lay sick unto death at + the Palace of Whitehall. On the 27th day of June in the previous year, he + had, in the Presence of the Judges of the land, the Lord Mayor and + Aldermen of the City, and Members of Parliament assembled at Westminster + Hall, seated himself on the coronation chair of the Stuarts, assumed the + title of Lord Protector, donned a robe of violet velvet, girt his loins + with a sword of state, and grasped the sceptre, symbolic of kingly power. + From that hour distrust beset his days, his nights were fraught with fear. + All his keen and subtle foresight, his strong and restless energies, had + since then been exerted in suppressing plots against his power, and + detecting schemes against his life, concocted by the Republicans whose + liberty he had betrayed, and by the Royalists whose king he had beheaded. + </p> + <p> + Soon after he had assumed the title of Lord High Protector, a most daring + pamphlet, openly advocating his assassination, was circulated in vast + numbers throughout the kingdom. It was entitled "Killing no Murder," and + was dedicated in language outrageously bold to His Highness Oliver + Cromwell. "To your Highness justly belongs the honour of dying for the + people," it stated, "and it cannot but be an unspeakable consolation to + you, in the last moments of your life, to consider with how much benefit + to the world you are likely to leave it. It is then only, my lord, the + titles you now usurp will be truly yours; you will then be, indeed, the + deliverer of your country, and free it from a bondage little inferior to + that from which Moses delivered his, you will then be that true reformer + which you would now be thought; religion shall then be restored, liberty + asserted, and Parliaments have those privileges they have sought for. All + this we hope from your Highness's happy expiration. To hasten this great + good is the chief end of my writing this paper; and if it have the effects + I hope it will, your Highness will quickly be out of the reach of men's + malice, and your enemies will only be able to wound you in your memory, + which strokes you will not feel." + </p> + <p> + The possession of life becomes dearest when its forfeiture is threatened, + and therefore Cromwell took all possible means to guard against treachery—the + only foe he feared, and feared exceedingly. "His sleeps were disturbed + with the apprehensions of those dangers the day presented unto him in the + approaches of any strange face, whose motion he would most fixedly + attend," writes James Heath, gentleman, in his "Chronicles," published in + 1675. "Above all, he very carefully observed such whose mind or aspect + were featured with any chearful and debonair lineaments; for such he boded + were they that would despatch him; to that purpose he always went secretly + armed, both offensive and defensive; and never stirred without a great + guard. In his usual journey between Whitehall and Hampton Court, by + several roads, he drove full speed in the summer time, making such a dust + with his life-guard, part before and part behinde, at a convenient + distance, for fear of choaking him with it, that one could hardly see for + a quarter of an hour together, and always came in some private way or + other." The same authority, in his "Life of Cromwell," states of him, "It + was his constant custom to shift and change his lodging, to which he + passed through twenty several locks, and out of which he had four or five + ways to avoid pursuit." Welwood, in his "Memoirs," adds the Protector wore + a coat of mail beneath his dress, and carried a poniard under his cloak. + </p> + <p> + Nor was this all. According to the "Chronicle of the late Intestine War," + Cromwell "would sometimes pretend to be merry, and invite persons, of whom + he had some suspicion, to his cups, and then drill out of their open + hearts such secrets as he wisht for. He had freaks also to divert the + vexations of his misgiving thoughts, calling on by the beat of drum his + footguards, like a kennel of hounds to snatch away the scraps and reliques + of his table. He said every man's hand was against him, and that he ran + daily into further perplexities, out of which it was impossible to + extricate, or secure himself therein, without running into further danger; + so that he began to alter much in the tenour of his former converse, and + to run and transform into the manners of the ancient tyrants, thinking to + please and mitigate his own tortures with the sufferings of others." + </p> + <p> + But now the fate his vigilance had hitherto combated at last overtook him + in a manner impossible to evade. He was attacked by divers infirmities, + but for some time made no outward sign of his suffering, until one day + five physicians came and waited on him, as Dr. George Bate states in his + ELENCHUS MOTUUM NUPERORUM. And one of them, feeling his pulse, declared + his Highness suffered from an intermittent fever; hearing which "he looked + pale, fell into a cold sweat, almost fainted away, and orders himself to + be carried to bed." His fright, however, was but momentary. He was + resolved to live. He had succeeded in raising himself to a position of + vast power, but had failed in attaining the great object of his ambition—the + crowned sovereignty of the nation he had stirred to its centre, and + conquered to its furthest limits. Brought face to face with death, his + indomitable will, which had shaped untoward circumstances to his accord + with a force like unto fate itself, now determined to conquer his shadowy + enemy which alone intercepted his path to the throne. Therefore as he lay + in bed he said to those around him with that sanctity of speech which had + cloaked his cruellest deeds and dissembled his most ambitious designs, "I + would be willing to live to be further serviceable to God and his people." + </p> + <p> + As desires of waking hours are answered in sleep, so in response to his + nervous craving for life he had delusive assurances of health through the + special bounty of Providence. He was therefore presently able to announce + he "had very great discoveries of the Lord to him in his sickness, and + hath some certainty of being restored;" as Fleetwood, his son-in-law, + wrote on the 24th of August in this same year. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, when one of the physicians came to him next morning, the High + Protector said, "Why do you look sad?" To which the man of lore replied + evasively, "So it becomes anyone who had the weighty care of his life and + health upon him." Then Cromwell to this purpose spoke: "You think I shall + die; I tell you I shall not die this bout; I am sure on't. Don't think I + am mad. I speak the words of truth upon surer grounds than Galen or your + Hippocrates furnish you with. God Almighty himself hath given that answer, + not to my prayers alone, but also to the prayers of those who entertain a + stricter commerce and greater intimacy with him. Ye may have skill in the + nature of things, yet nature can do more than all physicians put together, + and God is far above nature." The doctor besought him to rest, and left + the room. Outside he met one of his colleagues, to whom he gave it as his + opinion their patient had grown light-headed, and he repeated the words + which Cromwell had spoken. "Then," said his brother-physician, "you are + certainly a stranger in this house; don't you know what was done last + night? The chaplain and all their friends being dispersed into several + parts of the palace have prayed to God for his health, and they all heard + the voice of God saying, 'He will recover,' and so they are all certain of + it." + </p> + <p> + "Never, indeed, was there a greater stock of prayers going on for any + man," as Thurlow, his secretary, writes. So sure were those around him + that Providence must hearken to and grant the fulfilment of such desires + as they thought well to express, that, as Thomas Goodwin, one of + Cromwell's chaplains, said, "We asked not for the Protector's life, for we + were assured He had too great things for this man to do, to remove him + yet; but we prayed for his speedy recovery, because his life and presence + were so necessary to divers things then of great moment to be despatched." + When this Puritanical fanatic was presently disappointed, Bishop Burnet + narrates "he had the impudence to say to God, 'Thou hast deceived us.'" + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the Protector lay writhing in pain and terror. His mind was + sorely troubled at remembrance of the last words spoken by his daughter + Elizabeth, who had threatened judgments upon him because of his refusal to + save the King; whilst his body was grievously racked with a tertian fever, + and a foul humour which, beginning in his foot, worked its way steadily to + his heart. Moreover, some insight regarding his future seemed given to him + in his last days, for he appeared, as Ludlow, his contemporary, states, + "above all concerned for the reproaches he saw men would cast upon his + name, in tramping upon his ashes when dead." + </p> + <p> + On the 30th of August his danger became evident even to himself, and all + hope of life left him. For hours after the certain approach of death + became undeniably certain, he remained quiet and speechless, seemingly + heedless of the exhortation and prayers of his chaplains, till suddenly + turning to one of them, he whispered, "Tell me, is it possible to fall + from grace?" The preacher had a soothing reply ready: "It is not," he + answered. "Then," exclaimed this unhappy man, whose soul was red with the + blood of thousands of his countrymen, "I am safe, for I know I was once in + grace." Anon he cries out, whilst tossing wildly on his bed, "Lord, + although I am a miserable and a wretched creature, I am in covenant with + Thee through grace, and I may and will come to Thee for Thy people. Pardon + such as desire to trample upon the dust of a poor worm. And give us a good + night if it be Thy pleasure. Amen." + </p> + <p> + It was now the 2nd of September. As the evening of that day approached he + fell into a stupor, and those who watched him thought the end had come. + </p> + <p> + Within the darkened chamber in Whitehall all was silence and gloom; + without all was tumult and fear. Before the gates of the palace a + turbulent crowd of soldiers and citizens had gathered in impatient + anxiety. Those he had raised to power, those whose fortunes depended on + his life, were steeped in gloom; those whose principles he had outraged by + his usurpation, those whose position he had crushed by his sway, rejoiced + at heart. Not only the capital, but the whole nation, was divided into + factions which one strong hand alone had been able to control; and terror, + begotten by dire remembrances of civil war and bloodshed, abode with all + lovers of peace. + </p> + <p> + As evening closed in, the elements appeared in unison with the distracted + condition of the kingdom. Dark clouds, seeming of ominous import to men's + minds, gathered in the heavens, to be presently torn asunder and hurried + in wild flight by tempestuous winds across the troubled sky. As night + deepened, the gale steadily increased, until it raged in boundless fury + above the whole island and the seas that rolled around its shores. In town + houses rocked on their foundations, turrets and steeples were flung from + their places; in the country great trees were uprooted, corn-stacks + levelled to the ground, and winter fruits destroyed; whilst at sea ships + sank to rise no more. This memorable storm lasted all night, and continued + until three o'clock next afternoon, when Cromwell expired. + </p> + <p> + His body was immediately embalmed, but was of necessity interred in great + haste. Westminster Abbey, the last home of kings and princes, was selected + as the fittest resting-place for the regicide. Though it was impossible to + honour his remains by stately ceremonials, his followers were not content + to let the occasion of his death pass with-out commemoration. They + therefore had a waxen image of him made, which they resolved to surround + with all the pomp and circumstances of royalty. For this purpose they + carried it to Somerset House—one of the late King's palaces—and + placed it on a couch of crimson velvet beneath a canopy of state. Upon its + shoulders they hung a purple mantle, in its right hand they placed a + golden sceptre, and by its side they laid an imperial crown, probably the + same which, according to Welwood, the Protector had secretly caused to be + made and conveyed to Whitehall with a view to his coronation. The walls + and ceiling of the room in which the effigy lay were covered by sable + velvet; the passages leading to it crowded with soldiery. After a few + weeks the town grew tired of this sight, when the waxen image was taken to + another apartment, hung with rich velvets and golden tissue, and otherwise + adorned to symbolize heaven, when it was placed upon a throne, clad "in a + shirt of fine Holland lace, doublet and breeches of Spanish fashion with + great skirts, silk stockings, shoe-strings and gaiters suitable, and black + Spanish leather shoes." Over this attire was flung a cloak of purple + velvet, and on his head was placed a crown with many precious stones. The + room was then lit, as Ludlow narrates, "by four or five hundred candles + set in flat shining candlesticks, so placed round near the roof that the + light they gave seemed like the rays of the sun, by all which he was + represented to be now in a state of glory." Lest, indeed, there should be + any doubt as to the place where his soul abode, Sterry, the Puritan + preacher, imparted the information to all, that the Protector "now sat + with Christ at the right hand of the Father." + </p> + <p> + But this pomp and state in no may overawed the people, who, by pelting + with mire Cromwell's escutcheon placed above the great gate of Somerset + House gave evidence of the contempt in which they held his memory. After a + lapse of over two months from the day of his death, the effigy was carried + to Westminster Abbey with more than regal ceremony, the expenses of his + lying-in-state and of his funeral procession amounting, as stated by + Walker and Noble, to upwards of L29,000. "It was the joyfullest funeral I + ever saw," writes Evelyn, "for there were none that cried but dogs, which + the soldiers hooted away with a barbarous noise, drinking and taking + tobacco as they went." + </p> + <p> + A little while before his death Cromwell had named his eldest surviving + son, Richard, as his successor, and he was accordingly declared Protector, + with the apparent consent of the council, soldiers, and citizens. Nor did + the declaration cause any excitement, "There is not a dog who wags his + tongue, so profound is the calm which we are in," writes Thurlow to + Oliver's second son, Henry, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. But if the + nation in its dejection made no signs of resistance, neither did it give + any indications of satisfaction, and Richard was proclaimed "with as few + expressions of joy as had ever been observed on a like occasion." For a + brief while a stupor seemed to lull the factious party spirit which was + shortly to plunge the country into fresh difficulties. The Cromwellians + and Republicans foresaw resistless strife, and the Royalists quietly and + hopefully abided results. + </p> + <p> + Nor had they long to wait. In the new Parliament assembled in January, + 1659, the Republicans showed themselves numerous and bold beyond measure, + and hesitated to recognise Richard Cromwell as successor to the + Protectorate. However, on the 14th of the following month the Cromwellians + gained the upper hand, when Richard was confirmed in his title of "Lord + Protector, and First Magistrate of England, Scotland, and Ireland, with + all the territories depending thereon." Further discussion quickly + followed. "One party thinks the Protectorate cannot last; the other that + the Republican cannot raise itself again; the indifferent hope that both + will be right. It is easy to foretell the upshot," writes Hyde. The + disunion spread rapidly and widely; not only was the Parliament divided + against itself, but so likewise was the army; and the new Protector had + neither the courage nor the ability to put down strife with a strong hand. + Richard Cromwell was a man of peaceful disposition, gentle manners and + unambitious mind, whom fate had forced into a position for which he was in + no way fitted. By one of those strange contradictions which nature + sometimes produces, he differed in all things from his father; for not + only was he pleasure-loving, joyous, and humane, but he was, moreover, a + Royalist at heart, and continued in friendship with the Cavaliers up to + the period of his proclamation as Protector. It has been stated that, + falling on his knees, he entreated his father to spare the life of Charles + I.; it is certain he remained inactive whilst the civil wars devastated + the land; and there is evidence to show that, during the seven months and + twenty-eight days of his Protectorship, he shrank from the perpetration of + cruelty and crime. Accordingly, when those who had at first supported his + authority eventually conspired against him, he refrained from using his + power to crush them. At this his friends were wrath. "It is time to look + about you," said Lord Howard, speaking with the bluntness of a friend. + "Empire and command are not now the question. Your person, your life are + in peril. You are the son of Cromwell; show yourself worthy to be his son. + This business requires a bold stroke, and must be supported by a good + head. Do not suffer yourself to be daunted. I will rid you of your + enemies: do you stand by me, and only back my zeal for your honour with + your name; my head shall answer for the consequences." + </p> + <p> + Colonel Ingoldsby seconded the advice Lord Howard gave, but Richard + Cromwell hearkened to neither. "I have never done anybody any harm, and + never will," said he, "will not have a drop of blood spilt for the + preservation of my greatness, which is a burden to me." At this Lord + Howard was indignant. "Do you think," he asked, "this moderation of yours + will repair the wrong your family has committed by its elevation? + Everybody knows that by violence your father procured the death of the + late king, and kept his sons in banishment: mercy in the present state of + affairs is unreasonable. Lay aside this pussillanimity; every moment is + precious; your enemies spend the time in acting which we waste in + consulting." "Talk no more of it," answered the Protector. "I am thankful + for your friendship, but violent counsels suit not with me." + </p> + <p> + The climax was at hand; his fall was but a question of time. "A wonderfull + and suddaine change in ye face of ye publiq," writes Evelyn, on the 25th + of April, 1659. "Ye new Protector Richard slighted; several pretenders and + parties strove for the Government; all anarchy and confusion. Lord have + mercy on us!" + </p> + <p> + Before the month of May had expired, the House of Commons commissioned two + of its members to bid Richard Cromwell leave the palace of Whitehall, and + obtain his signature to a deed wherein he acknowledged complete submission + to Parliament. His brief inglorious reign was therefore at an end. "As + with other men," he wrote to the House of Commons, "I expect protection + from the present Government: I do hold myself obliged to demean myself + with all the peaceableness under it, and to procure, to the utmost of my + power, that all in whom I have any interest to do the same." He retired + into Hampshire, where he dwelt as a private gentleman. His brother Henry + resigned his position as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and settled in + Cambridgeshire. From this time the name of Cromwell was no longer a power + in the land. + </p> + <p> + During two years subsequent to the death of Oliver the government of + England underwent various changes, and the kingdom suffered many + disorders; until, being heartily sick of anarchy, the people desired a + king might once more reign over them accordingly, they turned their eyes + towards the son of him whom "the boldest villany that ever any nation saw" + had sent to the block. And the time being ripe, Charles Stuart, then an + exile in Breda, despatched Sir John Grenville with royal letters to both + Houses of Parliament, likewise to the Lord Mayor of London and members of + the Common Council, to Monk, commander of the forces, and Montagu, admiral + of the fleet. These letters were received with so universal a joy and + applause, that Parliament forthwith ordained Charles Stuart should be + proclaimed "the most potent, mighty, and undoubted King of England, + Scotland and Ireland." Moreover, both Houses agreed that an honourable + body of Commissioners, all men of great quality and birth, should be sent + to the king with letters, humbly begging his majesty would be pleased to + hasten his long-desired return into England. And because they knew full + well the royal exchequer was empty, Parliament ordered these noble + gentlemen to carry with them a present of fifty thousand pieces of gold to + the king, together with ten thousand to his brother of York, and five + thousand to his brother of Gloucester. Nor was the City of London + backwards in sending expressions of loyalty and tokens of homage and + devotion; to evince which twenty valiant men and worthy citizens were + despatched with messages of goodwill towards him, and presents in gold to + the amount of twelve thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + And presently Admiral Montagu arriving with his fleet upon the coast of + Holland, awaited his majesty near Scheveling; and all things being in + readiness the king with his royal brothers and a most noble train set sail + for England. + </p> + <p> + It came to pass that on the 25th day of May, 1660, a vast concourse of + nobility, gentry, and citizens had assembled at Dover to meet and greet + their sovereign king, Charles II., on his landing. On the fair morning of + that day a sound of cannon thundering from the castle announced that the + fleet, consisting of "near forty sail of great men-of-war," which conveyed + his majesty to his own, was in sight; whereon an innumerable crowd betook + its joyful way to the shore. The sun was most gloriously bright, the sky + cloudless, the sea calm. Far out upon the blue horizon white-winged ships + could be clearly discerned. By three o'clock in the afternoon they had + reached the harbour, when the king, embarking in a galley most richly + adorned, was rowed to shore. Then cannon roared once more from the castle, + and were answered from the beach; bells rang from church towers, and a + mighty shout went up from the hearts of the people. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of these rejoicings Charles II. landed, and the gallant + General Monk, who had been mainly instrumental in bringing his royal + master to the throne without loss of blood, now fell upon his knees to + greet his majesty. The king raised the general from the ground, embraced + and kissed him. Then the nobility hastened to pay their duty likewise, and + the Mayor and Aldermen of Dover presented him with a most loyal address. + And presently, with the roar of cannon, the clangour of bells, the sound + of music, and the shouts of a great multitude ringing in his ears, the + king advanced on his way towards Canterbury. At the gates of this ancient + city he was met by the mayor and aldermen, and was presented by them with + a golden tankard, Here he spent the following day, which being Sunday, he + went with a great train to the cathedral, where service according to the + Church of England, long disused by the Puritans, was restored, to the + satisfaction of many. + </p> + <p> + Setting out from Canterbury on Monday, the 29th of May—which was, + moreover, the anniversary of his birth—he journeyed to Blackheath, + where he reviewed the forces drawn up with great pomp and military + splendour to greet him, and bestowed many gracious expressions on them. + Then, having received assurances of their loyal homage through their + commander, Colonel Knight, he turned towards London town. And the nearer + he approached, the more dense became crowds thronging to meet him; the + fields on either side the long white road being filled with persons of all + conditions, who cheered him lustily. As he passed they flung leaves of + trees and sweet May flowers beneath his horse's feet, and waved green + boughs on high, And when he came to St. George's Fields, there was my lord + mayor in his robes of new velvet, wearing his collar of wrought gold, and + attended by his aldermen in brave apparel likewise. Going down on his + knees my lord mayor presented the king with the city sword, which his + majesty with some happy expressions of confidence gave back into his good + keeping, having first struck him with it upon the shoulder and bade him + rise up Sir Thomas Allen. Whereon that worthy man rose to his feet and + conducted the king to a large and richly adorned pavilion, and entertained + him at a splendid collation, it being then one of the clock. And being + refreshed his majesty set forth again, and entered the city, which had + never before shown so brave and goodly an appearance as on this May day, + when all the world seemed mad with joy. + </p> + <p> + From London Bridge even to Whitehall Palace the way was lined on one side + by the train-bands of the city, and on the other by the city companies in + their rich livery gowns; to which were added a number of gentlemen + volunteers, all in white doublets, commanded by Sir John Stanel. Across + the streets hung garlands of spring flowers that made the air most sweet, + and at the corners thereof were arches of white hawthorn in full bloom, + bedecked with streamers of gay colours. From wooden railed balconies, + jutting windows, and quaint gables hung fair tapestries, rich silks, and + stuffs of brilliant hues; and from the high red chimneys, grey turrets, + and lofty spires, floated flags bearing the royal arms of England, and + banners inscribed with such mottoes as loyalty and affection could + suggest. The windows and galleries were filled with ladies of quality in + bright dresses; the roofs and scaffolding, with citizens of all classes, + who awaited with eager and joyous faces to salute their lord and king. + </p> + <p> + And presently, far down the line of streets, a sound was heard of + innumerable voices cheering most lustily, which every minute became nearer + and louder, till at last a blare of trumpets was distinguished, followed + by martial music, and the tramp and confusion of a rushing crowd which + suddenly parted on all sides. Then there burst on view the first sight of + that brave and glorious cavalcade to the number of twenty thousand, which + ushered the king back unto his own. First came a troop of young and comely + gentlemen, three hundred in all, representing the pride and valour of the + kingdom, wearing cloth of silver doublets and brandishing naked swords + which flashed in the sunlight. Then another company, less by a hundred in + number, habited in rich velvet coats, their footmen clad in purple + liveries; and next a goodly troop under the command of Sir John Robinson, + all dressed in buff coats with cloth of silver sleeves, and green scarves + most handsome to behold. These were followed by a brave troop in blue + doublets adorned with silver lace, carrying banners of red silk fringed + with gold. Then came trumpets, and seven footmen in sea-green and silver + liveries, bearing banners of blue silk, followed by a troop in grey and + blue to the number of two hundred and twenty, and led by the most noble + the Earl of Northampton. After various other companies, all brave in + apparel, came two trumpets bearing his majesty's arms, followed by the + sheriffs' men in red cloaks and silver lace, and by a great body of + gentlemen in black velvet coats with gold chains. Next rode six hundred + brave citizens, twelve ministers, the king's life guards, led by Sir + Gilbert Gerrard, the city marshals with eight footmen, the city waits and + officers, the sheriffs and aldermen in scarlet gowns, the maces and + heralds in great splendour, the lord mayor carrying a naked sword in his + strong right hand, the Duke of Buckingham, and General Monk, soon to be + created Duke of Albermarle. + </p> + <p> + Now other heralds sound their trumpets with blasts that make all hearts + beat quicker; church bells ring far louder than before; voices are raised + to their highest pitch, excitement reaches its zenith, for here, mounted + on a stately horse caparisoned in royal purple and adorned with gold, + rides King Charles himself; on his right hand his brother of York, on his + left his brother of Gloucester. Handkerchiefs are waved, flowers are flung + before his way, words of welcome fall upon his ear, in answer to which he + bows with stately grace, smiles most pleasantly, and gives such signs of + delight as "cheared the hearts of all loyal subjects even to extasie and + transportation." Last of all came five regiments of cavalry, with back, + breast, and head piece, which "diversified the show with delight and + terrour." John Evelyn stood in the Strand and watched the procession pass, + when that worthy man thanked God the king had been restored without + bloodshed, and by the very army that had rebelled against him. "For such a + restauration was never mention'd in any history ancient or modern, since + the returne of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity; nor so joyfull a + day and so bright ever seene in this nation, this hapning when to expect + or effect it was past all human policy." + </p> + <p> + For full seven hours this "most pompous show that ever was" wound its way + through the city, until at nine of the clock in the evening it brought his + majesty to the palace of Whitehall, where the late king had "laid down his + sacred head to be struck off upon a block," almost twelve years before. + Then the lord mayor and his aldermen took their goodly leave, and the king + entered into the banquet hall, where the lords and commons awaited him, + and where an address was made to him by the Earl of Manchester, Speaker to + the House of Peers, congratulating him on his miraculous preservation and + happy restoration to his crown and dignity after so long and so severe a + suppression of his just right and title. Likewise his lordship besought + his majesty to be the upright assertor of the laws and maintainer of the + liberties of his subjects. "So," said the noble earl, "shall judgment run + down like a river, and justice like a mighty stream, and God, the God of + your mercy, who hath so miraculously preserved you, will establish your + throne in righteousness and peace." Then the king made a just and brief + reply, and retired to supper and to rest. + </p> + <p> + The worthy citizens, however, were not satisfied that their rejoicements + should end here, and "as soon as night came," says Dr. Bate, "an + artificial day was begun again, the whole city seeming to be one great + light, as, indeed, properly it was a luminary of loyalty, the bonfires + continuing till daybreak, fed by a constant supply of wood, and maintained + with an equal excess of gladness and fewel." Wine flowed from public + fountains, volleys of shot were discharged from houses of the nobility, + drums and other musical instruments played in the streets, citizens danced + most joyfully in open places, and the effigy of Cromwell was burned, + together with the arms of the Commonwealth with expressions of great + delight. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The story of the king's escape.—He accepts the Covenant and lands in + Scotland.—Crowned at Scone.—Proclaimed king at Carlisle.—The + battle of Worcester.—Bravery of Charles.—Disloyalty of the Scottish + cavalry.—The Royalists defeated.—The King's flight.—Seeks refuge + in Boscobel Wood.—The faithful Pendrells.—Striving to cross the + Severn.—Hiding in an oak tree.—Sheltered by Master Lane.—Sets out + with Mistress Lane.—Perilous escapes.—On the road.—The king is + recognised.—Strange adventures.—His last night in England. +</pre> + <p> + That King Charles had been miraculously preserved, as my Lord Manchester + set forth, there can be no doubt. His courageous efforts to regain the + Crown at the battle of Worcester and his subsequent escapes from the + vigilant pursuits of the Cromwellian soldiers, would, if set down in + justice and with detail, present a story more entertaining than any + romance ever written. Here they must of necessity be mentioned with + brevity. + </p> + <p> + In the year 1645, Charles I., having suffered the loss of many great + battles, became fearful of the danger which threatened his family and + himself. He therefore ordered his son Charles, who had already retired + into the west, to seek refuge in the Scilly Isles. The prince complied + with his desires, and went from thence to Paris, where his mother, + Henrietta Maria, had already taken shelter, and, after a short stay with + her, travelled to the Hague. Soon after the king was beheaded, the Scots, + who regarded that foul act with great abhorrence, invited Charles to come + into their kingdom, provided he accepted certain hard conditions, which + left the government of all civil business in the hands of Parliament, and + the regulation of all religious matters in charge of the Presbyterians. No + other prospect of regaining his rights, and of enabling him to fight for + his throne presenting itself, he accepted what was known as the Covenant, + and landed in Scotland in 1650. He was received with the respect due to a + monarch, but placed under the surveillance forced on a prisoner. The + fanatical Presbyterians, jealous of that potent influence which his blithe + ways exercised over all with whom he associated, neither permitted him to + attend the council nor command the army; they, however, preached to him + incessantly, admonished him of his sins and those of his parents, guarded + him as a captive, and treated him as a puppet. Meanwhile Cromwell, being + made aware of his presence in the kingdom, advanced at the head of a + powerful body into Scotland, fought and won the battle of Dunbar, stormed + and captured Leith, and took his triumphal way towards Edinburgh town. + Charles was at this time in Perth, and being impatient at his enforced + inaction whilst battles were fought in his name, and lives lost in his + cause, made his escape from the Covenanters, with the determination of + arousing the Royalists who lay in the north. But the Scots soon overtook + and recaptured him. However, this decisive action awoke them to a better + understanding of the deference due to his position, and therefore they + crowned him at Scone on the first day of the year 1651, with much + solemnity, and subsequently made him commander of the army. + </p> + <p> + After spending some months in reorganizing the troops, he boldly declared + his intention of marching into England, and fighting the rebel force. + Accordingly, on the 31st of July, 1651, he set out from Sterling with an + army of between eleven and twelve thousand men. At Carlisle he was + proclaimed king, and a declaration was published in his name, granting + free grace and pardon to all his subjects in England, of whatever nature + or cause their offences, saving Cromwell, Bradshaw and Cooke. He then + marched to Lancashire, and on the 23rd of August unfurled the Royal + standard at Worcester, amidst the enthusiastic acclamations of his troops + and the loyal demonstrations of the citizens. Weary of civil strife, + depressed with fear of Cromwell's severities, and distrustful of the + Presbyterians, who chiefly composed the young king's army, the Royalists + had not gathered to his standard in such numbers as he had anticipated. + His troops, since leaving Scotland, had been reinforced merely by two + thousand men; but Charles had hopes that fresh recruits would join him + when news of the rising got noised abroad. + </p> + <p> + The Republicans were filled with dismay at the king's determined action, + but were prompt to make a counter-move, Accordingly, additional troops + were levied, London was left to be defended by volunteers, and Cromwell, + heading an army of thirty-four thousand men, marched against the + Royalists. On the 28th of August, they drew near Worcester, and on the 3rd + of September the battle was fought which will remain for ever famous in + the annals of civil war. On the morning of that day, the king, ascending + the cathedral tower, saw the enemy's forces advancing towards Worcester: + before reaching the city, it was necessary they should cross the Severn, + and, in order to prevent this if possible, Charles hurried down and + directed that some of his troops, under the command of Montgomery, should + defend Powick Bridge; whilst he stationed others under Colonel Pitscottie + lower down, at a point of the river towards which the Republicans were + marching with pontoons, by means of which they intended to cross. The + young king, hopeful of victory and full of enthusiasm, rode speedily out + at the head of his troops and placed them at their various stations. + Scarcely had he done so, when he became aware that the main body of the + enemy had opened an artillery fire on Fort Royal, which guarded the city + on the south-east side. He therefore galloped back in hot haste to + headquarters, and reconnoitred the advanced posts eastward of the city, in + full front of the enemy's fire. Meanwhile Montgomery, having exhausted his + ammunition, was obliged to retreat in disorder from Powick Bridge, + followed by the Cromwellians. The king now courageously resolved to attack + the enemy's camp at Perry Wood, which lay south-east of Worcester. + Accordingly he marched out with the flower of his Highland infantry and + the English cavaliers, led by the Dukes of Hamilton and Buckingham. + Cromwell, seeing this, hastened to intercept the king's march, whereon a + fierce battle was bravely fought on either side. Nothing could be more + valiant than the conduct of the young king, who showed himself wholly + regardless of his life in the fierce struggle for his rights. Twice was + his horse shot under him; but increasing danger seemed but to animate him + to greater daring. So bravely did his army fight likewise, that the + Republicans at first gave way before them. For upwards of four hours the + engagement raged with great fierceness. Cromwell subsequently declared it + was "as stiff a contest as he had ever seen," and his experience was + great. Success seemed now to crown the Royalists, anon to favour the + Roundheads. The great crisis of the day at length arrived: the + Cromwellians began to waver and give way just as the Royalist cavalry had + expended their ammunition; the king had still three thousand Scotch + cavalry in the rear under the command of Leslie, who had not yet been + called into action. He therefore ordered them to advance; but, to his + horror, not one of these men, who had looked on as passive spectators, + made a movement. In this hour, when victory or defeat hung upon a thread + the Scots ignominiously failed their king. Charles instantly saw he was + undone. The English cavalry continued to fight bravely, in their + desperation using the butt ends of their muskets; but they were gradually + compelled to give way before the enemy, who, seeing their condition, had + renewed the attack. The Royalists therefore fell back into the city. When + the king re-entered Worcester he saw before him a scene of the most + disastrous confusion. Royalists and Republicans encountered and fought + each other in every thoroughfare; the air was filled with the report of + muskets, the imprecations of soldiers, the groans of wounded men, and the + shrieks of women. The streets ran red with blood. At such a sight his + heart sank within him, but, manning himself for fresh efforts, he called + his troops together and sought to incite them with courage to make a final + charge. "I would rather," he cried out, "you would shoot me than keep me + alive to see the sad consequences of this fatal day." Those who heard him + were disheartened: it was too late to retrieve their heavy losses: most of + them refused to heed him; many sought safety in flight. Then the young + king's friends, gathering round, besought him to make good his escape; and + accordingly, with a sad heart, he rode out of St. Martin's Gate humbled + and defeated. In order to cover his retreat from the enemy now advancing, + my Lord Cleveland, Sir James Hamilton, Colonel Careless, and some other + worthy gentlemen defended Sudbury Gate, towards which the main body of the + Republicans approached. They held this position a sufficient time to gain + the end for which it was undertaken. But at length the Republicans, + forcing open the gate, marched upon the fort, defended by fifteen hundred + soldiers under Colonel Drummond. This loyal man refusing to surrender, the + fort was speedily stormed; and he and those of his men who survived the + attack were mercilessly put to the sword. + </p> + <p> + Dr. George Bate gives a quaint and striking picture of what followed. + "Deplorable and sad was the countenance of the town after that," writes + he; "the victorious soldiers on the one hand killing, breaking into + houses, plundering, sacking, roaring, and threatening; on the other hand, + the subdued flying, turning their backs to be cut and slashed, and with + outstretched hands begging quarter; some, in vain resisting, sold their + lives as dear as they could, whilst the citizens to no purpose prayed, + lamented, and bewailed. All the streets are strewed with dead and mangled + bodies. Here were to be seen some that begged relief, and then again + others weltering in their own gore, who desired that at once an end might + be put to their lives and miseries. The dead bodies lay unburied for the + space of three days or more, which was a loathsome spectacle that + increased the horror of the action." + </p> + <p> + Concerning his subsequent dangers and narrow escapes, the king, in his + days of peace and prosperity, was wont to discourse at length, for they + had left impressions on his mind which lasted through life. Edward Hyde, + Lord Clarendon, his Lord High Chancellor, Dr. George Bate, his learned + physician, and Samuel Pepys, Esquire, sometime Surveyor-General to the + Victualling Office, have preserved the records of that time of peril, as + told by his majesty. True, their various stories differ in minor details, + but they agree in principal facts. The king had not ridden many miles from + Worcester when he found himself surrounded by about four thousand of his + army, including the Scots under the command of Leslie. Though they would + not fight for him, they were ready enough to fly with him. At first he + thought of betaking himself to Scotland; but having had sad proof of the + untrustworthy character of those with whom he travelled, he feared they + would further betray him if pursued by the enemy. He therefore resolved to + reach London before the news of his defeat arrived thither, and make his + escape from thence; but this scheme presented many difficulties. Amongst + the persons of quality who accompanied him were my Lord Duke of + Buckingham, the Earls of Derby and Lauderdale, and the Lords Wilmot and + Talbot. During their journey it fell from my Lord Derby's lips, that when + he had been defeated at Wigan, one Pendrell, an honest labourer and a + Papist, had sheltered him in Boscobel House, not far distant from where + they then rode. Hearing this, the king resolved to trust this same + faithful fellow, and for the present seek such refuge as Pendrell could + afford. It was not easy, however, for his majesty to escape the Scots; but + when night came, he and his gentlemen slipped away from the high road, + which the others continued to pursue, and made for Boscobel Wood, led by + Charles Giffard, a loyal gentleman and true. The house they sought was + situated between Tong Castle and Brewood, in a woody place most fitting + for retreat; it was, moreover, six and twenty miles from Worcester, and + stood in Shropshire, on the borders of Staffordshire. + </p> + <p> + In order to gain this haven of rest, it was necessary for them to pass + through Stourbridge, where a troop of the Republican army lay quartered. + Midnight had fallen ere they reached the town, which was now wrapt in + darkness, and was, moreover, perfectly still. The king and his friends, + dismounting, led their horses through the echoing streets as softly as + possible, being filled the while with dire apprehensions. Safely leaving + it, they rode into the wood until they came to the old convent of + Whiteladies, once the home of Cistercian nuns, who had long since been + driven from their peaceful retreat. The house was now the habitation of + the Giffard family, with whom George Pendrell lived as servant. On being + aroused, he came forth with a lantern, and admitted them, when Charles + Giffard made known to him in whose presence he stood, and acquainted him + with their situation. Thereupon the honest fellow promised to serve the + king faithfully, and sent immediately for his brothers four: William, who + took charge of Boscobel House, not far removed; Humphrey, who was miller + at Whiteladies; Richard, who lived at Hobbal Grange; and John, who was a + woodman, and dwelt hard by. When they had all arrived, Lord Derby showed + them the king's majesty, and besought them for God's sake, for their + loyalty's sake, and as they valued all that was high and sacred, to keep + him safe, and forthwith seek some place of decent shelter where he might + securely lurk. This they readily swore to compass, though they risked + their lives in the attempt. + </p> + <p> + It being considered that greater safety lay in the king being unattended, + his loyal friends departed from him with many prayers and hopes for a + joyful reunion: all of them save my Lords Wilmot and Buckingham set out to + join Leslie's company, that they might proceed together towards Scotland; + but they had not marched six miles in company with the Scots when these + three thousand men and more were overtaken and were routed by a single + troop of the enemy's horse, and my Lord Derby, being taken, was condemned + and executed. Lords Wilmot and Buckingham set out for London, to which + place it was agreed the king should follow them. + </p> + <p> + When his majesty's friends had departed, the Pendrells undertook to + disguise him; towards which end one of them cut the long locks reaching + his shoulders, another rubbed his hands and face with dust, and a third + brought him a suit of clothes. "The habit of the king," says Pepys, "was a + very greasy old grey steeple-crowned hat, with the brims turned up, + without lining or hatband, the sweat appearing two inches deep through it + round the band place; a green cloth jump-coat, threadbare, even to the + threads being worn white, and breeches of the same, with long knees down + to the garter; with an old sweaty leathern doublet, a pair of white + flannel stockings next to his legs, and upon them a pair of old green yarn + stockings, all worn and darned at the knees, with their feet cut off: his + shoes were old, all slashed for the ease of his feet, with little rolls of + paper between his toes to keep them from galling; and an old coarse shirt, + patched both at the neck and hands, of that very coarse sort which go by + the name of nogging shirts." + </p> + <p> + When Charles was attired in this fashion, Richard Pendrell opened a back + door and led him out into the wood; not a moment too soon, for within half + an hour Colonel Ashenhurst, with a company of Cromwell's soldiers, rode up + to Whiteladies, rushed into the house, searched every chamber and secret + place, pulled down the wainscoting, and otherwise devastated the mansion + in the search for the king. A damp cold September morning now lengthened + to a day of gloom and depression. Rain fell in heavy torrents, dripped + from the leafless branches of trees, and saturated the thick undergrowth + and shrubs where his majesty lay hidden. Owing to the condition of the + weather, the soldiers neglected to search Boscobel Wood; and, after + uttering many threats and imprecations, withdrew from Whiteladies. When he + considered himself quite alone, Richard Pendrell ventured forth, taking + with him a billhook, that if observed he might seem engaged in trimming + hedges; and drawing near the spot where his majesty lay, assured him of + his safety. Later on he besought an old woman, his neighbour, to take + victuals into the wood to a labourer she would find there. Without + hesitation the good woman carried some eggs, bread, butter, and milk + towards the spot indicated to her. On seeing her the king was much alarmed + fearing recognition and dreading her garrulity; wherefore he said to her: + "Can you be true to anyone who hath served the king?" Upon which she + readily made answer: "Yes, sir; I'd die sooner than betray you." Being + reassured at this, he ate heartily. + </p> + <p> + When night fell, Richard brought him into the house again, and the king, + now abandoning his intention of proceeding to London, expressed his + anxiety to reach Wales where he had many friends, and which afforded him + ready opportunities of escaping from the kingdom. Pendrell expressed + himself willing to conduct him thither. Accordingly, about nine of the + clock, they set out with the determination of crossing the Severn, + intending to pass over a ferry between Bridgenorth and Shrewsbury. When + they had walked some hours they drew near a water-mill. "We could see the + miller," said the king in relating the story, "as I believe, sitting at + the mill-door, he being in white clothes, it being a very dark night. He + called out sturdily, 'Who goes there?' Upon which Richard Pendrell + answered, 'Neighbours going home,' or suchlike words. Whereupon the miller + cried out: 'If you be neighbours, stand, or I will knock you down.' Upon + which, we believing there was company in the house, Richard bade me follow + him close, and he ran to a gate that went up a dirty lane up a hill. The + miller cried out: 'Rogues—rogues!' And thereupon some men came out + of the mill after us, which I believe were soldiers; so we fell a-running, + both of us up the lane as long as we could run, it being very deep and + very dirty, till at last I bade him leap over a hedge, and lie still to + hear if anybody followed us—which we did, and continued lying down + upon the ground about half an hour, when, hearing nobody come, we + continued our way." + </p> + <p> + This led to the house of an honest gentleman named Woolfe, living at + Madeley, who was a Catholic, and loyal to his king, and as such was known + to the Pendrells. When they drew near to his house, Richard, leaving his + majesty in a field, went forward and asked this worthy man if he would + shelter one who had taken part in the battle of Worcester; whereon he made + answer he would not venture his neck for any man unless it were the king + himself, upon which Pendrell made known to him it was his majesty who + sought refuge from him. Mr. Woolfe came out immediately and carried the + king by a back way into a barn, where he hid him for the day, it being + considered unsafe for him to stay a longer period there, as two companies + of militia were at that time stationed in the town, and were very likely + to search the house at any minute. Moreover he advised his majesty by no + means to adventure crossing the Severn, as the strictest guard was then + kept at the ferries to prevent any Royalist fugitives from escaping into + Wales. The king was therefore obliged to retrace his steps, and now sought + Boscobel House, not far distant from his first resting-place of + Whiteladies. Arriving there, he remained secreted in the wood, whilst + Richard went to see if soldiers were in occupation of the dwelling. There + was no one there, however, but Colonel Careless, the same good man and + true who had helped to keep Sudbury Gate whilst Charles made his escape. + </p> + <p> + The Colonel had been hiding in the forest, and, being sore pressed by + hunger, had come to beg a little bread. Being informed where the king was, + he came forth with great joy, and, the house not being considered a safe + refuge, they both climbed into the branches of a leafy oak, situated in an + open part of the wood, from whence they could see all round them. They + carried with them some bread and cheese and small beer, and stayed there + that day. "While we were in the tree," says the king, "we saw soldiers + going up and down in the thicket of the wood, searching for persons + escaped, we seeing them now and then peeping out of the wood." When this + danger had passed away, the king, worn out by his sore fatigues, laid his + head on his friend's breast and slept in his arms. At night they + descended, and going to Boscobel House, were shown a secret hiding-place, + such as were then to be found in the mansions of all Catholic families, + called the priests' hole a little confined closet built between two walls, + in the principal stack of chimneys, and having a couple of exits for the + better escape of those compelled to seek its shelter. Here the king rested + in peace for a day and a night. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Humphrey Pendrell went into Shifnal to pay his taxes; and it + being known he had come from Whiteladies, he was questioned closely as to + whether he knew aught of Charles Stuart. On stoutly denying all knowledge + of him, he was told that any man who discovered him would gain a thousand + pounds, but he that sheltered him would suffer death without mercy; these + being the terms of a proclamation just issued. This the honest miller on + his return narrated to the king, swearing roundly he would run all risks + for his sake. It chanced at this time one of the Pendrells heard that my + Lord Wilmot who had not been able to make his way to London, was hiding in + a very secure place, at the house of a gentleman named Whitegrave, above + seven miles distant. This coming to the king's knowledge, he became + anxious to see his faithful friend and hold communication with him. + Accordingly one of the Pendrells was despatched to request Lord Wilmot to + meet his majesty that night, in a field close by Mr. Whitegrave's house. + And the time of night being come, the king was impatient of delay; but his + feet were sore from the rough shoes he had worn on his journey, so that he + was scarce able to walk; therefore he was mounted on Humphrey's + mill-horse, and, the four loyal brothers forming a guard, they directed + their way towards Moseley. The king's eagerness to see Wilmot being great, + he complained of the horse's slow pace. "Can you blame him, my liege," + said Humphrey, who loved a jest, "that he goes heavily, having the weight + of three kingdoms on his back?" + </p> + <p> + When they had travelled with him a great part of the journey it was + thought safer three of them should withdraw themselves. They therefore + turned away; but scarcely had they gone when the king, who, being lost in + thought, had remained unconscious of their departure, suddenly stopped, + and caused John, who remained, to speedily summon them back. When they + returned he gave them his hand to kiss, and, with that charm of manner + which never failed in winning friends, said to them sadly, "My sorrows + make me forget myself. I earnestly thank you all." + </p> + <p> + They kissed his hand heartily, and prayed God to save him. In the days of + his prosperity he remembered their kindness and rewarded their loyalty. + </p> + <p> + Arriving at the trysting place the king found Mr. Whitegrave, a + Benedictine monk named Father Huddlestone, Sir John Preston, and his + brother awaiting him. It may be mentioned here this monk was destined, + many years later, to play an important part in the closing scene of his + majesty's life. Mr. Whitegrave conducted Charles with great show of + respect to his house, where the king spoke with my Lord Wilmot, feasted + well, and rested safe that night. Next morning the worthy host had private + notice given that a company of soldiers were on their way to arrest him as + one who had served in the king's army. He, being innocent of this charge, + did not avoid them, but received them boldly at his door, spoke + confidently in his own defence, and referred them to the testimony of his + neighbours, whereon they departed quietly. + </p> + <p> + It was feared, however, the house was no longer safe, and that another + refuge had best be sought for his majesty. Therefore, Father Huddlestone + informed the king of an honest gentleman, the owner of a fair estate some + six miles removed, who was generous and exceedingly beloved, and the + eldest justice of peace in the county of Stafford. This gentleman was + named Lane, "a very zealous Protestant, yet he lived with so much civility + and candour towards the Catholics, that they would all trust him as much + as they would any of their own profession." The king, however, not being + willing to surprise this worthy man, immediately despatched the + Benedictine to make certain of his welcome; receiving due assurances of + which he and Lord Willmot set out by night for Master Lane's mansion, + where they were heartily received, and where Charles rested some days in + blessed security. Knowing, however, in what risk he placed those who + sheltered him, and how vigilant the pursuit after him, he became most + anxious for his safe delivery out of the kingdom. To this end it was + desirable he should draw near the west coast, and await an opportunity of + sailing from thence for France. + </p> + <p> + The members of Master Lane's family then living with him consisted of a + son and a daughter: the former a man of fearless courage and integrity, + the latter a gentlewoman of good wit and discretion, as will be seen + hereafter. Consulting, amongst themselves as to the best means of + compassing the king's escape, it was resolved Mistress Lane should visit a + kinswoman of hers with whom she had been bred, that had married one + Norton, and was now residing within five miles of Bristol. It was likewise + decided she should ride on her journey thence behind the king, he being + habited in her father's livery, and acting as her servant; and for greater + safety her sister and her sister's husband were to accompany them on the + road. Mistress Jane Lane then procured from a colonel of the rebel army a + passport for herself and her servant, her sister and her brother-in-law, + to travel without molestation to her cousin Mistress Norton, who was ready + to lie in. With this security Jane set out, her brother bearing them + company part of the way, with a hawk upon his fist and two or three + spaniels at his heels, which warranted him keeping the king and his + friends in sight without seeming to be of their company. + </p> + <p> + The first day's journey was not accomplished without an exciting incident. + The horse ridden by Mistress Lane and the king—now bearing the name + of William Jackson—lost a shoe; and being come to Bromsgrove, he + must dismount and lead the animal to the village blacksmith. + </p> + <p> + "As I was holding my horse's foot," said his majesty, when narrating the + story to Mr. Pepys, "I asked the smith what news. He told me that there + was no news that he knew of, since the good news of the beating the rogues + of the Scots. I asked him whether there was none of the English taken that + joined with the Scots, He answered he did not hear if that rogue, Charles + Stuart, were taken; but some of the others, he said, were taken. I told + him that if that rogue were taken, he deserved to be hanged more than all + the rest, for bringing in the Scots. Upon which he said I spoke like an + honest man; and so we parted." + </p> + <p> + At the end of the first day's journey they were met by Lord Wilmot at the + inn; and he continued to join them wherever they rested at night, without + appearing to travel with them by day. Mistress Lane took all possible care + to guard the king against recognition, stating at every house of + accommodation where they tarried he was "a neighbour's son whom her father + had lent her to ride before her in hope that he would the sooner recover + from a quartan ague with which he had been miserably afflicted, and was + not yet free." Which story served as sufficient excuse for his going to + bed betimes, and so avoiding the company of servants. At the end of three + days they arrived at their destination. Jane Lane was warmly received by + her cousin, and the whole party made heartily welcome. Jane, however, did + not entrust her secret to Mistress Norton's keeping, but repeated her tale + of the good youth being newly recovered from ague, and desired a chamber + might be provided for him, and a good fire made that he might retire early + to bed. Her desires being obeyed, the king withdrew, and was served with + an excellent good supper by the butler, a worthy fellow named Pope, who + had been a trooper in the army of Charles I., of blessed memory. + </p> + <p> + "The next morning" said the king continuing his strange story, "I arose + pretty early, having a very good stomach, and went to the buttery-hatch to + get my breakfast, where I found Pope and two or three other men in the + room, and we all fell to eating bread and butter, to which he gave us very + good ale and sack. And as I was sitting there, there was one that looked + like a country fellow sat just by me, who, talking, gave so particular an + account of the battle of Worcester to the rest of the company that I + concluded he must be one of Cromwell's soldiers. But I, asking how he came + to give so good an account of that battle, he told me he was in the King's + regiment, by which I thought he meant one Colonel King's regiment. But + questioning him further, I perceived he had been in my regiment of Guards, + in Major Broughton's company—that was my Major in the battle. I + asked him what kind of man I was; to which he answered by describing + exactly both my clothes and my horse, and then, looking upon me, he told + me that the king was at least three fingers taller than I. Upon which I + made what haste I could out of the buttery, for fear he should indeed know + me, as being more afraid when I knew he was one of our own soldiers than + when I took him for one of the enemy's. So Pope and I went into the hall, + and just as we came into it Mistress Norton was coming by through it; upon + which I, plucking off my hat and standing with it in my hand as she passed + by, Pope looked very earnestly in my face. But I took no notice of it, but + put on my hat again and went away, walking out of the house into the + field." + </p> + <p> + When he returned, however, the butler followed him into a private room, + and going down on his stiff knees, said, with tears in his old eyes, he + was rejoiced to see his majesty in safety. The king affected to laugh at + him, and asked him what he meant; but Pope told him he knew him well, for + before he was a trooper in his father's service he had been falconer to + Sir Thomas Jermyn, groom of the bedchamber to the king when he was a boy. + Charles saw it was useless longer to deny himself, and therefore said he + believed him to be a very honest man, and besought he would not reveal + what he knew to anyone. This the old man readily promised, and faithfully + kept his word. Having spent a couple of days at Norton's, the king, by + advice of Lord Wilmot, went to the house of a true friend and loyal man, + one Colonel Windham, who lived at Trent. This town was notable as a very + hotbed of republicanism; a proof of which was afforded his majesty on the + very day of his entrance. As he rode into the principal street, still + disguised as a waiting man to Mistress Lane, he heard a great ringing of + bells, and the tumult of many voices, and saw a vast concourse of people + gathered in the churchyard close by. On asking the cause he was informed + one of Cromwell's troopers was telling the people he had killed Charles + Stuart, whose buff coat he then wore; whereon the rebels rang the church + bells, and were about to make a great bonfire for joy. + </p> + <p> + Having brought him to Trent, Mistress Lane returned home, carrying with + her the king's friendship and gratitude, of which he gave her ample proof + when he came unto the throne. Charles stayed at Colonel Windham's over a + week, whilst that gallant man was secretly striving to hire a ship for his + majesty's safe transportation into France. Presently succeeding in this + object, the king, yet wearing his livery, and now riding before Mistress + Judith Coningsby, cousin of Colonel Windham, started with high hopes for + Lyme; but at the last moment the captain of the vessel failed him, and he + was again left in a state of painful uncertainty and danger. Lord Wilmot + was sent to ascertain the cause of this disappointment, and for greater + safety the king rode on to Burport with his friends. Being come to the + outskirts of the town, they were alarmed at finding the streets in a state + of confusion, and full of Cromwell's soldiers, fifteen hundred of whom + were about to embark for Jersey. His majesty's coolness and presence of + mind did not fail him; he resolved to ride boldly into the town, and hire + a chamber at the best inn. The yard of the hostelry was likewise crowded + with troopers; but this did not dismay his majesty. + </p> + <p> + "I alighted," said he, "and taking the horses, thought it the best way to + go blundering in among them, and lead them through the middle of the + soldiers into the stable; which I did, and they were very angry with me + for my rudeness. As soon as I came into the stable I took the bridle off + the horses, and called the ostler to me to help me, and to give the horses + some oats. And as the hostler was helping me to feed the horses, 'Sure, + sir,' says he, 'I know your face?' which was no very pleasant question to + me. But I thought the best way was to ask him where he had lived, or + whether he had always lived there or no. He told me that he was but newly + come thither; that he was born in Exeter, and had been ostler in an inn + there, hard by one Mr. Potter's, a merchant in whose house I had lain in + the time of the war. So I thought it best to give the fellow no further + occasion of thinking where he had seen me, for fear he should guess right + at last; therefore I told him, 'Friend, certainly you have seen me then at + Mr. Potter's, for I served him a good while above a year.' 'Oh,' says he, + 'then I remember you a boy there;' and with that was put off from thinking + any more on it, but desired that we might drink a pot of beer together, + which I excused by saying that I must go wait on my master, and get his + dinner ready for him; but told him that my master was going to London, and + would return about three weeks hence, when he would be there, and I would + not fail to drink a pot with him." + </p> + <p> + The king and his friends, having dined at the inn, got word that the + master of the ship, suspecting that it was some dangerous employment he + had been hired for, absolutely refused to fulfil his contract. Therefore + they, being sad at heart and fearful, retraced their steps to Trent, and + presently his majesty went further into Sussex, and abode with a staunch + Royalist, one Colonel Gunter, who resided within four miles of Salisbury. + This excellent man at last succeeded in hiring a ship to carry away the + king, and so Charles made another journey to Brighthelmstone, where he met + the captain of the vessel and the merchant that had hired her on behalf of + Colonel Gunter, both of whom had been kept in ignorance of their future + passenger's identity. Arriving at Brighthelmstone, they entered an inn and + ordered supper, during which the captain more than once looked hard at the + king. And the meal being ended, the captain called the merchant aside and + said he was not dealt with fairly, inasmuch as he had not been told the + king was the person to be conveyed from thence. The merchant, not being so + wise as the master, denied such was the case; but the honest fellow told + him not to be troubled. "For I think," said he, "I do God and my country + good service in preserving the king: and by the grace of God I will + venture my life and all for him, and set him safely on shore, if I can, in + France." + </p> + <p> + Nor was this the last of his majesty's numerous risks, for being presently + left alone, he stood thoughtful and somewhat melancholy by the fire, + resting one hand on a chair; and the landlord, coming in and seeing him + engaged in this manner, softly advanced, suddenly kissed the king's hand, + and said, "God bless you, wherever you go." Charles started, and would + have denied himself; but the landlord cried out, "'Fore God, your majesty + may trust me; and," he added, "I have no doubt, before I die, to be a + lord, and my wife a lady." + </p> + <p> + That night, the last his majesty was to spend in England for many years, + he was sad and depressed. The scenes of bloodshed he had witnessed, the + imminent dangers he had escaped, were vividly present to his mind. The + past was fraught with horror; the future held no hope. Though a king, he + was about to become an outcast from his realm. Surmising his thoughts, his + companions sought to cheer him. Now the long-desired moment of escape was + at hand, no one thought of repose. The little vessel in which he intended + sailing lay dry upon the shore, the tide being at low water. The king and + his friends, the merchant, the captain, and the landlord, sat in the + well-lighted cosy parlour of the seaport inn, smoking, playing cards, + telling stories and drinking good ale. + </p> + <p> + With all such diversions the hours wore heavily away. Their noisy + joviality had an undercurrent of sadness; jokes failed to amuse; laughter + seemed forced; words, mirthful in leaving the lips, sounded ominous on + reaching the ear. At four o'clock the captain rose to survey his ship, and + presently returned saying the tide had risen. Thereon the king and his + friends prepared to depart. A damp, chilly November fog hung over the sea, + hiding its wide expanse without deadening its monotonous moan. A + procession of black figures leaving the inn sped noiselessly through + darkness. Arriving at the shore, those who were not to accompany his + majesty, knelt and kissed his hand. Then he, with Lord Wilmot and the + captain, climbed on board the vessel and entered the cabin. The fog had + turned to rain. Four hours later, the tide being favourable, the ship + sailed out of port, and in due time the king was safely landed in France. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Celebration of the Kings return.—Those who flocked to Whitehall My Lord + Cleveland's gentlemen.—Sir Thomas Allen's supper.—Touching for King's + evil.—That none might lose their labour.—The man with the fungus + nose.—The memory of the regicides.—Cromwell's effigy.—Ghastly scene + at Tyburn.—The King's clemency.—The Coronation procession.—Sights and + scenes by the way.—His Majesty is crowned. +</pre> + <p> + The return of the king and his court was a signal for universal joy + throughout the nation in general and the capital in particular. For weeks + and months subsequent to his majesty's triumphal entry, the town did not + subside from its condition of excitement and revelry to its customary + quietude and sobriety. Feasts by day were succeeded by entertainments at + night; "and under colour of drinking the king's health," says Bishop + Burnet, "there were great disorder and much riot." + </p> + <p> + It seemed as if the people could not sufficiently express their delight at + the presence of the young king amongst them, or satisfy their desire of + seeing him. When clad in rich velvets and costly lace, adorned with many + jewels and waving feathers, he walked in Hyde Park attended by an + "abundance of gallantry," or went to Whitehall Chapel, where "the organs + and singing-men in surplices" were first heard by Mr. Pepys, a vast crowd + of loyal subjects attended him on his way. Likewise, when, preceded by + heralds, he journeyed by water in his barge to open Parliament, the river + was crowded with innumerable boats, and the banks lined with a great + concourse anxious for sight of him. Nor were his subjects satisfied by the + glimpses obtained of him on such occasions; they must needs behold their + king surrounded by the insignia of royalty in the palace of his ancestors, + and flocked thither in numbers. "The eagerness of men, women, and children + to see his majesty, and kisse his hands was so greate," says Evelyn, "that + he had scarce leisure to eate for some dayes, coming as they did from all + parts of the nation: and the king being as willing to give them that + satisfaction, would have none kept out, but gave free access to all sorts + of people." Indeed his loyal subjects were no less pleased with him than + he with them; and in faith he was sorry, he declared, in that delicate + strain of irony that ran like a bright thread throughout the whole pattern + of his speech, he had not come over before, for every man he encountered + was glad to see him. + </p> + <p> + Day after day, week after week, the Palace of Whitehall presented a scene + of ceaseless bustle. Courtiers, ambassadors, politicians, soldiers, and + citizens crowded the antechambers, flocked through the galleries, and + tarried in the courtyards. Deputations from all the shires and chief towns + in the three kingdoms, bearing messages of congratulation and loyalty, + were presented to the king. First of all came the worshipful lord mayor, + aldermen and council of the city of London, in great pomp and state; when + the common-sergeant made a speech to his majesty respecting the affection + of the city towards him, and the lord mayor, on hospitable thoughts + intent, besought the honour of his company to dinner, the which Charles + promised him most readily. And the same day the commissioners from Ireland + presented themselves, headed by Sir James Barry, who delivered himself of + a fine address regarding the love his majesty's Irish subjects bore him; + as proof of which he presented the monarch with a bill for twenty thousand + pounds, that had been duly accepted by Alderman Thomas Viner, a right + wealthy man and true. Likewise came the deputy steward and burgesses of + the city of Westminster, arrayed in the glory of new scarlet gowns; and + the French, Italian, and Dutch ministers, when Monsieur Stoope pronounced + an harangue with great eloquence. Also the vice-chancellor of the + University of Oxford, with divers doctors, bachelors of divinity, + proctors, and masters of arts of the same learned university, who, having + first met at the Temple Church, went by two and two, according to their + seniority, to Essex House, that they might wait on the most noble the + Marquis of Hertford, then chancellor. Accompanied by him, and preceded by + eight esquires and yeomen beadles, having their staves, and three of them + wearing gold chains, they presented themselves before the king, and spoke + him words of loyalty and greeting. The heads of the colleges and halls of + Cambridge, with some masters of arts, in like manner journeyed to + Whitehall, when Dr. Love delivered a learned Latin oration, expressive of + their devotion to royalty in the person of their most illustrious monarch. + </p> + <p> + Amongst others came, one day, my Lord Cleveland at the head of a hundred + gentlemen, many of them being officers who had formerly served under him, + and other gentlemen who had ridden to meet the king when coming unto his + own; and having arrived at Whitehall, they knelt down in the matted + gallery, when his majesty "was pleased to walk along," says MERCURIUS + PUBLICUS, "and give everyone of them the honour to kiss his hand, which + favour was so highly received by them, that they could no longer stifle + their joy, but as his majesty was walking out (a thing thought unusual at + court) they brake out into a loud shouting." + </p> + <p> + Then the nobility entertained the king and his royal brothers with much + magnificence, his Excellency Lord General Monk first giving at his + residence in the Cockpit, a great supper, after which "he entertained his + majesty with several sorts of musick;" Next Earl Pembroke gave a rare + banquet; also the Duke of Buckingham, my Lord Lumley, and many others. Nor + was my lord mayor, Sir Thomas Allen, behindhand in extending hospitality + to the king, whom he invited to sup with him. This feast, having no + connection with the civic entertainments, was held at good Sir Thomas's + house. The royal brothers of York and Gloucester were likewise bidden, + together with several of the nobility and gentry of high degree. Previous + to supper being served, the lord mayor brought his majesty a napkin dipped + in rose-water, and offered it kneeling; when his majesty had wiped his + hands, he sat down at a table raised by an ascent, the Duke of York on his + right hand, and the Duke of Gloucester on his left. They were served with + three several courses, at each of which the tablecloth was shifted, and at + every dish which his majesty or the dukes tasted, the napkins were + moreover changed. At another table in the same room sat his Excellency the + Lord General, the Duke of Buckingham, the Marquis of Ormond, the Earl of + Oxford, Earl of Norwich, Earl of St. Albans, Lords De la Ware, Sands, + Berkeley, and several other of the nobility, with knights and gentlemen of + great quality. Sir John Robinson, alderman of London, proposed his + majesty's health, which was pledged standing by all present. His majesty + was the while entertained with a variety of rare music. This supper was + given on the 16th of June; and a couple of weeks later, on the 5th of + July, the king went "with as much pompe and splendour as any earthly + prince could do to the greate Citty feast, the first they had invited him + to since his returne." + </p> + <p> + But whilst entertainments were given, and diversions occupied the town, + Charles was called upon to touch for the evil, an affliction then most + prevalent throughout the kingdom. According to a time-honoured belief + which obtained until the coming of George I., when faith in the divinity + of kings was no longer possible to the most ignorant, the monarch's touch + was credited with healing this most grievous disease. Majesty in those + days was sacred, and superstition rife. Accordingly we read in MERCURIUS + PUBLICUS that, "The kingdom having for a long time, by reason of his + majesty's absence, been troubled with the evil, great numbers flocked for + cure. Saturday being appointed by his majesty to touch such as were so + troubled, a great company of poor afflicted creatures were met together, + many brought in chairs and baskets; and being appointed by his majesty to + repair to the banqueting house, the king sat in a chair of state, where he + stroked all that were brought to him, and then put about each of their + necks a white ribbon with an angel of gold on it. In this manner his + majesty stroked above six hundred; and such was his princely patience and + tenderness to the poor afflicted creatures, that though it took up a long + time, the king, being never weary of well doing, was pleased to make + inquiry whether there were any more that had not been touched. After + prayers were ended the Duke of Buckingham brought a towel, and the Earl of + Pembroke a basin and ewer, who, after they had made their obeysance to his + majesty, kneeled down till his majesty had washed." + </p> + <p> + This was on the 23rd of June, a few days earlier than the date fixed by + Evelyn as that on which the king first began "touch for ye evil." A week + later we find he stroked as many as two hundred and fifty persons. Friday + was then appointed as the day for those suffering from this disease to + come before the king; it was moreover decided that only two hundred + persons should be presented each week and these were first to repair to + Mr. Knight, his majesty's surgeon, living at the Cross Guns, in Russell + Street, Covent Garden, over against the Rose tavern, for tickets of + admission. "That none might lose their labour." the same Mr. Knight made + it known to the public he would be at home on Wednesdays and Thursdays, + from two till six of the clock; and if any person of quality should send + for him he would wait upon them at their lodgings. The disease must indeed + have been rife: week after week those afflicted continued to present + themselves, and we read that, towards the end of July, "notwithstanding + all discouragements by the hot weather and the multitude of sick and + infirm people, his majesty abated not one of his accustomed number, but + touched full two hundred: an high conviction of all such physicians, + surgeons, and apothecaries that pretend self-preservation when the + languishing patient requires their assistance." Indeed, there were some + who placed boundless faith in the king's power of healing by touch; + amongst whom was one Avis Evans, whom Aubrey, in his "Miscellanies," + records "had a fungus nose, and said it was revealed to him that the + king's hand would cure him. And at the first coming of King Charles II. + into St. James's Park, he kissed the king's hand, and rubbed his nose with + it, which disturbed the king, but cured him." + </p> + <p> + The universal joy which filled the nation at the restoration of his + majesty was accompanied, as might be expected, by bitter hatred towards + the leaders of Republicanism, especially towards such as had condemned the + late king to death. The chief objects of popular horror now, however, lay + in their graves; but the sanctity of death was neither permitted to save + their memories from vituperation nor their remains from moltestation. + Accordingly, through many days in June the effigy of Cromwell, which had + been crowned with a royal diadem, draped with a purple mantle, in Somerset + House, and afterwards borne with all imaginable pomp to Westminster Abbey, + was now exposed at one of the windows at Whitehall with a rope fixed round + its neck, by way of hinting at the death which the original deserved. But + this mark of execration was not sufficient to satisfy the public mind, and + seven months later, on the 30th of January, 1661, the anniversary of the + murder of Charles I., the bodies of Oliver Cromwell, Henry Ireton, and + John Bradshaw were taken from their resting places in Westminster Abbey, + and drawn on hurdles to Tyburn, the well-known site of public executions. + "All the way the universal outcry and curses of the people went along with + them," says MERCURIUS PUBLICUS. "When these three carcasses arrived at + Tyburn, they were pulled out of their coffins, and hanged at the several + angles of that triple tree, where they hung till the sun was set; after + which they were taken down, their heads cut off; and their loathsome + trunks thrown into a deep hole under the gallows. The heads of those three + notorious regicides, Oliver Cromwell, John Bradshaw, and Ireton are set + upon poles on the top of Westminster Hall by the common hangman. Bradshaw + placed in the middle (over that part where the monstrous high court of + justice sat), Cromwell and his son-in-law Ireton on either side of + Bradshaw." + </p> + <p> + Before this ghastly execution took place, Parliament had brought to + justice such offenders against the late king's government and life as were + in its power. According to the declaration made by the king at Breda, a + full and general pardon was extended to all rebellious subjects, excepting + such persons as should be hereafter excepted by Parliament. By reason of + this clause, some who had been most violent in their persecution of + royalty were committed to the Tower before the arrival of his majesty, + others fled from the country, but had, on another proclamation summoning + them to surrender themselves, returned in hope of obtaining pardon. Thirty + in all were tried at the Old Bailey before the Commissioners of Oyer and + Terminer and a special jury of knights and gentlemen of quality in the + county of Middlesex. Twenty-nine of these were condemned to death. The + king was singularly free from desires of revenge; but many of his council + were strangers to clemency, and, under the guise of loyalty to the crown, + sought satisfaction for private wrongs by urging severest measures. The + monarch, however, shrank from staining the commencement of his reign with + bloodshed and advocated mercy. In a speech delivered to the House of Lords + he insisted that, as a point of honour, he was bound to make good the + assurances given in his proclamation of Breda, "which if I had not made," + he continued, "I am persuaded that neither I nor you had now been here. I + pray, therefore, let us not deceive those who brought or permitted us to + come together; and I earnestly desire you to depart from all particular + animosities and revenge or memory of past provocations." Accordingly, but + ten of those on whom sentence of death had been passed were executed, the + remainder being committed to the Tower. That they were not also hung was, + according to the mild and merciful Dr. Reeves, Dean of Westminster, "a + main cause of God's punishing the land" in the future time. For those + destined to suffer, a gibbet was erected at Charing Cross, that the + traitors might in their last moments see the spot where the late king had + been executed. Having been half hung, they were taken down, when their + heads were severed from their trunks and set up on poles at the south-east + end of Westminster Hall, whilst their bodies were quartered and exposed + upon the city gates. + </p> + <p> + Burnet tells us that "the regicides being odious beyond all expression, + the trials and executions of the first who suffered were run to by crowds, + and all the people seemed pleased with the sight;" yet by degrees these + cruel and ghastly spectacles became distasteful and disgusting. "I saw not + their executions," says Evelyn, speaking of four of the traitors who had + suffered death on the 17th of October, "but met their quarters mangled and + cutt and reeking as they were brought from the gallows in baskets on the + hurdle. Oh the miraculous providence of God!" + </p> + <p> + Seven months later, the people were diverted by the more cheerful pageant + of the king's coronation, which was conducted with great magnificence. + "Two days," as Heath narrates, "were allotted to the consummation of this + great and most celebrated action, the wonder, admiration and delight of + all persons, both foreign and domestick." Early on the morning of the 22nd + of May, the day being Monday, the king left Whitehall, by water, for the + Tower, in order that he might, according to ancient custom, proceed + through the city to Westminster Abbey. It was noticed that it had + previously rained for a month together, but on this and the next day "it + pleased God that not one drop fell on the king's triumph." At ten o'clock + the roaring of cannon announced the procession had left the Tower on its + way to Whitehall, where his majesty was to rest the night. The splendour + of the pageant was such as had never before been witnessed. The procession + was headed by the king's council at law, the masters of chancery and + judges, who were followed by the lords according to their rank, so + numerous in all, that those who rode first reached Fleet Street, whilst + the king was yet in the Tower. + </p> + <p> + No expense was spared by those who formed part of that wonderful + cavalcade, towards rendering their appearance magnificent. Heath tells us + it was incredible to think "what costly cloathes were worn that day. The + cloaks could hardly be seen what silk or satin they were made of, for the + gold and silver laces and embroidery that was laid upon them; the like + also was seen on their foot-cloathes. Besides the inestimable value and + treasures of diamonds, pearls, and other jewels worn upon their backs and + in their hats, not to mention the sumptuous and rich liveries of their + pages and footmen, some suits of liveries amounting to fifteen hundred + pounds." Nor had the city hesitated in lavishing vast sums towards + decorating the streets through which the king was to pass. Four triumphal + arches were erected, that were left standing for a year in memory of this + joyful day. These were "composed" by John Ogilby, Esquire; and were + respectively erected in Leadenhall Street, the Exchange on Cornhill, Wood + Street, and Fleet Street. + </p> + <p> + The thoroughfares were newly gravelled, railed all the way on both sides, + and lined with the city companies and trained bands. The "relation of his + majesty's entertainment passing through the City of London," as narrated + by John Ogilby, and by the papers of the day, is extremely quaint and + interesting, but too long for detailed description. During the monarch's + progress through "Crouched Friers," he was diverted with music discoursed + by a band of eight waits, placed upon a stage. At Aldgate, and at several + other stages of his journey, he was received in like manner. Arriving at + the great arch in Leadenhall Street, his ears were greeted by sounds of + trumpets and drums playing marches; when they had finishes, a short scene + was enacted on a balcony of the arch, by figures representing Monarchy, + Rebellion, and Loyalty. Then the great procession wended its way to the + East India House, situate in the same street, when the East India Company + took occasion to express their dutiful affections, in a manner "wholly + designed by person of quality." As the king advanced, a youth in an Indian + habit, attended by two blackamoors, knelt down before his majesty's horse, + and delivered himself of some execrable verse, which he had no sooner + ended than another youth in an Indian vest, mounted on a camel, was led + forwards and delivered some lines praying his majesty's subjects might + never see the sun set on his crown or dignity. The camel, it my be + noticed, bore panniers filled with pearls, spices, and silks, destined to + be scattered among the spectators. At Cornhill was a conduit, surmounted + by eight wenches representing nymphs—a sight which must have + rejoiced the king's heart; and on the tower of this same fountain sounded + "a noise of seven trumpets." Another fountain flowed with wine and water; + and on his way the king heard several speeches delivered by various + symbolic figures. One of these, who made a particularly fine harangue, + represented the River Thames, as a gentleman whose "garment loose and + flowing, coloured blue and white, waved like water, flags and ozier-like + long hair falling o'er his shoulders; his beard long, sea-green, and + white." And so by slow degrees the king came to Temple Bar, where he was + entertained by "a view of a delightful boscage, full of several beasts, + both tame and savage, as also several living figures and music of eight + waits." And having passed through Temple Bar into his ancient and native + city of Westminster, the head bailiff in a scarlet robe and the high + constable, likewise in scarlet, on behalf of the dean, chapter, city, and + liberty, received his majesty with great expressions of joy. + </p> + <p> + Never had there been so goodly a show so grand a procession; the citizens, + still delighted with their young king, had certainly excelled in doing him + honour, and some foreigners, Heaton says, "acknowledged themselves never + to have seen among all the great magnificences of the world any to come + near or equal this: even the vaunting French confessed their pomps of the + late marriage with the Infanta of Spain, at their majesties' entrance into + Paris, to be inferior in its state, gallantry, and riches unto this most + illustrious cavalcade." Amongst those who witnessed the procession was Mr. + Pepys, who has left us a realistic description, without which this picture + would be incomplete. He tells us he arose early on this day; and the vain + fellow says he made himself as fine as could be, putting on his velvet + coat for the first time, though he had it made half a year before. "And + being ready," he continues, "Sir W. Batten, my lady, and his two + daughters, and his son and wife, and Sir W. Pen and his son and I, went to + Mr. Young's, the flag-maker, in Corne-hill; and there we had a good room + to ourselves, with wine and good cake, and saw the show very well. In + which it is impossible to relate the glory of this day, expressed in the + clothes of them that rid, and their horses and horses' clothes; among + others, my Lord Sandwich's embroidery and diamonds were ordinary among + them. The Knights of the Bath was a brave sight of itself. Remarquable + were the two men that represent the two Dukes of Normandy and Aquitane. My + Lord Monk rode bare after the king, and led in his hand a spare horse, as + being Master of the Horse. The king, in a most rich embroidered suit and + cloak, looked most noble. Wadlow, the vintner, at the Devil, in Fleet + Street, did lead a fine company of soldiers, all young comely men in white + doublets. There followed the Vice-Chamberlain, Sir G. Carteret, and a + company of men all like Turkes. The streets all gravelled, and the houses + hung with carpets before them, made brave show; and the ladies out of the + windows, one of which over against us, I took much notice of, and spoke of + her, which made good sport among us. So glorious was the show with gold + and silver, that we were not able to look at it, our eyes at last being so + much overcome with it. Both the king and the Duke of York took notice of + us as they saw us at the window. The show being ended, Mr. Young did give + us a dinner, at which we were very merry and pleased above imagination at + what we have seen." + </p> + <p> + The next day, being the feast of St. George, patron of England, the king + went in procession from Whitehall to Westminster Abbey, where he was + solemnly crowned in the presence of a vast number of peers and bishops. + After which, surrounded by the same brilliant company, he passed from the + Abbey to Westminster Hall, the way being covered with blue cloth, and + lined with spectators to the number of ten thousand. Here his majesty and + the lords, spiritual and temporal, dined sumptuously, whilst many fine + ceremonies were observed, music of all sorts was played, and a great crowd + of pretty ladies looked down from the galleries. And when the banquet was + over, and a general pardon had been read by the lord chancellor, and the + champion had drank out of the king's gold cup, Charles betook himself to + Whitehall. Then, after two days of fair weather, it suddenly "fell + a-raining, and thundering and lightning," says Pepys, "as I have not seen + it do for some years; which people did take great notice of." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The King's character.—His proverbial grace.—He tells a story well.—"A + warmth and sweetness of the blood."—Beautiful Barbara Palmer.—Her + intrigue with my Lord Chesterfield.—James, Duke of York.—His + early days.—Escape from St. James's.—Fights in the service of + France.—Marriage with Anne Hyde.—Sensation at Court.—The Duke of + Gloucester's death.—The Princess of Orange.—Schemes against the + Duke of York's peace.—The "lewd informer."—Anne Hyde is acknowledged + Duchess of York. +</pre> + <p> + Whilst the kingdom was absorbed by movements consequent on its change of + government, the court was no less engrossed by incidents relative to the + career it had begun. In the annals of court life there are no pages more + interesting than those dealing with Charles II, and his friends; in the + history of kings there is no more remarkable figure than that of the merry + monarch himself. + </p> + <p> + Returning to rule over a nation which, during his absence, had been + distracted by civil strife, King Charles, young in years, brave in deeds, + and surrounded by that halo of romance which misfortune lends its victims, + entirely gained the hearts of his subjects. Nature had endowed him with + gifts adapted to display qualities that fascinated, and fitted to hide + blemishes which repelled. On the one hand his expressive features and + shapely figure went far towards creating a charm which his personal grace + and courtesy of manner completed; on the other, his delicate tact screened + the heartlessness of his sensualism, whilst his surface sympathies hid the + barrenness of his cynicism. + </p> + <p> + With the coolness and courage he had shown in danger, the shrewdness and + wit he continually evinced, and the varied capacities he certainly + possessed, Charles II. might have made his reign illustrious, had not his + love of ease and detestation of business rendered him indifferent to all + things so long as he was free to follow his desires. But these faults, + which became grievous in the eyes of his subjects, commended him to the + hearts of his courtiers, the common purpose of whose lives was pursuit of + pleasure. Never was sovereign more gracious to those who came in contact + with him, or less ceremonious with his friends; whilst abroad he had lived + with his little band of courtiers more as a companion than a king. The + bond of exile had drawn them close together; an equal fortune had gone far + towards obliterating distinctions of royalty; and custom had so fitted the + monarch and his friends to familiarity, that on his return to England + neither he nor they laid aside a mutual freedom of treatment which by + degrees extended itself throughout the court. For all that, "he was + master," as Welwood says, "of something in his person and aspect that + commanded both love and admiration at once." + </p> + <p> + Among his many gifts was that of telling a story well—a rare one + 'tis true in all ages. Never was he better pleased than when, surrounded + by a group of gossips, he narrated some anecdote of which he was the hero; + and, though his tales were more than twice told, they were far from + tedious; inasmuch as, being set forth with brighter flashes of wit and + keener touches of irony, they were ever pleasant to hear. His conversation + was of a like complexion to his tales, pointed, shrewd, and humorous; + frequently—as became the manner of the times—straying far + afield of propriety, and taking liberties of expression of which nice + judgments could not approve. But indeed his majesty's speech was not more + free than his conduct was licentious. He could not think, he gravely told + Bishop Burnet, "God would make a man miserable for taking a little + pleasure out of the way." Accordingly he followed the free bent of his + desires, and his whole life was soon devoted to voluptuousness; a vice + which an ingenious courtier obligingly describes as a "warmth and + sweetness of the blood that would not be confined in the communicating + itself—an overflowing of good nature, of which he had such a stream + that it would not be restrained within the banks of a crabbed and + unsociable virtue." + </p> + <p> + The ease and freedom of his continental life had no doubt fostered this + lamentable depravity; for his misfortunes as an exiled king by no means + prevented him following his inclinations as an ardent lover. Accordingly, + his intrigues at that time were numerous, as may be judged from the fact + of Lady Byron being described as "his seventeenth mistress abroad." The + offspring of one of his continental mistresses was destined to plunge the + English nation into civil warfare, and to suffer a traitor's death on + Tower Hill in the succeeding reign. + </p> + <p> + "The profligacy which Charles practised abroad not being discontinued at + home, he resumed in England an intrigue commenced at Brussels a short time + before the restoration. The object of this amour was the beautiful Barbara + Palmer, afterwards, by reason of her lack of virtue, raised to the peerage + under the titles of Countess of Castlemaine, and Duchess of Cleveland. + This lady, who became a most prominent figure in the court of the merry + monarch, was daughter of William, second Viscount Grandison, a brave + gentleman and a loyal, who had early in life fallen in the civil war + whilst fighting for his king. He is described as having, among other + gifts, "a faultless person," a boon, which descended to his only child, + the bewitching Barbara. In the earliest dawn of her womanhood she + encountered her first lover in the person of Philip Stanhope, second Earl + of Chesterfield. My lord was at this time a youthful widower, and is + described as having "a very agreeable face, a fine head of hair, an + indifferent shape, and a pleasant wit. He was, moreover, an elegant beau + and a dissolute man—testimony of which latter fact may be gathered + from a letter written to him in 1658, by his sister-in-law, Lady Essex, to + prevent the "ruin of his soule." Writes her ladyship: "You treate all the + mad drinking lords, you sweare, you game, and commit all the extravagances + that are insident to untamed youths, to such a degree that you make + yourselfe the talke of all places, and the wonder of those who thought + otherwise of you, and of all sober people." + </p> + <p> + When Barbara was sixteen, my lord, then in his twenty-third year, + inherited the title and estates of his grandfather: he therefore became + master of his own fortune and could bestow his hand where he pleased. That + he was in love with Barbara is, indeed, most true; but that his passion + was dishonourable is likewise certain: for though he wrote her letters + full of tenderness, and kept assignations with her at Butler's shop, on + Ludgate Hill, he was the while negotiating a marriage with one Mrs. + Fairfax, to whom he was not, however, united. His intrigue with Barbara + continued for upwards of three years, when it was temporarily suspended by + her marriage to one Roger Palmer, a student of the Inner Temple, the son + of a Middlesex knight, and, moreover, a man of the most obliging temper, + as will hereafter be seen. Barbara's loyalty to her husband was but of + short duration. Before she had been nine months a wife, we find her + writing to her old lover she is "ready and willing to goe all over the + world" with him—a sacrifice he declined to accept! though eager to + take advantage of the affection which prompted it. A little while later he + was obliged to quit England; for it happened in the first month of the + year 1660 he quarrelled with and killed one Francis Woolley, a student at + law, to avoid the consequences of which act he speedily fled the country. + </p> + <p> + Arriving at Calais, he wrote to King Charles, who was then preparing to + return, throwing himself on his mercy, and beseeching his pardon; which + the king granting, Lord Chesterfield sought his majesty at Brussels. Soon + afterwards Barbara Palmer and her complaisant husband, a right loyal man, + joined the king's court abroad, when the intrigue begun which was + continued on the night of the monarch's arrival in London. True the loyal + PARLIAMENTARY INTELLIGENCER stated "his majesty was diverted from his + pious intention of going to Westminster to offer up his devotions of + prayer and praise in publick according to the appointment of his Majesty, + and made his oblations unto God in the presence-chamber;" but it is, alas, + equally certain, according to Oldmixon, Lord Dartmouth, and other reliable + authorities, he spent the first night of his return in the company of + Barbara Palmer. From that time this abandoned woman exercised an influence + over the king which wholly disgraced his court, and almost ruined his + kingdom. + </p> + <p> + Another prominent figure, whose history is inseparable from the king's, + was that of his majesty's brother, James, Duke of York—a man of + greater ambition and lesser talents than the merry monarch, but one whose + amorous disposition equalled the monarch's withal. At an early period of + his life the Duke of York was witness of the strife which divided his + unhappy father's kingdom. When only eight years old he was sent for by + Charles I. to York, but was forbidden by the Parliament to leave St. + James's Palace. Despite its commands he was, however, carried to the king + by the gallant Marquis of Hereford. That same year the boy witnessed the + refusal of Sir John Hotham, Governor of Hull, to admit his majesty within + the gates; and James was subsequently present at the siege of Bristol, and + the famous battle of Edgehill, when his life at one period of the + engagement was in imminent peril. + </p> + <p> + Until 1646 he continued under the guardianship of his father, when, on the + entrance of Fairfax into Oxford, the young duke was found among the + prisoners, and by Cromwell's orders committed to the charge of Sir George + Ratcliffe. A few months later he was removed to St. James's Palace, when + in company with his brother, the Duke of Gloucester, and his sister, the + Princess Elizabeth, he was placed under the care of Lord Northumberland, + who had joined the Republican cause. + </p> + <p> + Though by no means treated with unkindness, the young duke, unhappy at the + surveillance placed upon his actions and fearful of the troubles quickly + gathering over the kingdom, twice sought escape. This was a serious + offence in the eyes of Cromwell's Parliament; a committee was accordingly + sent to examine him, and he was threatened with imprisonment in the Tower. + Though only in his fourteenth year he already possessed both determination + and courage, by reason of which he resolved to risk all danger, and make a + third effort for freedom. Accordingly he laid his plans with much + ingenuity, selecting two men from those around him to aid his undertaking. + These were George Howard and Colonel Bamfield. The latter had once served + in the king's army, but when the fortunes of war had gone against his + royal master, had professed himself friendly to the Republicans. No doubt + the young duke saw the gallant colonel was still true at heart to the + Royalist cause, and therefore trusted him at this critical juncture. + </p> + <p> + Now for a fortnight previous to the night on which he designed to escape, + James made it his habit to play at hide-and-seek every evening after + supper with his brother and sister, and the children of the officers then + located in the palace; and in such secure places did he secrete himself + that his companions frequently searched for over half an hour without + discovering him. This of course accustomed the household to miss him, and + was cunningly practised for the purpose of gaining time on his pursuers + when he came to be sought for in good earnest. + </p> + <p> + At last the eventful night fixed for his escape arrived; and after supper + a pleasant group of merry children prepared to divert themselves in the + long dark halls and narrow winding passages of the grim old palace. James, + as usual, proposed concealing himself, and leaving his companions for the + purpose, disappeared behind some arras; but, instead of hiding, he + hastened to his sister's chamber, where he locked up a favourite dog that + was in the habit of following his footsteps wherever he went, and then + noiselessly slipped down a back stairs which led to an inner garden. + Having taken care to provide himself with a key fitting the garden door, + he quickly slipped into the park. Here he found Colonel Bamfield waiting, + who, giving him a cloak and a wig for his better disguise, hurried him + into a hackney coach, which drove them as far as Salisbury House in the + Strand. From thence they went through Spring Garden, and down Ivy Lane, + when, taking boat, they landed close by London Bridge. Here entering the + house of a surgeon friendly to their adventure, they found a woman named + Murray awaiting them, who immediately provided a suit of woman's wearing + apparel for the young duke, in which she helped to attire him. Dressed in + this costume he, attended by the faithful Bamfield, hastened to Lion Quay, + where they entered a barge hired for their conveyance to a Dutch frigate + stationed beyond Gravesend. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the children not being able to discover their playfellow in the + palace, their elders became suspicious of the duke's escape, and began to + aid the search. Before an hour elapsed they were convinced he had fled, + and St. James's was thrown into a state of the utmost excitement and + confusion. Notice of his flight was at once despatched to General Fairfax + at Whitehall, who immediately gave orders have all the roads from London + guarded, especially those leading to the north; for it was surmised he + would in the first instance seek to escape into Wales. The duke, however, + had taken a safer course, but one which was not unattended by danger. He + had not sailed far in the barge when its master became suspicious that he + was aiding the escape of some persons of consequence, and became + frightened lest he should get into trouble by rendering them his services. + And presently his surmise was converted into certainty; for looking + through a cranny of the barge-room door, he saw the young woman fling her + leg on the table and pull up her stocking in a most unmaidenly manner. He + therefore at once peremptorily declared to Colonel Bamfield they must land + at Gravesend, and procure another boat to carry them to the ship; for it + would be impossible for the barge to pass the block-house lower down + without being observed, and consequently inspected, as was the custom at + this troubled time. On hearing which Colonel Bamfield was filled with + dismay; but, knowing that at heart the people were loyal towards the + Stuarts, he confided the identity of his passenger, and begged him not to + betray them in this hour of peril. To give his appeal further weight, he + promised the fellow a considerable sum if they safely reached the frigate; + for human nature is weak, and greed of gold is strong. On this, the + bargee, who was a loyal man, promised he would help them to the best of + his powers; the lights were therefore extinguished, the oars drawn in, + and, the tide fortunately answering, the barge glided noiselessly down + under cover of night, and passed the block-house unobserved. In good time + they reached the frigate, which, the duke and Colonel Bamfield boarding, + at once set sail, and in a few days landed them at Middleburgh. James + proceeded to the court of his sister, the Princess of Orange, and later on + joined his mother in France. + </p> + <p> + At the age of twenty he served in the French army, under Turenne, against + the Spanish forces in Flanders, and subsequently in several campaigns, + where he invariably showed himself so brave and valiant that the Prince de + Conde declared that if ever there was a man without fear, it was James, + Duke of York. Now it happened that in 1658 the Princess of Orange went to + Paris in order to visit the queen mother, as the widow of Charles I. was + called. The Duke of York was in the gay capital at this time, and it soon + became noticed that he fixed his attention overmuch on one of his sister's + maids of honour, Anne Hyde. This gentlewoman, then in her twenty-first + year, was the possessor of a comely countenance, excellent shape, and much + wit. Anne was daughter of Edward Hyde, a worthy man, who had been bred to + the law, and proved himself so faithful a servant to Charles I., that his + majesty had made him Privy Councillor and Chancellor of the Exchequer. + After the king's execution, in 1649, the chancellor thought it wise for + himself and his family to seek refuge in exile, and accordingly joined + Charles II., with whom he lived in the closest friendship, and for whose + return he subsequently negotiated with General Monk. + </p> + <p> + Now James, after his fashion, made love to Mistress Hyde, who encouraged + his advances until they reached a certain stage, beyond which the + judicious maiden forbade them to proceed unless blessed by the sanction of + holy church. The Duke, impatient to secure his happiness, was therefore + secretly united to Mistress Hyde in the bonds of matrimony on the 24th of + November, in the year of grace 1659, at Breda, to which place the Princess + of Orange had returned. In a little while, the restoration being effected, + the duke returned to England with the king, leaving his bride behind. And + Chancellor Hyde being presently re-established in his offices, and settled + in his residence at Worcester House in the Strand, sent for his wife and + children; the more speedily as he had received an overture from a noble + family, on behalf of "a hopeful, well-bred young gentleman," who expressed + himself anxious to wed with Mistress Anne. + </p> + <p> + The same young lady had not long returned, when she informed her husband + she was about to become a mother; whereon the duke, seeking the king, fell + upon his knees before him, laid bare his secret, and besought him to + sanction his union, "that he might publicly marry in such a manner as his + majesty thought necessary for the consequence thereof;" adding that, if + consent were refused, he would "immediately take leave of the kingdom and + spend his life in foreign parts." King Charles was astonished and + perplexed by this confession. James was heir, and as such it behoved him + to wed with one suited, by reason of her lineage, to support the dignity + of the crown, and calculated by her relation towards foreign powers to + strengthen the influence of the throne. The duke was fully aware of this, + and, moreover, knew he could without much difficulty have his marriage + annulled; but that he did not adopt this course was an honourable trait in + his character; and, indeed, his conduct and that of the king was most + creditable throughout the transactions which followed; an account of which + is set forth with great minuteness in the "Continuation of Edward Hyde, + Lord Clarendon's Life." + </p> + <p> + Without the advice of his council, the king could give no satisfactory + reply to his brother. He therefore summoned two of his trusty friends, the + Marquis of Ormond and the Earl of Southampton, whom he informed of the + duke's marriage, requesting them to communicate the same to the + chancellor, and return with him for private consultation. The good man's + surprise at this news concerning his daughter was, according to his own + account, exceeding great, and was only equalled by his vast indignation. + His loyalty towards the royal family was so fervent that it overlooked his + affection to his child. He therefore fell into a violent passion, + protested against her wicked presumption, and advised that the king + "should immediately cause the woman to be sent to the Tower, and to be + cast into a dungeon, under so strict a guard that no person should be + admitted to come to her; and then that an act of parliament should be + immediately passed for the cutting off her head, to which he would not + only give his consent, but would very willingly be the first man that + should propose it." All this he presently repeated to the king, and + moreover, assured him an example of the highest severity, in a case so + nearly concerning himself, would serve as a warning that others might take + heed of offences committed against his regal dignity. + </p> + <p> + News of this marriage spread throughout the court with rapidity, and + caused the utmost excitement; which in a little while was somewhat abated + by the announcement that the king's youngest brother, Henry, Duke of + Gloucester, was taken ill of small-pox. This young prince, who is + described as "a pretty boy," possessed parts which bade fair to surpass + his brothers. He was indeed associated by his family with their tenderest + memories, inasmuch as he had been with his father on the sad day previous + to his execution. On that melancholy occasion, Charles I. had taken him + upon his knee, and said to him very tenderly, "Sweetheart, they will cut + off thy father's head," at which the boy shuddered and turned pale. "Mark, + child, what I say," continued the unhappy king, "they will cut off my + head, and, perhaps, make thee a king; but mark what I say, you must not be + made king as long as your brothers Charles and James are alive, for they + will cut off thy brothers' heads when they catch them, and cut off thy + head at last; and therefore I charge you not to be made a king by them." + To which the lad replied very earnestly, "I will be torn in pieces first." + Sometime after the death of his father he was allowed to join his family + in France, and, like his brother James, entered the army of that country. + On the restoration, he had returned with the king, and, three months + later, this "prince of very extraordinary hopes" died, grievously lamented + by the court, and especially by his majesty, who declared he felt this + loss more than any other which had previously fallen upon him. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had he been laid to rest in the vault containing the dust of Mary + Queen of Scots and Lady Arabella Stuart, when the Princess of Orange + arrived in England to pay the king a visit of ceremony. No sooner was she + settled at court, than rumour of her brother's marriage reached her; on + which she became outrageous; but her wrath was far exceeded by that of the + queen mother, who, on hearing the news, wrote to the duke expressing her + indignation "that he should have such low thoughts as to marry such a + woman." The epistle containing this sentence was at once shown by James to + his wife, whom he continually saw and spent much time with, unknown to her + father, who had given orders she should keep her chamber. Parliament now + sat, but no mention was made of the duke's marriage by either House; and, + inasmuch as the union so nearly concerned the nation, this silence caused + considerable surprise. It was surmised the delay was made in deference to + the feelings of the queen mother, who at this juncture set out for + England, to prevent what she was pleased to term "so great a stain and + dishonour to the crown." The king regarded his brother's alliance in a + lenient spirit, and not only spoke of it frequently before the court, but + expressed his desire of bringing the indiscretion to a happy conclusion by + a public acknowledgment. + </p> + <p> + The queen mother, being an ambitious woman, had cherished certain schemes + for extending the power of her family by the respective marriages of her + sons, which the duke's union was, of course, calculated to curtail. She + therefore regarded his wife with the bitterest disdain. Whenever that + woman should be brought into Whitehall by one door, her majesty declared + she would leave it by another and never enter it again. The marriage was + rendered all the more disagreeable to the queen, because the object of her + son's choice was daughter of the lord chancellor, whose influence over + Charles II. had frequently opposed her plans in the past, and threatened + to prevent their realization in the future. The monarch, however, paid + little attention to his mother's indignation. He was resolved no disgrace + which he could hinder should fall upon the family of one who had served + him with disinterested loyalty; and, by way of proving his friendship + towards the chancellor on the present occasion, he, before setting out to + meet his mother on her arrival at Dover, presented him with twenty + thousand pounds, and left a signed warrant for creating him a baron, which + he desired the attorney-general to have ready to pass the seals at his + return. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime a wicked plot, for the purpose of lessening James's + affection for his wife, and ultimately preventing the acknowledgment of + his marriage, was promoted by the chancellor's enemies and the duke's + friends, principal amongst whom were the Princess of Orange and Sir + Charles Berkley, "a fellow of great wickedness," Sir Charles was his royal + highness's most trusted friend, and was, moreover, devoted to the service + of the princess and her mother. He therefore determined to hinder the duke + from taking a step which he was of opinion would injure him irretrievably. + Accordingly, when James spoke in confidence concerning his marriage, Sir + Charles told him it was wholly invalid, inasmuch as it had taken place + without the king's consent; and that a union with the daughter of an + insignificant lawyer was not to be thought of by the heir to the crown. + Moreover, he hinted he could a tale unfold regarding her behaviour. At + this the duke became impatient to hear what his good friend had to say; + whereon that valiant gentleman boasted, with an air of bravery and truth, + of certain gallantries which had passed between him and the lady. On + hearing this, James, being credulous was sorely depressed. He ceased to + visit his wife, withdrew from general company; and so well did Sir Charles's + scheme succeed, that before the queen's arrival, the duke had decided on + denying his marriage with one who had brought him dishonour. The king, + however, put no faith in these aspersions; he felt sure "there was a + wicked conspiracy set on foot by villains." + </p> + <p> + It therefore happened the queen was spared the trouble she had anticipated + with her son; indeed, he humbly begged her pardon for "having placed his + affections so unequally, of which he was sure there was now an end"—a + confession most gratifying to her majesty. The duke's bitter depression + continued, and was soon increased by the death of his sister, the Princess + of Orange, which was occasioned by smallpox on the 23rd of December, 1660. + In her last agonies Lord Clarendon says "she expressed a dislike of the + proceedings in that affair, to which she had contributed too much." This + fact, together with his royal highness's unhappiness, had due weight on + Sir Charles Berkley, who began to repent of the calumnies he had spoken. + Accordingly, the "lewd informer" went to the duke, and sought to repair + the evil he had wrought. Believing, he said, such a marriage would be the + absolute ruin of his royal highness, he had made the accusation which he + now confessed to be false, and without the least ground; for he was very + confident of the lady's honour and virtue. He then begged pardon on his + knees for a fault committed out of pure devotion, and trusted the duke + would "not suffer him to be ruined by the power of those whom he had so + unworthily provoked, and of which he had so much shame that he had not + confidence to look upon them." + </p> + <p> + James was so much relieved by what he heard that he not only forgave Sir + Charles, but embraced him, and promised him protection. Nor did his royal + highness longer withhold the reparation due to his wife, who, with the + approval of the king and the reluctant consent of the queen, was received + at court as Duchess of York. Such was the romance connected with the + marriage of her who became mother of two English queens—Mary, wife + of William of Orange, and Anne, of pious memory. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Morality of the Restoration.—Puritan piety.—Conduct of women under + the Republic.—Some notable courtiers.—The Duke of Ormond and his + family.—Lord St. Albans and Henry Jermyn.—His Grace of Buckingham + and Mistress Fairfax.—Lord Rochester.—Beautiful Barbara Palmer.—The + King's Projected marriage.—Catherine of Braganza.—His Majesty's + speech.—A Royal love-letter.—The new Queen sets sail. +</pre> + <p> + A general idea obtains that the libertine example set forth by Charles II. + and his courtiers is wholly to blame for the spirit of depravity which + marked his reign. That it was in part answerable for the spread of + immorality is true, inasmuch as the royalists, considering sufficient + aversion could not be shown to the loathsome hypocrisy of the puritans, + therefore fell into an opposite extreme of ostentatious profligacy. But + that the court was entirely responsible for the vice tainting all classes + of society whilst the merry monarch occupied the throne, is false. + </p> + <p> + Other causes had long been tending to produce this unhappy effect. The + reign of the Commonwealth had not been, remarkable for its virtue, though + it had been notable for its pharisaism. With the puritan, words of piety + took place of deeds of grace; the basest passions were often hidden under + sanctimonious exteriors. Even Cromwell, "a man of long and dark + discourses, sermons, and prayers," was not above reproach. Bishop Burnet, + who has no harsh words for him, and few gentle ones for Charles, states + the Protector's intrigue with Lady Dysart was "not a little taken notice + of;" on which, the godly man "broke it off." He therefore, Heath records, + began an amour with a lady of lesser note—Mrs. Lambert, the wife of + a puritan, herself a lady devoted to psalm singing and audible prayer + when, not otherwise pleasantly engaged. + </p> + <p> + The general character of many news-sheets of the day proves that morality + under the Republic was at a low ebb. Anarchy in a kingdom invariably + favours dissoluteness in a people, inasmuch as the disturbance of civil + order tends to unsettle moral law. Homes being divided amongst themselves + by political strife, paternal care was suspended, and filial respect + ignored. In the general confusion which obtained, the distinction of + social codes was overlooked. Lord Clarendon states that; during this + unhappy period, young people of either sex were "educated in all the + liberty of vice, without reprehension or restraint." He adds, "The young + women conversed without any circumspection or modesty, and frequently met + at taverns and common eating-houses." An additional description of the + ways and manners of young maidens under the Republic is given in a rare + and curious pamphlet entitled "A Character of England as it was lately + presented in a Letter to a Nobleman of France"; printed in the year 1659, + for Jo. Crooke, and sold at the Ship in St. Paul's Yard. Having spoken of + taverns where "fury and intemperance" reign, and where, "that nothing may + be wanting to the height of luxury and impiety, organs have been + translated out of the churches for the purpose of chanting their + dithyrambics and bestiall bacchanalias to the tune of those instruments + which were wont to assist them in the celebration of God's praises," the + writer continues: "Your lordship will scarce believe me that the ladies of + greatest quality suffer themselves to be treated in one of those taverns, + where a curtezan in other cities would scarcely vouchsafe to be + entertained; but you will be more astonish't when I shall assure you that + they drink their crowned cups roundly, strain healths through their + smocks, daunce after the fiddle, kiss freely, and tearm it an honourable + treat." He furthermore says they were to be found until midnight in + company with their lovers at Spring Garden, which seemed to be "contrived + to all the advantages of gallantry." From which evidences it may be + gathered, that London under the Commonwealth was little less vicious than + under the merry monarch. + </p> + <p> + The court Charles speedily gathered round him on his restoration was the + most brilliant the nation had ever witnessed. Those of birth and + distinction who had sought refuge abroad during the late troubles, now + joyfully returned: whilst the juvenile branches of noble families living + in retirement in England, to whom royalty had been a stranger, no less + eagerly flocked to the presence of the gay young king. The wit and + politeness of the men, the grace and beauty of the women, who surrounded + Charles II. have become proverbial; whilst the gallantries of the one, and + the frailties of the other, savour more of romance than reality. + </p> + <p> + That the condition of the court on its establishment may be realized, it + is necessary, at this stage of its history, to introduce briefly some of + the chief personages who surrounded his majesty, and occupied prominent + attention in the annals of his reign. Notably amongst them were the + gallant Duke of Ormond and his family. His grace, now in his fiftieth + year, was distinguished for his commanding appearance, gracious manner, + and excellent wit. During the troubles of the civil war, he had proved + himself a most loyal subject, inasmuch as he had vested his fortune and + ventured his person in service of the late king. Subsequently refusing + liberal offers made him by Cromwell, on condition of living in peaceful + retirement, he, after the execution of Charles I., betook himself to + France, and shared exile with the young king until the restoration. In + consequence of his proven fealty, honours were then deservingly showered + upon him: he was made grand steward of the household, first lord of the + bedchamber, and subsequently lord lieutenant of Ireland. The duchess, who + had participated in her husband's misfortunes with a courage equal to his + own, was a high-minded and most virtuous lady, who had brought up her + family with great care. Scarcely less distinguished in mien and manner + than the duke, were his two sons, Thomas, Earl of Ossory, and Lord Richard + Butler, afterwards Earl of Arran. My lord of Ossory was no less remarkable + for his beauty than famous for his accomplishments: he rode and played + tennis to perfection, performed upon the lute to entrancement, and danced + to the admiration of the court; he was moreover a good historian, and well + versed in chronicles of romance. No less was the Earl of Arran proficient + in qualifications befitting his birth, and gifted with attributes aiding + his gallantry. + </p> + <p> + A third member of this noble family played a more remarkable part in the + history of the court during her brief career than either of her brothers. + This was the Lady Elizabeth Butler, eldest daughter of the duke, who, + unfortunately for her own happiness, married my Lord Chesterfield at the + Hague, when, a few months before the restoration, that nobleman fled to + the continent to escape the consequences of Francis Woolley's murder. In + Lely's picture of the young Countess of Chesterfield, her piquancy + attracts at a glance, whilst her beauty charms on examination. Her cousin, + Anthony Hamilton, describes her as having large blue eyes, very tempting + and alluring, a complexion extremely fair, and a heart "ever open to + tender sentiments," by reason of which her troubles arose, as shall be set + down in proper sequence. + </p> + <p> + Henry Jermyn, Earl of St. Albans, and his nephew, "the little Jermyn," + were also notable as figuring in court intrigues. The earl was member of + the privy council to his majesty, and moreover held a still closer + connection to the queen mother; for, according to Sir John Reresby, Madame + Buviere, and others, her majesty had privately married his lordship abroad—an + act of condescension he repaid with inhumanity. Madame Buviere says he + never gave the queen a good word; and when she spoke to him he used to + say, "Que me veut cette femme?" The same authority adds, he treated her + majesty in an extremely ill manner, "so that whilst she had not a faggot + to warm herself, he had in his apartments a good fire and a sumptuous + table." [This testimony concerning the queen's poverty is borne out by + Cardinal de Retz. In his interesting Memoirs he tells of a visit he paid + the queen mother, then an exile in Paris. He found her with her youngest + daughter, Henrietta, in the chamber of the latter. "At my coming in," says + the Cardinal, "she (the queen) said, 'You see, I am come to keep Henrietta + company; the poor child could not rise to-day for want of a fire.' The + truth is, that the Cardinal (Mazarin) for six months together had not + ordered her any money towards her pension; that no tradespeople would + trust her for anything and there was not at her lodgings a single billet. + You will do me the justice to think that the princess of England did not + keep her bed the next day for want of a faggot... Posterity will hardly + believe that a princess of England, grand-daughter to Henry the Great, + hath wanted a faggot in the month of January, in the Louvre, and in the + eyes of the French court."] Pepys records that the marriage of her majesty + to the earl was commonly talked of at the restoration; and he likewise + mentions it was rumoured "that they had a daughter between them in France. + How true," says this gossip, "God knows." + </p> + <p> + The earl's nephew, Henry Jermyn, is described as having a big head and + little legs, an affected carriage, and a wit consisting "in expressions + learned by rote, which he occasionally employed either in raillery or + love." For all that, he being a man of amorous disposition, the number of + his intrigues was no less remarkable than the rank of those who shared + them. Most notable amongst his conquests was the king's eldest sister, + widow of the Prince of Orange—a lady possessing in no small degree + natural affections for which her illustrious family were notorious. During + the exile of Charles II., Henry Jermyn had made a considerable figure at + her court in Holland by reason of the splendour of his equipage, entirely + supported by his uncle's wealth; he had likewise made a forcible + impression on her heart by virtue of the ardour of his addresses, wholly + sustained by his own effrontery. The effect of his presence on the + princess soon became visible to the court. Rumour whispered that as Lord + St. Albans had already made an alliance with royalty, his nephew had + likewise followed his example; but scandal declared that young Jermyn and + the princess had omitted the ceremony which should have sanctioned their + happiness. The reputation of such an amour gained him the immediate + attention of many women, whose interest in his character increased with + the knowledge of his abilities, and helped to associate him in their + memories with tenderest emotions. + </p> + <p> + Another figure prominent in this gay and goodly assembly was George + Villiers, second Duke of Buckingham. The faultless beauty of his face, and + graceful symmetry of his figure, would have rendered him distinguished in + a court less sensuously impressionable to physical perfection, even if his + talents had not dazzled, and his wit amused. On the death of the first + Duke of Buckingham, "styled the handsomest bodied man in England," the + late king of pious memory undertook the charge of the young duke, and had + him educated with his own sons. Subsequently he was sent to Cambridge, and + then travelled into France, the better to acquire that polish of manner + and grace of bearing for which he became distinguished. But, whilst + abroad, word was brought him of the distress of his master, the king; on + which the young duke hastened back into England, became a cavalier, and + fought his majesty's battles with great gallantry. Soon after Charles I. + had been beheaded, his faithful servitor went abroad; but being loyal to + the Stuart cause, he journeyed with Charles II. to Scotland, and + afterwards fought beside him in the bloody battle of Worcester. Whilst the + monarch was hiding in Boscobel Wood, the duke betook himself to London, + where, donning a wizard's mask, a jack-pudding coat, a hat adorned with a + fox's tail and cock's feathers, he masqueraded as a mountebank, and + discoursed diverting nonsense from a stage erected at Charing Cross. After + running several risks, he escaped to France. But alas for the duke, who + was born as Madame Dunois avows, doubtless from experience—"for + gallantry and magnificence," he was now penniless, his great estates being + confiscated by Cromwell. However, conceiving a scheme that might secure + him part of his fortune, he hastened to put it into execution. + </p> + <p> + It happened that my Lord Fairfax, one of Cromwell's great generals, had + allotted to him by the Protector a portion of the Buckingham estates that + returned five thousand pounds a year. The general was, moreover, placed in + possession of York House, which had likewise belonged to his grace. + </p> + <p> + Now it happened Lord Fairfax, a generous-tempered man and brave soldier, + had an only child, a daughter destined to become his heiress; aware of + which the duke resolved to marry her, that he might in this manner recover + portion of his estate. The fact of the lady never having seen him did not + interfere with his plans; that she would reject his suit seemed an + impossibility; that she would succumb to the fascination he invariably + exercised over woman was a certainty. Nor did it matter that Mistress + Fairfax was no beauty; for the duke, being grateful for past favours + liberally bestowed by the opposite sex, had no intention of becoming under + any circumstances churlish enough to limit his devotion to one lady, + though she were his wife. + </p> + <p> + Carefully disguising himself, he journeyed to London, where he was met by + a faithful friend, who promised he would aid him in winning Mistress + Fairfax, towards which end he promptly introduced the duke to that + estimable gentlewoman. Having once obtained speech of her, the remainder + of his scheme was comparatively easy of accomplishment. She loved the gay + and graceful gallant at first sight, and through years of bitter wrong and + cruel neglect continued his faithful and devoted slave. + </p> + <p> + Though she had become clandestinely acquainted with him, she was too good + a daughter to wed without her father's consent. But this she had not much + difficulty in obtaining. Though Lord Fairfax had fought against his king, + he was not sufficiently republican to scorn alliance with nobility, nor so + thoroughly puritan as to disdain connection with the ungodly. Accordingly + he gave his sanction to the union, which was celebrated at his mansion at + Nun Appleton, within six miles of York. Now, my Lord Fairfax had not + consulted Cromwell's goodwill concerning this alliance, the news of which + reaching the Protector in due time, made him exceedingly wroth. For he had + daughters to marry, and, that he might strengthen his power, was desirous + of wedding them to scions of nobility; Buckingham being one of those whom + he had mentally selected to become a member of his family. His anger was + therefore at once directed against Fairfax and his grace. The former he + could not molest, but the latter he committed to the Tower; and if the + great Protector had not been soon after seized by fatal illness, the duke + would have made his last journey from thence to Tower Hill. As it fell out + he remained a prisoner until within a year of the coming of Charles, whom + he welcomed with exceeding joy. Being bred with the merry monarch, he had + from boyhood been a favourite of his majesty, with whom he shared a common + love for diversion. He was, therefore, from the first a prominent figure + at Whitehall; his handsome person and extravagant dress adorned the court; + his brilliant wit and poignant satire amused the royal circle. + </p> + <p> + His grace, however, had a rival, the vivacity of whose temper and piquancy + of whose humour went far to eclipse Buckingham's talent in these + directions. This was the young Earl of Rochester, son of my Lord Wilmot, + who had so successfully aided the king's escape after the battle of + Worcester, for which service he had been created Earl of Rochester by + Charles in Paris. That worthy man dying just a year previous to the + restoration, his son succeeded to his titles, and likewise to an estate + which had been preserved for him by the prudence of his mother. Even in + his young days Lord Rochester gave evidence of possessing a lively wit and + remarkable genius, which were cultivated by his studies at Oxford and his + travels abroad. So that at the age of eighteen, when he returned to + England and presented himself at Whitehall, his sprightly parts won him + the admiration of courtiers and secured him the favour of royalty. Nor was + the young earl less distinguished by his wit and learning than by his face + and figure; the delicate beauty of his features and natural grace of his + person won him the love of many women, whom the tenderness of his heart + and generosity of his youth did not permit him to leave unrequited. + </p> + <p> + Soon surfeited by his conquests in the drawing-room, he was anxious to + extend his triumphs in another direction; and, selecting the sea as a + scene of action, he volunteered to sail under my Lord Sandwich in quest of + the Dutch East Indian fleet. At the engagements to which this led he + exhibited a dauntless courage that earned him renown abroad, and covered + him with honour on his return to court. From that time he, for many years, + surrendered himself to a career of dissipation, often abandoning the paths + of decency and decorum, pursuing vice in its most daring and eccentric + fashion, employing his genius in the composition of lampoons which spared + not even the king, and in the writing of ribald verses, the very names of + which are not proper to indite. Lord Orford speaks of him as a man "whom + the muses were fond to inspire, and ashamed to avow; and who practised, + without the least reserve, that secret which can make verses more read for + their defects than for their merits." More of my Lord Rochester and his + poems anon. + </p> + <p> + Thomas Killigrew, another courtier, was a poet, dramatist, and man of + excellent wit. He had been page in the service of his late majesty, and + had shared exile with the present monarch, to whose pleasures abroad and + at home he was ever ready to pander. At the restoration he was appointed a + groom of the bedchamber, and, moreover, was made master of the revels—an + office eminently suited to his tastes, and well fitted to exercise his + capacities. His ready wit amused the king so much, that he was + occasionally led to freedoms of speech which taxed his majesty's + good-nature. His escapades diverted the court to such an extent, that he + frequently took the liberty of affording it entertainment at the expense + of its reputation. The "beau Sidney," a man "of sweet and caressing + temper," handsome appearance, and amorous disposition; Sir George + Etherege, a wit and a playwright; and Charles Sackville, Earl of Dorset, a + poet and man of sprightly speech, were likewise courtiers of note. + </p> + <p> + Among such congenial companions the merry monarch abandoned himself wholly + to the pursuit of pleasure, and openly carried on his intrigue with + Barbara Palmer. According to the testimony of her contemporaries, she was + a woman of surpassing loveliness and violent passions. Gilbert Burnet, + whilst admitting her beauty, proclaims her defects. She was, he relates, + "most enormously vicious and ravenous, foolish but imperious, very uneasy + to the king, and always carrying on intrigues with other men, while she + yet pretended she was jealous of him." Pepys testifies likewise to her + physical attractions so long as she reigned paramount in the king's + affections; but when another woman, no less fair, came betwixt my lady and + his majesty's favour, Mr. Pepys, being a loyal man and a frail, found + greater beauty in the new love, whose charms he avowed surpassed the old. + To his most interesting diary posterity is indebted for glimpses of the + manner in which the merry monarch and his mistress behaved themselves + during the first months of the restoration. Now he tells of "great doings + of musique," which were going on at Madame Palmer's house, situated in the + Strand, next Earl Sandwich's, and of the king and the duke being with that + lady: again, in the Chapel Royal, Whitehall, he observed, whilst Dr. + Herbert Croft prayed and preached, "how the Duke of York and Mrs. Palmer + did talk to one another very wantonly through the hangings that part the + king's closet and the closet where the ladies sit." And later on, when he + witnessed "The Humorous Lieutenant" performed before the court, he noted + the royal favourite was likewise present, "with whom the king do discover + a great deal of familiarity." + </p> + <p> + Presently, in February, 1661, exactly nine months after his majesty's + return, Mrs. Palmer gave birth to a daughter. To the vast amusement of the + court, no less than three men claimed the privilege of being considered + father of this infant. One of these was my Lord Chesterfield, whom the + child grew to resemble in face and person; the second was Roger Palmer, + who left her his estate; the third was King Charles, who had her baptized + Anne Palmer Fitzroy, adopted her as his daughter, and eventually married + her to the Earl of Sussex. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the restoration the subject of his majesty's marriage was + mooted by his councillors, who trusted a happy union would redeem him from + vice, and, by bringing him heirs, help to establish him more firmly in the + affections of his people. The king lending a willing ear to this advice, + the sole difficulty in carrying it into execution rested in the selection + of a bride congenial to his taste and equal to his sovereignty. King Louis + of France had no sisters, and his nieces had not commended themselves to + the merry monarch's favour during his stay abroad. Spain had two infantas, + but one was wedded to the King of France, and the other betrothed to the + heir of the royal house of Austria. Germany, of course, had princesses in + vast numbers, who awaited disposal; but when they were proposed to King + Charles, "he put off the discourse with raillery," as Lord Halifax + narrates. "Odd's fish," he would say, shrugging his shoulders and making a + grimace, "I could not marry one of them: they are all dull and foggy!" + </p> + <p> + Catherine of Braganza, daughter of Don Juan IV. of Portugal, was unwedded, + and to her Charles ultimately addressed himself. Alliance with her + commended itself to the nation from the fact that the late king, before + the troubled times began, had entered into a negotiation with Portugal + concerning the marriage of this same infanta and his present majesty; and + such was the esteem in which the memory of Charles I. was now held, that + compliance with his desires was regarded as a sacred obligation. The + Portuguese ambassador assured the merry monarch that the princess, by + reason of her beauty, person, and age, was most suited to him. To convince + him of this, he showed his majesty a portrait of the lady, which the king + examining, declared "that person could not be unhandsome." The ambassador, + who was of a certainty most anxious for this union, then said it was true + the princess was a catholic, and would never change her faith; but she was + free from "meddling activity;" that she had been reared by a wise mother, + and would only look to the freedom of practising her own religion without + interfering with that of others. Finally, he added that the princess would + have a dowry befitting her high station, of no less a sum than five + hundred thousand pounds sterling in ready money. + </p> + <p> + Moreover, by way of addition to this already handsome portion, the Queen + of Portugal was ready to assign over and annex to the English crown, the + Island of Bombay, in the East Indies, and Tangier on the African coast—a + place of strength and importance, which would be of great benefit and + security to British commerce. Nor was this all. Portugal was likewise + willing to grant England free trade in Brazil and the East Indies, a + privilege heretofore denied all other countries. This was indeed a dower + which none of the "dull and foggy" German princesses could bring the + crown. The prospect of obtaining so much ready money especially commended + the alliance to the extravagant taste of his majesty, who had this year + complained to Parliament of his poverty, by reason of which he "was so + much grieved to see many of his friends come to him at Whitehall, and to + think they were obliged to go somewhere else for a dinner." + </p> + <p> + The merry monarch was therefore well pleased at the prospect of his union, + as were likewise the chancellor and four or five "competent considerers of + such an affair" whom he consulted. These worthy counsellors and men of + sage repute, who included in their number the Duke of Ormond and Sir + Edward Nicholas, Secretary of State, the Earl of Manchester, and the Earl + of Southampton, after regretting it was not agreeable to his majesty to + select a queen who professed the protestant religion, gave it as their + opinion there was no catholic princess in Europe whom he, with so much + reason and advantage, could marry as the infanta of Portugal. They, + moreover, added that the sum promised as part of her portion, setting + aside the places, "was much greater—almost double to what any king + had ever received in money by any marriage." The council, therefore, + without a dissenting voice, advised him to the marriage. + </p> + <p> + On the 8th of May, 1661, his majesty, being clad in robes of state, and + wearing the crown, rode in great pomp to open Parliament, which he + addressed from the throne. In the course of his speech, he announced his + approaching marriage in a singularly characteristic address. "I will not + conclude without telling you some news," he said, "news that I think will + be very acceptable to you, and therefore I should think myself unkind, and + ill-natured if I did not impart it to you. I have been put in mind by my + friends that it was now time to marry, and I have thought so myself ever + since I came into England. But there appeared difficulties enough in the + choice, though many overtures have been made to me; and if I should never + marry until I could make such a choice against which there could be no + foresight of any inconvenience that may ensue, you would live to see me an + old bachelor, which I think you do not desire to do. I can now tell you, + not only that I am resolved to marry, but with whom I am resolved to + marry. If God please, it is with the daughter of Portugal. And I will make + all the haste I can to fetch you a queen hither, who, I doubt not, will + bring great blessings with her to me and you." + </p> + <p> + Next day addresses of congratulation were presented to his majesty by both + Houses. This gratifying news was made known to the Portuguese ambassador, + Count da Ponte, by the lord high chancellor, who visited his excellency + for the purpose, attended by state befitting such a great and joyful + occasion; two gentlemen preceded him, bearing respectively a gilded mace + and a crimson velvet purse embroidered with the arms of Great Britain, and + many others following him to the ambassador's residence. A month later, + the marriage articles were signed; the new queen being guaranteed the free + exercise of her faith, and the sum of thirty thousand a year during life; + whilst the king was assured possession of her great dowry, together with + the territories already mentioned, one of which, Bombay, ultimately became + of such vast importance to the crown. + </p> + <p> + Charles then despatched the Portuguese ambassador to Catherine—from + this time styled queen—in order to make arrangements for her journey + into England. Likewise he wrote a letter, remarkable for the fervour of + its sentiments and elegance of its diction, which da Ponte was + commissioned to convey her. This courtly epistle, addressed by Charles to + "The Queen of Great Britain, my wife and lady, whom God preserve," is + dated July 2nd, 1661, and runs as follows: + </p> + <p> + "MY LADY AND WIFE, + </p> + <p> + "Already, at my request, the good Count da Ponte has set off for Lisbon; + for me the signing of the marriage act has been great happiness; and there + is about to be despatched at this time after him one of my servants, + charged with what would appear necessary, whereby may be declared, on my + part, the inexpressible joy of this felicitous conclusion, which, when + received, will hasten the coming of your majesty. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to make a short progress into some of my provinces; in the + meantime, whilst I go from my most sovereign good, yet I do not complain + as to whither I go, seeking in vain tranquillity in my restlessness; + hoping to see the beloved person of your majesty in these kingdoms already + your own, and that with the same anxiety with which, after my long + banishment, I desired to see myself within them, and my subjects, desiring + also to behold me amongst them, having manifested their most ardent wishes + for my return, well known to the world. The presence of your serenity is + only wanting to unite us, under the protection of God, in the health and + content I desire. I have recommended to the queen, our lady and mother, + the business of the Count da Ponte, who, I must here avow, has served me + in what I regard as the greatest good in this world, which cannot be mine + less than it is that of your majesty; likewise not forgetting the good + Richard Russell, who laboured on his part to the same end. [Richard + Russell was Bishop of Portalegre, in Portugal, and Almoner to Catherine of + Braganza.] + </p> + <p> + "The very faithful husband of your majesty, whose hand he kisses, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "CHARLES REX." +</pre> + <p> + London, 2nd of July, 1661. + </p> + <p> + During many succeeding months preparations were made in England to receive + the young Queen. The "Royal Charles," a stately ship capable of carrying + eighty cannon and six hundred men, was suitably fitted to convey her to + England. + </p> + <p> + The state room and apartments destined for use of the future bride were + furnished and ornamented in most luxuriant manner, being upholstered in + crimson velvet, handsomely carpeted, and hung with embroideries and + taffeties. Lord Sandwich was made commander of the gallant fleet which in + due time accompanied the "Royal Charles." He was likewise appointed + ambassador extraordinary, and charged with safely conducting the bride + unto her bridegroom. + </p> + <p> + In due time, my lord, in high spirits, set sail with his gallant fleet, + and on arriving at Portugal was received with every remark of profound + respect, and every sign of extravagant joy. Stately ceremonies at court + and brilliant rejoicings in public made time speed with breathless + rapidity. But at length there came a day when my Lord Sandwich encountered + a difficulty he had not foreseen. According to instructions, he had taken + possession of Tangier before proceeding for the queen; and he had likewise + been directed to see her dowry put on board one of his ships, before + receiving her on the "Royal Charles." + </p> + <p> + Now the Queen of Portugal, who acted as regent since the death of her + husband, being strongly desirous of seeing her daughter the consort of a + great sovereign, and of protecting her country from the tyranny of Spain + by an alliance with England, had gathered the infanta's marriage portion + with infinite trouble; which had necessitated the selling of her majesty's + jewels and much of her plate, and the borrowing of both plate and jewels + from churches and monasteries all over the land. The sums accumulated in + this manner she had carefully stowed away in great sacks; but, alas, + between the date on which the marriage treaty had been signed, and arrival + of the English ambassador to claim the bride, Spain had made war upon + Portugal, and the dowry had to be expended in arming the country for + defence. Therefore, when my Lord Sandwich mentioned the dowry, her + majesty, with keen regrets and infinite apologies, informed him so great + were the straits of poverty to which her kingdom was reduced, that she + could pay only half the stipulated sum at present, but promised the + remaining portion should be made up the following year. Moreover, the part + which she then asked him to accept was made up of jewels, sugars, spices + and other commodities which she promised to have converted by arrangement + into solid gold in London. + </p> + <p> + The ambassador was therefore sorely perplexed, and knew not whether he + should return to England without the bride, or take her and the + merchandise which represented half her dowry on board his ship. He decided + on the latter course, and the queen, with her court and retinue, set sail + for merry England on the 23rd of April, 1662. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The king's intrigue with Barbara Palmer.—The queen arrives at + Portsmouth.—Visited by the Duke of York.—The king leaves town,—First + interview with his bride.—His letter to the lord chancellor.—Royal + marriage and festivities.—Arrival at Hampton Court Palace.—Prospects + of a happy union.—Lady Castlemaine gives birth to a second child.—The + king's infatuation.—Mistress and wife.—The queen's misery.—The king's + cruelty.—Lord Clarendon's messages.—His majesty resolves to break the + queen's spirit.—End of the domestic quarrel. +</pre> + <p> + Whilst the king conducted the negotiations of his marriage with Catherine + of Braganza, he likewise continued the pursuit of his intrigue with + Barbara Palmer. The unhappy fascination which this vile woman exercised + over his majesty increased with time; and though his ministers declared a + suitable marriage would reform his ways, his courtiers concluded he had no + intention of abandoning his mistress in favour of his wife. For Barbara + Palmer, dreading the loss of her royal lover and the forfeiture of wealth + accruing from this connection, had firmly bound him in her toils. + Moreover, in order that he might continually abide under her influence, + she conceived a scheme which would of necessity bring her into constant + intercourse with him and the young queen. She therefore demanded he would + appoint her one of the ladies of the bedchamber to her majesty, to which + he, heedless of the insult this would fix upon his wife, readily + consented. + </p> + <p> + In order to qualify Barbara Palmer for such a position, it was necessary + she should be raised to the peerage. This could only be accomplished by + ennobling her husband, unless public decency were wholly ignored, and she + was created a peeress in her own right, whilst he remained a commoner. + After some faint show of hesitation, Roger Palmer accepted the honours + thrust upon him by reason of his wife's infamy. On the 11th of December, + 1661, he was created Earl of Castlemaine, and Baron Limerick in the + peerage of Ireland, when the royal favourite became a countess. + </p> + <p> + And now the merry month of May being arrived, the queen was speedily + expected; and on the night of the 13th joyful tidings reached London that + the "Royal Charles," accompanied by the fleet, was in sight of Portsmouth. + At which news there was great rejoicing throughout the town, church bells + ringing merrily, and bonfires blazing brightly; but before the Countess of + Castlemaine's house, where the king, according to his custom was at + supper, there was no fire, though such signs of joy burned "at all the + rest of the doors almost in the streets, which was much observed." + </p> + <p> + Next day the fleet arrived in the harbour of Portsmouth, about four in the + afternoon. Heath says the people gathered to receive the bride with all + possible demonstrations of honour, "the nobility and gentry and multitudes + of Londoners, in most rich apparel and in great numbers, waiting on the + shore for her landing; and the mayor and aldermen and principal persons of + that corporation being in their gowns, and with a present and a speech + ready to entertain her; the cannon and small shot, both from round that + town and the whole fleet echoing to one another the loud proclamations of + their joy." These good people were, however, destined to disappointment; + for though the bride was impatient to land, because suffering from + prostration consequent on a rough voyage and severe illness, she was not, + in observance of court etiquette, permitted to leave the ship until the + king arrived. This did not take place until six days later, Charles being + detained in town by reason of some important bills then passing in + Parliament, which it was necessary for him to sign. He had, however, + despatched his royal brother of York, then Lord High Admiral of England, + to meet her at sea, and give her greeting in his name. Accordingly the + duke had encountered the fleet at the Isle of Wight, and gone on board the + queen's ship, when she received him in her cabin seated under a canopy on + a chair of state. His royal highness expressed his joy at her arrival, + presented "his majesty's high respects and his exceeding affection for + her," and paid her many compliments. Lord Chesterfield, who had been + appointed chamberlain to the queen, tells us: "Although James, in + consequence of his near connection with the sovereign, might have saluted + the royal bride, he did not avail himself of this privilege, out of a + delicate regard to his majesty's feelings, that he might be the first man + to offer that compliment to his queen; she coming out of a country where + it was not the fashion." The Duke of York presented some noblemen who had + accompanied him; after which she introduced the members of her suite. The + queen and her brother-in-law then held a conversation in the Spanish + language, when James assured her of his affection, and besought her to + accept his services. To these compliments she replied in like manner, when + he arose to depart. The queen advanced three paces with him, not + withstanding that he protested against such courtesy, bidding her remember + her rank. At this she smiled, and answered with much sweetness, "She + wished to do that out of affection, which she was not obliged to do"—a + reply which made a favourable impression on his mind. Whilst she continued + on board, the duke and his suite visited her daily, entering freely into + conversation with her, and finding her "a most agreeable lady." Probably + at the desire of the king, she left the ship before his arrival, and was + conveyed to his majesty's house at Portsmouth, where she was received by + the Countess of Suffolk, first lady of the bedchamber, and four other + ladies who had been appointed members of her household. One of her first + requests to these was—as may be learned from a letter of Lord + Sandwich, preserved in the Bodleian library—"that they would put her + in that habit they thought would be most pleasing to the king." Before + leaving the "Royal Charles" she spoke to all the officers of the ship, + thanked them for their services, and permitted them to kiss her hand. She + then presented a collar of gold to the captain, and gave money to be + distributed among the crew. + </p> + <p> + When at length the parliamentary business was concluded, the king found + himself in readiness to depart. The last words he addressed to his + faithful commons before starting are worth recording: "The mention of my + wife's arrival," said he, in the pleasant familiar tone it was his wont to + use, "puts me in mind to desire you to put that compliment upon her, that + her entrance into this town may be made with more decency than the ways + will now suffer it to be; and to that purpose I pray you would quickly + pass such laws as are before you, in order to the mending those ways, that + she may not find Whitehall surrounded with water." + </p> + <p> + At nine o'clock on the night of the 19th of May, his majesty left London + in Lord Northumberland's carriage, on his way to Portsmouth. Arriving at + Kingston an hour later, he entered Lord Chesterfield's coach, which + awaited him there by appointment, and drove to Guildford, at which town he + slept the night. In the morning he was up betimes, and posted to + Portsmouth, where he arrived at noon. The queen, being ill of a slight + fever, was yet in bed: but the king, all impatient to see the bride which + heaven had sent him, sought admittance to her chamber. The poor princess + evidently did not look to advantage; for his majesty told Colonel Legg he + thought at first glance "they had brought him a bat instead of a woman." + On further acquaintance, however, she seemed to have afforded more + pleasure to the king's sight, for the next day he expressed the + satisfaction he felt concerning her, in a letter addressed to the lord + chancellor, which is preserved in the library of the British Museum, and + runs as follows: + </p> + <p> + "PORTSMOUTH, 21st May (Eight in the Morning). + </p> + <p> + "I arrived here yesterday about two in the afternoon, and, as soon as I + had shifted myself, I went into, my wife's chamber, whom I found in bed, + by reason of a little cough and some inclination to a fever: but I believe + she will find herself very well in the morning when she wakes. I can now + only give you an account of what I have seen abed, which, in short, is, + her face is not so exact as to be called a beauty, though her eyes are + excellent good, and not anything in her face that in the least degree can + shock one: on the contrary, she hath as much agreeableness in her looks + altogether as ever I saw; and if I have any skill in physiognomy, which I + think I have, she must be as good a woman as ever was born. Her + conversation, as much as I can perceive, is very good, for she has wit + enough, and a most agreeable voice. You would wonder to see how well + acquainted we are already. In a word, I think myself very happy; for I am + confident our two humours will agree very well together. I have no more to + say: my Lord Lieutenant will give you an account of the rest." + </p> + <p> + The king was attended by Lord Sandwich during this interview, and his + lordship, in a letter addressed to the lord chancellor, informed him the + meeting between his majesty and the infanta, "hath been with much + contentment on both sides, and that we are like to be very happy in their + conjunction." Next morning the Countess of Suffolk, and other ladies + appointed to wait upon the bride, dressed her according to the English + fashion, in "a habit they thought would be most pleasing to the king," in + which she was married. The ceremony was first performed according to the + rites of the Catholic Church, by the Rev. Lord Aubigny, brother to the + Duke of Richmond, in the queen's bedchamber; that apartment being selected + for the purpose, as affording a privacy necessary to be maintained, by + reason of the prejudice then existing towards Catholicism. There were + present the Duke of York, Philip, afterwards Cardinal Howard, and five + Portuguese, all of whom were bound over to keep the strictest secrecy + concerning what they witnessed. Later in the day, Dr. Sheldon, Bishop of + London, married their majesties according to the form prescribed by the + Church of England. The latter ceremony took place in the presence chamber. + A rail divided the apartment, at the upper part of which the king and + queen, the bishops, the Spanish Ambassador, and Sir Richard Fanshaw stood; + the lower portion being crowded by the court. When Dr. Sheldon had + declared their majesties married, the Countess of Suffolk, according to a + custom of the time, detached the ribbons from the bride's dress, and, + cutting them in pieces, distributed them amongst those present. + </p> + <p> + Feasting, balls, and diversions of all kinds followed the celebration of + the royal nuptials, and for a time the king was delighted with his bride. + Four days after the marriage he writes again to the lord chancellor in + most cheerful tone: + </p> + <p> + "My brother will tell you of all that passes here, which I hope will be to + your satisfaction. I am sure 'tis so much to mine that I cannot easily + tell you how happy I think myself, and must be the worst man living (which + I hope I am not) if I be not a good husband. I am confident never two + humours were better fitted together than ours are. We cannot stir from + hence till Tuesday, by reason that there is not carts to be had to-morrow + to transport all our GUARDE INFANTAS, without which there is no stirring: + so you are not to expect me till Thursday night at Hampton Court." + </p> + <p> + They did not reach the palace until the 29th of May, that being the king's + birthday, and, moreover, the anniversary of his entrance into London; a + date which the Queen's arrival now caused to be celebrated with triple + magnificence and joy. When the coach that conveyed their majesties drew + near, the whole palace seemed astir with happy excitement. Double lines of + soldiers, both horse and foot, lined the way from the gates to the + entrance. In the great hall the lord chancellor, foreign ambassadors, + judges, and councillors of state awaited to pay homage to their majesties; + whilst in various apartments were the nobility and men of quality, with + their ladies, ranged according to their rank, being all eager to kiss the + new queen's hand. Sure never was such show of gladness. Bells rang people + cheered, bonfires blazed. + </p> + <p> + In the evening news was brought that the Duchess of York was being rowed + to Hampton from town; hearing which, the king, with a blithe heart, betook + his way to meet her through the garden, now bright with spring flowers and + fragrant with sweet scents, till he arrived at the gate by which the + silver streak of the pleasant Thames flowed past. And presently on this + calm May eve the sound of oars splashing in the tide was heard, and anon a + barge came in sight, hung with silken curtains and emblazoned with the + arms of royalty. From this the Duchess of York disembarked, aided by the + king. When she had offered her congratulations to him, he, taking her + hand, led her to his bride, that such fair speeches might be repeated to + her majesty. And coming into the queen's presence the duchess would have + gone upon her knees and kissed her majesty's hand; but Catherine raised + her in her arms, and kissed her on the cheek. Then amidst much joy the + happy evening waned to night. + </p> + <p> + The royal palace of Hampton Court, in which Charles had decided on + spending his honeymoon, had been raised by the magnificent Wolsey in the + plenitude of his power as a place of recreation. Since his downfall it had + been used by royalty as a summer residence, it being in truth a stately + pleasure house. The great pile contained upwards of four hundred rooms. + The principal apartments had cedar or gilded and frescoed ceilings, and + walls hung with rare tapestries and curtains heavy with gold. Moreover, + these rooms contained furniture of most skilful design and costly + manufacture, and were adorned by the choice works of such masters of their + art as Holbein, Bellini, Vansomer, Rubens, and Raphael; and withal + enriched with Indian cabinets, such as never were seen in England before, + which the queen had brought with her from Portugal. + </p> + <p> + The great hall had been the scene of many sumptuous banquets. The chapel + was rich in carved designs. Her majesty's bedroom, with its curtains of + crimson silk, its vast mirror and toilet of beaten and massive gold, was a + splendid apartment—the more so from its state bed, which Evelyn says + was "an embroidery of silver on crimson velvet, and cost L8,000, being a + present made by the States of Holland, when his majesty returned, and had + formerly been given by them to our king's sister, ye Princess of Orange, + and being bought of her againe, was now presented to ye king." Around this + noble residence, where the court was wont to tarry in summer months, + stretched broad and flowerful gardens, with wide parterres, noble statues, + sparkling fountains, and marble vases; and beyond lay the park, planted + "with swete rows of lime-trees." + </p> + <p> + And here all day long, in the fair summer time of this year, pleasure held + boundless sway. Sauntering in balmy gardens, or seeking shelter from + sun-rays in green glades and leafy groves, their majesties, surrounded by + their brilliant court, chased bright hours away in frolic and pleasantry + from noon till night. Then revelry, gaining new life, began once more, + when courtly figures danced graceful measures to sounds of mirthful + strains, under the lustre of innumerable lights. + </p> + <p> + For a while it seemed as if a brave prospect of happiness was in store for + the young queen. Her love for her husband, her delight in his affection, + her pride in his accomplishments, together with her simplicity, innocence, + and naivete, completely won his heart. These claims to his affection were, + moreover, strengthened by the charms of her person. Lord Chesterfield, a + man whom experience of the sex had made critical, writes that she "was + exactly shaped, has lovely hands, excellent eyes, a good countenance, a + pleasing voice, fine hair, and, in a word, what an understanding man would + wish for in a wife." Notwithstanding the attractions of her majesty's + person which he enumerates, he adds his fears that "all these will hardly + make things run in the right channel; but, if it should, our court will + require a new modelling." In this note of alarm he forebodes danger to + come. A man of his majesty's character, witty and careless, weak and + voluptuous, was not likely to reconstruct his court, or reclaim it from + ways he loved. Nor was his union calculated to exercise a lasting + impression on him. The affection he bore his wife in the first weeks of + their married life was due to the novelty he found in her society, + together with the absence of temptation in the shape of his mistress. + Constancy to the marriage vow was scarcely to be expected from a man whose + morals had never been shackled by restraint; yet faithlessness to a bride + was scarcely to be anticipated ere the honeymoon had waned. This was, + however, the unhappy fate which awaited Catherine of Braganza. + </p> + <p> + It happened early in the month of June, whilst the court was at Hampton, + my Lady Castlemaine, who had remained in town through illness, gave birth + to a second child. The infant was baptized Charles Palmer, adopted by the + king as his own, and as such subsequently created Duke of Southampton. + This event seemed to renew all his majesty's tenderness towards her. + Wearied by the charm of innocence in the person of his wife, his weak + nature yielded to the attraction of vice in that of his mistress. He, + therefore, frequently left Hampton Court that he might ride to London, + visit the countess, and fritter away some hours in her presence; being + heedless alike of the insult he dealt the queen, and the scandal he gave + the nation. + </p> + <p> + The while my Lord Castlemaine lived with the lady who shared his title, + and whom he called his wife; but their continuance to abide in harmony and + goodwill was, soon after the birth of this child, interrupted for ever. My + lord was certainly a loyal subject, but he was likewise a religious man, + as may be judged, not by that which has been recorded, but from the + narration which follows. Having been bred a Catholic, he was anxious his + wife's son should be enrolled a member of the same community. To this end + he had him baptized by a priest, a proceeding of which the king wholly + disapproved; not because his majesty was attached to any religion in + particular, but rather that he resented interference with the infant whom + he rested satisfied was his own child. Accordingly, by the king's command, + Lady Castlemaine's son was rebaptized by the rector of St. Margaret's, + Westminster, in the presence of his majesty, the Earl of Oxford, and the + Countess of Suffolk, first lady of the bedchamber to the queen and aunt to + the king's mistress. + </p> + <p> + This exasperated my Lord Castlemaine to such a degree that high words + passed between him and his lady: on which he resolved to part from her for + ever. However, she was more prompt to act in the matter than he; for, + taking advantage of his absence one day, she packed up her jewels, plate, + and household treasures, and departed to the residence of her uncle, + Colonel Edward Villiers, at Richmond. This step was probably taken, if not + by his majesty's suggestion, at least with his full approval; for the + house she selected brought her within an easy distance of Hampton Court, + into which the king designed promptly to introduce her. + </p> + <p> + Now rumour of the king's liason had spread beyond the English nation, and + had been whispered even at the secluded court of Portugal, into the ears + of the bride elect. And the queen regent, dreading the trouble this might + draw upon her daughter, had counselled her never to admit his majesty's + mistress into her presence. This advice the young queen determined to act + upon; and accordingly when Charles, a couple of days after their marriage, + presented her with a list of those appointed to her household—amongst + whom was my Lady Castlemaine—her majesty drew a pen across the name + of the dreaded favourite. The king, if surprised or indignant, made no + remark at the time, but none the less held to the resolution he had taken + of appointing the countess a lady of the bedchamber. No further attempt of + intruding his mistress's presence upon his wife was made until Lady + Castlemaine came to Richmond. + </p> + <p> + It happened on the afternoon of the day on which the favourite arrived her + majesty sat in the great drawing-room, surrounded by a brilliant throng of + noble and beautiful women and gay and gallant men. The windows of the + apartment stood open; outside fountains splashed in the sun; music played + in a distant glade: and all the world seemed glad. And as the queen + listened to pleasant sounds of wit and gossip, murmuring around her, the + courtiers, at sound of a well-known footstep, suddenly ceasing their + discourse, fell back on either side adown the room. At that moment the + king entered, leading a lady apparelled in magnificent attire, the contour + of whose face and outline of whose figure distinguished her as a woman of + supreme and sensuous loveliness. + </p> + <p> + His majesty, suceedingly rich in waving feathers, glittering satins, and + fluttering ribbons, returned the gracious bows of his courtiers to right + and left; and, unconscious of the curious and perplexed looks they + interchanged, advanced to where his wife sat, and introduced my Lady + Castlemaine. Her majesty bowed and extended her hand, which the countess, + having first courtesyed profoundly, raised to her lips. The queen either + had not caught the name, or had disassociated it from that of her + husband's mistress; but in an instant the character of the woman + presented, and the insult the king had inflicted, flashed upon her mind. + Coming so suddenly, it was more than she could bear; all colour fled from + her face, tears rushed to her eyes, blood gushed from her nostrils, and + she fell senseless to the floor. + </p> + <p> + Such strong evidence of the degree in which his young wife felt the + indignity forced upon her, by no means softened his majesty's heart + towards her, but rather roused his indignation at what he considered + public defiance of his authority. But as his nature was remote from + roughness, and his disposition inclined to ease, he at first tried to gain + his desire by persuasion, and therefore besought the queen she would + suffer his mistress to become a lady of the bedchamber. But whenever the + subject was mentioned to her majesty, she burst into tears, and would not + give heed to his words. Charles therefore, incensed on his side, deserted + her company, and sought the society of those ever ready to entertain him. + And as the greater number of his courtiers were fully as licentious as + himself, they had no desire he should become subject to his wife, or alter + the evil tenor of his ways. + </p> + <p> + Therefore in their conversation they cited to him the example of his + grandfather, King James I., of glorious memory, who had not dissembled his + passions, nor suffered the same to become a reproach to those who returned + his love; but had obliged his queen to bear with their company, and treat + them with grace and favour; and had, moreover, raised his natural children + to the degree of princes of the blood. They told Charles he had inherited + the disposition of his grandsire, and they were sure he would treat the + objects of his affection in like manner as that king had done. Lady + Castlemaine, her friends moreover argued, had, by reason of her love for + his majesty, parted from her husband; and now that she had been so + publicly made an object of the queen's indignation, she would, if + abandoned by him, meet with rude contempt from the world. To such + discourses as these the king lent a willing ear, the more as they + encouraged him to act according to his desires. He was therefore fully + determined to support his mistress; and firmly resolved to subdue his + wife. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, all joyousness vanished from the court; the queen seemed + thoroughly dejected, the king bitterly disappointed, and the courtiers + grievously disturbed. Moreover, rumours of the trouble which had risen + between their majesties became noised abroad, and gave the people occasion + of speaking indifferently of their lord the king. Now Charles in his + unhappiness betook himself to the chancellor, who was not only his sage + adviser and trusted friend, but who had already gained the esteem and + confidence of the queen. My lord, by reason of his services to the late + king, and his friendship towards his present majesty, took to himself the + privilege of speaking with freedom and boldness whenever his advice was + asked by the monarch. As Burnet tells us, the worthy chancellor would + never make any application to the king's mistress, nor allow anything to + pass the seal in which she was named; nor would he ever consent to visit + her, which the bishop considered "was maintaining the decencies of virtue + in a very solemn manner." The king knowing my lord was the only one of all + the strangers surrounding the queen whom she believed devoted to her + service, and to whose advice she would hearken with trust, therefore bade + him represent to her the advisability of obedience. + </p> + <p> + Whereon the chancellor boldly pointed out to him "the hard-heartedness and + cruelty of laying such a command upon the queen, which flesh and blood + could not comply with." He also begged to remind the monarch of what he + had heard him say upon the occasion of a like indignity being offered by a + neighbouring king to his queen, inasmuch as he had compelled her to endure + the presence of his mistress at court. On hearing which King Charles + avowed it was "a piece of ill-nature that he could never be guilty of; and + if ever he should be guilty of having a mistress after he had a wife, + which he hoped he should never be, she should never come where his wife + was; he would never add that to the vexation, of which she would have + enough without it." Finally my lord added that pursuit of the course his + majesty had resolved on, was a most certain way to lose the respect and + affections of his people; that the excesses he had already fallen into had + in some degree lost him ground in their good esteem, but that his + continuance of them would "break the hearts of all his friends, and be + grateful only to those who desired the destruction of monarchy." + </p> + <p> + Charles heard him with some impatience, but in his reply betrayed that + graciousness of manner which, never forsaking him, went far in securing + the favour of those with whom he conversed. He commenced by telling the + chancellor he felt assured his words were prompted by the affection in + which he held him; and then having by a pathway of courteous speeches + found his way to the old man's heart, his majesty broached the subject + uppermost in his mind. His conscience and his honour, he said, for he laid + claim to both, led him to repair the ruin he had caused Lady Castlemaine's + reputation by promoting her to the position of a lady of the bedchamber; + and his gratitude prompted him to avow a friendship for her, "which he + owed as well to the memory of her father as to her own person," and + therefore he would not be restrained from her company and her + conversation. + </p> + <p> + Moreover, he had proceeded so far in the business, that if not successful + Lady Castlemaine would be subjected to all imaginable contempt, and be + exposed to universal ridicule. If, he added, the queen conformed to his + wishes in this regard, it would be the only hard thing he should ever + require of her; and, indeed, she might make it very easy, for my lady must + behave with all possible respect in her presence, otherwise she should + never see his face again. Then he begged the chancellor to wait upon her + majesty, lay bare his arguments, and urge her to receive the countess with + some show of favour. The chancellor, though not pleased with his mission, + yet in hope of healing private discord and averting public scandal, + undertook to counsel the queen to obedience, and accordingly waited on her + in her private apartments. + </p> + <p> + Now her majesty's education had been such as kept her in complete + ignorance of the world's ways. The greater part of her life had been spent + in the peaceful retirement of a convent, which she left for her mother's + country palace, a home scarcely less secluded. Maynard, in a letter + preserved in the State Paper Office, written from Lisbon when the royal + marriage was proposed, says the infanta, "as sweete a disposition princess + as everr was borne," was "bred hugely retired. She hath," he continues, + "hardly been tenn tymes out of the palace in her life. In five years tyme + she was not out of doores, untill she hurde of his majestie's intentions + to make her queen of Ingland, since which she hath been to visit two + saintes in the city; and very shortly shee intends to pay her devotion to + some saintes in the country." + </p> + <p> + From a life of innocence she was brought for the first time face to face + with vice, by one who should have been foremost in shielding her from its + contact. All her training taught her to avoid the contamination sought to + be forced upon her; all her new-born love for her husband prompted her to + loathe the mistress who shared his affections. A stranger in a strange + land, a slighted queen, a neglected wife, an outraged woman, her + sufferings were bitter, Her wrongs were hard to bear. Therefore when my + lord chancellor came and made known the object of his visit, she broke + into a passion of tears, and could not speak from force of sobs that + seemed to rend her heart, and wholly choked her utterance. + </p> + <p> + The chancellor then retired with some dismay, but waited on her again next + day, when he found her more calm. She begged he would excuse the outburst + of feeling he had witnessed, but added very pitifully that when she + thought of her misfortunes "she sometimes gave vent to that passion which + was ready to break her heart." The advice, or, as he terms it, "the + evidence of his devotion," which the chancellor gave was worthy of a + courtier and a philosopher. He told the young queen he doubted "she was + little beholden to her education, that had given her no better information + of the follies and iniquities of mankind; of which he presumed the climate + from whence she came could have given more instances than this cold region + would afford." Had she been properly instructed, he furthermore hinted, + she would never have thought herself so miserable, or her condition so + insupportable; and indeed he could not comprehend the reason of her loud + complaint. + </p> + <p> + At this she could no longer suppress the tears which came into her dark + eyes, and cried out she did not expect to find her husband in love with + another woman. Then my lord besought her submission to the king; but she + remained unshaken in the resolution she had formed. She was ready to ask + his majesty's pardon for tiny passion or peevishness she had been guilty + of, but added, "the fire appearing in her eyes where the water was," she + would never endure the presence of his mistress; and rather than submit to + such insult she would "put herself on board any little vessel" and return + to Lisbon. + </p> + <p> + Back went the chancellor, with a heavy heart and a troubled face, to the + king. He softened the queen's words as much as possible, and assured his + majesty her resistance to his will proceeded "from the great passion of + love she had for him, which transported her beyond the limits of reason." + But this excuse, which should have rejoiced a husband's heart, only + irritated his majesty's temper. That night a violent quarrel took place + between the husband and wife, yet scarce more than bride and bridegroom. + When they had retired, the king—being inflamed with the words of his + courtiers, who assured him the dispute had now resolved itself into a + question of who should govern—reproached the queen with stubbornness + and want of duty; upon which she answered by charging him with tyranny and + lack of affection. One word borrowed another, till, in his anger, he used + threats when she declared she would leave the kingdom. "The passion and + noise of the night reached too many ears to be a secret the next day," + says the chancellor, "and the whole court was full of that which ought to + have been known to nobody." + </p> + <p> + When the royal pair met next morning, they neither looked at nor spoke to + each other. Days passed full of depression and gloom for the young wife, + who spent most of her time in seclusion, whilst the king sought + distraction in the society of his courtiers. The chancellor, after his + second interview with the queen, absented himself from court, not wishing + to be furthermore drawn into a quarrel which he saw himself powerless to + heal. During his absence the king wrote him a letter which evinced + determination to carry out his design. This epistle, preserved in the + library of the British Museum, runs as follows: + </p> + <p> + "HAMPTON COURT, THURSDAY MORNING. + </p> + <p> + "I forgot when you were here last to desire you to give Broderich good + council not to meddle any more with what concerns my Lady Castlemaine, and + to let him have a care how he is the author of any scandalous reports; for + if I find him guilty of any such thing, I will make him repent it to the + last moment of his life. + </p> + <p> + "And now I am entered on this matter, I think it very necessary to give + you a little good council in it, lest you may think that by making a + farther stir in the business you may divert me from my resolution, which + all the world shall never do; and I wish I may be unhappy in this world + and in the world to come, if I fail in the least degree of what I have + resolved, which is of making my Lady Castlemaine of my wife's bedchamber. + And whosoever I find in any endeavours to hinder this resolution of mine + (except it be only to myself), I will be his enemy to the last moment of + my life. You know how true a friend I have been to you; if you will oblige + me eternally, make this business as easy to me as you can, of what opinion + soever you are of; for I am resolved to go through with this matter, let + what will come on it, which again I solemnly swear before Almighty God. + </p> + <p> + "Therefore, if you desire to have the continuance of my friendship, meddle + no more with this business except it be to bear down all false and + scandalous reports, and to facilitate what I am sure my honour is so much + concerned in. And whosoever I find is to be my Lady Castlemaine's enemy in + this matter, I do promise, upon my word, to be his enemy as long as I + live. You may show this letter to my lord lieutenant, and if you have both + a mind to oblige me, carry yourselves like friends to me in this matter." + </p> + <p> + The chancellor was, soon after the receipt of this letter, summoned to + Hampton Court, when his majesty, with some passion, declared the quarrel + was spoken of everywhere, and wholly to his disadvantage. He was therefore + anxious to end it at once, and commanded my lord to wait again upon the + queen, and persuade her to his wishes. The chancellor informed the king he + "had much rather spend his pains in endeavouring to convert his majesty + from pursuing his resolution, which he did in his conscience believe to be + unjust, than in persuading her majesty to comply with it, which yet he + would very heartily do." Saying which, he departed on his errand; to which + the queen answered, her conscience would not allow her to consent that the + king's mistress should be one of her attendants. Then the chancellor + besought his royal master, saying he hoped he might be no more consulted + with, nor employed concerning an affair, in which he had been so + unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + By reason of this opposition the king was now more resolved than ever to + honour his mistress and humble his wife; and, with a cruelty unusual to + his nature, determined to break her majesty's spirit, and force her into + obedience. + </p> + <p> + On coming to England the young bride had brought in her train some + Portuguese gentlewomen and nobles, whom she was anxious to employ in + various offices about her person, that she might not feel quite in the + midst of strangers. These his majesty believed were in some measure + answerable for the queen's resistance to his desires, and therefore + decided on sending them back to their own country; knowing moreover, this + was an act which would sorely grieve her majesty. Therefore, without first + deigning to inform, the Queen of Portugal, he named a day for them to + embark. This was a sad blow to the hopes of the Portuguese, who had + entertained high expectations of being placed in advantageous + circumstances about the court; nor did the king by any show of liberality + help to lessen their disappointment. The queen was indeed afflicted at the + prospect of their loss; and her mortification was the greater because, + having received no money since she came into the kingdom, it was out of + her power to make them compensation for their services. + </p> + <p> + The thought of being deprived of her people in her present unhappy + condition rendered her so miserable, that she besought the king to allow + some of them to remain; and, likewise, she employed others to make the + same petition on her behalf. Therefore one of her ladies, the Countess of + Penalva, who had been her attendant since childhood, and who now, because + of weakness of sight and other infirmities, scarce ever left her + apartments, was allowed to stay, as were likewise "those necessary to her + religion," and some servants employed in her kitchen. + </p> + <p> + But these were not the only means the king took to thwart her majesty and + all connected with her. He upbraided the Portuguese ambassador for not + having instructed the queen "enough to make her unconcerned in what had + been before her time, and in which she could not reasonably be concerned." + Moreover he reproached him with the fact of the queen regent having sent + only half the marriage portion; and so harassed was the ambassador by + royal wrath, that he took to his bed, "and sustained such a fever as + brought him to the brink of the grave." Regarding that part of the dowry + which had arrived, Charles behaved in an equally ungracious and + undignified manner. He instructed the officers of the revenue to use all + strictness in its valuation, and not make any allowances. And because + Diego de Silva—whom the queen had designed for her treasurer, and + who on that account had undertaken to see the money paid in London—did + not make sufficient haste in the settlement of his accounts, he was by the + king's command cast into prison. + </p> + <p> + These various affronts grievously afflicted her majesty, but the insults + she had to endure before the whole court wounded her far more. For + meanwhile the king lodged his mistress in the royal household, and every + day she was present in the drawing-room, when his majesty entered into + pleasant conversation with her, while his wife sat patiently by, as wholly + unheeded as if unseen. When the queen occasionally rose and indignantly + left the apartment to relieve her anguish by a storm of tears, it may be + one or two of the courtiers followed her, but the vast number of the + brilliant throng remained; and Lord Clarendon adds, "they, too, often said + those things aloud which nobody ought to have whispered." + </p> + <p> + Charles no longer appeared with the grave and troubled expression his face + had worn at the commencement of the quarrel, but seemed full of pleasantry + and eager for enjoyment. Those surrounding him took their tone from the + monarch, and followed his example the more because he "did shew no + countenance to any that belong to the queen." Her majesty, on the + contrary, took her misery to heart, and showed dejection by the sadness of + her face and listlessness of her gait. There was universal diversion in + all company but hers; sounds of laughter rang all day and far into the + night in every apartment of the palace but those appropriated to her use. + Charles steadily avoided her, and the attendants who replaced her + countrywomen showed more deference to the king's mistress than to his + queen. The solitary condition to which the helpless foreigner and forsaken + wife was reduced increased day by day, her gloom deepened hour by hour, + until, worn out by the unequal conflict, her spirit broke. "At last," says + Lord Clarendon, "when it was least expected or suspected, the queen on a + sudden let herself fall, first to conversation, and then to familiarity, + and even, in the same instant, to a confidence with the lady; was merry + with her in public, talked kindly of her, and in private used no lady more + friendly." + </p> + <p> + From that hour her majesty never interfered with the king's amours, and + never again did a quarrel rise between them even to the day of his death. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Their majesties arrive at Whitehall.—My Lady Castlemaine a + spectator.—Young Mr. Crofts.—New arrivals at court.—The Hamilton + family.—The Chevalier de Grammont.—Mrs. Middleton and Miss Kirke.—At + the queen's ball—La belle Hamilton.—The queen mother at Somerset + House.—The Duke of Monmouth's marriage.—Fair Frances Stuart.—Those + who court her favour.—The king's passion. +</pre> + <p> + On the 23rd of August, 1662, their majesties journeyed from Hampton Court + to the palace of Whitehall by water. The gay and goodly procession formed + on that occasion has been described as "the most magnificent triumph that + ever floated on, the Thames." First came barges belonging to city + companies, beginning with the mercers and grocers, most of them being + attended with a pageant, and all of them richly adorned as became their + affection and loyalty. Then followed barges of statesmen, nobility, and + courtiers, with their retinues, brave in numbers, gay in colours, and + attended by bands of music. And finally came the king and queen, seated + side by side in a galley of antique shape, all draped with crimson damask, + bearing a canopy of cloth of gold, supported by Corinthian pillars, + wreathed with ribbons, and festooned with garlands of fragrant flowers. + </p> + <p> + The whole city was abroad, watchful of their approach; the Thames was + covered with boats to the number of ten thousand; and the banks were + crowded with spectators beyond reckoning. On this fair August day the sky + had not a single cloud to mar its universal blue; the sun shone gloriously + bright, turning the river to sheets of gleaming gold: whilst the air was + filled with roaring of cannon, strains of music, and hearty shouts of a + loyal multitude. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Samuel Pepys, though he offered as much as eight shillings for a boat + to attend him that day, could not obtain one, and was therefore obliged to + view this gallant procession from the roof of the royal banqueting hall, + which commanded a glorious view of the Thames. But what pleased his + erratic fancy best on this occasion was, not the great spectacle he had + taken such trouble to survey, but a sight of my Lady Castlemaine, who + stood over against him "upon a piece of Whitehall." The worthy clerk of + the Admiralty "glutted" himself with looking on her; "but methought it was + strange," says he, "to see her lord and her upon the same place walking up + and down without taking notice of one another, only at first entry he put + off his hat, and she made him a very civil salute, but afterwards took no + notice of one another; but both of them now and then would take their + child, which the nurse held in her arms, and dandle it. One thing more: + there happened a scaffold below to fall, and we feared some hurt, but + there was none; but she of all the great ladies only ran down among the + common rabble to see what hurt was done, and did take care of a child that + received some little hurt, which methought was so noble. Anon there came + one there booted and spurred, that she talked long with. And by-and-by, + she being in her haire, she put on her hat, which was but an ordinary one, + to keep the wind off. But methinks it became her mightily, as everything + else do." + </p> + <p> + It was notable the countess did not accompany her majesty in the + procession to Whitehall, as one of her attendants; but in fact she had not + obtained the position sought for, though she enjoyed all the privileges + pertaining to such an appointment. "Everybody takes her to be of the + bedchamber," the lord chancellor writes to the Duke of Ormond, "for she is + always there, and goes abrode in the coach. But the queen tells me that + the king promised her, on condition she would use her as she doth others, + that she should never live in court; yet lodgings I hear she hath." + Lodgings the countess certainly had provided for her in that block of the + palace of Whitehall, separated from the main buildings by the old roadway + running between Westminster and the city. + </p> + <p> + A few days after their majesties' arrival at Whitehall, the queen mother + returned to town, and established her court at Somerset House, which had + been prepared for her future abode. She had arrived in England before the + king and queen left Hampton Court, and had taken up her residence at + Greenwich Palace. The avowed object of her visit was to congratulate them + upon their marriage. Charles and his bride therefore took barge to + Greenwich, one bright July day, followed by a brilliant and illustrious + train, that they might wait upon her majesty. And she, being made aware of + their approach, met them at the portal of the palace. There Catherine + would have gone down upon her knees to this gracious lady—the + survivor of great sorrows—but she took the young queen in her arms, + and calling her beloved daughter, kissed her many times. Then she greeted + her sons Charles and James, likewise the Duchess of York, and led them to + the presence-chamber, followed by the whole court. And presently when + Catherine would, through her interpreter, have expressed her gratitude and + affection, the elder queen besought her to lay aside all ceremony, for she + "should never have come to England again except for the pleasure of seeing + her, to love her as her daughter, and serve her as her queen." At these + sweet words the young wife, now in the first days of her grief, was almost + overcome by a sense of thankfulness, and could scarce restrain her tears; + but she answered bravely, "Believe me, madam, that in love and obedience + neither the king nor any of your children shall exceed me." + </p> + <p> + The court of the merry monarch and that of the queen mother being now + settled in town, a period of vast brilliancy ensued, during which great + festivity and much scandal obtained, by reason of intrigues in which the + king and his friends indulged. Whitehall, the scene of so much gaiety and + gallantry, was a palace by no means befitting the luxurious Charles. It + consisted of a series of irregular houses built for different purposes at + various periods; these contained upwards of two thousand rooms, most of + which were small, and many of which were without doors. The buildings were + intersected by grassy squares, where fountains played, statues were + grouped, and dials shadowed the passing hour. At hand stood St. James's + Park, with its fair meadows and leafy trees; close by flowed the placid + Thames, bearing heavily laden lighters and innumerable barges. Attached to + these dwellings, and forming part of the palace, stood the great banquet + hall, erected from designs by Inigo Jones for James I. Here audiences to + ambassadors, state balls, and great banquets were held. The ceiling was + painted by Rubens, and was, moreover, handsomely moulded and richly gilt. + Above the entrance-door stood a statue of Charles I., "whose majestic mien + delighted the spectator;" Whilst close by one of the windows were the + ineradicable stains of blood, marking the spot near which he had been + beheaded. + </p> + <p> + Now in the train of the queen mother there had travelled from France "a + most pretty sparke of about fourteen years," whom Mr. Pepys plainly terms + "the king's bastard," but who was known to the court as young Mr. Crofts. + This little gentleman was son of Lucy Walters, "a brown, beautiful, bold + creature," who had the distinction of being first mistress to the merry + monarch. That he was his offspring the king entertained no doubt, though + others did; inasmuch as young Mr. Crofts grew to resemble, "even to the + wart on his face," Colonel Robert Sidney, whose paramour Lucy Walters had + been a brief while before his majesty began an intrigue with her. Soon + after the boy's birth that beautiful woman abandoned herself to pleasures, + in which the king had no participation. He therefore parted from her; had + her son placed under the guardianship of Lord Crofts, whose name he bore, + and educated by the Peres de l'Oratoire at Paris. The while he was + continually at the court of the queen mother, who regarded him as her + grandson, and who, by the king's command, now brought him into England. + The beauty of his face and grace of his figure could not be exceeded, + whilst his manner was as winning as his air was noble. Moreover, his + accomplishments were numerous; he danced to perfection, sang with + sweetness, rode with skill; and so gallant was his nature that he became + at this early age, as Hamilton affirms, "the universal terror of husbands + and lovers." + </p> + <p> + The king betrayed the greatest affection for him, and took exceeding pride + in being father of such a brave and comely youth, at which my Lady + Castlemaine was both wrathful and jealous, fearing he would avert the + royal favour from her own offspring; but these feelings she afterwards + overcame, as will be duly shown. His majesty speedily showered honours + upon him, allotted him a suite of apartments in the royal palace of + Whitehall, appointed him a retinue befitting the heir apparent, created + him Duke of Orkney and of Monmouth, and installed him a knight of the + garter. + </p> + <p> + But, before this had been accomplished, there arrived in town some + personages whose names it will be necessary to mention here, the figure + they made at court being considerable. These were Sir George Hamilton and + his family, and Philibert, Chevalier de Grammont. Sir George was fourth + son of James, Earl of Abercorn, and of Mary, sister to James, first Duke + of Ormond. Sir George had proved himself a loyal man and a brave during + the late civil war, and had on the murder of his royal master sought + safety in France, from which country he, in the second year of the + restoration, returned, accompanied by a large family; the women of which + were fair, the men fearless. The Hamiltons being close kin to the Ormond + great intimacy existed between them; to facilitate which they lived not + far apart—the duke residing in Ormond Yard, St. James's Square, and + the Hamiltons occupying a spacious residence in King Street. James + Hamilton, Sir George's eldest son, was remarkable for the symmetry of his + figure, elegance of his manner, and costliness of his dress. Moreover, he + possessed a taste shaped to pleasure, and a disposition inclined to + gallantry, which commended him so strongly to the king's favour, that he + was made groom of the bedchamber and colonel of a regiment. + </p> + <p> + His brother George was scarcely less handsome in appearance or less + agreeable in manner. Another brother, Anthony, best remembered as the + writer of Grammont's memoirs, was likewise liberally endowed by nature. + Elizabeth, commonly called "la belle Hamilton," shared in the largest + degree the hereditary gifts of grace and beauty pertaining to this + distinguished family. At her introduction to the court of Charles II. she + was in the bloom of youth and zenith of loveliness. The portrait of her + which her brother Anthony has set before the world for its admiration is + delicate in its colours, and finished in its details. "Her forehead," he + writes, "was open, white, and smooth; her hair was well set, and fell with + ease into that natural order which it is so difficult to imitate. Her + complexion was possessed of a certain freshness, not to be equalled by + borrowed colours; her eyes were not large, but they were lovely, and + capable of expressing whatever she pleased; her mouth was full of graces, + and her contour uncommonly perfect; nor was her nose, which was small, + delicate, and turned up, the least ornament of so lovely a face. She had + the finest shape, the loveliest neck, and most beautiful arms in the + world; she was majestic and graceful in all her movements; and she was the + original after which all the ladies copied in their taste and air of + dress." + </p> + <p> + Now, about the same time the Hamiltons arrived at court, there likewise + appeared at Whitehall one whose fame as a wit, and whose reputation as a + gallant, had preceded him. This was the celebrated Chevalier de Grammont, + whose father was supposed to be son of Henry the Great of France. The + chevalier had been destined by his mother for the church, the good soul + being anxious he should lead the life of a saint; but the youth was + desirous of joining the army, and following the career of a soldier. Being + remarkable for ingenuity, he conceived a plan by which he might gratify + his mother's wishes and satisfy his own desires at the same time. He + therefore accepted the abbacy his brother procured for him; but on + appearing at court to return thanks for his preferment, comported himself + with a military air. Furthermore, his dress was combined of the habit and + bands pertaining to an ecclesiastic, and the buskins and spurs belonging + to a soldier. Such an amalgamation had never before been witnessed, and + caused general attention; the court was amazed at his daring, but + Richelieu was amused by his boldness. His brother regarded his appearance + in the dual character of priest and soldier as a freak, and on his return + home asked him gravely to which profession he meant to attach himself. The + youth answered he was resolved "to renounce the church for the salvation + of his soul," upon condition that he retained his beneficed abbacy. It may + be added, he kept this resolution. + </p> + <p> + A soldier he therefore became, and subsequently a courtier. His valour in + war and luck in gambling won him the admiration of the camp; whilst his + ardour in love and genius for intrigue gained him the esteem of the court, + but finally lost him the favour of his king. For attaching himself to one + of the maids of honour, Mademoiselle La Motte Houdancourt, whom his most + Christian Majesty Louis XIV. had already honoured with his regard, + Grammont was banished from the French court. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, in the second year of the merry monarch's reign he presented + himself at Whitehall, and was received by Charles with a graciousness that + served to obliterate the memory of his late misfortune. Nor were the + courtiers less warm in their greetings than his majesty. The men hailed + him as an agreeable companion; the ladies intimated he need not wholly + abandon those tender diversions for which he had shown such natural talent + and received such high reputation at the court of Louis XIV. He therefore + promptly attached himself to the king, whose parties he invariably + attended, and whose pleasures he continually devised; made friends with + the most distinguished nobles, whom he charmed by the grace of his manner + and extravagance of his entertainments; and took early opportunities of + proving to the satisfaction of many of the fairer sex that his character + as a gallant had by no means been exaggerated by report. + </p> + <p> + Amongst those to whom he paid especial attention were Mrs. Middleton, a + woman of fashion, and Miss Kirk, a maid of honour, to whom Hamilton, in + his memoirs of Grammont, gives the fictitious name of Warmestre. The + former was at this time in her seventeenth summer, and had been two years + a wife. Her exquisitely fair complexion, light auburn hair, and dark hazel + eyes constituted her a remarkably beautiful woman. Miss Kirk was of a + different type of loveliness, inasmuch as her skin was brown, her eyes + dark, and her complexion brilliant. As Mrs. Middleton was at this time but + little known at court, Grammont found some difficulty in obtaining an + introduction to her as promptly as he desired; but feeling anxious to make + her acquaintance, and being no laggard in love, he without hesitation + applied to her porter for admittance, and took one of her lovers into his + confidence. This latter gallant rejoiced in the name of Jones, and + subsequently became Earl of Ranelagh. In the fulness of his heart towards + one who experienced a fellow feeling, he resolved to aid Grammont in + gaining the lady's favours. This generosity being prompted by the fact + that the chevalier would rid him of a rival whom he feared, and at the + same time relieve him of an expense he could ill afford, the lady having + certain notions of magnificence which her husband's income was unable to + sustain. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Middleton received the chevalier with good grace; but he found her + more ready to receive the presents he offered, than to grant the + privileges he required. Miss Kirk, on the other hand, was not only + flattered by his attentions, but was willing to use every means in her + power to preserve a continuance of his friendship; Therefore out of + gratitude for graces received from one of the ladies, and in expectation + of favours desired from the other, Grammont made them the handsomest + presents. Perfumed gloves, pocket looking-glasses, apricot paste, came + every week from Paris for their benefit; whilst more substantial offerings + in the shape of jewellery, diamonds, and guineas were procured for them in + London, all of which they made no hesitation to accept. + </p> + <p> + It happened one night, whilst Grammont was yet in pursuit of Mrs. + Middleton, that the queen gave a ball. In hope of winning her husband's + affection, by studying his pleasures and suiting herself to his ways, her + majesty had become a changed woman. She now professed a passion for + dancing, wore decollete costumes, and strove to surpass those surrounding + her in her desire for gaiety. Accordingly her balls were the most + brilliant spectacles the court had yet witnessed; she taking care to + assemble the fairest women of the day, and the most distinguished men. Now + amongst the latter was the Chevalier de Grammont; and amidst the former, + Mrs. Middleton and Miss Hamilton. + </p> + <p> + Of all the court beauties, "la belle Hamilton" was one of whom Grammont + had seen least and heard most; but that which had been told him of her + charms seemed, now that he beheld her, wholly inadequate to express her + loveliness. Therefore, his eyes followed her alone, as her graceful figure + glided in the dance adown the ball-room, lighted with a thousand tapers, + and brilliant with every type of beauty. And when presently she rested, it + was with an unusual flutter at his heart that this gallant, heretofore so + daring in love, sought her company, addressed her, and listened with + strange pleasure to the music of her voice. From that night he courted + Mrs. Middleton no more, but devoted himself to "la belle Hamilton," who + subsequently became his wife. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the merry monarch behaved as if he had no higher purpose in + life than that of following his pleasures. "The king is as decomposed + [dissipated] as ever," the lord chancellor writes to the Duke of Ormond, + in a letter preserved in the Bodleian library, "and looks as little after + his business; which breaks my heart, and makes me and other of your + friends weary of our lives. He seeks for his satisfaction and delight in + other company, which do not love him so well as you and I do." His days + were spent in pursuing love, feasting sumptuously, interchanging wit, and + enjoying all that seemed good to the senses. Pepys, who never fails to + make mention of the court when actual experience or friendly gossip + enables him, throws many pleasant lights upon the ways of the monarch and + his courtiers. + </p> + <p> + For instance, he tells us that one Lord's day—the same on which this + excellent man had been to Whitehall chapel, and heard a sermon by the Dean + of Ely on returning to the old ways, and, moreover, a most tuneful anthem + sung by Captain Cooke, with symphonies between—whom should he meet + but the great chirurgeon, Mr. Pierce, who carried him to Somerset House, + and into the queen mother's presence-chamber. And there, on the left hand + of Henrietta Maria, sat the young queen, whom Mr. Pepys had never seen + before, and now thought that "though she be not very charming, yet she + hath a good, modest, and innocent look, which is pleasing." Here, + likewise, he saw the king's mistress, and the young Duke of Monmouth, + "who, I perceive," Pepys continues, "do hang much upon my Lady + Castlemaine, and is always with her; and I hear the queenes, both of them, + are mighty kind to him. By-and-by in comes the king, and anon the duke and + his duchesse; so that, they being all together, was such a sight as I + never could almost have happened to see with so much ease and leisure. + They staid till it was dark, and then went away; the king and his queene, + and my Lady Castlemaine and young Crofts, in one coach, and the rest in + other coaches. Here were great stores of great ladies. The king and queen + were very merry; and he would have made the queene mother believe that the + queene was with child, and said that she said so. And the young queene + answered, 'You lye,' which was the first English word that I ever heard + her say, which made the king good sport." + </p> + <p> + Others besides Mr. Pepys had begun to notice that the young Duke of + Monmouth hung much upon the Countess of Castlemaine, and that her ladyship + lavished caresses upon him. Whether this was to provoke the uneasiness of + his majesty, who she hoped might find employment for the lad elsewhere, or + to express her genuine affection for him, it is impossible to say. + However, the duke being come to an age when the endearments of such a + woman might have undesired effects upon him, the king resolved to remove + him from her influence, and at the same time secure his fortune by + marriage. + </p> + <p> + He therefore selected a bride for him, in the person of Lady Anne Scott, a + young gentlewoman of virtue and excellence, who was only child of Francis, + Earl of Buccleugh, and the greatest heiress in Great Britain. Their + nuptials were celebrated on the 20th of April, 1663, the bridegroom at + this time not having reached his fifteenth birthday, whilst the bride was + younger by a year. The duke on his marriage assumed his wife's family + name, Scott; and some years later—in 1673—both were created + Duke and Duchess of Buccleugh. From this union the family now bearing that + title has descended. A great supper was given at Whitehall on the + marriage-night, and for many days there were stately festivities held to + celebrate the event with becoming magnificence. + </p> + <p> + Now at one of the court balls held at this time, the woman of all others + who attracted most attention and gained universal admiration was Frances + Stuart, maid of honour to Queen Catherine. She was only daughter of a + gallant gentleman, one Walter Stuart, and grand-daughter of Lord Blantyre. + Her family had suffered sore loss in the cause of Charles I., by reason of + which, like many others, it sought refuge in France. This young + gentlewoman was therefore bred in that country, and was, moreover, + attached to the court of the queen mother, in whose suite she travelled + into England. Her beauty was sufficient to attract the attention of Louis + XIV., who, loath to lose so fair an ornament from his court, requested her + mother would permit her to remain, saying, he "loved her not as a + mistress, but as one that would marry as well as any lady in France." + </p> + <p> + No doubt Mrs. Stuart understood the motives of his majesty's interested + kindness, of which, however, she declined availing herself, and therefore + departed with her daughter for England. At the time of her appearance at + Whitehall, Frances Stuart was in her fifteenth year. Even in a court + distinguished by the beauty of women, her loveliness was declared + unsurpassed. Her features were regular and refined, her complexion fair as + alabaster, her hair bright and luxuriant, her eyes of violet hue; + moreover, her figure being tall, straight, and shapely, her movements + possessed an air of exquisite grace. An exact idea of her lineaments may + be gained unto this day, from the fact that Philip Rotier, the medallist, + who loved her true, represented her likeness in the face of Britannia on + the reverse of coins; and so faithful was the likeness, we are assured, + that no one who had ever seen her could mistake who had sat as model of + the figure. + </p> + <p> + Soon after her arrival in England, she was appointed one of the maids of + honour to Queen Catherine, and as such was present at all festivities of + the court. Now, at one of the great balls given in honour of the Duke of + Monmouth's nuptials, the fair Frances Stuart appeared in the full lustre + of her charms. Her beauty, her grace, and her youth completely eclipsed + the more showy gifts of my Lady Castlemaine, who on this occasion looked + pale and thin, she being in the commencement of another pregnancy, "which + the king was pleased to place to his own account." The merry monarch had + before this time been attracted by the fair maid of honour, but now it was + evident his heart had found a new object of admiration in her surpassing + beauty. Henceforth he boldly made love to her. The countess was not much + disturbed by this, for she possessed great faith in her own charms and + implicit belief in her power over the king. Besides, she had sufficient + knowledge of mankind to comprehend that to offer opposition in pursuit of + love is the most certain method to foster its growth. She therefore + resolved to seek Miss Stuart's society, cultivate her friendship, and + constantly bring her into contact with his majesty. This would not only + prove to the satisfaction of the court she had no fear of losing her + sovereignty over the monarch, but, by keeping him engaged with the maid of + honour, would likewise divert his attention from an intrigue the countess + was then carrying on with Henry Jermyn. Accordingly, she made overtures of + friendship to Miss Stuart, invited her to private parties, and appeared + continually with her in public. + </p> + <p> + Concerning these ladies and the merry monarch, Pepys narrates a strange + story which Captain Ferrers told him as they "walked finely" in the park. + This was, that at an entertainment given by my Lady Castlemaine, towards + the end of which his majesty played at being married with fair Frances + Stuart, "with ring and all other ceremonies of Church service, and + ribbands, and a sack posset [A drink composed of milk, wine, and spices.] + in bed, and flinging the stocking. My Lady Castlemaine looked on the + while, evincing neither anger nor jealousy, but entering into the + diversion with great spirit." Nor was this the only indiscretion of which + she was culpable, for, in the full confidence of her charms, she + frequently kept Miss Stuart to stay with her. "The king," says Hamilton, + "who seldom neglected to visit the countess before she rose, seldom failed + likewise to find Miss Stuart with her. The most indifferent objects have + charms in a new attachment; however, the imprudent countess was not + jealous of this rival's appearing with her, in such a situation, being + confident that, whenever she thought fit, she could triumph over all the + advantages which these opportunities could afford Miss Stuart." + </p> + <p> + No doubt Lady Castlemaine's imprudences arose from knowledge that Miss + Stuart was devoid of tact, and incapable of turning opportunities to her + own advantage in the king's regard. For though the maid of honour was + richly endowed with beauty, she was wholly devoid of wit. She was not only + a child in years, but likewise in behaviour. She laughed at every remark + made her, delighted in playing blind man's buff, and was never more happy + than when building castles of cards. At this latter amusement she + continually employed herself whilst the deepest play was taking place in + her apartments; being always attended by groups of courtiers, who were + either attracted by the charm of her beauty, or were eager to make court + through her favour. As she sat upon the floor, intent on her favourite + occupation, they on their knees handed her cards, traced out designs for + her, or built elaborate structures rivalling her own. + </p> + <p> + Amongst those who attended her in this manner was the gay, graceful, and + profligate Duke of Buckingham, who became enamoured of her loveliness. Not + only did he raise the most wonderful of card mansions for her delight, but + having a good voice, and she possessing a passion for music, he invented + songs and sung them to pleasure her. Moreover, he told her the wittiest + stories, turned the courtiers into the greatest ridicule for her + entertainment, and made her acquainted with the most diverting scandals. + Finally, he professed his ardent love for her; but at this the fair Stuart + either felt, or feigned, intense astonishment, and so repulsed him that he + abandoned the pursuit of an amour over which he had wasted so much time, + and thenceforth deprived himself of her company. + </p> + <p> + His attentions were, however, soon replaced by those of the Earl of + Arlington, a lord of the bedchamber, and a man of grave address and great + ambition. Owing to this latter trait his lordship was desirous of winning + the good graces of Miss Stuart in the present, in hopes of governing his + majesty in the future, when she became the king's mistress. But these sage + and provident intentions of his were speedily overturned, for early in the + course of their acquaintance, when he had commenced to tell her a story, + his manner so forcibly reminded her of Buckingham's mimicry of him, that + she burst out laughing in the earl's face. This being utterly uncalled for + by the circumstances of his tale, and still less by the manner of its + narration, Lord Arlington, who was serious, punctilious, and proud, became + enraged, abruptly left her presence, and abandoned his schemes of + governing the king through so frivolous a medium. + </p> + <p> + A man who had better chances of success in winning this beautiful girl was + George Hamilton, whose name has been already mentioned. It was not, + however, his graceful person, or elegant manner, but his performance of a + trick which gained her attention. It happened one night that an Irish + peer, old Lord Carlingford, was diverting her by showing how she might + hold a burning candle in her mouth a considerable time without its being + extinguished. This was a source of uncommon delight to her; seeing which, + George Hamilton thought he would give her still further entertainment. For + being furnished by nature with a wide mouth, he placed within it two + lighted candles, and walked three times round the room without + extinguishing them, whilst the fair Stuart clapped her pretty hands in + delight, and shouted aloud with laughter. + </p> + <p> + A man who could accomplish such a feat was worthy of becoming a favourite. + She at once admitted him to terms of familiarity; and he had a hundred + chances of paying her the attentions he greatly desired, and which she + freely accepted. Grammont, foreseeing that Hamilton would incur the royal + displeasure if his love for Miss Stuart became known to the king, besought + him to abandon his addresses; but this advice did not at first sound + pleasant to the lover's ears. "Since the court has been in the country," + said he, "I have had a hundred opportunities of seeing her, which I had + not before. You know that the dishabille of the bath is a great + convenience for those ladies, who, strictly adhering to all the rules of + decorum, are yet desirous to display all their charms and attractions. + Miss Stuart is so fully acquainted with the advantages she possesses over + all other women, that it is hardly possible to praise any lady at court + for a well-turned arm, and a fine leg but she is ever ready to dispute the + point by demonstration; and I really believe that, with a little address, + it would not be difficult to induce her to strip naked, without ever + reflecting upon what she was doing. After all, a man must be very + insensible to remain unconcerned and unmoved on such happy occasions." + </p> + <p> + Hamilton was therefore not willing to renounce Miss Stuart, but upon + Grammont showing that attentions paid the lady would certainly provoke the + king's anger, he resolved on sacrificing love to interest, and abandoning + the company of the fair maid of honour for evermore. The truth was, his + majesty loved her exceedingly, as was indeed evident, for he constantly + sought her presence, talked to her at the drawing-rooms as if no one else + were by, and kissed her "to the observation of all the world." But though + she allowed Charles such liberties, she refused to become his mistress, + notwithstanding the splendid settlements and high titles with which the + monarch engaged to reward the sacrifice of her virtue. And so, though a + king, it was not given him to be obeyed in all. And though generally loved + for his easy ways and gracious manners, he was continually harassed by his + mistresses, reproved by his chancellor, and ridiculed by his courtiers. + Indeed, they now spoke of him in his absence as "Old Rowley;" the reason + of which is given by Richardson. "There was an old goat," writes he, "in + the privy garden, that they had given this name to; a rank lecherous + devil, that everybody knew and used to stroke, because he was + good-humoured and familiar; and so they applied this name to the king." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The Duke of York's intrigues.—My Lady Chesterfield and his royal + highness—The story of Lady Southesk's love.—Lord Arran plays the + guitar.—Lord Chesterfield is jealous.—The countess is taken from + court.—Mistress Margaret Brooke and the king.—Lady Denham and the + duke.—Sir John goes mad.—My lady is poisoned. +</pre> + <p> + The while his majesty devoted himself to pleasure and intrigue, neglectful + of affairs of state, and heedless of public scandal, his brother of York, + whose disposition was not less amorous, likewise followed the bent of his + inclinations. Soon after her appearance at court he professed himself in + love with the beautiful Elizabeth Hamilton, whom to behold was to admire. + But the duke being a married man, and she a virtuous woman, he dared not + address her on the subject of his affection, and was therefore obliged to + confine the expression of his feelings to glances. These she refused to + interpret; and he, becoming weary of a pursuit which promised no happy + results, turned his attentions to the Countess of Chesterfield, who seemed + in no way loath to receive them. + </p> + <p> + This charming woman had married my Lord Chesterfield in compliance with a + family arrangement; and discovered too soon she had no place in the heart + of him whose life she shared. His coldness to her was only equalled by his + ardour for Lady Castlemaine, whose lover he continued to remain after his + marriage. The affection his wife had offered and he had repulsed, in the + dawn of their wedded life, changed by degrees to disdain and hatred. + </p> + <p> + Now as chamberlain to the queen my Lord Chesterfield had, apartments in + the palace, by reason of which the countess became an habituee of the + court. The moral atmosphere of Whitehall was not calculated to strengthen + her conjugal virtue, but its perpetual gaiety was destined to dissipate + her sense of neglect. It was not possible for a woman endowed with so much + beauty, and possessed of such engaging manners, to be disregarded, in a + court entirely devoted to love and gallantry; and accordingly she soon + became an object of general admiration. This was by no means pleasing to + my Lord Chesterfield, who, though he had wilfully repulsed her affections, + was selfishly opposed to their bestowal upon others. Accordingly he became + watchful of her conduct, and jealous of her admirers. + </p> + <p> + Prominent amongst these were James Hamilton and the Duke of York. The + former was her cousin, and her husband's confidant, in consequence of + which my lord failed to associate him with the suspicion he entertained + towards all other men who approached her: the latter he regarded with the + uttermost distrust. His royal highness had before now disturbed the happy + confidence which husbands had placed in their wives, as my Lord Carnegy + could testify. + </p> + <p> + The story which hangs thereby had, a little while before the duke fell in + love with Lady Chesterfield, afforded vast amusement to the court, and was + yet fresh in the recollection of many. It happened that his royal highness + became enamoured of my Lady Carnegy, daughter of the gallant Duke of + Hamilton, and friend of the gay Lady Castlemaine. Lady Carnegy loved + pleasure mightily, painted her face "devilishly," and drove in the park + flauntingly. She was endowed with considerable beauty of form and great + tenderness of heart, as many gallants acknowledged with gratitude. Now + when the Duke of York made advances to her, she received them with all the + satisfaction he could desire; an intimacy therefore followed, which she + was the better able to entertain on account of her husband's absence in + Scotland. Whilst my Lord Carnegy was in that country, his father, the Earl + of Southesk, died, and he succeeded to the title and estates. In due time + the new earl returned to London and his wife, and was greeted by rumours + of the friendship which in his absence had sprung up between my lady and + the duke. These, as became a good husband, he refused to believe, until + such time as he was enabled to prove their veracity. Now, though his royal + highness did not cease to honour my lady with his visits on her husband's + return, yet out of respect to decorum, and in order to silence scandalous + tongues, he from that time invariably called on her accompanied by a + friend. + </p> + <p> + It therefore came to pass that one day he requested an honest, foolish + Irishman, Dick Talbot, afterwards Duke of Tyrconnel, to attend him in his + visit to the lady. He could scarcely have selected a man more unfitted to + the occasion, inasmuch as Talbot was wholly devoid of tact, and possessed + a mind apt to wander at large at critical moments. He had but recently + returned from Portugal, and was not aware my Lord Carnegy had in the + meantime become Earl of Southesk, nor had he ever met the lady who shared + that title until introduced to her by the duke. When that ceremony had + been duly performed and a few sentences interchanged between them, Talbot, + acting on instructions previously received, retired into an ante-room and + took his post at a window that he might divert himself by viewing the + street, and observing those who approached the house. + </p> + <p> + Here he remained for some time, but the study of mankind which the view + admitted did not afford sufficient interest to prevent him becoming + absorbed in his own thoughts, and indifferent to all objects surrounding + him. From this mental condition he was presently aroused by seeing a + carriage draw up to the door, and its occupant descend and quickly enter + the house. Talbot was so forgetful of his duty that he omitted apprising + the duke of this fact or making any movement until the door of the + ante-room opened, when he turned round to face the intruder. Then he + started forward and cried out, "Welcome, Carnegy!" for it was no other + than he. "Welcome my good fellow! Where the devil have you been, that I + have never been able to set eyes on you since we were at Brussels! What + business brought you here?" he continued in the same breath; and then + added in a tone of banter, "Do you likewise wish to see Lady Southesk; if + this is your intention, my poor friend, you may go away again; for I must + inform you the Duke of York is in love with her, and I will tell you in + confidence that at this very time he is in her chamber." + </p> + <p> + My Lord Southesk was overwhelmed with shame and confusion, and not knowing + how to act, immediately returned to his coach, Talbot attending him to the + door as his friend, and advising him to seek a mistress elsewhere. He then + went back to his post, and with some impatience awaited the Duke's return, + that he might tell him what had happened. And in due time, when he had + narrated the story, he was much surprised that neither his royal highness + nor the countess saw any humour in the fact of Lord Carnegy's + discomfiture. It served, however, to make the duke break off his + connection with the lady, and likewise to amuse the town. + </p> + <p> + Remembering this incident, my Lord Chesterfield kept a watchful eye upon + the duke, who he observed made advances towards the countess, which she, + in her generosity, had not the heart to repulse. But, as his royal + highness could see her only in presence of the court, my lord derived some + satisfaction from knowing he was witness to such civilities as had yet + passed between them. The duke was, however, anxious to have a more + particular occasion of conversing with my lady, and in accomplishing this + desire her brother Lord Arran was willing to aid him. + </p> + <p> + It happened about this time an Italian, named Francisco Corbeta, who + played with great perfection on the guitar, arrived at court. His + performances excited the wonder and delight of all who heard him, and the + instrument which produced such melody speedily became fashionable at + court, to such an extent, that a universal strumming was heard by day and + by night: throughout the palace of Whitehall. The Duke of York, being + devoted to music, was amongst those who strove to rival Signor Francisco's + performance; whilst my Lord Arran, by the delicacy of his execution, + almost equalled the great musician. The while Francisco's popularity + increased, his fame reaching its zenith when he composed a saraband, to + learn which became the ambition of all delighting in the guitar. + </p> + <p> + Now one day the duke, not thinking himself perfect in this piece, + requested Lord Arran to play it over for him. My lord being a courteous + man, was anxious to oblige his royal highness, and in order that the + saraband might be heard to greatest advantage, was desirous of performing + it upon the best instrument at court, which it was unhesitatingly + acknowledged belonged to my Lady Chesterfield. Accordingly, Lord Arran led + the duke to his sister's apartments. Here they found not only the guitar + and my lady, but likewise my lord, who was no less astonished than + disturbed by their visit. Then my Lord Arran commenced the famous + saraband, whilst the duke commenced to ogle my lady, and she to return his + glances in kind, as if both were unconscious of her husband's presence. So + delightful did they find the saraband, that Lord Arran was obliged to + repeat it at least twenty times, to the great mortification of the earl, + who could scarcely contain his violent rage and jealousy. His torture was + presently increased to an immeasurable degree, by a summons he received + from the queen to attend her in his capacity of lord chamberlain, during + an audience she was about, to give the Muscovite ambassador. + </p> + <p> + He had from the first suspected the visit, with which he was honoured, to + have been preconcerted by his wife and the duke; and he now began to think + her majesty was likewise connected with a plot destined to rob him of his + peace and blight his honour. However, he was obliged to obey the queen's + summons and depart. Nor had he been many minutes absent when Lord Arran + entered the presence-chamber where the audience was being held, + unaccompanied by the duke, at which Lord Chesterfield's jealous fears were + strengthened a thousandfold. Before night came he was satisfied he held + sufficient proof of his wife's infidelity. + </p> + <p> + This conviction caused him intense anxiety and pain; he walked about his + apartments abstracted and brooding on the wrongs from which he suffered; + avoided all who came in his way; and maintained strict silence as to that + which disturbed his peace, until next day, when he met James Hamilton. To + him he confided an account of the troubles which beset him. After speaking + of the visit paid by his royal highness, and the part enacted by my Lord + Arran, whom he described as "one of the silliest creatures in England, + with his guitar, and his other whims and follies," he went on to say that + when Hamilton had heard him out, he would be enabled to judge whether the + visit ended in perfect innocence or not. "Lady Chesterfield is amiable, it + must be acknowledged," said he, "but she is far from being such a miracle + of beauty as she supposes herself: you know she has ugly feet; but perhaps + you are not acquainted that she has still worse legs. They are short and + thick, and to remedy these defects as much as possible, she seldom wears + any other than green stockings. I went yesterday to Miss Stuart's after + the audience of those damned Muscovites: the king arrived there just + before me; and as if the duke had sworn to pursue me wherever I went that + day, he came in just after me. The conversation turned upon the + extraordinary appearance of the ambassadors. I know not where that fool + Crofts had heard that all these Muscovites had handsome wives; and that + all their wives had handsome legs. Upon this the king maintained, that no + woman ever had such handsome legs as Miss Stuart; and she to prove the + truth of his majesty's assertion, with the greatest imaginable ease, + immediately showed her leg above the knee. Some were ready to prostrate + themselves in order to adore its beauty, for indeed none can be handsomer; + but the duke alone began to criticize upon it. He contended that it was + too slender, and that as for himself he would give nothing for a leg that + was not thicker and shorter, and concluded by saying that no leg was worth + anything without green stockings; now this in my opinion was a sufficient + demonstration that he had just seen green stockings, and had them fresh in + his remembrance." + </p> + <p> + At hearing this story, Hamilton, being deeply in love with Lady + Chesterfield, was scarcely less agitated or less jealous than her lord; + but he was obliged to conceal his feelings. Therefore, assuming the tone + of an impartial hearer, he shrugged his shoulders, declared appearances + were often deceitful, and maintained that even if she had given herself + airs to encourage the duke, there were no grounds to show she had been + culpable of improprieties. My lord expressed himself much obliged to his + friend for the interest he had shown in his troubles, and after exchanging + a few compliments they parted. Hamilton, full of wrath, returned home, and + wrote a letter replete with violent expostulations and tender reproaches + to the woman he loved. This he delivered to her secretly at the next + opportunity. She received it from him with a smile, which scared all + doubts of her frailty from his mind, and with a pressure of his hand which + awoke the tenderest feelings in his heart. + </p> + <p> + He was now convinced her husband had allowed jealousy to blind him, and + had magnified his unworthy suspicions to assurances of guilt. Is this view + Hamilton was fully confirmed by a letter he received from her the + following day in answer to his own. "Are you not," said she, "ashamed to + give any credit to the visions of a jealous fellow, who brought nothing + else with him from Italy? Is it possible that the story of the green + stockings, upon which he has founded his suspicions, should have imposed + upon you, accompanied as it is with such pitiful circumstances? Since he + has made you his confidant, why did not he boast of breaking in pieces my + poor harmless guitar? This exploit, perhaps, might have convinced you more + than all the rest; recollect yourself, and if you are really in love with + me, thank fortune for a groundless jealousy, which diverts to another + quarter the attention he might pay to my attachment for the most amiable + and the most dangerous man at court." + </p> + <p> + Anointed by this flattering unction, such wounds as Hamilton had + experienced were quickly healed; alas, only to bleed afresh at the certain + knowledge that this charming woman had been making him her dupe! For soon + after, in a moment of indiscretion, and whilst the whole court, including + her majesty, was assembled in the card-room, my lady there permitted the + duke a liberty which confirmed her husband in his suspicions of their + intimacy. Hamilton at hearing this was wild with fury, and advised Lord + Chesterfield to carry her away from the allurements of the court, and + seclude her in one of his country mansions. This was an advice to which + the earl listened with complaisance, and carried out with despatch, to her + intense mortification. + </p> + <p> + The whole court was amused by the story, but dismayed at the punishment my + lord inflicted upon his lady. Anthony Hamilton declares that in England + "they looked with astonishment upon a man who could be so uncivil as to be + jealous of his wife; and in the city of London it was a prodigy, till that + time unknown, to see a husband have recourse to violent means to prevent + what jealousy fears, and what it always deserves." He adds, they + endeavoured to excuse my lord by laying all the blame on his bad + education, which made "all the mothers vow to God that none of their sons + should ever set a foot in Italy, lest they should bring back with them + that infamous custom of laying restraint upon their wives." + </p> + <p> + By the departure of Lady Chesterfield the court lost one of its most + brilliant ornaments forever, for the unhappy countess never again returned + to the gay scene of her adventures. For three long years she endured + banishment at Bretby in Derbyshire, and then died, it was believed, from + the effects of poison. For my lord, never having his suspicions of her + intrigue cleared, insisted on her taking the sacrament by way of pledging + her innocence; on which occasion he, in league with his chaplain, mixed + poison in the sacred wine, as result of which she died. This shocking + story gained credence not only with the public, but with members of his + own family; inasmuch as his daughter-in-law, Lady Gertrude Stanhope, after + she had quarrelled with him, would, when she sat at his table, drink only + of such wine and water as a trusty servant of hers procured. + </p> + <p> + This intrigue of the duke had given much uneasiness to his duchess, who + had complained to the king and to her father, and had, moreover, set a + watch upon the movements of his royal highness. But such measures did not + avail to make him a faithful husband, and no sooner was Lady Chesterfield + removed from his sight, than Lady Denham took her place in his affections. + This latter mentioned gentlewoman was daughter of a valiant baronet, Sir + William Brooke, and niece to a worthless peer, the Earl of Bristol. The + earl had, on the king's restoration, cherished ambitious schemes to obtain + the merry monarch's favour; for which purpose he sought to commend himself + by ministering to the royal pleasures. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly he entertained the king as became a loyal gentleman, giving + him luxurious banquets and agreeable suppers, to which, by way of adding + to his majesty's greater satisfaction, the noble host invited his nieces, + Mistress Brooke and her sister. The wily earl had, indeed, conceived a + plan the better to forward his interests with the king, and was desirous + one of these gentlewomen should subdue his majesty's heart, and become his + mistress. Margaret Brooke, the elder of the maidens, was at this time in + her eighteenth year, and was in the full flower of such loveliness as was + presented by a fair complexion, light brown hair, and dark grey eyes. The + merry monarch's susceptible heart was soon won by her beauty; the charming + lady's amorous disposition was speedily conquered by his gallantry, and + nothing prevented her becoming his mistress save Lady Castlemaine's + jealousy. + </p> + <p> + This, however, proved an insurmountable obstacle; for the countess, + hearing rumours of the pleasures which were enjoyed at my Lord Bristol's + table, insisted on attending the king thither, and soon gave his gracious + majesty an intimation he dared not disregard—that she would not + suffer Miss Brooke as a rival. Margaret Brooke was grievously + disappointed; but the Duke of York beginning his attentions at the point + where his majesty discontinued them, she was soon consoled for loss of the + monarch's affection by the ardour of his brother's love. But a short time + after, probably foreseeing the ambiguous position in which she stood, she + forsook her lover, and accepted a husband in the person of Sir John + Denham. + </p> + <p> + This worthy knight was a man of parts; inasmuch as he was a soldier, a + poet, and a gamester. At the time of his marriage he had passed his + fiftieth year; moreover, he limped painfully and carried a crutch. His + appearance, indeed, was far from imposing. According to Aubrey, he was + tall, had long legs, and was "incurvelting at his shoulders; his hair was + but thin and flaxen, with a moist curl; his gait slow and rather + astalking; his eye was a kind of light goose-grey, not big, but it had a + strange piercingness, not as to shining and glory, but when he conversed + he looked into your very thoughts." His personal defects, however, were to + a great degree compensated for by his great wealth. Moreover he was + surveyor-general of his majesty's works, had a town house in Scotland + Yard, and a country residence at Waltham Cross in Essex. But there are + some deficiencies for which wealth does not atone, as no doubt Lady Denham + promptly discovered; for, before a year of her married life had passed, + she renewed her intrigue with the Duke of York. His love for her seemed to + have increased a thousandfold since fate had given her to the possession + of another. At royal drawing-rooms he took her aside and talked to her "in + the sight of all the world," and whenever she moved away from him he + followed her like a dog. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, he made no effort to screen his passion, for not only did he make + love to her in presence of the court, but he visited her at noonday, + attended by his gentlemen, before all the town. Nor did Lady Denham desire + to conceal the honour with which, she considered, this amour covered her, + but openly declared she would "not be his mistress, as Mrs. Price, to go + up and down the privy stairs, but will be owned publicly;" and in this + respect she obtained her desire. Meanwhile Sir John was rendered + miserable; and, indeed, his desperation soon overthrew his reason, and + rendered him a lunatic. This affection first appeared during a journey he + made to the famous free-stone quarries near Portland in Dorset. When he + came within a mile of his destination, he suddenly turned back, and + proceeded to Hounslow, where he demanded rents for lands he had disposed + of years before; and then hastening to town sought out the king and + informed him he was the Holy Ghost. + </p> + <p> + This madness lasted but a short time; and the first use he made of his + recovered senses was to plot vengeance on his wife. Now there was one + honour which she coveted above all others, that of being appointed a lady + of the bedchamber to the Duchess of York. This her royal lover, following + the example of his majesty, sought to obtain for her; but the duchess, who + had already suffered many indignities by reason of her husband's + improprieties, refused him this request, which would render her liable to + continual insult in her own court. The duke, however, had a strong will, + and the duchess was on the point of yielding to his demand, when rumour + announced that Lady Denham had been taken suddenly ill, and scandal + declared she had been poisoned. The wildest sensation followed. His royal + highness, stricken with remorse and terror, hastened to Scotland Yard and + sought his beloved mistress, who told him she believed herself poisoned, + and felt she was now dying. The most eminent physicians were speedily + summoned, but their skill proved of no avail, for she gradually became + worse, and finally died, leaving instructions that her body should be + opened after death, in order that search might be made for the fatal drug. + </p> + <p> + The surgeons followed these directions, as we learn from the Orrery state + papers, but no trace of poison was discovered. For all that the public had + no doubt her husband had destroyed her life, and Hamilton tells us the + populace "had a design of tearing Sir John in pieces as soon as he should + come abroad; but he shut himself up to bewail her death, until their fury + was appeased by a magnificent funeral, at which he distributed four times + more burnt wine than had ever been drunk at any burial in England." + </p> + <p> + As for the duke, he was sorely troubled for her loss, and declared he + should never have a public mistress again. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Court life under the merry monarch.—Riding in Hyde Park.—Sailing on + the Thames.—Ball at Whitehall.—Petit soupers.—What happened at + Lady Gerrard's.—Lady Castlemaine quarrels with the king.—Flight to + Richmond.—The queen falls ill.—The king's grief and remorse.—Her + majesty speaks.—Her secret sorrow finds voice in delirium.—Frances + Stuart has hopes.—The queen recovers. +</pre> + <p> + Views of court life during the first years of the merry monarch's reign, + obtainable from works of his contemporaries, present a series of + brilliant, changeful, and interesting pictures. Scarce a day passed that + their majesties, attended by a goodly throng of courtiers, went not + abroad, to the vast delight of the town: and rarely a night sped by + unmarked by some magnificent entertainment, to the great satisfaction of + the court. At noon it was a custom of the king and queen, surrounded by + maids of honour and gentlemen in waiting, the whole forming a gladsome and + gallant crowd, to ride in coaches or on horseback in Hyde Park: which + place has been described as "a field near the town, used by the king and + nobility for the freshness of the air, and goodly prospect." + </p> + <p> + Here in a railed-off circle, known as the ring, and situated in the + northern half of the park, the whole world of fashion and beauty diverted + itself. Noble gallants wearing broad-brimmed hats and waving plumes, + doublets of velvet, and ruffles of rich lace; and fair women with flowing + locks and dainty patches, attired in satin gowns, and cloaks wrought with + embroidery, drove round and round, exchanging salutations and smiles as + they passed. Here it was good Mr. Pepys saw the Countess of Castlemaine, + among many fine ladies, lying "impudently upon her back in her coach + asleep, with her mouth wide open." And on another occasion the same + ingenious gentleman observed the king and my lady pass and repass in their + respective coaches, they greeting one another at every turn. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Pepys gives us another picture, in which he shows us the king + riding right gallantly beside his queen, and therefore presents him to + better advantage. This excellent gossip, sauntering down Pall Mall one + bright summer day, it being the middle of July, in the year 1663, met the + queen mother walking there, led by her supposed husband, the Earl of St. + Albans. And, hearing the king and queen rode abroad with the ladies of + honour to the park, and seeing a great crowd of gallants awaiting their + return, he also stayed, walking up and down the while. "By-and-by," says + he, "the king and queene, who looked in this dress (a white laced + waistcoate and a crimson short pettycoate, and her hair dressed A LA + NEGLIGENCE) mighty pretty; and the king rode hand in hand with her. Here + was also my Lady Castlemaine riding amongst the rest of the ladies; but + the king took, methought, no notice of her; nor when they light did + anybody press (as she seemed to expect, and staid for it) to take her + down, but was taken down by her own gentlemen. She looked mighty out of + humour, and had a yellow plume in her hat (which all took notice of), and + yet is very handsome. I followed them up into Whitehall, and into the + queene's presence, where all the ladies walked, talking and fiddling with + their hats and feathers, and changing and trying one another's by one + another's heads, and laughing. But it was the finest sight to me, + considering their great beautys and dress, that ever I did see in my life. + But, above all, Mrs. Stuart in this dresse with her hat cocked and a red + plume, with her sweet eye, little Roman nose, and excellent taille, is now + the greatest beauty I ever saw, I think, in my life; and, if ever woman + can, do exceed my Lady Castlemaine, at least in this dresse: nor do I + wonder if the king changes, which I verily believe is the reason of his + coldness to my Lady Castlemaine." + </p> + <p> + Having returned from the park, dined at noon, walked in the palace + gardens, or played cards till evening came, their majesties, surrounded by + a brilliant and joyous court, would in summer time descend the broad steps + leading from Whitehall to the Thames, and embark upon the water for + greater diversion. Never was there so goodly a sight, seldom so merry a + company. The barges in which they sailed were draped to the water's edge + with bright fabrics, hung with curtains of rich silk, and further adorned + with gay pennants. And, as the long procession of boats, filled with fair + women and gallant men, followed their majesties adown the placid Thames + towards pleasant Richmond, my Lord Arran would delight the ears of all by + his performance on the guitar; the fair Stuart would sing French songs in + her sweet childlike voice; or a concert of music would suddenly resound + from the banks, being placed there to surprise by some ingenious courtier. + </p> + <p> + And presently landing on grassy meads, delightful to sight by freshness of + their colour, and sweet to scent from odour of their herbs, the court + would sup right heartily; laugh, drink, and make love most merrily, until + early shadows stole across the summer sky, and night-dews fell upon the + thirsty earth. Then king, queen, and courtiers once more embarking, would + sail slowly back, whilst the moon rose betimes in the heavens, and the + barges streaked the waters with silver lines. + </p> + <p> + At other times magnificent entertainments filled the nights with light and + revelry. Pepys tells us of a great ball he witnessed in the last month of + the year 1662 at the palace of Whitehall. He was carried thither by Mr. + Povy, a member of the Tangier Commission, and taken at first to the Duke + of York's chambers, where his royal highness and the duchess were at + supper; and from thence "into a room where the ball was to be, crammed + with fine ladies, the greatest of the court. By-and-by comes the king and + queene, the duke and duchess, and all the great ones; and, after seating + themselves, the king takes out the Duchess of York; and the duke the + Duchess of Buckingham; the Duke of Monmouth my Lady Castlemaine; and so + other lords other ladies; and they danced the bransle. After that, the + king led a lady a single coranto; and then the rest of the lords, one + after another, other ladies: very noble it was, and great pleasure to see. + Then to country dances: the king leading the first. Of the ladies that + danced, the Duke of Monmouth's lady, and my Lady Castlemaine, and a + daughter of Sir Harry de Vicke's were the best. The manner was, when the + king dances, all the ladies in the room, and his queene herself, stand up: + and indeed he dances rarely, and much better than the Duke of York." + </p> + <p> + PETIT SOUPERS were another form of entertainments, greatly enjoyed by + Charles, and accordingly much in vogue with his courtiers. The Chevalier + de Grammont had principally helped to make them fashionable, his suppers + being served With the greatest elegance, attended by the choicest wits, + and occasionally favoured with the presence of majesty itself. Nor were + Lady Gerrard's PETIT SOUPERS less brilliant, or her company less + distinguished. Her ladyship boasted of French parentage and understood the + art of pleasing to perfection; and accordingly at her board wine flowed, + wit sparkled, and love obtained in the happiest manner. Now it happened + one of her delightful entertainments was destined to gain a notoriety she + by no means coveted, and concerning which the French ambassador, Count de + Comminges, wrote pleasantly enough to the Marquis de Lionne. + </p> + <p> + It came to pass that Lady Gerrard, who loved the queen, requested the + honour of their majesties to sup with her. She, moreover, invited some of + the courtiers, amongst whom she did not include my Lady Castlemaine. On + the appointed night the king and queen duly arrived; the other guests had + already assembled; and the hour gave fair promise of entertainment. But + presently, when supper was announced, his majesty was missing, and on + inquiry it was discovered he had left the house for Lady Castlemaine's + lodgings, where he spent the evening. Such an insult as this so openly + dealt the queen, and such an indignity put upon the hostess, caused the + greatest agitation to all present; and subsequently afforded subject for + scandalous gossip to the town. It moreover showed that the monarch was yet + an abject slave of his mistress, whose charms entangled him irresistibly. + At least four times a week he supped with her, returning at early morning + from her lodgings, in a stealthy way, through the privy gardens, a + proceeding of which the sentries took much notice, joked unbecomingly, and + gossiped freely. + </p> + <p> + Now in order to avoid further observation at such times, and silence + rumours which consequently obtained, his majesty removed the countess from + her lodgings in that part of the palace divided by the road leading to + Westminster from the chief block, and furnished her with apartments next + his own chamber. The poor queen, who had sought by every means in her + power to win his affection, was sorely grieved at this action, and + moreover depressed by the neglect to which she was continually subjected. + Sometimes four months were allowed to pass without his deigning to sup + with her, though the whole court was aware he constantly paid that honour + to her infamous rival. But knowing how unavailing reproach would be, she + held her peace; and feeling how obtrusive her sorrow would seem, she hid + her tears. Now and again, however, a look would flash in her eyes, and an + answer rise to her lips, which showed how deeply she felt her bitter + wrongs. "I wonder your majesty has the patience to sit so long adressing," + said my Lady Castlemaine to her one morning when she found her yet in the + dresser's hands. "I have so much reason to use patience," answered the + neglected wife, "that I can very well bear with it." + </p> + <p> + And so the countess continued to reign paramount in his majesty's favour + until the middle of July, 1663, when a rumour spread through the town that + she had quarrelled with the king, and had consequently fallen from her + high estate. The cause of disagreement between the monarch and his + mistress is narrated by the French ambassador in a letter to Louis XIV. + </p> + <p> + By this time the fair Stuart had so increased in his majesty's favour, + that my Lady Castlemaine began to see the indiscretion of which she had + been guilty in bringing her so constantly into his presence, and moreover + to fear her influence over his fickle heart. Accordingly she refused to + invite the maid of honour to her apartments, or entertain her at her + assemblies. At this the king became exceedingly wrathful, and told my lady + he would not enter her rooms again unless Miss Stuart was there. Thereon + the charming countess flew into a violent passion, roundly abused his + majesty, called her carriage, and protesting she would never again enter + the palace of Whitehall, drove off in a rage to the residence of her uncle + at Richmond. The monarch had not expected his words would cause such fury, + nor did he desire her departure; and no sooner had she gone than he began + to regret her absence and long for her return. + </p> + <p> + Therefore next morning he made pretence of hunting, and turning his + horse's head in the direction of Richmond, called on his mistress, when he + apologized to and made friends with her. She therefore returned and + exercised her old ascendancy over him once more. It is probable his + majesty was the more anxious to pacify her, from the fact that she was now + far advanced in her third pregnancy; for two months later she gave birth + to her second son, who was baptized Henry Fitzroy, and subsequently + created Duke of Grafton. + </p> + <p> + And it happened about this time, that the queen, falling ill, drew near + unto death. On Friday, the 14th October, 1663, a fever took possession of + her, when the doctors were summoned, her head shaven, and pigeons put to + her feet. Her illness, however, rapidly increased, and believing she was + about to leave a world in which her young life had known so much sorrow, + she made her will, put her affairs in order, and received extreme unction. + Upon this the king, mindful of grievous injuries he had done her, was + sorely troubled in his heart, and going to her chamber, flung himself at + the foot of her bed and burst into tears; as the French ambassador + narrates. + </p> + <p> + It is said women love best men who treat them worst. If this be so, God, + alone who made them knows wherefore; for it is given no man to understand + them in all. Now her majesty proved no exception to this rule regarding + the unreasonableness of her sex in placing their affections most on those + who regard them least; for she was devoted to the king. Therefore the + evidence of his grief at prospect of her loss touched her deeper than all + words can say, and with much sweetness she sought to soothe and console + him. + </p> + <p> + She told him she had no desire to live, and no sorrow to die, save, + indeed, that caused by parting from him. She hoped he would soon wed a + consort more worthy of his love than she had been; one who would + contribute more to his happiness and the satisfaction of the nation than + she had. And now they were about to part, she had two requests to make: + that he would never separate his interests from those of the king her + brother, or cease to protect her distressed nation; and that her body + might be sent back to Portugal and laid in the tomb of her ancestors. At + this the king, yet on his knees beside her, interrupted her only by his + sobs, hearing which she wept likewise; and so overcome was he by grief + that he was obliged to be led from her room. + </p> + <p> + The court was saddened by her majesty's illness, for she had won the + goodwill of all by the kindness of her disposition and gentleness of her + manner; the city was likewise afflicted, for the people thought so good a + queen could not fail in time to reclaim even so erratic a husband; and + trade became suddenly depressed. Crowds gathered by night and by day + outside the palace to learn the most recent change in her majesty's + condition many thinking her death inevitable, because the doctors had + pronounced her recovery impossible. And for days her soul hovered betwixt + two worlds. + </p> + <p> + On the night of the 19th, a fierce storm raged over England; and Mr. + Pepys, being waked by the roaring of mighty winds, turned to his wife and + said: "I pray God I hear not of the death of any great person, this wind + is so high." And fearing the queen might have departed, he rose betimes, + and took coach to the palace that he might make inquiries concerning her, + but found her majesty was still living. She was now, however, unconscious; + and gave free voice to the secret sorrow which underlay her life, because + she had not borne children to the king. Had she given him heirs, she felt + assured he would certainly love her as well as he loved his mistresses; + and would feel as proud of her offspring as of those borne him by other + women. But though she had proved capable of becoming a mother on more than + one occasion, it pleased heaven to leave her childless, to her great + grief. Therefore in her delirium, desires shaped themselves to realities, + and she believed she had given birth to three children, two boys and a + girl. The latter she fancied much resembled the king, but she was troubled + that one of the boys was plain featured. And seeing her grief at this, his + majesty, who stood by, sought in pity to console her, saying the boy was + indeed pretty; at which she brightened visibly, and answering him said: + "Nay, if it be like you, it is a fine boy indeed, and I would be very well + pleased with it." This delusion continued through her illness, and so + strongly did it force itself upon her mind, that one morning when she was + on her way to recovery, on waking suddenly and seeing the doctor bending + over her, she exclaimed, "How do the children?" + </p> + <p> + Now all this time, whilst the shadow of death lay upon the palace, and + laughter and music were no longer heard within its walls, there was one of + its inmates who pondered much upon the great fortune which the future + might have in keeping for her. This was fair Frances Stuart, who, not + having yielded to the king's request by becoming his mistress, now + entertained high hopes of being made his wife. In this dream she was, + moreover, flattered by an unusual deference and high respect paid her by + the court since the beginning of her majesty's illness. The king continued + his attentions to her; for though he had proved himself "fondly + disconsolate" and wept sorely for her majesty, he never during her + sickness omitted an opportunity of conversing with Miss Stuart, or + neglected supping with Lady Castlemaine. But the hopes entertained by the + maid of honour were speedily overthrown, for contrary to all expectation + the queen recovered, and was so well on the 10th November as to "bespeak + herself a new gowne" + </p> + <p> + And so the court remained unchanged, and life went on as before; the queen + growing gradually stronger, the king making love to Miss Stuart by day, + and visiting Lady Castlemaine by night. And it happened one evening when + he went to sup with the latter there was a chine of beef to roast, and no + fire to cook it because the Thames had flooded the kitchen. Hearing which, + the countess called out to the cook, "Zounds, you must set the house on + fire but it shall be roasted!" And roasted it was. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Notorious courtiers.—My Lord Rochester's satires.—Places a watch on + certain ladies of quality.—His majesty becomes indignant.—Rochester + retires to the country.—Dons a disguise and returns to town.—Practises + astrology.—Two maids of honour seek adventure.—Mishaps which befell + them.—Rochester forgiven.—The Duke of Buckingham.—Lady Shrewsbury + and her victims.—Captain Howard's duel.—Lord Shrewsbury avenges + his honour.—A strange story.—Colonel Blood attempts an + abduction.—Endeavours to steal the regalia.—The king converses with + him. +</pre> + <p> + Prominent among the courtiers, and foremost amid the friends of his + majesty, were two noblemen distinguished alike for their physical grace, + exceeding wit, and notable eccentricity. These were the Earl of Rochester, + and his Grace of Buckingham; gallants both, whose respective careers were + so intimately connected with the court as to make further chronicle of + them necessary in these pages. + </p> + <p> + My Lord Rochester, though younger in years than the duke, was superior to + him in wit, comeliness, and attraction. Nor was there a more conspicuous + figure observable in the palace of Whitehall than this same earl, who was + ever foremost in pursuit of such pleasures as wine begets and love + appeases. His mirth was the most buoyant, his conversation the most + agreeable, his manner the most engaging in the world; whence he became + "the delight and wonder of men, the love and dotage of women." A courtier + possessed of so happy a disposition, and endowed with such brilliant + talents, could not fail in pleasing the king; who vastly enjoyed his + society, but was occasionally obliged to banish his person from court, + when his eccentric conduct rendered him intolerable, or his bitter satire + aimed at royalty. For it was given no other man in his age to blend merry + wit and caustic ridicule so happily together; therefore those who read his + lines were forced to laugh at his fancy, even whilst hurt by his irony. + </p> + <p> + Now in order to keep this talent in constant practice, he was wont to + celebrate in inimitable verse such events, be they private or public, as + happened at court, or befell the courtiers; and inasmuch as his subjects + were frequently of a licentious nature, his lines were generally of a + scandalous character. He therefore became the public censor of court + folly; and so unerringly did his barbed shafts hit the weaknesses at which + they aimed, that his productions were equally the terror of those he + victimized, and the delight of those he spared. + </p> + <p> + This liberal use of satire he was wont to excuse on the plea there were + some who could not be kept in order, or admonished, by other means. + Therefore, having the virtue of his friends keenly at heart, an ingenious + plan occurred to him by which he might secretly discover their vices, and + publicly reprove them. In order that he might fulfil this purpose to his + greater satisfaction, he promptly sought and found a footman, who, by + virtue of his employment, was well acquainted with the courtiers. This man + the "noble and beautiful earl" furnished with a red coat and a musket, + that he might pass as a sentinel, and then placed him every night + throughout one winter at the doors of certain ladies of quality whom he + suspected of carrying on intrigues. + </p> + <p> + In this disguise the footman readily passed as a soldier stationed at his + post by command of his officer, and was thus enabled to note what + gentlemen called on the suspected ladies at unreasonable but not + unfashionable hours. Accordingly, my lord made many surprising + discoveries, and when he had gained sufficient information on such + delicate points, he quietly retired into the country, that he might with + greater ease devote himself to the composition of those lively verses + which he subsequently circulated through the court, to the wonder and + dismay of many, and the delight and profit of few. + </p> + <p> + To these lampoons no name was attached, and my lord took precautions that + their authorship should not be satisfactorily proved, no matter how sagely + suspected. Moreover, in his conversation he was judicious enough to keep + the weapon of his satire in reserve; sheathing its fatal keenness in a + bewitching softness of civility until occasion required its use; when + forth it flashed all the brighter for its covering, all the sharper for + its rest. And satire being absent from his speech, humour ever waited on + his words; and never was he more extravagantly gay than when assisting at + the pleasant suppers given by the merry monarch to his choicest friends. + </p> + <p> + Here, whilst drinking deep of ruddy wine from goblets of old gold, he + narrated his strange experiences, and illustrated them with flashes of his + wit. For it was the habit of this eccentric earl, when refinements of the + court began to pall upon him, or his absence from Whitehall became a + necessity, to seek fresh adventure and intrigue disguised as a porter, a + beggar, or a ballad-monger. And so carefully did he hide his identity in + the character he assumed, that his most intimate friends failed to + recognise his personality. + </p> + <p> + No doubt the follies in which he indulged were in some measure due to the + eccentricity ever attendant upon genius; but they were probably likewise + occasioned by craving for excitement begotten of drink. For my lord loved + wine exceedingly; and when he drew near unto death in the dawn of his + manhood, confessed to Bishop Burnet that for five years he was continually + drunk: "Not that he was all the while under the visible effects of it, but + his blood was so inflamed, that he was not in all that time cool enough to + be perfectly master of himself." Charles delighted in the society of this + gay courtier, because of his erratic adventures, and his love of wine. + Moreover, the licentious verses which it was the earl's good pleasure to + compose, the names of some of which no decent lips would whisper in this + age of happy innocence, afforded the monarch extravagant enjoyment. Withal + his majesty's satisfaction in Lord Rochester's wit was not always to be + counted upon, as it proved. For it came to pass one night at the close of + a royal supper, during which the earl had drunk deep, that with great + goodwill to afford the king diversion, he handed his majesty what he + believed was a satire on a courtier, more remarkable for its humour than + its decency. Whereon Charles, with anticipation of much delight, opened + the folded page, when he was surprised to see, not a copy of verses, but + an unflattering description of himself, which ran as follows: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Here lies our mutton-eating king, + Whose word no man relies on; + Who never said a foolish thing, + And never did a wise one." +</pre> + <p> + Now the king, though the best tempered of men and most lenient of masters, + was naturally wrathful at this verbal character: the more so because + recognising its faithfulness at a glance. He therefore upbraided Rochester + with ingratitude, and banished him from the court. + </p> + <p> + Nothing dismayed, my lord retired into the country; but in a short time, + growing weary of pastoral solitude which gave him an appetite for + adventure it could not wholly supply, he returned privately to town, and + assuming a disguise, took up his residence in the city. Here exercising + his characteristic tact, and great capacity for pleasing, he speedily made + friends with wealthy merchants and worthy aldermen, who subsequently + invited him to their hospitable tables, and introduced him to their + gracious ladies. + </p> + <p> + And as his conversation had not failed to delight the husbands, neither + were his charms unsuccessful in affording satisfaction to their wives. To + the one he railed against the impotence of the king's ministers, to the + other he declaimed upon the wickedness of his majesty's mistresses; and to + both his denunciations were equally sincere and acceptable. But his + bitterest words were reserved for such courtiers as Rochester, Buckingham, + and Killigrew, whose dissipated lives were the scandal of all honest men, + the terror of all virtuous women: insolent fellows, moreover, who had the + impudence to boast that city ladies were not so faithful to their husbands + as was generally supposed, and, moreover, the boldness to assert that they + painted. Indeed, he marvelled much, that since such men were frequenters + of Whitehall, sacred fire from heaven had not long since descended and + consumed the royal palace to ashes. Such virtuous sentiments as these, + expressed by so gallant a man, made him acceptable in many homes: and the + result was he speedily became surfeited by banquets, suppers, and other + hospitalities, to which the excellent but credulous citizens bade him + heartily welcome. + </p> + <p> + He therefore disappeared from their midst one day as suddenly and + unaccountably as he had come amongst them. He did not, however, take + himself afar, but donning a new disguise, retreated to a more distant part + of the city: for an idea had occurred to him which he determined speedily + to put in practice. This was to assume the character and bearing of a sage + astrologer and learned physician, at once capable of reading the past, and + laying bare the future of all who consulted him; also of healing diseases + of and preventing mishaps to such as visited him. Accordingly, having + taken lodgings in Tower Street, at a goldsmith's house, situated next the + Black Swan, he prepared himself for practice, adopted the title of doctor, + the name of Alexander Bendo, and issued bills headed by the royal arms, + containing the most remarkable and impudent manifesto perhaps ever set + forth by any impostor. + </p> + <p> + Copies of this may yet be seen in early editions of his works. It was + addressed to all gentlemen, ladies, and others, whether of the city, town, + or country, to whom Alexander Bendo wished health and prosperity. He had + come amongst them because the great metropolis of England had ever been + infested by numerous quacks, whose arrogant confidence, backed by their + ignorance, had enabled them to impose on the public; either by + premeditated cheats in physic, chymical and galenic, in astrology, + physiognomy, palmistry, mathematics, alchymy, and even government itself. + Of which latter he did not propose to discourse, or meddle with, since it + in no way belonged to his trade or vocation, which he thanked God he found + much more safe, equally honest, and more profitable. But he, Alexander + Bendo, had with unswerving faithfulness and untiring assiduity for years + courted the arts and sciences, and had learned dark secrets and received + signal favours from them. He was therefore prepared to take part against + unlearned wretches, and arrant quacks, whose impudent addresses and saucy + pretences had brought scandal upon sage and learned men. + </p> + <p> + However, in a wicked world like this, where virtue was so exactly + counterfeited, and hypocrisy was generally successful, it would be hard + for him, a stranger, to escape censure. But indeed he would submit to be + considered a mountebank if he were discovered to be one. Having made which + statement, he proceeded to draw an ingenious comparison between a + mountebank and a politician, suitable to all ages and dimes, but + especially to this century and country. Both, he intimated, are fain to + supply the lack of higher abilities to which they pretend, with craft; and + attract attention by undertaking strange things which can never be + performed. By both the people are pleased and deluded; the expectation of + good in the future drawing their eyes from the certainty of evil in the + present. + </p> + <p> + The sage Alexander Bendo then discoursed of miraculous cures which he + could effect, but he would set down no word in his bill which bore an + unclean sound. It was enough that he made himself understood, but indeed + he had seen physicians' bills containing things of which no man who walked + warily before God could approve. Concerning astrological predictions, + physiognomy, divination by dreams, and otherwise, he would say, if it did + not look like ostentation, he had seldom failed, but had often been of + service; and to those who came to him he would guarantee satisfaction. Nor + would he be ashamed to avow his willingness to practise rare secrets, for + the help, conservation, and augmentation of beauty and comeliness; an + endowment granted for the better establishment of mutual love between man + and woman, and as such highly valuable to both. The knowledge of secrets + like this he had gathered during journeys through France and Italy, in + which countries he had spent his life since he was fifteen years old. + Those who had travelled in the latter country knew what a miracle art + there performs in behalf of beauty; how women of forty bear the same + countenance as those of fifteen, ages being in no way distinguished by + appearances; whereas in England, by looking at a horse in the mouth and a + woman in the face, it was possible to tell the number of their years. He + could, therefore, give such remedies as would render those who came to him + perfectly fair; clearing and preserving them from all spots, freckles, + pimples, marks of small-pox, or traces of accidents. He would, moreover, + cure the teeth, clear the breath, take away fatness, and add flesh. + </p> + <p> + A man who vouched to perform such wonders was not long without patients. + At first these were drawn from his immediate neighbourhood, but soon his + fame reached the heart of the city. Accordingly, many ladies of whose + hospitality he had partaken, and of whose secrets he had become possessed, + hurried to consult him; and the marvellous insight he betrayed regarding + their past, and strange predictions he pronounced concerning their future, + filled them with amazement, and occasionally with alarm. And they, + proclaiming the marvels of his wisdom, widened the circle of his + reputation, until his name was spoken within the precincts of Whitehall. + </p> + <p> + Curiosity concerning so remarkable a man at once beset the minds of + certain ladies at court, who either feared or expected much from the + future, and were anxious to peer into such secrets as it held concerning + themselves. But dreading the notoriety their presence would naturally + cause in the vicinity of Tower Street, a spot to them unknown, they, + acting with a prudence not invariably characteristic of their conduct, + sent their maids to ascertain from personal experience if the astrologer's + wisdom was in truth as marvellous as reported. Now, when these appeared in + fear and trembling before the great Alexander Bendo, the knowledge he + revealed concerning themselves, and their mistresses likewise, was so + wonderful that it exceeded all expectation. Accordingly, the maids + returned to court with such testimonies concerning the lore of this + star-reader, as fired afresh their mistresses' desires to see and converse + with him in their proper persons. + </p> + <p> + It therefore came to pass that Miss Price and Miss Jennings, maids of + honour both—the one to the queen, the other to the Duchess of York—boldly + resolved to visit Doctor Bendo, and learn what the future held for them. + Miss Price was a lady who delighted in adventure; Miss Jennings was a + gentlewoman of spirit; both looked forward to their visit with excitement + and interest. It happened one night, when the court had gone to the + playhouse, these ladies, who had excused themselves from attending the + queen and the duchess, dressed as orange girls, and taking baskets of + fruit under their arms, quickly crossed the park, and entered a + hackney-coach at Whitehall Gate. Bidding the driver convey them to Tower + Street, they rattled merrily enough over the uneven streets until they + came close to the theatre, when, being in high spirits and feeling anxious + to test the value of their disguise, they resolved to alight from their + conveyance, enter the playhouse, and offer their wares for sale in + presence of the court. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, paying the driver, they descended from the coach, and running + between the lines of chairs gathered round the theatre, gained the door. + Now, who should arrive at that moment but the beau Sidney, attired in the + bravery of waving feathers, fluttering ribbons, and rich-hued velvets. And + as he paused to adjust his curls to his greater satisfaction before + entering the playhouse, Miss Price went boldly forward and asked him to + buy her fine oranges; but so engaged was he in his occupation, that he did + not deign to make reply, but passed into the theatre without turning his + glance upon her. Miss Jennings, however, fared somewhat differently; and + with less satisfaction to herself; for, perceiving another courtier, none + other than Tom Killigrew, a rare wit and lover of pleasure, she went up to + him and offered her fruit for sale. These he declined to buy; but chucking + her under the chin, and glancing at her with an air of familiarity, + invited her to bring her oranges to his lodgings next morning. On this + Miss Jennings, who was as virtuous as lovely, pushed him away with + violence, and forgetting the character she assumed, commenced rebuking his + insolence, much to the amusement and surprise of the bystanders. Fearing + detection of their identity, Miss Price pulled her forcibly away from the + crowd. + </p> + <p> + Miss Jennings was after this incident anxious to forego her visit to the + astrologer, and return to Whitehall, but her companion declaring this + would be a shameful want of spirit, they once more entered a + hackney-coach, and requested they might be driven to the lodgings of the + learned Doctor Bendo. Their adventures for the evening were unfortunately + not yet at an end; for just as they entered Tower Street they saw Henry + Brinker, one of the gentlemen of the bedchamber to the Duke of York. Now + it happened this courtier had been dining with a citizen of worth and + wealth, whose house he was about to leave the moment the maids of honour + drove by. They, knowing him to be a man remarkable for his gallantries, + were anxious to avoid his observation, and therefore directed the driver + to proceed a few doors beyond their destination; but he, having caught + sight of two pretty orange wenches, followed the coach and promptly + stepping up as they alighted, made some bold observations to them. On this + both turned away their heads that they might avoid his gaze, a proceeding + which caused him to observe them with closer scrutiny, when he immediately + recognised them, without however intimating his knowledge. He therefore + fell to teasing them, and finally left them with no very pleasant remarks + ringing in their ears, concerning the virtue which obtained among maids of + honour, for he did not doubt their disguise was assumed for purposes of + intrigue. + </p> + <p> + Overwhelmed with confusion, they walked towards the goldsmith's shop, over + which the oracle delivered wisdom; but being no longer in a humour to heed + his words, they presently resolved on driving back to Whitehall with all + possible speed. But alas! on turning round they beheld their driver waging + war with a crowd which had gathered about his vehicle; for having left + their oranges in the coach, some boys had essayed to help themselves, + whereon the man fell foul of them. But he, being one against many, was + like to fare badly at their hands; seeing which, the maids of honour + persuaded him to let the crowd take the fruit and drive them back at once. + This conduct had not the effect of appeasing those who profited by its + generosity; for the gentlewomen were greeted with most foul abuse, and + many unworthy charges were laid to their account in language more vigorous + than polished. And having at last arrived in safety at Whitehall, they + resolved never to sally forth in search of adventure again. + </p> + <p> + After various strange experiences in his character as doctor of medicine + and teller of fortunes, of the weakness of human nature and strength of + common credulity, the learned Alexander Bendo vanished from the city; and + about the same time the gallant Earl of Rochester appeared at court, where + he sought for and obtained the merry monarch's pardon. The wonderful + stories he was enabled to relate, piquant in detail, and sparkling with + wit, rendered it delightful to the king, in whose favour he soon regained + his former supremacy. Nay, Charles even determined to enrich and reward + him, not indeed from the resources of his privy purse, his majesty's + income being all too little for his mistresses' rapacity, but by uniting + him to a charming woman and an heiress. + </p> + <p> + The lady whom his majesty selected for this purpose was Elizabeth Mallett, + daughter of Lord Hawley of Donamore. Now this gentlewoman had a fortune of + two thousand five hundred a year, a considerable sum in those days, and + one which gained her many suitors; amongst whom Lord Hinchingbrook was + commended by her family, and Lord Rochester by the king. Now the latter + nobleman, having but a poor estate, was anxious to obtain her wealth, and + fearful of losing his suit: and being uncertain as to whether he could + gain her consent to marry him by fair means, he resolved to obtain it by + execution of a daring scheme. + </p> + <p> + This was to carry her off by force, an action which highly commended + itself to his adventurous spirit. Accordingly he selected a night on which + the heiress supped at Whitehall with her friend Miss Stuart, for + conducting his enterprise. It therefore happened that as Elizabeth Mallett + was returning home from the palace in company with her grandfather, their + coach was suddenly stopped at Charing Cross. Apprehending some danger, + Lord Hawley looked out, and by the red light of a score of torches + flashing through darkness, saw he was surrounded by a band of armed men, + both afoot and on horse. Their action was prompt and decisive, for before + either my lord or his granddaughter was aware of their intention, the + latter was seized, forcibly lifted from the coach, and transferred to + another which awaited close at hand. This was driven by six horses, and + occupied by two women, who received the heiress with all possible respect. + No sooner had she been placed in the coach than the horses were set to a + gallop, and away she sped, surrounded by a company of horsemen. + </p> + <p> + Lord Hawley was cast into the uttermost grief and passion by this outrage; + but his condition did not prevent him speedily gathering a number of + friends and retainers, in company with whom he gave chase to those who had + abducted his granddaughter; and so fast did they ride that Mistress + Mallett was overtaken at Uxbridge, and carried back in safety to town. For + this outrageous attempt, my Lord Rochester was by the king's command + committed to the Tower, there to await his majesty's good pleasure. It + seemed now as if the earl's chance of gaining the heiress had passed away + for ever; inasmuch as Charles regarded the attempted abduction with vast + displeasure, and my Lord Hawley with terrible indignation. + </p> + <p> + But the ways of women being inexplicable, it happened in a brief while + Mistress Mallett was inclined to regret my Lord Rochester's imprisonment, + and therefore moved to have him released; and, moreover, she was + subsequently pleased to regard his suit and accept him as her wedded lord. + It speaks favourably for his character that with all his faults she loved + him well: nor did Rochester, though occasionally unfaithful, ever treat + her with unkindness. At times the old spirit of restlessness and passion + for adventure would master him, when he would withdraw himself from her + society for weeks and months. But she, though sadly afflicted by such + conduct, did not resent it. "If I could have been troubled at anything, + when I had the happiness of receiving a letter from you," she writes to + him on one occasion when he had absented himself from her for long, "I + should be so because you did not name a time when I might hope to see you, + the uncertainty of which very much afflicts me." And again the poor + patient wife tells him, "Lay your commands upon me, what I am to do, and + though it be to forget my children, and the long hope I have lived in of + seeing you, yet I will endeavour to obey you; or in memory only torment + myself, without giving you the trouble of putting you in mind that there + lives such a creature as your faithful humble servant." At length + dissipation undermined his naturally strong constitution; and for months + this once most gay and gallant man, this "noble and beautiful earl," lay + dying of that cruel disease consumption. The while such thoughts as come + to those who reason of life's vanities beset him; and as he descended into + the valley of shadows, the folly of this world's ways was made clear to + him. And repenting of his sins, he died in peace with God and man at the + age of three-and-thirty. + </p> + <p> + George Villiers second Duke of Buckingham, was not less notable than my + Lord Rochester. By turns he played such diverse parts in life's strange + comedy as that of a spendthrift and a miser, a profligate and a + philosopher, a statesman who sought the ruin of his country, and a + courtier who pandered to the pleasures of his king. But inasmuch as this + history is concerned with the social rather than the political life of + those mentioned in its pages, place must be given to such adventures as + were connected with the court and courtiers. Buckingham's were chiefly + concerned with his intrigues, which, alas! were many and strange; for + though his wife was loving and virtuous, she was likewise lean and brown, + and wholly incapable of controlling his erring fancies. Perhaps it was + knowledge of her lack of comeliness which helped her to bear the burden of + his follies; for according to Madame Dunois, though the duchess knew he + was continually engaged in amours, she, by virtue of a patience uncommon + to her sex, forbore mentioning the subject to him, and "had complaisance + enough to entertain his mistresses, and even lodge them in her house, all + which she suffered because she loved him." + </p> + <p> + The most remarkable of his intrigues was that which connected his name + with the Countess of Shrewsbury. Her ladyship, was daughter of the second + Earl of Cardigan, and wife of the eleventh Earl of Shrewsbury. She was + married a year previous to the restoration, and upon the establishment of + the court at Whitehall had become one of its most distinguished beauties. + Nor was she less famed for the loveliness of her person than for the + generosity of her disposition; inasmuch as none who professed themselves + desirous of her affection were ever allowed to languish in despair. She + therefore had many admirers, some of whom were destined to suffer for the + distinction her friendship conferred. + </p> + <p> + Now one of the first to gain her attachment was the young Earl of Arran, + the grace of whose bearing and ardour of whose character were alike + notable to the court. The verses he sung her to an accompaniment of his + guitar, and the glances he gave her indicative of his passion, might have + melted a heart less cold than hers. Accordingly they gained him a + friendship which, by reason of her vast benevolence, many were + subsequently destined to share. Now it chanced that the little Jermyn, who + had already succeeded in winning the affections of such notable women as + the poor Princess of Orange and my Lady Castlemaine, and had besides + conducted a series of minor intrigues with various ladies connected with + the court, was somewhat piqued that Lady Shrewsbury had accepted my Lord + Arran's attentions without encouraging his. For Henry Jermyn, by virtue of + the fascinations he exercised and the consequent reputation he enjoyed, + expected to be wooed by such women as desired his love. + </p> + <p> + But when, later on, Lord Arran's devotion to the lady was succeeded by + that of Thomas Howard, brother to the Earl of Carlisle, and captain of the + guards, Jermyn was thoroughly incensed, and resolved to make an exception + in favour of the countess by beginning those civilities which act as + preludes to intrigue. My lady, who was not judicious enough to be off with + the old love before she was on with the new, accepted Jermyn's advances + with an eagerness that gave promise of further favours. This was highly + displeasing to Howard, a brave and generous man, who under an exterior of + passive calmness concealed a spirit of fearless courage. Though not + desirous of picking a quarrel with his rival, he was unwilling to suffer + his impertinent interference. Jermyn, on the other hand, not being aware + of Howard's real character, sought an early opportunity of insulting him. + Such being their dispositions, a quarrel speedily ensued, which happened + in this manner. + </p> + <p> + One fair summer day Captain Howard gave an entertainment at Spring + Gardens, in honour of the countess. These gardens were situated close by + Charing Cross, and opened into the spacious walks of St. James's Park. + Bounded on one side by a grove, and containing leafy arbours and numerous + thickets, the gardens were "contrived to all the advantages of gallantry." + The scene of many an intrigue, they were constantly frequented by denizens + of the court and dwellers in the city, to whom they afforded recreation + and pleasure. In the centre of these fair gardens stood a cabaret, or + house of entertainment, where repasts were served at exceeding high + prices, and much good wine was drunk. Here it was Captain Howard received + my Lady Shrewsbury and a goodly company, spread a delicate banquet for + them, and for their better diversion provided some excellent music played + upon the bagpipes, by a soldier noted for his execution on that + instrument. + </p> + <p> + Jermyn hearing of the great preparations Captain Howard made, resolved to + be present on the occasion; and accordingly, before the hour appointed for + dinner, betook himself to the garden, and as if he had arrived there by + accident, strolled leisurely down the broad pleasant paths, bordered by + pinks and fragrant roses clustering in the hedgerows. And presently + drawing nigh the cabaret, he tarried there until the countess, rich in + physical graces, with sunny smiles upon her lips, and amorous light in her + eyes, stepped forth upon the balcony and greeted him. Whereon his heart + took fire: and entering the house, he joined her where she stood, and held + pleasant converse with her. Inflated by his success, he resolved on making + himself disagreeable to the host, and therefore ventured to criticize the + entertainment, and ridicule the music, which he voted barbarous to + civilized ears. And to such an extent did he outrage Thomas Howard, that + the gallant captain, being more of a soldier than a courtier, and + therefore preferring passages at arms to those of wit, could scarce + refrain from drawing his sword and demanding the satisfaction due to him. + </p> + <p> + However, he subdued his wrath till the day was spent, and early next + morning sent a challenge to his rival. Accordingly they met with fierce + intent, and the duel which followed ended almost fatally for Jermyn, who + was carried from the scene of encounter bleeding from three wounds caused + by his antagonist's sword. + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate issue of this fight deprived Lady Shrewsbury of two + lovers; for Howard, having rendered Jermyn unable to perform the part of a + gallant, was obliged to fly from the country and remain abroad some time. + </p> + <p> + In their stead the countess sought consolation in the companionship of + Thomas Killigrew, a handsome man and a notable courtier. She therefore had + no regrets for the past: and he was entirely happy in the present, so that + he boasted of his felicities to all acquaintance, in general, and to his + friend the Duke of Buckingham in particular. It was Killigrew's constant + habit to sup with his grace, on which occasions his conversation + invariably turned on her ladyship, when, his imagination being heated by + wine, he freely endowed her with the perfections of a goddess. To such + descriptions the duke could not listen unmoved; and therefore resolved to + judge for himself if indeed the countess was such a model of loveliness as + Killigrew represented. Accordingly, at the first opportunity which + presented itself, the duke made love to her, and she, nothing averse to + his attentions, encouraged his affections. Killigrew was much aggrieved at + this unexpected turn of affairs, and bitterly reproached the countess; but + she, being mistress of the situation, boldly denied all knowledge of him. + </p> + <p> + This was more than he expected or could endure, and he consequently abused + her roundly in all companies, characterizing the charms of which he once + boasted as faults he could not endure; ridiculing her airs, and denouncing + her conduct. Reports of his comments and discourses speedily reached Lady + Shrewsbury's ears; and he was privately warned that if he did not desist + means would be taken to silence him effectually. Not being wise enough to + accept this hint he continued to vilify her. The result was, one night + when returning from the Duke of York's apartments he was suddenly waylaid + in St. James's Park, and three passes of a sword made at him through his + chair, one of which pierced his arm. Not doubting they had despatched him + to a better world, His assailants made their escape; and my Lady + Shrewsbury, who singularly enough happened to be passing at the time in + her coach, and had stopped to witness the proceedings, drove off as + speedily as six horses could carry her. + </p> + <p> + Knowing it would be impossible to trace the villainy which had prompted + this deed to its source, Killigrew said not a word concerning the + murderous attempt, and henceforth held his peace regarding his late + mistress's imperfections. For some time she continued her intrigue with + the Duke of Buckingham without interference. But in an evil hour it + happened the Earl of Shrewsbury, who had long entertained a philosophical + indifference towards her previous amours, now undertook to defend his + honour, which it was clear his Grace of Buckingham had sadly injured. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly he challenged the duke to combat, and in due time they met + face to face in a field by Barnes Elms. His grace had as seconds Sir + Robert Holmes and Captain William Jenkins; the earl being supported by Sir + John Talbot and Bernard Howard, son of my Lord Arundel. The fight was + brief and bloody; Lord Shrewsbury, being run through the body, was carried + from the field in an insensible condition. The duke received but a slight + wound, but his friend Captain Jenkins was killed upon the spot. The while + swords clashed, blood flowed, and lives hung in a balance, the woman who + wrought this evil stood close by, disguised as a page, holding the bridle + of her lover's horse, as Lord Orford mentions. + </p> + <p> + In consequence of this duel the Duke of Buckingham absented himself from + the capital; but two months after its occurrence King Charles was pleased, + "in contemplation of the services heretofore done to his majesty by most + of the persons engaged in the late duel or rencontre, to graciously pardon + the said offence." Three months after the day on which he fought, Lord + Shrewsbury died from effects of his wounds, when the duke boldly carried + the widow to his home. The poor duchess, who had patiently borne many + wrongs, could not stand this grievous and public insult, and declared she + would not live under the same roof with so shameless a woman. "So I + thought, madam," rejoined her profligate lord, "and have therefore ordered + your coach to convey you to your father." + </p> + <p> + The countess continued to live with her paramour; nor was the court + scandalized. The queen, it is true, openly espoused the cause of the + outraged duchess, and sought to enlist sympathy on her behalf; but so low + was the tone of public morality that her words were unheeded, and no voice + was raised in protest against this glaring infamy. Nay, the duke went + further still in his efforts towards injuring the wife to whom he owed so + much, and who loved him over-well; as he caused his chaplain, the Rev. + Thomas Sprat, to marry him to my Lady Shrewsbury; and subsequently + conferred on the son to which she gave birth, and for whom the king stood + godfather, his second title of Earl of Coventry. His wife was henceforth + styled by the courtiers Dowager Duchess of Buckingham. It is worthy of + mention that the Rev. Thomas Sprat in good time became Bishop of + Rochester, and, it is written, "an ornament to the church among those of + the highest order." + </p> + <p> + One of the most extraordinary characters which figured in this reign was + Thomas Blood, sometimes styled colonel. He was remarkable for his great + strength, high courage, and love of adventure. The son of an Irish + blacksmith, he had, on the outbreak of civil warfare in his native + country, joined Cromwell's army; and for the bravery he evinced was raised + to the rank of lieutenant, rewarded by a substantial grant of land, and + finally made a justice of the peace. At the restoration he was deprived of + this honour, as he was likewise of the property he called his, which was + returned to its rightful owner, an honest royalist. Wholly dissatisfied + with a government which dealt him such hardships, he organised a plot to + raise an insurrection in Ireland, storm Dublin Castle, and seize the Duke + of Ormond, then lord lieutenant. This dark scheme was discovered by his + grace; the chief conspirators were accordingly seized, with the exception + of Blood, who succeeded in making his escape to Holland. His fellow + traitors were tried and duly executed. + </p> + <p> + From Holland, Blood journeyed into England, where, becoming acquainted + with some republicans, he entered into projects with them calculated to + disturb the nation's peace; which fact becoming known, he was obliged to + seek refuge in Scotland. Here he found fresh employment for his restless + energies, and in the year 1666 succeeded in stirring up some malcontents + to rebellion. The revolt being quelled, he escaped to Ireland; and after a + short stay in that country returned once more to England, where he sought + security in disguise. + </p> + <p> + He lived here in peace until 1670, when he made an attempt no less + remarkable for its ingenuity than notable for its villainy. Towards the + end of that year the Prince of Orange, being in London, was invited by the + lord mayor to a civic banquet. Thither the Duke of Ormond attended him, + and subsequently accompanied him to St. James's, where the prince then + stayed. A short distance from the palace gates stood Clarendon House, + where the duke then resided, and towards which he immediately drove, on + taking leave of his royal highness. Scarce had he proceeded a dozen yards + up St. James's Street, when his coach was suddenly stopped by a band of + armed and mounted men, who, hurriedly surrounding his grace, dragged him + from the carriage and mounted him on a horse behind a stalwart rider. Word + of command being then given, the gang started at a brisk pace down + Piccadilly. Prompted by enemies of the duke, as well as urged by his own + desires to avenge his loss of property and the death of his + fellow-conspirators, Blood resolved to hang him upon the gallows at + Tyburn. That he might accomplish this end with greater speed and security, + he, leaving his victim securely buckled and tied to the fellow behind whom + he had been mounted, galloped forward in advance to adjust the rope to the + gallows, and make other necessary preparations. + </p> + <p> + No sooner did the echo of his horse's hoofs die away, than the duke, + recovering the stupor this sudden attack had caused, became aware that now + was his opportunity to effect escape, if, indeed, such were possible. He + to whom his grace was secured was a burly man possessed of great strength; + the which Lord Ormond, being now past his sixtieth year, had not. However, + life was dear to him, and therefore he began struggling with the fellow; + and finally getting his foot under the villain's, he unhorsed him, when + both fell heavily to the ground. Meanwhile his grace's coach having driven + to Clarendon House, the footmen had given an account of the daring manner + in which his abduction had been effected. On this an alarm was immediately + raised, and the porter, servants, and others hastened down Piccadilly in + search of their master, fast as good horses could carry them. + </p> + <p> + They had proceeded as far as the village of Knightsbridge, when reports of + muskets, cries for help, and sounds of a scuffle they could not see for + darkness, fell upon their ears, and filled them with alarm. The whole + neighbourhood seemed startled, lights flashed, dogs barked, and many + persons rushed towards the scene of encounter. Aware of this, the + miscreants who had carried off the duke discharged their pistols at him, + and leaving him, as they supposed, for dead, fled to avoid capture, and + were seen or heard of no more. His grace was carried in an insensible + condition to a neighbouring house, but not having received serious hurt, + recovered in a few days. The court and town were strangely alarmed by this + outrage; nor as time passed was there any clue obtained to its + perpetrators, though the king offered a thousand pounds reward for their + discovery. + </p> + <p> + The duke and his family, however, had little doubt his grace of Buckingham + was instigator of the deed; and Lord Ossory was resolved the latter should + be made aware of their conviction. Therefore, entering the royal + drawing-room one day, he saw the duke standing beside his majesty, and + going forward addressed him. "My lord," said he in a bold tone, whilst he + looked him full in the face, "I know well that you are at the bottom of + this late attempt upon my father; and I give you fair warning, if my + father comes to a violent end by sword or pistol, or if he dies by the + hand of a ruffian, or by the more secret way of poison, I shall not be at + a loss to know the first author of it: I shall consider you as the + assassin; I shall treat you as such; and wherever I meet you I shall + pistol you, though you stood behind the king's chair; and I tell you it in + his majesty's presence, that you may be sure I shall keep my word." No + further attempt was made upon the Duke of Ormond's life. + </p> + <p> + Scarce six months elapsed from date of the essayed abduction, before Blood + endeavoured to steal the regalia and royal jewels preserved in the Tower. + The courage which prompted the design is not more remarkable than the + skill which sought to effect it; both were worthy a man of genius. In the + month of April, 1671, Blood, attired in the cassock, cloak, and canonical + girdle of a clergyman, together with a lady, whom he represented as his + wife, visited the Tower on purpose to see the crown. With their desire Mr. + Edwards, the keeper, an elderly man and a worthy, readily complied. It + chanced they were no sooner in the room where the regalia was kept, than + the lady found herself taken suddenly and unaccountably ill, and indeed + feared she must die; before bidding adieu to life, she begged for a little + whisky. This was promptly brought her, and Mrs. Edwards, who now appeared + upon the scene, invited the poor gentlewoman to rest upon her bed. Whilst + she complied with this kind request, the clergyman and Edwards had time to + improve their acquaintance, which indeed bade fair towards speedily + ripening into friendship. + </p> + <p> + And presently the lady recovering, she and her spouse took their leave + with many expressions of gratitude and respect. Four days later, the good + parson called on Mrs. Edwards, in order to present her with four pairs of + fine new gloves, which she was pleased to receive. This gracious act paved + the way to further friendship, which at last found its climax in a + proposal of marriage made by the parson on behalf of his nephew, for the + hand of young Mistress Edwards. "You have a pretty gentlewoman for your + daughter," said the clergyman, "and I have a young nephew, who has two or + three hundred pounds a year in land, and is at my disposal; if your + daughter be free, and you approve of it, I will bring him hither to see + her, and we will endeavour to make a match of it." + </p> + <p> + To this project Edwards readily consented, and invited the clergyman and + the young man to spend a day with him when they could discourse on the + subject with greater leisure and more satisfaction. This was cordially + agreed to by the parson, who, with the bridegroom elect and two of his + friends, presented themselves on the appointed date, as early as seven of + the clock in the morning. Edwards was up betimes; but the good clergyman, + apologizing for the untimely hour of their arrival, which he attributed to + his nephew's eagerness for sight of his mistress, declared he would not + enter the keeper's apartments until Mrs. Edwards was ready to receive + them. However, in order to pass the time, he begged his host might show + the jewels to their young friends. + </p> + <p> + With this petition Edwards complied readily enough. One of the men, + protesting he did not care to see the treasures, waited at the door; the + other three entered with the keeper, who was no sooner inside the room + than a cloak was thrown over his head, a gag, constructed of wood with a + hole in it by which he might breathe, clapped into his mouth, and the more + effectually to prevent him making a noise, an iron ring was fastened to + his nose. He was told if he attempted an alarm he would be instantly + killed, but if he remained quiet his life should be spared. Blood and his + two accomplices then seized upon the crown, orb, and sceptre, seeing + which, Edwards made as much noise as he possibly could by stamping on the + floor, whereon the robbers struck him with a mallet on the head, stabbed + him with a short sword in the side, and left him, as they thought, for + dead. Blood then secured the regalia under his cloak, one of his + companions put the orb into his breeches pocket, whilst the other + proceeded to file the sceptre that it might be more conveniently carried. + </p> + <p> + Now, at this moment it happened the keeper's son, who had been absent in + Flanders, returned to his father's home. He who stood sentinel asked him + with whom he would speak, whereon young Edwards said he belonged to the + house, and so passed to the apartments where his family resided. The other + giving notice of his arrival, the robbers hastened to depart, leaving the + sceptre behind them. No sooner had they gone, than the old man struggled + to his feet, dragged the gag from his mouth, and cried out in fright: + "Treason—murder—murder—treason!" On this his daughter + rushed down, and seeing the condition of her father, and noting the + absence of the regalia, continued his cry, adding, "The crown is stolen—thieves—thieves!" + </p> + <p> + Young Edwards and another who heard her, Captain Beekman, now gave pursuit + to the robbers, who had already got beyond the main guard. Word was + instantly shouted to the warder of the drawbridge to stop the villains, + but Blood was equal to this emergency; coolly advancing, he discharged his + pistol at the man, who instantly fell. The thieves then crossed the + bridge, passed through the outward gate, and made for the street close by, + where their horses awaited them, crying the while, "Stop thief! stop + thief!" Before they advanced far, Captain Beekman came up with Blood, who, + turning quickly round, fired his second pistol at the head of his pursuer; + but Beekman, suddenly stooping, escaped injury, and sprang at the throat + of his intended assassin. A struggle then ensued. Blood was a man of + powerful physique, but Beekman was lithe and vigorous, and succeeded in + holding the rogue until help arrived. In the contest, the regalia fell to + the ground, when a fair diamond and a priceless pearl were lost; they + were, however, eventually recovered. The other thieves were likewise + captured, and all of them secured in the Tower. + </p> + <p> + Certain death now faced Blood; but the wonderful luck which had befriended + him during life did not desert him now. At this time the Duke of + Buckingham was high in favour with the king, and desirous of saving one + who had secretly served him; or fearing exposure if Blood made a full + confession, his grace impressed Charles with a desire to see the man who + had perpetrated so daring a deed, saying he must be one possessed of + extraordinary spirit. Giving ready ear to his words, the monarch consented + to have an interview with the robber, for which purpose he gave orders + Blood should be brought to Whitehall. + </p> + <p> + Those who heard of the king's resolution felt satisfied Blood need not + despair of life; "for surely," said Sir Robert Southwell, on becoming + aware of his majesty's design, "no king should wish to see a malefactor + but with intentions to pardon him." Now Blood, being a man of genius, + resolved to play his part during the audience in a manner which would + favourably impress the king. Therefore when Charles asked him how he had + dared attempt so bold a robbery, Blood made answer he had lost a fine + property by the crown, and was resolved to recover it with the crown. + Diverted by his audacity his majesty questioned him further, when Blood + confessed to his attempted abduction of the Duke of Ormond, but refused to + name his accomplices. Nay, he narrated various other adventures, showing + them in a romantic light; and finally concluded by telling the king he had + once entered into a design to take his sacred life by rushing upon him + with a carbine from out of the reeds by the Thames side, above Battersea, + when he went to swim there; but he was so awed by majesty his heart + misgave him, and he not only relented, but persuaded the remainder of his + associates from such an intention. + </p> + <p> + This strange interview resulted in Charles pardoning Blood his many + crimes. The Duke of Ormond, at his majesty's request, likewise forgave + him. Nor did the king's interest in the villain end here; for he gave him + a pension of five hundred pounds a year, and admitted him to his private + friendship. Blood was therefore constantly at court, and made one of that + strange assembly of wits and profligates which surrounded the throne. "No + man," says Carte the historian, "was more assiduous than he. If anyone had + a business at court that stuck, he made his application to Blood as the + most industrious and successful solicitor; and many gentlemen courted his + acquaintance, as the Indians pray to the devil, that he may not hurt them. + He was perpetually in the royal apartments, and affected particularly to + be in the same room where the Duke of Ormond was, to the indignation of + all others, though neglected and overlooked by his grace." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Terror falls upon the people.—Rumours of a plague.—A sign in the + heavens.—Flight from the capital.—Preparations against the dreaded + enemy.—Dr. Boghurst's testimony.—God's terrible voice in the + city.—Rules made by the lord mayor.—Massacre of animals.—O, dire + death!—Spread of the distemper.—Horrible sights.—State of the + deserted capital.—"Bring out your dead."—ashes to ashes.—Fires are + lighted.—Relief of the poor.—The mortality bills. +</pre> + <p> + It came to pass during the fifth month of the year 1665, that a great + terror fell upon the city of London; even as a sombre cloud darkens the + midday sky. For it was whispered abroad a plague had come amongst the + people, fears of which had been entertained, and signs of which had been + obvious for some time. During the previous November a few persons had + fallen victims to this dreaded pestilence, but the weather being cold and + the atmosphere clear, it had made no progress till April. In that month + two men had died of this most foul disease; and in the first week of May + its victims numbered nine; and yet another fortnight and it had hurried + seventeen citizens to the grave. + </p> + <p> + Now the memory of their wickedness rising before them, dread took up its + abode in all men's hearts; for none knew but his day of reckoning was at + hand. And their consternation was greater when it was remembered that in + the third year of this century thirty-six thousand citizens of London had + died of the plague, while twenty-five years later it had swept away + thirty-five thousand; and eleven years after full ten thousand persons + perished of this same pestilence. Moreover, but two years previous, a like + scourge had been rife in Holland; and in Amsterdam alone twenty-four + thousand citizens had died from its effects. + </p> + <p> + And the terror of the citizens of London was yet more forcibly increased + by the appearance in April of a blazing star or comet, bearing a tail + apparently six yards in length, which rose betimes in a lurid sky, and + passed with ominous movement from west to east. [It is worthy of notice + that Lilly in his "Astrological Predictions," published in 1648, declared + the year 1656 would be "ominous to London, unto her merchants at sea, to + her traffique at land, to her poor, to her rich, to all sorts of people + inhabiting in her or her Liberties, by reason of sundry fires and a + consuming plague."] The king with his queen and court, prompted by + curiosity, stayed up one night to watch this blazing star pass above the + silent city; the Royal Society in behalf of science embodied many learned + comments regarding it in their "Philosophical Transactions;" but the great + body of the people regarded it as a visible signal of God's certain wrath. + They were more confirmed in this opinion, as some amongst them, whose + judgments were distorted by fears, declared the comet had at times before + their eyes assumed the appearance of a fiery sword threatening the sinful + city. It was also noted in the spring of this year that birds and wild + fowls had left their accustomed places, and few swallows were seen. But in + the previous summer there had been "such a multitude of flies that they + lined the insides of houses; and if any threads of strings did hang down + in any place, they were presently thick-set with flies like ropes of + onions; and swarms of ants covered the highways that you might have taken + up a handful at a time, both winged and creeping ants; and such a + multitude of croaking frogs in ditches that you might have heard them + before you saw them," as is set down by one William Boghurst, apothecary + at the White Hart in St. Giles-in-the-Fields, who wrote a learned "Treatis + on the Plague" in 1666, he being the only man who up to that time had done + so from experience and observation. [This quaint and curious production, + which has never been printed, and which furnishes the following pages with + some strange details, is preserved in the Sloane Collection of Manuscripts + in the British Museum.] And from such signs, as likewise from knowledge + that the pestilence daily increased, all felt a season of bitter + tribulation was at hand. + </p> + <p> + According to "Some Observations of the Plague," written by Dr. Hedges for + use of a peer of the realm, the dread malady was communicated to London + from the Netherlands "by way of contagion." It first made its appearance + in the parishes of St. Giles and St. Martin's, Westminster, from which + directions it gradually spread to Holborn, Fleet Street, the Strand, and + the city, finally reaching to the east, bringing death invariably in its + train. + </p> + <p> + The distemper was not only fatal in its termination, but loathsome in its + progress; for the blood of those affected being poisoned by atmospheric + contagion, bred venom in the body, which burst forth into nauseous sores + and uncleanness; or otherwise preyed with more rapid fatality internally, + in some cases causing death before its victims were assured of disease. + Nor did it spare the young and robust any more than those weak of frame or + ripe with years, but attacking stealthily, killed speedily. It was indeed + the "pestilence that walketh in darkness, and the destruction that wasteth + in the noonday." In the month of May, when it was yet uncertain if the + city would be spared even in part, persons of position and wealth, and + indeed those endowed with sufficient means to support themselves + elsewhere, resolved to fly from the capital; whilst such as had neither + home, friends, nor expectation of employment in other places, remained + behind. Accordingly great preparations were made by those who determined + on flight; and all day long vast crowds gathered round my lord mayor's + house in St. Helen's, Bishopsgate, seeking certificates of health, so that + for some weeks it was difficult to reach his door for the throng that + gathered there, as is stated by John Noorthouck. Such official testimonies + to the good health of those leaving London had now become necessary; for + the inhabitants of provincial towns, catching the general alarm, refused + to shelter in their houses, or even let pass through their streets, the + residents of the plague-stricken city, unless officially assured they were + free from the dreaded distemper. Nay, even with such certificates in their + possession, many were refused admittance to inns, or houses of + entertainment, and were therefore obliged to sleep in fields by night, and + beg food by day, and not a few deaths were caused by want and exposure. + </p> + <p> + And now were the thoroughfares of the capital crowded all day long with + coaches conveying those who sought safety in flight, and with waggons and + carts containing their household goods and belongings, until it seemed as + if the city mould be left without a soul. Many merchants and shipowners + together with their families betook themselves to vessels, which they + caused to be towed down the river towards Greenwich, and in which they + resided for months; whilst others sought refuge in smacks and + fishing-boats, using them as shelters by day, and lodging on the banks by + night. Some few families remaining in the capital laid in stores of + provisions, and shutting themselves up securely in their houses, permitted + none to enter or leave, by which means some of them escaped contagion and + death. The court tarried until the 29th of June, and then left for + Hampton, none too soon, for the pestilence had reached almost to the + palace gates. The queen mother likewise departed, retiring into France; + from which country she never returned. + </p> + <p> + All through the latter part of May, and the whole of the following month, + this flight from the dread enemy of mankind continued; presenting a + melancholy spectacle to those who remained, until at last the capital + seemed veritably a city of the dead. But for the credit of humanity be it + stated, that not all possessed of health and wealth abandoned the town. + Prominent amongst those who remained were the Duke of Albemarle, Lord + Craven, the lord mayor, Sir John Laurence, some of his aldermen, and a + goodly number of physicians, chirurgeons, and apothecaries, all of whom by + their skill or exertions sought to check the hungry ravages of death. The + offices which medical men voluntarily performed during this period of dire + affliction were loathsome to a terrible degree. "I commonly dressed forty + sores in a day," says Dr. Boghurst, whose simple words convey a forcible + idea of his nobility; "held the pulse of patients sweating in their beds + half a quarter of an hour together; let blood; administered clysters to + the sick; held them up in their beds to keep them from strangling and + choking, half an hour together commonly, and suffered their breathing in + my face several times when they were dying; eat and drank with them, + especially those that had sores; sat down by their bedsides and upon their + beds, discoursing with them an hour together. If I had time I stayed by + them to see them die. Then if people had nobody to help them (for help was + scarce at such time and place) I helped to lay them forth out of the bed, + and afterwards into the coffin; and last of all, accompanied them to the + ground." + </p> + <p> + Of the physicians remaining in the city, nine fell a sacrifice to duty. + Amongst those who survived was the learned Dr. Nathaniel Hodges, who was + spared to meet a philanthropist's fate in penury and neglect. [Dr. Hodges + subsequently wrote a work entitled "Loimologia; or, an Historical Account + of the Plague of London," first published in 1672; of which, together with + a collection of the bills of mortality for 1665, entitled "London's + Dreadful Visitation," and a pamphlet by the Rev. Thomas Vincent, "God's + Terrible Voice in the City," printed in 1667, De Foe largely availed + himself in writing his vivid but unreliable "Journal of the Plague Year," + which first saw the light in 1722.] The king had, on outbreak of the + distemper, shown solicitude for his citizens by summoning a privy council, + when a committee of peers was formed for "Prevention and Spreading of the + Infection." Under their orders the College of Physicians drew up "Certain + necessary Directions for the Prevention and Cure of the Plague, with + Divers remedies for small Change," which were printed in pamphlet form, + and widely distributed amongst the people. [We learn that at this time the + College was stored with "men of learning, virtue, and probity, nothing + acquainted with the little arts of getting a name by plotting against the + honesty and credulity of the people." The prescriptions given by this + worthy body were consequently received with a simple faith which later and + more sceptical generations might deny them. Perhaps the most remarkable of + these directions, given under the heading of "Medicines External," was the + following: "Pull off the feathers from the tails of living cocks, hens, + pigeons, or chickens, and holding their bills, hold them hard to the botch + or swelling, and so keep them at that part until they die, and by that + means draw out the poison. It is good to apply a cupping glass, or embers + in a dish, with a handful of sorrel upon the embers."] + </p> + <p> + The lord mayor, having likewise the welfare of the people at heart, + "conceived and published" rules to be observed, and orders to be obeyed, + by them during this visitation. These directed the appointment of two + examiners for every parish, who were bound to discover those who were + sick, and inquire into the nature of their illness: and finding persons + afflicted by plague, they, with the members of their family and domestics, + were to be confined in their houses. These were to be securely locked + outside, and guarded day and night by watchmen, whose duty it should be to + prevent persons entering or leaving those habitations; as likewise to + perform such offices as were required, such as conveying medicines and + food. And all houses visited by the distemper were to be forthwith marked + on the door by a red cross a foot long, with the words LORD HAVE MERCY + UPON US set close over the same sacred sign. Female searchers, "such as + are of honest reputation, and of the best sort as can be got of the kind," + were selected that they might report of what disease people died; such + women not being permitted during this visitation to use any public work or + employment, or keep shop or stall, or wash linen for the people. Nurses to + attend the afflicted deserted by their friends were also appointed. And + inasmuch as multitudes of idle rogues and wandering beggars swarming the + city were a great means of spreading disease, the constables had orders + not to suffer their presence in the streets. And dogs and cats, being + domestic animals, apt to run from house to house, and carry infection in + their fur and hair, an order was made that they should be killed, and an + officer nominated to see it carried into execution. It was computed that, + in accordance with this edict, forty thousand dogs, and five times that + number of cats, were massacred. + </p> + <p> + All plays bear-baitings, exhibitions, and games were forbidden; as were + likewise "all public feasting, and particularly by the companies of the + city, and dinners at taverns, alehouses, and other places of common + entertainment; and the money thereby spared, be employed for the benefit + and relief of the poor visited with the infection." Pest-houses were + opened at Tothill Fields, Westminster, and at Bunhill Fields, near Old + Street, for reception of the sick: and indeed every possible remedy + calculated to check the disease was adopted. Some of these, though + considered necessary to the well-being of the community, were by many + citizens regarded as hardships, more especially the rule which related to + closing of infected houses. + </p> + <p> + The misery endured by those in health suffering such confinement, was + scarcely less than that realized by the afflicted. And fear making way for + disease, it frequently occurred a whole family, when confined with one + infected member, speedily became stricken by plague, and consequently + overtaken by death. It therefore happened that many attempts were made by + those in health to escape incarceration. In some cases they bribed, and in + others ill-treated the watchmen: one of whom was actually blown up by + gunpowder in Coleman Street, that those he guarded might flee unmolested. + Again, it chanced that strong men, rendered desperate when brought face to + face with loathsome death, lowered themselves from windows of their houses + in sight of the watch, whom they threatened with instant death if they + cried out or stirred. + </p> + <p> + The apprehension of the sick, who were in most cases deserted by their + friends, was increased tenfold by the practices of public nurses: for + being hardened to affliction by nature of their employment, and incapable + of remorse for crime by reason of their vileness, they were guilty of many + barbarous usages. "These wretches," says Dr. Hodges, "out of greediness to + plunder the dead, would strangle their patients, and charge it to the + distemper in their throats. Others would secretly convey the pestilential + taint from sores of the infected to those who were well; and nothing + indeed deterred these abandoned miscreants from prosecuting their + avaricious purposes by all methods their wickedness could invent; who, + although they were without witnesses to accuse them, yet it is not doubted + but divine vengeance will overtake such wicked barbarities with due + punishment. Nay, some were remarkably struck from heaven in the + perpetration of their crimes; and one particularly amongst many, as she + was leaving the house of a family, all dead, loaded with her robberies, + fell down lifeless under her burden in the street. And the case of a + worthy citizen was very remarkable, who, being suspected dying by his + nurse, was beforehand stripped by her; but recovering again, he came a + second time into the world naked." + </p> + <p> + But notwithstanding all precautions and care taken by the Duke of + Albemarle and the worthy lord mayor, the dreadful pestilence spread with + alarming rapidity; as may be judged from the fact that the number who died + in the first week of June amounted to forty-three, whilst during the last + week of that month two hundred and sixty-seven persons were carried to + their graves. From the 4th of July to the 11th, seven hundred and + fifty-five deaths were chronicled; the following eight days the death rate + rose to one thousand and eighty-two; whilst the ensuing week this high + figure was increased by over eight hundred. For the month of August, the + mortality bill recorded seventeen thousand and thirty-six deaths; and + during September, twenty-six thousand two hundred and thirty persons + perished in the city. + </p> + <p> + The whole British nation was stricken with consternation at the fate of + the capital. "In some houses," says Dr. Hodges, speaking from personal + experience, "carcases lay waiting for burial, and in others were persons + in their last agonies. In one room might be heard dying groans, in an + other the ravings of delirium, and not far off relations and friends + bewailing both their loss and the dismal prospect of their own sudden + departure. Death was the sure midwife to all children, and infants passed + immediately from the womb to the grave. Some of the infected run about + staggering like drunken men, and fall and expire in the streets; whilst + others lie half dead and comatose, but never to be waked but by the last + trumpet." The plague had indeed encompassed the walls of the city, and + poured in upon it without mercy. A heavy stifling atmosphere, vapours by + day and blotting out all traces of stars and sky by night, hovered like a + palpable shape of dire vengeance above the doomed city. During many weeks + "there was a general calm and serenity, as if both wind and rain had been + expelled the kingdom, so that there was not so much as to move a flame." + The oppressive silence of brooding death, unbroken now even by the passing + bell, weighed stupor-like upon the wretched survivors. The thoroughfares + were deserted, grass sprang green upon side-paths and steps of dwellings; + and the broad street in Whitechapel became like unto a field. Most houses + bore upon their doors the dread sign of the red cross, with the + supplication for mercy written above. Some of the streets were barricaded + at both ends, the inhabitants either having fled into the country or been + carried to their graves; and it was estimated in all that over seven + thousand dwellings were deserted. All commerce, save that dealing with the + necessaries of life, was abandoned; the parks forsaken and locked, the + Inns of Court closed, and the public marts abandoned. A few of the church + doors were opened, and some gathered within that they might humbly beseech + pardon for the past, and ask mercy in the present. But as the violence of + the distemper increased, even the houses of God were forsaken; and those + who ventured abroad walked in the centre of the street, avoiding contact + or conversation with friend or neighbour; each man dreading and avoiding + his fellow, lest he should be to him the harbinger of death. And all + carried rue and wormwood in their hands, and myrrh and zedoary in their + mouths, as protection against infection. Now were the faces of all pale + with apprehension, none knowing when the fatal malady might carry them + hence; and moreover sad, as became those who stand in the presence of + death. + </p> + <p> + And such sights were to be witnessed day after day as made the heart sick. + "It would be endless," says the Rev. Thomas Vincent, "to speak what we + have seen and heard; of some, in their frenzy, rising out of their beds + and leaping about their rooms; others crying and roaring at their windows; + some coming forth almost naked and running into the streets; strange + things have others spoken and done when the disease was upon them: but it + was very sad to hear of one, who being sick alone, and it is like frantic, + burnt himself in his bed. And amongst other sad spectacles methought two + were very affecting: one of a woman coming alone and weeping by the door + where I lived, with a little coffin under her arm, carrying it to the new + churchyard. I did judge that it was the mother of the child, and that all + the family besides was dead, and she was forced to coffin up and bury with + her own hands this her last dead child. Another was of a man at the corner + of the Artillery Wall, that as I judge, through the dizziness of his head + with the disease, which seized upon him there, had dashed his face against + the wall; and when I came by he lay hanging with his bloody face over the + rails, and bleeding upon the ground; within half an hour he died in that + place." + </p> + <p> + And as the pestilence increased, it was found impossible to provide + coffins or even separate graves for those who perished. And therefore, in + order to bury the deceased, great carts passed through the streets after + sunset, attended by linkmen and preceded by a bellman crying in weird and + solemn tones, "Bring out your dead." At the intimation of the watchmen + stationed before houses bearing red crosses upon their doors, the sad + procession would tarry, When coffinless, and oftentimes shroudless, rigid, + loathsome, and malodorous bodies were hustled into the carts with all + possible speed. Then once more the melancholy cortege took its way adown + the dark, deserted street, the yellow glare of links falling on the + ghastly burden they accompanied, the dirge-like call of the bellman + sounding on the ears of the living like a summons from the dead. And so, + receiving additional freight upon its way, the cart proceeded to one of + the great pits dug in the parish churchyards of Aldgate and Whitechapel, + or in Finsbury Fields close by the Artillery Ground. These, measuring + about forty feet in length, eighteen in breadth, and twenty in depth, were + destined to receive scores of bodies irrespective of creed or class. The + carts being brought to these dark and weirdsome gulphs, looking all the + blacker from the flickering lights of candles and garish gleams of + lanterns placed beside them, the bodies, without rite or ceremony, were + shot into them, and speedily covered with clay. For the accomplishment of + this sad work night was found too brief. And what lent additional horror + to the circumstances of these burials was, that those engaged in this duty + would occasionally drop lifeless during their labour. So that it sometimes + happened the dead-carts were found without driver, linkman, or bell-man. + And it was estimated that the parish of Stepney alone lost one hundred and + sixteen gravediggers and sextons within that year. + </p> + <p> + During the month of September, the pestilence raged with increased fury; + and it now seemed as if the merciless distemper would never cease whilst a + single inhabitant remained in the city. The lord mayor, having found all + remedies to stay its progress utterly fail, by advice of the medical + faculty, ordered that great fires should be kindled in certain districts, + by way of purifying the air, Accordingly, two hundred chaldrons of coal, + at four pounds a chaldron, were devoted to this purpose. At first the + fires were with great difficulty made to burn, through the scarcity, it + was believed, of oxygen in the atmosphere; but once kindled, they + continued blazing for three days and three nights, when a heavy downpour + of rain falling they were extinguished. The following night death carried + off four thousand souls, and the experiment of these cleansing fires was + discontinued. All through this month fear and tribulation continued; the + death rate, from the 5th of September to the 3rd of October, amounting to + twenty-four thousand one hundred and seventy-one. + </p> + <p> + During October, the weather being cool and dry, the pestilence gave + promise of rapid decrease. Hope came to the people, and was received with + eager greeting. Once more windows were unshuttered, doors were opened, and + the more venturous walked abroad. The great crisis had passed. In the + middle of the month Mr. Pepys travelled on foot to the Tower, and records + his impressions. "Lord," he says, "how empty the streets are and + melancholy, so many poor sick people in the streets full of sores; and so + many sad stories overheard as I walk, everybody talking of this dead, and + that man sick, and so many in this place, and so many in that. And they + tell me that in Westminster there is never a physician and but one + apothecary left, all being dead; but that there are great hopes of a + decrease this week. God send it." + </p> + <p> + The while, trade being discontinued, those who had lived by commerce or + labour were supported by charity. To this good purpose the king + contributed a thousand pounds per week, and Dr. Sheldon, Archbishop of + Canterbury—who remained at Lambeth during the whole time—by + letters to his bishops, caused great sums to be collected throughout the + country and remitted to him for this laudable purpose. Nor did those of + position or wealth fail in responding to calls made upon them at this + time; their contributions being substantial enough to permit the lord + mayor to distribute upwards of one hundred thousand pounds a week amongst + the poor and afflicted for several months. + </p> + <p> + In October the death rate fell to nine thousand four hundred and + forty-four; in November to three thousand four hundred and forty-nine; and + in December to less than one thousand. Therefore, after a period of + unprecedented suffering, the people took courage once more, for life is + dear to all men. And those who had fled the plague-stricken city returned + to find a scene of desolation, greater in its misery than words can + describe. But the tide of human existence having once turned, the capital + gradually resumed its former appearance. Shops which had been closed were + opened afresh; houses whose inmates had been carried to the grave became + again centres of activity; the sound of traffic was heard in streets long + silent; church bells called the citizens to prayer; marts were crowded; + and people wore an air of cheerfulness becoming the survivors of a + calamity. And so all things went on as before. + </p> + <p> + The mortality bills computed the number of burials which took place in + London during this year at ninety-seven thousand three hundred and six, of + which sixty-eight thousand five hundred find ninety-six were attributed to + the plague. This estimate has been considered by all historians as + erroneous. For on the first appearance of the distemper, the number of + deaths set down was far below that which truth warranted, in order that + the citizens might not be affrighted; and when it was at its height no + exact account of those shifted from the dead-carts into the pits was + taken. Moreover, many were buried by their friends in fields and gardens. + Lord Clarendon, an excellent authority, states that though the weekly + bills reckoned the number of deaths at about one hundred thousand, yet + "many who could compute very well, concluded that there were in truth + double that number who died; and that in one week, when the bill mentioned + only six thousand, there had in truth fourteen thousand died." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A cry of fire by night.—Fright and confusion.—The lord mayor is + unmanned.—Spread of the flames.—Condition of the streets.—Distressful + scenes.—Destruction of the Royal Exchange.—Efforts of the king and + Duke of York.—Strange rumours and alarms.—St. Paul's is doomed.—The + flames checked.—A ruined city as seen by day and night.—Wretched state + of the people.—Investigation into the origin of the fire.—A new city + arises. +</pre> + <p> + Scarcely had the city of London recovered from the dire effects of the + plague, ere a vast fire laid it waste. It happened on the 2nd of + September, 1666, that at two o'clock in the morning, the day being Sunday, + smoke and flames were seen issuing from the shop of a baker named Faryner, + residing in Pudding Lane, close by Fish Street, in the lower part of the + city. The house being built of wood, and coated with pitch, as were + likewise those surrounding it, and moreover containing faggots, dried + logs, and other combustible materials, the fire spread with great + rapidity: so that in a short time not only the baker's premises, but the + homesteads which stood next it on either side were in flames. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the watchman's lusty cry of "Fire, fire, fire!" which had + roused the baker and his family in good time to save their lives, was now + shouted down the streets with consternation, startling sleepers from their + dreams, and awaking them to a sense of peril. Thereon they rose promptly + from their beds, and hastily throwing on some clothes, rushed out to + rescue their neighbours' property from destruction, and subdue the + threatening conflagration. + </p> + <p> + And speedily was heard the tramp of many feet hurrying to the scene, and + the shouting of anxious voices crying for help; and presently the bells of + St. Margaret's church close by, ringing with wild uneven peals through the + darkness, aroused all far and near to knowledge of the disaster. For + already the flames, fanned by a high easterly wind, and fed by the dry + timber of the picturesque old dwellings huddled close together, had spread + in four directions. + </p> + <p> + One of these being Thames Street, the consequence was terrible, for the + shops and warehouses of this thoroughfare containing inflammable + materials, required for the shipping trade, such as oil, pitch, tar, and + rosin, the houses at one side the street were immediately wrapped, from + basement to garret, in sheets of angry flame. And now flaunting its yellow + light skywards, as if exulting in its strength, and triumphing in its + mastery over men's efforts, the fire rushed to the church of St. Magnus, a + dark solid edifice standing at the foot of London Bridge. The frightened + citizens concluded the conflagration must surely end here; or at least + that whilst it endeavoured to consume a dense structure such as this, they + might succeed in subduing its force; but their hopes were vain. At first + the flames shot upwards to the tower of the building, but not gaining + hold, retreated as if to obtain fresh strength for new efforts; and + presently darting forward again, they seized the woodwork of the belfry + windows. A few minutes later the church blazed at every point, and was in + itself a colossal conflagration. + </p> + <p> + From this the fire darted to the bridge, burning the wooden houses built + upon it, and the water machines underneath, and likewise creeping up + Thames Street, on that side which was yet undemolished. By this time the + bells of many churches rang out in sudden fright, as if appealing to + heaven for mercy on behalf of the people; and the whole east end of the + town rose up in alarm. The entire city seemed threatened with destruction, + for the weather having long been dry and warm, prepared the homesteads for + their fate; and it was noted some of them, when scorched by the + approaching fire, ignited before the flames had time to reach them. + </p> + <p> + Sir Thomas Bludworth, the lord mayor, now arrived in great haste, but so + amazed was he at the sight he beheld, and so bewildered by importunities + of those who surrounded him, that he was powerless to act. Indeed, his + incapacity to direct, and inability to command, as well as his lack of + moral courage, have been heavily and frequently blamed. Bring a weak man, + fearful of outstepping his authority, he at first forebore pulling down + houses standing in the pathway of the flames, as suggested to him, a means + that would assuredly have prevented their progress; but when urged to this + measure would reply, he "durst not, without the consent of the owners." + And when at last, after great destruction had taken place, word was + brought him from the king to "spare no house, but pull them down + everywhere before the fire," he cried out "like a fainting woman," as + Pepys recounts, "Lord! what can I do? I am spent; people will not obey + me." + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, great bodies of the citizens of all classes had been at work; + some upon the cumbrous engines, others carrying water, others levelling + houses, but all their endeavours seemed powerless to quell the raging + flames. And it was notable when first the pipes in the streets were + opened, no water could be found, whereon a messenger was sent to the works + at Islington, in order to turn on the cocks, so that much time was lost in + this manner. All through Sunday morning the flames extended far and wide, + and in a few hours three hundred houses were reduced to ashes. Not at + midday, nor yet at night, did they give promise of abatement. The strong + easterly wind continuing to blow, the conflagration worked its way to + Cannon Street, from thence gradually encompassing the dwellings which lay + between that thoroughfare and the Thames, till the whole seemed one vast + plain of raging fire. + </p> + <p> + The streets now presented a scene of the uttermost confusion and distress. + The affrighted citizens, whose dwellings were momentarily threatened with + destruction, hurried to and fro, striving to save those of their families + who by reason of infancy, age or illness were unable to help themselves. + Women on the eve of child-birth were carried from their beds; mothers with + infants clinging to their naked breasts fled from homes which would + shelter them no more; the decrepit were borne away on the shoulders of the + strong. The narrow thoroughfares were moreover obstructed by furniture + dragged from houses, or lowered from windows with a reckless speed that + oftentimes destroyed what it sought to preserve. Carts, drays, and horses + laden with merchandise jostled each other in their hurried way towards the + fields outside the city walls. Men young and vigorous crushed forward with + beds or trunks upon their backs; children laboured under the weight of + bundles, or rolled barrels of oil, wine, or spirits before them. And the + air, rendered suffocating by smoke and flame, was moreover confused by the + crackling of consuming timber, the thunder of falling walls, the crushing + of glass, the shrieks of women, and the imprecations of men. + </p> + <p> + And those who lived near the waterside, or in houses on the bridges, + hurried their goods and chattels into boats, barges, and lighters, in + which they likewise took refuge. For the destruction of wharfs and + warehouses, containing stores of most inflammable nature, was brief and + desperate. The Thames, now blood-red from reflection of the fierce sky, + was covered with craft of all imaginable shape and size. Showers of sparks + blown by the high wind fell into the water with hissing sounds, or on the + clothes and faces of the people with disastrous and painful effects; and + the smoke and heat were hard to bear. And it was remarked that flocks of + pigeons, which for generations had found shelter in the eaves and roofs of + wooden houses by the riverside, were loath to leave their habitations; and + probably fearing to venture afar by reason of the unwonted aspect of the + angry sky, lingered on the balconies and abutments of deserted houses, + until in some cases, the flames enwrapping them, they fell dead into the + waters below. + </p> + <p> + On Sunday evening Gracechurch Street was on fire; and the flames spread + onwards till they reached, and in their fury consumed, the Three Cranes in + the Vintry. Night came, but darkness had fled from the city; and for forty + miles round all was luminous. And there were many who in the crimson hue + of the heavens, beheld an evidence of God's wrath at the sins of the + nation, which it was now acknowledged were many and great. + </p> + <p> + Throughout Sunday night the fire grew apace, and those who, in the morning + had carried their belongings to parts of the city which they believed + would by distance ensure safety, were now obliged to move them afresh, the + devastation extending for miles. Therefore many were compelled to renew + their labours, thereby suffering further fatigue; and they now trusted to + no protection for their property save that which the open fields afforded. + Monday morning came and found the flames yet raging. Not only Gracechurch + Street, but Lombard Street, and part of Fenchurch street, were on fire. + Stately mansions, comfortable homes, warehouses of great name, banks of + vast wealth, were reduced to charred and blackened walls or heaps of + smoking ruins. Buildings had been pulled down, but now too late to render + service; for the insatiable fire, yet fed by a high wind, had everywhere + marched over the dried woodwork and mortar as it lay upon the ground, and + communicated itself to the next block of buildings; so that its + circumvention was regarded as almost an impossibility. + </p> + <p> + During Monday the flames attacked Cornhill, and then commenced to demolish + the Royal Exchange. Having once made an entrance in this stately building + it revelled in triumph; climbing up the walls, roaring along the courts + and galleries, and sending through the broken windows volleys of smoke and + showers of sparks, which threatened to suffocate and consume those who + approached. Then the roof fell with a mighty crash, which seemed for a + time to subdue the powerful conflagration; the walls cracked, parted, and + fell; statues of kings and queens were flung from their niches; and in a + couple of hours this building, which had been the pride and glory of + British Merchants, was a blackened ruin. + </p> + <p> + The citizens were now in a state of despair. Upwards of ten thousand + houses were in a blaze, the fire extending, according to Evelyn, two miles + in length and one in breadth, and the smoke reaching near fifty miles in + length. Mansions, churches, hospitals, halls, and schools crumbled into + dust as if at blighting touch of some most potent and diabolical magician. + Quite hopeless now of quenching the flames, bewildered by loss, and + overcome by terror, the citizens, abandoning themselves to despair, made + no further effort to conquer this inappeasable fire; but crying aloud in + their distraction, behaved as those who had lost their wits. The king and + the Duke of York, who on Sunday had viewed the conflagration from the + Thames, now alarmed at prospect of the whole capital being laid waste, + rode into the city, and by their presence, coolness and example roused the + people to fresh exertions. Accordingly, citizens and soldiers worked with + renewed energy and courage; whilst his majesty and his brother, the + courtiers and the lord mayor, mixed freely with the crowd, commanding and + directing them in their labours. + </p> + <p> + But now a new terror rose up amongst the citizens, for news spread that + the Dutch and French—with whom England was then at war—and + moreover the papists, whom the people then abhorred, had conspired to + destroy the capital. And the suddenness with which the flames had appeared + in various places, and the rapidity with which they spread, leading the + distracted inhabitants to favour this report, a strong desire for + immediate revenge took possession of their hearts. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly all foreigners were laid hold of, kicked, beaten, and abused + by infuriated mobs, from which they were rescued only to be flung into + prison. And this conduct was speedily extended to the catholics, even when + such were known to be faithful and well-approved good citizens. For though + at first it spread as a rumour, it was now received as a certainty that + they, in obedience to the wily and most wicked Jesuits, had determined to + lay waste an heretical city. Nor were there wanting many ready to bear + witness they had seen these dreaded papists fling fire-balls into houses + of honest citizens, and depart triumphing in their fiendish deeds. So that + when they ventured abroad they were beset by great multitudes, and their + lives were imperilled. And news of this distraction, which so forcibly + swayed the people, reaching the king, he speedily despatched the members + of his privy council to several quarters of the city, that in person they + might guard such of his subjects as stood in danger. + </p> + <p> + Lord Hollis and Lord Ashley were assigned Newgate Market and the streets + that lie around, as parts where they were to station themselves. And it + happened that riding near the former place they saw a vast number of + people gathered together, shouting with great violence, and badly using + one who stood in their midst. Whereon they hastened towards the spot and + found the ill-treated man to be of foreign aspect. Neither had he hat, + cloak, nor sword; his face was covered with blood, his jerkin was torn in + pieces, and his person was bedaubed by mud. And on examination it was + found he was unable to speak the English tongue; but Lord Hollis, entering + into conversation with him in the French language, ascertained that he was + a servant of the Portuguese ambassador, and knew not of what he was + accused, or why he had been maltreated. + </p> + <p> + Hereon a citizen of good standing pressed forward and alleged he had truly + seen this man put his hand in his pocket and throw a fire-ball into a + shop, upon which the house immediately took flame; whereon, being on the + other side of the street, he called aloud that the people might stop this + abominable villain. Then the citizens had seized upon him, taking away his + sword, and used him according to their will. My Lord Hollis explaining + this to the foreigner, he was overcome by amazement at the charge; and + when asked what he had thrown into the house, made answer he had not flung + anything. But he remembered well, whilst walking in the street, he saw a + piece of bread upon the ground, which he, as was the custom in his country + took up. Afterwards he laid it upon a shelf in a neighbouring house, which + being close by, my Lords Hollis and Ashley, followed by a dense crowd, + conducted him thither, and found the bread laid upon a board as he had + stated. It was noted the next house but one was on fire, and on inquiry it + was ascertained that the worthy citizen, seeing a foreigner place + something inside a shop without tarrying, and immediately after perceiving + a dwelling in flames, which in his haste he took to be the same, he had + charged the man with commission of this foul deed. But even though many + were convinced of his innocence, my Lord Hollis concluded the stranger's + life would be in safer keeping if he were committed to prison, which was + accordingly done. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the fire continued; and on Monday night and Tuesday raged with + increasing violence. The very heart of the city was now eaten into by this + insatiable monster: Soper Lane, Bread Street, Friday Street, Old Change, + and Cheapside being in one blaze. It was indeed a spectacle to fill all + beholding it with consternation; but that which followed was yet more + terrible, for already St. Paul's Cathedral was doomed to destruction. + </p> + <p> + Threatened on one side by the flames devastating Cheapside, and on the + other from those creeping steadily up from Blackfriars to this great + centre, it was now impossible to save the venerable church, which Evelyn + terms "one of the most ancient pieces of early Christian piety in the + world." Seen by this fierce light, and overhung by a crimson sky, every + curve of its dark outline, every stone of its pillars and abutments, every + column of its incomparable portico, stood clearly defined, so that never + had it looked so stately and magnificent, so vast and majestic, as now + when beheld for the last time. + </p> + <p> + Too speedily the fire advanced, watched by sorrowful eyes; but even before + it had reached the scaffolding now surrounding the building, the vaulted + roof, ignited by showers of sparks, burst into flames. Then followed a + scene unspeakably grand, yet melancholy beyond all telling. In a few + moments a pale yellow light had crept along the parapets, sending faint + clouds of smoke upwards, as if more forcibly marking the course of + destruction. Then came the crackling, hissing sounds of timber yielding to + the fire, and soon a great sheet of lead which covered the roof, and was + said to measure six acres, melting by degrees, down came on every side a + terrible rain of liquid fire that seamed and burned the ground, and + carried destruction with it in its swift course towards the Thames. + </p> + <p> + And now, by reason of the fearful heat, great projections of Portland + stone, cornices, and capitals of columns, flew off before the fire had + time to reach them. Windows melted in their frames, pillars fell to the + ground, ironwork bent as wax; nay, the very pavements around glowed so + that neither man nor horse dared tread upon them. And the flames, + gradually gaining ground, danced fantastically up and down the + scaffolding, and covered the edifice as with one blaze; whilst inside + transom beams were snapped asunder, rafters fell with destruction, and the + fire roaring through chapels and aisles as in a great furnace, could be + heard afar. And that which had been a Christian shrine was now, a smoking + ruin. + </p> + <p> + Raging onward in their fierce career, the flames darted towards such + buildings in the neighbourhood as had been previously untouched, so that + Paternoster Row, Newgate Street, the Old Bailey and Ludgate Hill were soon + in course of destruction. And from the latter spot the conflagration, + urged by the wind, rapidly rushed onwards towards Fleet Street. On the + other hand, it extended from Cheapside to Ironmongers' Lane, Old Jewry, + Lawrence Lane, Milk Street, Wood Street, Gutter Lane, and Foster Lane; and + again spreading from Newgate Street, it surrounded and destroyed Christ + Church, burned through St. Martin's-le-Grand towards Aldgate, and + threatened to continue its triumphant march to the suburbs. + </p> + <p> + For several miles nothing but raging fire and smoking ruins was visible, + for desolation had descended on the city. It was now feared the flames + would reach the Palace of Whitehall, and extend towards Westminster Abbey, + a consideration which caused much alarm to his majesty, who prized the + sacred fane exceedingly. And now the king was determined the orders he had + already issued should be obeyed, and that houses standing in direct path + of the fire should be demolished by gunpowder; so that, a greater gap + being effected than any previously made by pulling them down, the + conflagration might have no further material wherewith to strengthen and + feed its further progress. + </p> + <p> + This plan, Evelyn states, had been proposed by some stout seamen early + enough to have saved nearly the whole city; "but this some tenacious and + avaricious men, aldermen, etc., would not permit, because their houses + would have been the first." Now, however, this remedy was tried, and with + greater despatch, because the fire threatened the Tower and the powder + magazine it contained. And if the flames once reached this, London Bridge + would assuredly be destroyed, the vessels in the river torn and sunk, and + incalculable damage to life and property effected. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly Tower Street, which had already become ignited, was, under + supervision of the king, blown up in part, and the fire happily brought to + an end by this means in that part of the town. Moreover, on Wednesday + morning the east wind, which had continued high from Sunday night, now + subsided, so that the flames lost much of their vehemence, and by means of + explosions were more easily mastered at Leadenhall and in Holborn, and + likewise at the Temple, to which places they had spread during Wednesday + and Thursday. + </p> + <p> + During these latter days, the king and the Duke of York betrayed great + vigilance, and laboured with vast activity; the latter especially, riding + from post to post, by his example inciting those whose courage had + deserted them, and by his determination overcoming destruction. On + Thursday the dread conflagration, after raging for five consecutive days + and nights, was at length conquered. + </p> + <p> + On Friday morning the sun rose like a ball of crimson fire above a scene + of blackness, ruin, and desolation. Whole streets were levelled to the + ground, piles of charred stones marked where stately churches had stood, + smoke rose in clouds from smouldering embers. With sorrowful hearts many + citizens traversed the scene of desolation that day; amongst others Pepys + and Evelyn. The latter recounts that "the ground and air, smoke and fiery + vapour, continu'd so intense, that my haire was almost sing'd, and my + feete unsuffurably surbated. The people who now walk'd about ye ruines + appear'd like men in some dismal desert, or rather in some greate citty + laid waste by a cruel enemy; to which was added that stench that came from + some poore creatures' bodies, beds, and other combustible goods." + </p> + <p> + It would have been impossible to trace the original course of the streets, + but that some gable, pinnacle, or portion of walls, of churches, halls, or + mansions, indicated where they had stood. The narrower thoroughfares were + completely blocked by rubbish; massive iron chains, then used to prevent + traffic at night in the streets, were melted, as were likewise iron gates + of prisons, and the hinges of strong doors. Goods stored away in cellars + and subterranean passages of warehouses yet smouldered, emitting foul + odours; wells were completely choked, fountains were dried at their + sources. The statues of monarchs which had adorned the Exchange, were + smashed; that of its founder, Sir Thomas Gresham, alone remaining entire. + The ruins of St. Paul's, with its walls standing black and cheerless, + presented in itself a most melancholy spectacle. Its pillars were embedded + in ashes, its cornices irretrievably destroyed, its great bell reduced to + a shapeless mass of metal; whilst its general air of desolation was + heightened by the fact that a few monuments, which had escaped + destruction, rose abruptly from amidst the charred DEBRIS. + </p> + <p> + But if the ruins of the capital looked sad by day, their appearance was + more appalling when seen by light of the moon, which rose nightly during + the week following this great calamity. From the city gates, standing + gaunt, black, and now unguarded, to the Temple, the level waste seemed + sombre as a funeral pall; whilst the Thames, stripped of wharves and + warehouses, quaintly gabled homes, and comfortable inns—wont to cast + pleasant lights and shadows on its surface—now swept past the + blackened ruins a melancholy river of white waters. + </p> + <p> + In St. George's Fields, Moorfields, and far as Highgate for several miles, + citizens of all degrees, to the number of two hundred thousand, had + gathered: sleeping in the open fields, or under canvas tents, or in wooden + sheds which they hurriedly erected. Some there were amongst them who had + been used to comfort and luxury, but who were now without bed or board, or + aught to cover them save the clothes in which they had hastily dressed + when fleeing from the fire. And to many it seemed as if they had only been + saved from one calamity to die by another: for they had nought wherewith + to satisfy their hunger, yet had too much pride to seek relief. + </p> + <p> + And whilst yet wildly distracted by their miserable situation, weary from + exhaustion, and nervous from lack of repose, a panic arose in their midst + which added much to their distress. For suddenly news was spread that the + French, Dutch and English papists were marching on them, prepared to cut + their throats. At which, broken-spirited as they were, they rose up, and + leaving such goods that they had saved, rushed towards Westminster to seek + protection from their imaginary foes. On this, the king sought to prove + the falsity of their alarm, and with infinite difficulty persuaded them to + return to the fields: whence he despatched troops of soldiers, whose + presence helped to calm their fears. + </p> + <p> + And the king having, moreover, tender compassion for their wants, speedily + sought to supply them. He therefore summoned a council that it might + devise means of relief; and as a result, it published a proclamation + ordering that bread and all other provisions, such as could be furnished, + should be daily and constantly brought, not only to the markets formerly + in use, but also to Clerkenwell, Islington, Finsbury Fields, Mile End + Green, and Ratcliffe, for greater convenience of the citizens. For those + who were unable to buy provisions, the king commanded the victualler of + his navy to send bread into Moorfields, and distribute it amongst them. + And as divers distressed people had saved some of their goods, of which + they knew not where to dispose, he ordered that churches, chapels, + schools, and such like places in and around Westminster, should be free + and open to receive and protect them. He likewise directed that all cities + and towns should, without contradiction or opposition, receive the + citizens and permit them free exercise of their manual labours: he + promising, when the present exigency had passed away, to take care the + said persons should be no burden to such towns as received them. + </p> + <p> + The people were therefore speedily relieved. Many of them found refuge + with their friends and relatives in the country, and others sought homes + in the districts of Westminster and Southwark: so that in four days from + the termination of the fire, there was scarce a person remaining in the + fields, where such numbers had taken refuge. + </p> + <p> + The first hardships consequent to the calamity having passed away, people + were anxious to trace the cause of their sufferings, which they were + unwilling to consider accidental. A rumour therefore sprang up, that the + great fire resulted from a wicked plot, hatched by Jesuits, for the + destruction of an heretical city. At this the king was sorely troubled; + for though there was no evidence which led him to place faith in the + report, yet a great body of the citizens and many members of his council + held it true. Therefore, in order to appease such doubts as arose in his + mind, and likewise to satisfy the people, he appointed his privy council + to sit morning and evening to inquire into the matter, and examine + evidences set forth against those who had been charged with the outrage + and cast into prison during the conflagration. + </p> + <p> + And in order that the investigation might be conducted with greater rigour + he sent into the country for the lord chief justice, who was dreaded by + all for his unflinching severity. The lord chancellor, in his account of + these transactions, assures us many of the witnesses who gave evidence + against those indicted with firing the capital "were produced as if their + testimony would remove all doubts, but made such senseless relations of + what they had been told, without knowing the condition of the persons who + told them, or where to find them, that it was a hard matter to forbear + smiling at their declarations." Amongst those examined was one Roger + Hubert, who accused himself of having deliberately set the city on fire. + This man, then in his twenty-fifth year, was son of a watchmaker residing + in Rouen. Hubert had practised the same trade both in that town and in + London, and was believed by his fellow workmen to be demented. When + brought before the chief justice and privy council, Hubert with great + coolness stated he had set the first house on fire: for which act he had + been paid a year previously in Paris. When asked who had hired him to + accomplish this evil deed, he replied he did not know, for he had never + seen the man before: and when further questioned regarding the sum he had + received, he declared it was but one pistole, but he had been promised + five pistoles more when he should have done his work. These ridiculous + answers, together with some contradictory statements he made, inclined + many persons, amongst whom was the chief justice, to doubt his confession. + Later on in his examinations, he was asked if he knew where the house had + stood which he set on fire, to which he replied in the affirmative, and on + being taken into the city, pointed out the spot correctly. + </p> + <p> + In the eyes of many this was regarded as proof of his guilt; though others + stated that, having lived in the city, he must necessarily become + acquainted with the position of the baker's shop. Opinion was therefore + somewhat divided regarding him. The chief justice told the king "that all + his discourse was so disjointed that he did not believe him guilty." Yet + having voluntarily accused himself of a monstrous deed, and being + determined as it seemed to rid himself of life, he was condemned to death + and speedily executed. + </p> + <p> + Lord Clarendon says: "Neither the judges nor any present at the trial did + believe him guilty; but that he was a poor distracted wretch, weary of his + life, and chose to part with it in this way. Certain it is that upon the + strictest examination that could be afterwards made by the king's command, + and then by the diligence of the House, that upon the jealousy and rumour + made a committee, that was very diligent and solicitous to make that + discovery, there was never any probable evidence (that poor creature's + only excepted) that there was any other cause of that woful fire than the + displeasure of God Almighty: the first accident of the beginning in a + baker's house, where there was so great a stock of faggots, and the + neighbourhood of such combustible matter, of pitch and rosin, and the + like, led it in an instant from house to house, through Thames Street, + with the agitation of so terrible a wind to scatter and disperse it." + </p> + <p> + But belief that the dreaded papists had set fire to the city, lingered in + the minds of many citizens. When the city was rebuilt, this opinion found + expression in an inscription cut over the doorway of a house opposite the + spot where the fire began, which ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + "Here, by the permission of heaven, hell broke loose on this protestant + city from the malicious hearts of barbarous papists, by the hand of their + agent Hubert, who confessed, and on the ruins of this place declared the + fact, for which he was hanged. Erected in the mayoralty of Sir Patience + Ward, Knight." + </p> + <p> + The loss caused by this dreadful conflagration was estimated at ten + million sterling. According to a certificate of Jonas Moore and Ralph + Gatrix, surveyors appointed to examine the ruins, the fire overrun 373 + acres within the walls, burning 13,200 houses, 89 parish churches, + numerous chapels, the Royal Exchange, Custom House, Guildhall, Blackwell + Hall, St. Paul's Cathedral, Bridewell, fifty-two halls of the city + companies, and three city gates. + </p> + <p> + As speedily as might be, the king and his parliament then sitting at + Oxford, sought to restore the city on a scale vastly superior to its + former condition. And the better to effect this object, an act of + parliament was passed that public buildings should be rebuilt with public + money, raised by a tax on coals; that the churches and the cathedral of + St. Paul's should be reconstructed from their foundations; that bridges, + gates and prisons should be built anew; the streets made straight and + regular, such as were steep made level, such as were narrow made wide; + and, moreover, that every house should be built with party walls, such + being of stone or brick, and all houses raised to equal height in front. + </p> + <p> + And these rules being observed, a stately and magnificent city rose + phoenix-like from ruins of the old; so that there was naught to remind the + inhabitants of their great calamity save the Monument. This, designed by + Sir Christopher Wren, and built at a cost of fourteen thousand five + hundred pounds, was erected near where the fire broke out, the better to + perpetuate a memory of this catastrophe in the minds of future + generations, which purpose it fulfils unto this day. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The court repairs to Oxford.—Lady Castlemaine's son.—Their majesties + return to Whitehall.—The king quarrels with his mistress.—Miss Stuart + contemplates marriage.—Lady Castlemaine attempts revenge.—Charles + makes an unpleasant discovery.—The maid of honour elopes.—His majesty + rows down the Thames.—Lady Castlemaine's intrigues.—Fresh quarrels at + court.—The king on his knees. +</pre> + <p> + The while such calamities befell the citizens, the king continued to + divert himself in his usual fashion. On the 29th of June, 1665, whilst + death strode apace through the capital, reaping full harvests as he went, + their majesties left Whitehall for Hampton Court, From here they repaired + to Salisbury, and subsequently to Oxford, where Charles took up his + residence in Christchurch, and the queen at Merton College. + </p> + <p> + Removed from harrowing scenes of ghastliness and distress, the court made + merry. Joined by fair women and gallant men, their majesties played at + bowls and tennis in the grassy meads of the college grounds; rode abroad + in great hawking parties; sailed through summer days upon the smooth + waters of the river Isis; and by night held revelry in the massive-beamed + oak-panelled halls, from which scarce five-score candles served to chase + all gloom. + </p> + <p> + It happened whilst life thus happily passed, at pleasant full-tide flow, + my Lady Castlemaine, who resided in the same college with her majesty, + gave birth on the 28th of December to another son, duly baptized George + Fitzroy, and subsequently created Duke of Northumberland. By this time, + the plague having subsided in the capital, and all danger of infection + passed away, his majesty was anxious to reach London, yet loth to leave + his mistress, whom he visited every morning, and to whom he exhibited the + uttermost tenderness. And his tardiness to return becoming displeasing to + the citizens, and they being aware of its cause, it was whispered in + taverns and cried in the streets, "The king cannot go away till my Lady + Castlemaine be ready to come along with him," which truth was found + offensive on reaching the royal ears. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of January, 1666, he returned to Whitehall, and a month + later the queen, who had been detained by illness, joined him. Once more + the thread of life was taken up by the court at the point where it had + been broken, and woven into the motley web of its strange history. + Unwearied by time, unsatiated by familiarity, the king continued his + intrigue with the imperious Castlemaine, and with great longing likewise + made love to the beautiful Stuart. But yet his pursuit of pleasure was not + always attended by happiness; inasmuch as he found himself continually + involved in quarrels with the countess, which in turn covered him with + ridicule in the eyes of his courtiers, and earned him contempt in the + opinions of his subjects. + </p> + <p> + One of these disturbances, which occurred soon after his return from + Oxford, began at a royal drawing-room, in presence of the poor slighted + queen and ladies of the court. It happened in the course of conversation + her majesty remarked to the countess she feared the king had taken cold by + staying so late at her lodgings; to which speech my Lady Castlemaine with + some show of temper answered aloud, "he did not stay so late abroad with + her, for he went betimes thence, though he do not before one, two, or + three in the morning, but must stay somewhere else." The king, who had + entered the apartment whilst she was speaking, came up to her, and + displeased with the insinuations she expressed, declared she was a bold, + impertinent woman, and bade her begone from the court, and not return + until he sent for her. Accordingly she whisked from the drawing-room, and + drove at once to Pall Mall, where she hired apartments. + </p> + <p> + Her indignation at being addressed by Charles in such a manner before the + court, was sufficiently great to beget strong desires for revenge; when + she swore she would be even with him and print his letters to her for + public sport. In cooler moments, however, she abandoned this idea; and in + course of two or three days, not hearing from his majesty, she despatched + a message to him, not entreating pardon, but asking permission to send for + her furniture and belongings. To this the monarch, who had begun to miss + her presence and long for her return, replied she must first come and view + them; and then impatient for reconciliation, he sought her, and they + became friends once more. And by way of sealing the bond of pacification, + the king soon after agreed to pay her debts, amounting to the sum of + thirty thousand pounds, which had been largely incurred by presents + bestowed by her upon her lovers. + </p> + <p> + His majesty was not only rendered miserable by the constant caprices and + violent temper of the countess, but likewise by the virtue and coldness + Miss Stuart betrayed since her return from Oxford. The monarch was sorely + troubled to account for her bearing, and attributing it to jealousy, + sought to soothe her supposed uneasiness by increasing his chivalrous + attentions. Her change of behaviour, however, proceeded from another + cause. The fair Stuart, though childlike in manner, was shrewd at heart; + and was moreover guided invariably by her mother, a lady who reaped wisdom + from familiarity with courts. Therefore the maid of honour, seeing she had + given the world occasion to think she had lost her virtue, declared she + was ready to "marry any gentleman of fifteen hundred a year that would + have her in honour." + </p> + <p> + This determination she was obliged to keep-secret from the king, lest his + anger should fall upon such as sought her, and so interfere with her + matrimonial prospects. Now with such intentions in her mind she pondered + well on an event which had happened to her, such as no woman who has had + like experience ever forgets; namely, that amongst the many who professed + to love her, one had proposed to marry her. This was Charles Stuart, + fourth Duke of Richmond, a man possessed of neither physical gifts nor + mental abilities; who was, moreover, a widower, and a sot. + </p> + <p> + However, the position which her union with him would ensure was all she + could desire, and he renewing his suit at this time, she consequently + consented to marry him. Now though it was probable she could keep her + design from knowledge of her royal lover, it was scarcely possible she + could hide it from observation of his mistress. And the latter, knowing + the extent to which fair Frances Stuart shared his majesty's heart, and + being likewise aware of the coldness with which his protestations were by + her received, scorned the king and detested the maid. Lady Castlemaine + therefore resolved to use her knowledge of Miss Stuart's contemplated + marriage, for purpose of enraging the jealousy of the one, and destroying + the influence of the other. In order to accomplish such desirable ends she + quietly awaited her opportunity. This came in due time. + </p> + <p> + It happened one evening when his majesty had been visiting Frances Stuart + in her apartments, and had returned to his own in a condition of + ill-humour and disappointment, the countess, who had been some days out of + favour, suddenly presented herself before him, and in a bantering tone, + accompanied by ironical smiles, addressed him. + </p> + <p> + "I hope," said she, "I may be allowed to pay you my homage, although the + angelic Stuart has forbidden you to see me at my own house. I will not + make use of reproaches and expostulations which would disgrace myself; + still less will I endeavour to excuse frailties which nothing can justify, + since your constancy for me deprives me of all defence, considering I am + the only person you have honoured with your tenderness, who has made + herself unworthy of it by ill-conduct. I come now, therefore, with no + other intent than to comfort and condole with you upon the affliction and + grief into which the coldness or new-fashioned chastity of the inhuman + Stuart has reduced your majesty." + </p> + <p> + Having delivered herself of this speech she laughed loud and heartily, as + if vastly amused at the tenour of her words; and then before the impatient + monarch had time to reply, continued in the same tone, with quickening + breath and flashing eyes, "Be not offended that I take the liberty of + laughing at the gross manner in which you are imposed upon; I cannot bear + to see that such particular affection should make you the jest of your own + court, and that you should be ridiculed with such impunity. I know that + the affected Stuart has sent you away under pretence of some + indisposition, or perhaps some scruple of conscience; and I come to + acquaint you that the Duke of Richmond will soon be with her, if he is not + there already. I do not desire you to believe what I say, since it might + be suggested either through resentment or envy. Only follow me to her + apartment, either that, no longer trusting calumny and malice you may + honour her with a just preference, if I accuse her falsely; or, if my + information be true, you may no longer be the dupe of a pretended prude, + who makes you act so unbecoming and ridiculous a part." + </p> + <p> + The king, overwhelmed with astonishment, was irresolute in action; but + Lady Castlemaine, determined on not being deprived of her anticipated + triumph, took him by the hand and forcibly pulled him towards Miss + Stuart's apartments. The maid of honour's servants, surprised at his + majesty's return, were unable to warn their mistress without his + knowledge; whilst one of them, in pay of the countess, found means of + secretly intimating to her that the Duke of Richmond was already in Miss + Stuart's chamber. Lady Castlemaine, having with an air of exultation led + the king down the gallery from his apartments to the threshold of Miss + Stuart's door, made him a low courtesy savouring more of irony than + homage, bade him good-night, and with a subtle smile promptly retired. + </p> + <p> + The scene which followed is best painted by Hamilton's pen. "It was near + midnight; the king on his way met the chambermaids, who respectfully + opposed his entrance, and, in a very low voice, whispered his majesty that + Miss Stuart had been very ill since he left her; but that being gone to + bed, she was, God be thanked, in a very fine sleep. 'That I must see,' + said the king, pushing her back, who had posted herself in his way. He + found Miss Stuart in bed, indeed, but far from being asleep; the Duke of + Richmond was seated at her pillow, and in all probability was less + inclined to sleep than herself. The perplexity of the one party, and the + rage of the other, were such as may easily be imagined upon such a + surprise. The king, who of all men was one of the most mild and gentle, + testified his resentment to the Duke of Richmond in such terms as he had + never before used. The duke was speechless and almost petrified; he saw + his master and his king justly irritated. The first transports which rage + inspires on such occasions are dangerous. Miss Stuart's window was very + convenient for a sudden revenge, the Thames flowing close beneath it; he + cast his eyes upon it, and seeing those of the king more incensed than + fired with indignation than he thought his nature capable of, he made a + profound bow, and retired without replying a single word to the vast + torrent of threats and menaces that were poured upon him. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Stuart having a little recovered from her first surprise, instead of + justifying herself, began to talk in the most extravagant manner, and said + everything that was most capable to inflame the king's passion and + resentment: that if she were not allowed to receive visits from a man of + the Duke of Richmond's rank, who came with honourable intentions, she was + a slave in a free country; that she knew of no engagement that could + prevent her from disposing of her hand as she thought proper; but, + however, if this were not permitted her in his dominions, she did not + believe that there was any power on earth that could hinder her from going + over to France, and throwing herself into a Convent, to enjoy there that + tranquillity which was denied her in his court. The king, sometimes + furious with anger, sometimes relenting at her tears, and sometimes + terrified at her menaces, was so greatly agitated that he knew not how to + answer either the nicety of a creature who wanted to act the part of + Lucretia under his own eye, or the assurance with which she had the + effrontery to reproach him. In this suspense love had almost entirely + vanquished all his resentments, and had nearly induced him to throw + himself upon his knees, and entreat pardon for the injury he had done her, + when she desired him to retire, and leave her in repose, at least for the + remainder of that night, without offending those who had either + accompanied him, or conducted him to her apartments, by a longer visit. + This impertinent request provoked and irritated him to the highest degree: + he went out abruptly, vowing never to see her more, and passed the most + restless and uneasy night he had ever experienced since his restoration." + </p> + <p> + Next morning, his majesty sent orders to the Duke of Richmond to quit the + court, and never appear again in his presence. His grace, however, stayed + not to receive this message, having betaken himself with all possible + speed into the country. Miss Stuart, who likewise feared the king's + resentment, hastened to the queen, and throwing herself at her majesty's + feet, entreated forgiveness for the pain and uneasiness she had caused her + in the past, and besought her care and protection in the future. + </p> + <p> + She then laid bare her intentions of marrying the Duke of Richmond, who + had loved her long, and was anxious to wed her soon; but since the + discovery of his addresses had caused his banishment, and created + disturbances prejudicial to her good name, she begged the queen would + obtain his majesty's consent to her retiring from the vexations of a court + to the tranquillity of a convent. The queen raised her up, mingled her + tears with those of the troubled maid, and promised to use her endeavours + towards averting the king's displeasure. + </p> + <p> + On consideration, however, the fair Stuart did not wait to hear his + majesty's reproaches, or receive his entreaties; for the duke, being + impatient to gain his promised bride, quietly returned to town, and + secretly communicated with her. It was therefore agreed between them she + should steal away from the palace, meet him at the "Bear at the Bridge + Foot," situated on the Southwark side of the river, where he would have a + coach awaiting her, in order they might ride away to his residence at + Cobham Hall, near Gravesend, and then be legally and happily united in the + holy bonds of matrimony. And all fell out as had been arranged: the time + being the month of March, 1667. + </p> + <p> + Now when the king discovered her flight, his anger knew no bounds, though + it sought relief in uttering many violent threats against the duke, and in + sending word to the duchess he would see her no more. In answer to this + message, she, with some show of spirit, returned him the jewels he had + given her, principal amongst which were a necklace of pearls, valued at + over a thousand pounds, and a pair of diamond pendants of rare lustre. + </p> + <p> + Neither she nor her husband paid much heed to the royal menaces, for + before a year elapsed they both returned to town, and took up their + residence at Somerset House. Here, as Pepys records, she kept a great + court, "she being visited for her beauty's sake by people, as the queen is + at nights: and they say also she is likely to go to court again and there + put my Lady Castlemaine's nose out of joint. God knows that would make a + great turn." But to such proposals as were made regarding her return to + Whitehall, her husband would not pay heed, and she therefore remained a + stranger to its drawing-rooms for some time longer. And when two years + later she appeared there, her beauty had lost much of its famed lustre, + for meantime she was overtaken by smallpox, a scourge ever prevalent in + the capital. During her illness the king paid her several visits, and was + sorely grieved that the loveliness he so much prized should be marred by + foul disease. But on her recovery, the disfigurement she suffered scarce + lessened his admiration, and by no means abated his love; which seemed to + have gained fresh force from the fact of its being interrupted awhile. + </p> + <p> + This soon became perceptible to all, and rumour whispered that the young + duchess would shortly return to Whitehall in a position which she had + declined before marriage. And amongst other stories concerning the king's + love for her, it was common talk that one fair evening in May, when he had + ordered his coach to be ready that he might take an airing in the park, + he, on a sudden impulse, ran down the broad steps leading from his palace + gardens to the riverside. Here, entering a boat alone, he rowed himself + adown the placid river now crossed by early shadows, until he came to + Somerset House, where his lady-love dwelt; and finding the garden-door + locked, he, in his impatience to be with her, clambered over the wall and + sought her. Two months after the occurrence of this incident, the young + duchess was appointed a lady of the bedchamber to the queen, and therefore + had apartments at Whitehall. There was little doubt now entertained she + any longer rejected his majesty's love; and in order to remove all + uncertainties on the point which might arise in her husband's mind, the + king one night, when he had taken over much wine, boasted to the duke of + her complaisancy. Lord Dartmouth, who tells this story, says this happened + "at Lord Townshend's, in Norfolk, as my uncle told me, who was present." + Soon after his grace accepted an honourable exile as ambassador to + Denmark, in which country he died. + </p> + <p> + During the absence of the Duchess of Richmond, my Lady Castlemaine, then + in the uninterrupted possession of power, led his majesty a sorry life. + Her influence, indeed, seemed to increase with time, until her victim + became a laughing-stock to the heartless, and an object of pity to the + wise. Mr. Povy, whose office as a member of the Tangier Commission brought + him into continual contact with the court, and whose love of gossip made + him observant of all that passed around him, in telling of "the horrid + effeminacy of the king," said that "upon any falling out between my Lady + Castlemaine's nurse and her woman, my lady hath often said she would make + the king make them friends, and they would be friends and be quiet—which + the king had been fain to do." Nor did such condescension on his majesty's + part incline his mistress to treat him with more respect; for in the + quarrels which now became frequent betwixt them she was wont to term him a + fool, in reply to the kingly assertion that she was a jade. + </p> + <p> + The disturbances which troubled the court were principally caused by her + infidelities to him, and his subsequent jealousies of her. Chief among + those who shared her intrigues at this time was Harry Jermyn, with whom + she renewed her intimacy from time to time, without the knowledge of his + majesty. The risks she frequently encountered in pursuit of her amours + abounded in comedy. Speaking of Harry Jermyn, Pepys tells us the king "had + like to have taken him abed with her, but that he was fain to creep under + the bed into the closet." It being now rumoured that Jermyn was about to + wed my Lady Falmouth, the countess's love for one whom she might for ever + lose received a fresh impulse, which made her reckless of concealment. The + knowledge of her passion, therefore, coming to Charles's ears, a bitter + feud sprang up between them, during which violent threats and abusive + language were freely exchanged. + </p> + <p> + At this time my lady was far gone with child, a fact that soon came + bubbling up to the angry surface of their discourse; for the king avowed + he would not own it as his offspring. On hearing this, her passion became + violent beyond all decent bounds. "God damn me, but you shall own it!" + said she, her cheeks all crimson and her eyes afire; and moreover she + added, "she should have it christened in the Chapel Royal, and owned as + his, or otherwise she would bring it to the gallery in Whitehall, and dash + its brains out before his face." + </p> + <p> + After she had hectored him almost out of his wits, she fled in a state of + wild excitement from the palace, and took up her abode at the residence of + Sir Daniel Harvey, the ranger of Richmond Park. News of this scene spread + rapidly through the court, and was subsequently discussed in the + coffee-houses and taverns all over the town, where great freedom was made + with the lady's name, and great sport of the king's passion. And now it + was said the monarch had parted with his mistress for ever, concerning + which there was much rejoicement and some doubt. For notwithstanding the + king had passed his word to this effect, yet it was known though his + spirit was willing his flesh was weak. Indeed, three days had scarcely + passed when, mindful of her temper, he began to think his words had been + harsh, and, conscious of her power, he concluded his vows had been rash. + He therefore sought her once more, but found she was not inclined to + relent, until, as Pepys was assured, this monarch of most feeble spirit, + this lover of most ardent temper, "sought her forgiveness upon his knees, + and promised to offend her no more." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The kingdom in peril.—The chancellor falls under his majesty's + displeasure.—The Duke of Buckingham's mimicry.—Lady Castlemaine's + malice.—Lord Clarendon's fall.—The Duke of Ormond offends the royal + favourite.—She covers him with abuse.—Plots against the Duke of + York.—Schemes for a royal divorce.—Moll Davis and Nell Gwynn.—The + king and the comedian.—Lady Castlemaine abandons herself to great + disorders.—Young Jack Spencer.—The countess intrigues with an + acrobat.—Talk of the town.—The mistress created a duchess. +</pre> + <p> + At this time the kingdom stood in uttermost danger, being brought to that + condition by his majesty's negligence towards its concerns. The peril was, + moreover, heightened from the fact of the king being impatient to rid + himself of those who had the nation's credit at heart, and sought to + uphold its interests. To this end he was led in part by his own + inclinations, and furthermore by his friends' solicitations. Foremost + amongst those with whose services he was anxious to dispense, were the + chancellor, my Lord Clarendon, and the lord lieutenant of Ireland, his + grace the Duke of Ormond. + </p> + <p> + The king's displeasure against these men, who had served his father + loyally, himself faithfully, and their country honestly, was instigated + through hatred borne them by my Lady Castlemaine. From the first both had + bewailed the monarch's connection with her, and the evil influence she + exercised over him. Accordingly, after the pattern of honest men, they had + set their faces against her. + </p> + <p> + Not only, as has already been stated, would the chancellor refuse to let + any document bearing her name pass the great seal, but he had often + prevailed with the king to alter resolutions she had persuaded him to + form. And moreover had his lordship sinned in her eyes by forbidding his + wife to visit or hold intercourse with her. These were sufficient reasons + to arouse the hatred and procure the revenge of this malicious woman, who + was now virtually at the head of the kingdom. For awhile, however, + Charles, mindful of the services the chancellor had rendered him, was + unwilling to thrust him from his high place. But as time sped, and the + machinations of a clique of courtiers in league with the countess were + added to her influence, the chancellor's power wavered. And finally, when + he was suspected of stepping between his majesty and his unlawful + pleasures—concerning which more shall be said anon—he fell. + </p> + <p> + At the head and front of the body which plotted against Lord Clarendon, + pandered to Lady Castlemaine, and, for its own purposes—politically + and socially—sought to control the king, was his grace the Duke of + Buckingham. This witty courtier and his friends, when assembled round the + pleasant supper table spread in the countess's apartments, and honoured + almost nightly by the presence of the king, delighted to vent the force of + their humour upon the chancellor, and criticize his influence over the + monarch until Charles smarted from their words. In the height of their + mirth, if his majesty declared he would go a journey, walk in a certain + direction, or perform some trivial action next day, those around him would + lay a wager he would not fulfil his intentions; and when asked why they + had arrived at such conclusions, they would reply, because the chancellor + would not permit him. On this another would remark with mock gravity, he + thought there were no grounds for such an imputation, though, indeed, he + could not deny it was universally believed abroad his majesty was + implicitly governed by Lord Clarendon. The king, being keenly sensitive to + remarks doubting his authority, and most desirous of appearing his own + master, would exclaim on such occasions that the chancellor "had served + him long, and understood his business, in which he trusted him; but in any + other matter than his business, he had no more credit with him than any + other man." And presently the Duke of Buckingham—who possessed + talents of mimicry to a surpassing degree—would arise, and, screwing + his face into ridiculous contortions, and shaking his wig in a manner that + burlesqued wisdom to perfection, deliver some ludicrous speech brimming + with mirth and indecencies, assuming the grave air and stately manner of + the chancellor the while. And finally, to make the caricature perfect, Tom + Killigrew, hanging a pair of bellows before him by way of purse, and + preceded by a friend carrying a fireshovel to represent a mace, would walk + round the room with the slow determined tread peculiar to Lord Clarendon. + At these performances the king, his mistress, and his courtiers would + laugh loud and long in chorus, with which was mingled sounds of chinking + glasses and flowing wine. ["Came my lord chancellor (the Earl of + Clarendon) and his lady, his purse and mace borne before him, to visit me"—Evelyn's + "Diary."] + </p> + <p> + In this manner was the old man's power undermined; but a circumstance + which hastened his fall occurred in the early part of 1667. In that year + Lady Castlemaine had, for a valuable consideration, disposed of a place at + court, which ensured the purchaser a goodly salary. However, before the + bargain could finally be ratified, it was necessary the appointment should + pass the great seal. This the chancellor would not permit, and accompanied + his refusal by remarking, "he thought this woman would sell every thing + shortly." His speech being repeated to her, she, in great rage, sent him + word she "had disposed of this place, and had no doubt in a little time to + dispose of his." And so great was the malice she bore him, that she railed + against him openly and in all places; nor did she scruple to declare in + the queen's chamber, in the presence of much company, "that she hoped to + see his head upon a stake, to keep company with those of the regicides on + Westminster Hall." + </p> + <p> + And some political movements now arising, the history of which lies not + within the province of this work, the king seized upon them as an excuse + for parting with his chancellor. The monarch complained that my Lord + Clarendon "was so imperious that he would endure no contradiction; that he + had a faction in the House of Commons that opposed everything that + concerned his majesty's service, if it were not recommended to them by + him; and that he had given him very ill advice concerning the parliament, + which offended him most." + </p> + <p> + Therefore there were rumours in the air that the chancellor's fall was + imminent; nor were the efforts of his son-in-law, the Duke of York, able + to protect him, for the friends of my Lady Castlemaine openly told his + majesty "it would not consist with his majesty's honour to be hectored out + of his determination to dismiss the chancellor by his brother, who was + wrought upon by his wife's crying." It therefore happened on the 26th of + August, 1667, as early as ten o'clock in the morning, Lord Clarendon + waited at Whitehall on the king, who presently, accompanied by his + brother, received him with characteristic graciousness. Whereon the old + man, acknowledging the monarch's courtesy, said he "had no suit to make to + him, nor the least thought to dispute with him, or to divert him from the + resolution he had taken; but only to receive his determination from + himself, and most humbly to beseech him to let him know what fault he had + committed, that had drawn this severity upon him from his majesty." + </p> + <p> + In answer to this Charles said he must always acknowledge "he had served + him honestly and faithfully, and that he did believe never king had a + better servant; that he had taken this resolution for his good and + preservation, as well as for his own convenience and security; that he was + sorry the business had taken so much air, and was so publicly spoken of, + that he knew not how to change his purpose." To these words of fair + seeming the troubled chancellor replied by doubting if the sudden + dismissal of an old servant who had served the crown full thirty years, + without any suggestion of crime, but rather with a declaration of + innocence, would not call his majesty's justice and good nature into + question. He added that men would not know how to serve him, when they + should see it was in the power of three or four persons who had never done + him any notable service to dispose him to ungracious acts. And finally, he + made bold to cast some reflections upon my Lady Castlemaine, and give his + majesty certain warnings regarding her influence. + </p> + <p> + At this the king, not being well pleased, rose up, and the interview, + which had lasted two hours, terminated. Lord Clarendon tells us so much + concerning his memorable visit, to which Pepys adds a vivid vignette + picture of his departure. When my lord passed from his majesty's presence + into the privy garden, my Lady Castlemaine, who up to that time had been + in bed, "ran out in her smock into her aviary looking into Whitehall—and + thither her woman brought her nightgown—and stood joying herself at + the old man's going away; and several of the gallants of Whitehall, of + which there were many staying to see the chancellor return, did talk to + her in her birdcage—among others Blaneford, telling her she was the + bird of paradise." + </p> + <p> + A few days after this occurrence the king sent Secretary Morrice to the + chancellor's house, with a warrant under a sign manual to require and + receive the great seal. This Lord Clarendon at once delivered him with + many expressions of duty which he bade the messenger likewise convey his + majesty. And no sooner had Morrice handed the seals to the king, than + Baptist May, keeper of the privy purse, and friend of my Lady Castlemaine, + sought the monarch, and falling upon his knees, kissed his hand and + congratulated him on his riddance of the chancellor. "For now." said he, + availing himself of the liberty Charles permitted his friends, "you will + be king—what you have never been before." Finally, the chancellor + was, through influence of his enemies, impeached in the House of Commons; + and to such length did they pursue him, that he was banished the kingdom + by act of parliament. + </p> + <p> + His grace the Duke of Ormond was the next minister whom my Lady + Castlemaine, in the strength of her evil influence, sought to undermine. + By reason of an integrity rendering him too loyal to the king to pander to + his majesty's mistress, he incurred her displeasure in many ways; but + especially by refusing to gratify her cupidity. It happened she had + obtained from his majesty a warrant granting her the Phoenix Park, Dublin, + and the mansion situated therein, which had always been placed at service + of the lords lieutenants, and was the only summer residence at their + disposal. The duke, therefore, boldly refusing to pass the warrant, + stopped the grant. [According to O'Connor's "Bibliotheca Stowensis," Lady + Castlemaine soon after received a grant of a thousand pounds per annum in + compensation for her loss of Phoenix Park.] This so enraged the countess, + that soon after, when his grace returned to England, she, on meeting him + in one of the apartments in Whitehall, greeted him with a torrent of + abusive language and bitter reproaches, such as the rancour of her heart + could suggest, or the license of her tongue utter, and concluded by hoping + she might live to see him hanged. The duke heard her with the uttermost + calmness, and when she had exhausted her abusive vocabulary quietly + replied, "Madam, I am not in so much haste to put an end to your days; for + all I wish with regard to you is, that I may live to see you grow old." + And, bowing low, the fine old soldier left her presence. It may be added, + though the duke was deprived of the lord lieutenancy, the countess's pious + wish regarding him was never fulfilled. + </p> + <p> + It now occurred to those who had relentlessly persecuted the chancellor, + that though they were safe as long as Charles reigned, his death would + certainly place them in peril. For they sufficiently knew the Duke of + York's character to be aware when he ascended the throne he would + certainly avenge the wrongs suffered by his father-in-law. Accordingly + these men, prominent amongst whom were the Duke of Buckingham, Sir Thomas + Clifford, Lords Arlington, Lauderdale, and Ashley, and Baptist May, + resolved to devise means which would prevent the Duke of York ever + attaining the power of sovereignty. Therefore scarce a year had gone by + since Lord Clarendon's downfall, ere rumours were spread abroad that his + majesty was about to put away the queen, This was to be effected, it was + said, by the king's acknowledgment of a previous marriage with Lucy + Walters, mother of the Duke of Monmouth, or by obtaining a divorce on + ground of her majesty's barrenness. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Buckingham, who was prime mover in this plot, aware of the + king's pride in, and fondness for the Duke of Monmouth, favoured the + scheme of his majesty's admission of a marriage previous to that which + united him with Catherine of Braganza. And according to Burnet, Buckingham + undertook to procure witnesses who would swear they had been present at + the ceremony which united him with the abandoned Lucy Walters. Moreover, + the Earl of Carlisle, who likewise favoured the contrivance, offered to + bring this subject before the House of Lords. However, the king would not + consent to trifle with the succession in this vile manner, and the idea + was promptly abandoned. But though the project was unsuccessful, it was + subsequently the cause of many evils; for the chances of sovereignty, + flashing before the eyes of the Duke of Monmouth, dazzled him with hopes, + in striving to realize which, he, during the succeeding reign, steeped the + country in civil warfare, and lost his head. + </p> + <p> + The king's friends, ever active for evil, now sought other methods by + which he might rid himself of the woman who loved him well, and therefore + be enabled to marry again, when, it was trusted, he would have heirs to + the crown. It was suggested his union might, through lack of some + formality, be proved illegal; but as this could not be effected without + open violation of truth and justice, it was likewise forsaken. The Duke of + Buckingham now besought his majesty that he would order a bill to divorce + himself from the queen to be brought into the House of Commons. The king + gave his consent to the suggestion, and the affair proceeded so far that a + date was fixed upon for the motion. However, three days previous, Charles + called Baptist May aside, and told him the matter must be discontinued. + </p> + <p> + But even yet my Lord Buckingham did not despair of gaining his wishes. + And, being qualified by his character for the commission of abominable + deeds, and fitted by his experience for undertaking adventurous schemes, + he proposed to his majesty, as Burnet states, that he would give him leave + to abduct the queen, and send her out of the kingdom to a plantation, + where she should be well and carefully looked to, but never heard of more. + Then it could be given out she had deserted him, upon which grounds he + might readily obtain a divorce. But the king, though he permitted such a + proposal to be made him, contemplated it with horror, declaring "it was a + wicked thing to make a poor lady miserable only because she was his wife + and had no children by him, which was no fault of hers." + </p> + <p> + Ultimately these various schemes resolved themselves into a proposition + which Charles sanctioned. This was that the queen's confessor should + persuade her to leave the world, and embrace a religious life. Whether + this suggestion was ever made to her majesty is unknown, for the Countess + of Castlemaine, hearing of these schemes, and foreseeing she would be the + first sacrificed to a new queen's jealousy, opposed them with such vigour + that they fell to the ground and were heard of no more. The fact was, the + king took no active part in these designs, not being anxious, now the + Duchess of Richmond had accepted his love, to unite himself with another + wife. Whilst her grace had been unmarried, the idea had indeed occurred to + him of seeking a divorce that he might be free to lay his crown at the + feet of the maid of honour. And with such a view in mind he had consulted + Dr. Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury, as to whether the Church of England + "would allow of a divorce, when both parties were consenting, and one of + them lay under a natural incapacity of having children." Before answering + a question on which so much depended, the archbishop requested time for + consideration, which, with many injunctions to secrecy, was allowed him. + "But," says Lord Dartmouth, who vouches for truth of this statement, "the + Duke of Richmond's clandestine marriage, before he had given an answer, + made the king suspect he had revealed the secret to Clarendon, whose + creature Sheldon was known to be; and this was the true secret of + Clarendon's disgrace." For the king, believing the chancellor had aided + the duke in his secret marriage, in order to prevent his majesty's union + with Miss Stuart, and the presumable exclusion of the Duke and Duchess of + York and their children from the throne, never forgave him. + </p> + <p> + Though the subject of the royal divorce was no longer mentioned, the + disturbances springing from it were far from ended; for the Duke of + Buckingham, incensed at Lady Castlemaine's interference, openly quarrelled + with her, abused her roundly, and swore he would remove the king from her + power. To this end he therefore employed his talents, and with such tact + and assiduity that he ultimately fulfilled his menaces. The first step he + took towards accomplishing his desires, was to introduce two players to + his majesty, named respectively Moll Davis and Nell Gwynn. + </p> + <p> + The former, a member of the Duke of York's troupe of performers, could + boast of goodly lineage, though not of legitimate birth, her father being + Thomas Howard, first Earl of Berkshire. She had, early in the year 1667, + made her first appearance at the playhouse, and had by her comely face and + shapely figure challenged the admiration of the town. Her winsome ways, + pleasant voice, and graceful dancing soon made her a favourite with the + courtiers, who voted her an excellent wench; though some of her own sex, + judging harshly of her, as is their wont towards each other, declared her + "the most impertinent slut in the world." + </p> + <p> + Now the Duke of Buckingham knowing her well, it seemed to him no woman was + more suited to fulfil his purpose of thwarting the countess; for if he + succeeded in awaking the king's passion for the comedian, such a + proceeding would not only arouse my lady's jealousy, but likewise humble + her pride. Therefore, when this court Mephistopheles accompanied his + majesty to the playhouse, he was careful to dwell on Moll Davis's various + charms, the excellency of her figure, the beauty of her face, the piquancy + of her manner. So impressed was the monarch by Buckingham's descriptions, + that he soon became susceptible to her fascinations. The amour once begun + was speedily pursued; and she was soon enabled to boast, in presence of + the players, that the king—whose generosity was great to fallen + women—had given her a ring valued at seven hundred pounds, and was + about to take, and furnish most richly, a house in Suffolk Street for her + benefit and abode. Pepys heard this news in the first month of the year + 1668; and soon afterwards a further rumour reached him that she was + veritably the king's mistress, "even to the scorn of the world." + </p> + <p> + This intrigue affected Lady Castlemaine in a manner which the Duke of + Buckingham had not expected. Whilst sitting beside Charles in the + playhouse, she noticed his attention was riveted upon her rival, when she + became melancholy and out of humour, in which condition she remained some + days. But presently rallying her spirits, she soon found means to divert + her mind and avenge her wrongs, of which more shall be recorded hereafter. + Meanwhile, the poor queen, whose feelings neither the king nor his + courtiers took into consideration, bore this fresh insult with such + patience as she could summon to her aid, on one occasion only protesting + against her husband's connection with the player. This happened when the + Duke of York's troupe performed in Whitehall the tragedy of "Horace," + "written by the virtuous Mrs. Phillips." The courtiers assembled on this + occasion presented a brilliant and goodly sight. Evelyn tells us "the + excessive gallantry of the ladies was infinite, those jewels especially on + Lady Castlemaine esteemed at forty thousand pounds and more, far + outshining ye queene." Between each act of the tradgedy a masque and + antique dance was performed. When Moll Davis appeared, her majesty, + turning pale from sickness of heart, and trembling from indignation at the + glaring insult thrust upon her, arose and left the apartment boisterous + with revelry, where she had sat a solitary sad figure in its midst. As a + result of her intimacy with the king, Moll Davis bore him a daughter, who + subsequently became Lady Derwentwater. But the Duke of Buckingham's + revenge upon my Lady Castlemaine was yet but half complete; and therefore + whilst the monarch carried on his intrigue with Moll Davis, his grace, + enlarging upon the wit and excellency of Nell Gwynn, besought his majesty + to send for her. This request the king complied with readily enough, and + she was accordingly soon added to the list of his mistresses. Nell Gwynn, + who was at this period in her eighteenth year, had joined the company of + players at the king's house, about the same time as Moll Davis had united + her fortunes with the Duke of York's comedians. Her time upon the stage + was, however, but of brief duration; for my Lord Buckhurst, afterwards + Earl of Dorset, a witty and licentious man, falling in love with her, + induced her to become his mistress, quit the theatre, and forsake the + society of her lover, Charles Hart, a famous actor and great-nephew of + William Shakespeare. And she complying with his desires in these matters, + he made her an allowance of one hundred pounds a year, on which she + returned her parts to the manager, and declared she would act no more. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly in the month of July, 1667, she was living at Epsom with my + Lord Buckhurst and his witty friend Sir Charles Sedley, and a right merry + house they kept for a time. But alas, ere the summer had died there came a + day when charming Nell and his fickle lordship were friends no more, and + parting from him, she was obliged to revert to the playhouse again. + </p> + <p> + Now Nell Gwynn being not only a pretty woman, but moreover an excellent + actress, her return was welcomed by the town. Her achievements in light + comedy were especially excellent, and declared entertaining to a rare + degree. Pepys, who witnessed her acting "a comical part," in the "Maiden + Queen," a play by Dryden, says he could "never hope to see the like done + again by man or woman. So great performance of a comical part," he + continues, "was never, I believe, in the world before as Nell do this, + both as a mad girle, then most and best of all when she comes in like a + young gallant; and hath the motions and carriage of a spark the most that + ever I saw any man have. It makes me, I confess, admire her." In the part + of Valeria, in "Tyrannic Love," she was also pronounced inimitable; + especially in her delivery of the epilogue. The vein of comedy with which + she delivered the opening lines, addressed to those about to bear her dead + body from the stage, was merry beyond belief. "Hold!" she cried out to one + of them, as she suddenly started to life— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Hold! are you mad? you damned confounded dog! + I am to rise and speak the epilogue." +</pre> + <p> + Before the year 1667 ended, she had several times visited his majesty at + Whitehall. The king was now no less assured of her charms as a woman, than + he had previously been convinced of her excellence as an actress. In due + time, her intimacy with the monarch resulted in the birth of two sons; the + elder of which was created Duke of St. Albans, from whom is descended the + family now bearing that title: the second died young and unmarried. + </p> + <p> + Through influence of these women, my Lady Castlemaine's power over the + king rapidly diminished, and at last ceased to exist; seeing which, as + Burnet says, "She abandoned herself to great disorders; one of which by + the artifice of the Duke of Buckingham was discovered by the king in + person, the party concerned leaping out of the window." The gallant to + whom the worthy bishop refers was John Churchill, afterwards the great + Duke of Marlborough, at this time a handsome stripling of eighteen + summers. In his office as page to the Duke of York, he frequently came + under notice of her ladyship, who, pleased with the charms of his boyish + face and graceful figure, intimated his love would not prove unacceptable + to her. Accordingly he promptly made love to the countess, who, in the + first fervour of her affection, presented him with five thousand pounds. + With this sum he purchased a life annuity of five hundred pounds, which, + as Lord Chesterfield writes, "became the foundation of his subsequent + fortune." Nor did her generosity end here: at a cost of six thousand + crowns she obtained for him the post of groom of the bedchamber to the + Duke of York, and was instrumental in subsequently forwarding his + advancements in the army. + </p> + <p> + My Lady Castlemaine was by no means inclined to spend her days in misery + because the royal favour was no longer vouchsafed her; and therefore, by + way of satisfying her desires for revenge, conducted intrigues not only + with John Churchill and Harry Jermyn, but likewise with one Jacob Hall, a + noted acrobat. This man was not only gifted with strength and agility, but + likewise with grace and beauty: so that, as Granger tells us, "The ladies + regarded him as a due composition of Hercules and Adonis." His dancing on + the tight rope at Bartholomew Fair was "a thing worth seeing and mightily + followed;" whilst his deeds of daring at Southwark Fair were no less + subjects of admiration and wonder. The countess was so charmed by the + performance of this athlete in public, that she became desirous of + conversation with him in private; and he was accordingly introduced to her + by Beck Marshall, the player. The countess found his society so + entertaining that she frequently visited him, a compliment he courteously + returned. Moreover, she allowed him a yearly salary, and openly showed her + admiration for him by having their portraits painted in one picture: in + which she is represented playing a fiddle, whilst he leans over her, + touching the strings of a guitar. + </p> + <p> + Her amours in general, and her intimacy with the rope-dancer in + particular, becoming common talk of the town, his majesty became incensed; + and it grieved him the more that one who dwelt in his palace, and was yet + under his protection, should divide her favours between a king and a + mountebank. Accordingly bitter feuds arose between her and the monarch, + when words of hatred, scorn, and defiance were freely exchanged. His + majesty upbraiding her with a love for the rope-dancer, she replied with + much spirit, "it very ill became him to throw out such reproaches against + her: that he had never ceased quarrelling unjustly with her, ever since he + had betrayed his own mean low inclinations: that to gratify such a + depraved taste as his, he wanted the pitiful strolling actresses whom he + had lately introduced into their society." Then came fresh threats from + the lips of the fury, followed by passionate storms of tears. + </p> + <p> + The king, who loved ease greatly, and valued peace exceedingly, became + desirous of avoiding such harrowing scenes. Accordingly, he resolved to + enter into a treaty with his late mistress, by which he would consent to + grant her such concessions as she desired, providing she promised to + discontinue her intrigues with objectionable persons, and leave him to + pursue his ways without reproach. By mutual consent, his majesty and the + countess selected the Chevalier de Grammont to conduct this delicate + business; he being one in whose tact and judgment they had implicit + confidence. After various consultations and due consideration, it was + agreed the countess should abandon her amours with Henry Jermyn and Jacob + Hall, rail no more against Moll Davis or Nell Gwynn, or any other of his + majesty's favourites, in consideration for which Charles would create her + a duchess, and give her an additional pension in order to support her + fresh honours with becoming dignity. + </p> + <p> + And as the king found her residence in Whitehall no longer necessary to + his happiness, Berkshire House was purchased for her as a suitable + dwelling This great mansion, situated at the south-west corner of St. + James's Street, facing St. James's Palace, was surrounded by pleasant + gardens devised in the Dutch style, and was in every way a habitation + suited for a prince. This handsome gift was followed by a grant of the + revenues of the Post Office, amounting to four thousand seven hundred + pounds a year, which was at first paid her in weekly instalments. On the + 3rd of August, 1670, Barbara, Countess of Castlemaine, was created + Baroness Nonsuch, of Nonsuch Park, Surrey; Countess of Southampton; and + Duchess of Cleveland in the peerage of England. The reasons for crowding + these honours thick upon her were, as the patent stated, "in consideration + of her noble descent, her father's death in the service of the crown, and + by reason of her personal virtues." + </p> + <p> + Nor did his majesty's extravagant favours to her end here. She was now, as + Mr. Povy told his friend Pepys, "in a higher command over the king than + ever—not as a mistress, for she scorns him, but as a tyrant, to + command him." In consequence of this power, she was, two months after her + creation as duchess, presented by the monarch with the favourite hunting + seat of Henry VIII., the magnificent palace and great park of Nonsuch, in + the parishes of Cheam and Malden, in the county of Surrey. And yet a year + later, she received fresh proofs of his royal munificence by the gift of + "the manor, hundred, and advowson of Woking, county Surrey; the manor and + advowson of Chobham, the hundred of Blackheath and Wootton, the manor of + Bagshot (except the park, site of the manor and manor-house, and the + Bailiwick, and the office of the Bailiwick, called Surrey Bailiwick, + otherwise Bagshot Bailiwick), and the advowson of Bisley, all in the same + county." + </p> + <p> + Her wealth, the more notable at a time when the king was in debt, and the + nation impoverished from expenditure necessary to warfare, was enormous. + Andrew Marvell, writing in August, 1671, states: "Lord St. John, Sir R. + Howard, Sir John Bennet, and Sir W. Bicknell, the brewer, have farmed the + customs. They have signed and sealed ten thousand pounds a year more to + the Duchess of Cleveland; who has likewise near ten thousand pounds a year + out of the new farm of the country excise of Beer and Ale; five thousand + pounds a year out of the Post Office; and they say, the reversion of all + the King's Leases, the reversion of places all in the Custom House, the + green wax, and indeed what not? All promotions spiritual and temporal pass + under her cognizance." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Louise de Querouaille.—The Triple Alliance.—Louise is created Duchess + of Portsmouth.—Her grace and the impudent comedian.—Madam Ellen moves + in society.—The young Duke of St. Albans.—Strange story of the + Duchess of Mazarine.—Entertaining the wits at Chelsea.—Luxurious + suppers.—Profligacy and wit. +</pre> + <p> + The Duchess of Cleveland having shared the fate common to court + favourites, her place in the royal affections was speedily filled by a + mistress whose influence was even more baneful to the king, and more + pernicious to the nation. This woman was Louise de Querouaille, the + descendant of a noble family in Lower Brittany. At an early age she had + been appointed maid of honour to Henrietta, youngest sister of Charles + II., soon after the marriage of that princess, in 1661, with the Duke of + Orleans, brother to Louis XIV. Fate decreed that Mademoiselle de + Querouaille should be brought into England by means of a political + movement; love ordained she should reign mistress of the king's + affections. + </p> + <p> + It happened in January, 1668, that a Triple Alliance had been signed at + the Hague, which engaged England, Sweden, and the United Provinces to join + in defending Spain against the power of France. A secret treaty in this + agreement furthermore bound the allies to check the ambition of Louis + XIV., and, if possible, reduce his encroaching sway. That Charles II. + should enter into such an alliance was galling to the French monarch, who + resolved to detach his kinsman from the compact, and bind him to the + interests of France. To effect this desired purpose, which he knew would + prove objectionable to the British nation, Louis employed Henrietta, + Duchess of Orleans, to visit England on pretext of pleasure and affection, + and secretly persuade and bribe her brother to the measures required. + </p> + <p> + The young duchess, though an English princess, had at heart the interests + of the country in which she had been reared, and which on her marriage she + had adopted as her own. She therefore gladly undertook this mission, + confident of her success from the fact that of all his family she had ever + been the most tenderly beloved by Charles. Therefore she set out from + France, and in the month of May, 1670, arrived at Dover, to which port the + king, Queen, and court hastened, that they might greet and entertain her. + For full ten days in this merry month, high revelry was held at Dover, + during which time Henrietta skilfully and secretly effected the object of + her visit. And her delight was now the greater, inasmuch as one item which + this agreement entrusted her to make, engaged that Charles would, as soon + as he could with safety, follow the example of his brother the Duke of + York, and become a Catholic. In carrying out this purpose Louis promised + him substantial aid and sure protection. Likewise, it may be mentioned, + did the French king engrage to grant him a subsidy equal to a million a + year, if Charles joined him in an attack on Holland. + </p> + <p> + The prospect of his sister's return filled the king with sorrow, which + increased as the term of her visit drew to an end. "He wept when he parted + with her," wrote Monsieur Colbert, the French ambassador, who + significantly adds, "whatever favour she asked of him was granted." + </p> + <p> + Now Louis knowing the weakness of the English monarch's character, and + aware of his susceptibility to female loveliness, had despatched + Mademoiselle de Querouaille in the train of Henrietta. Satisfied that + Charles could not resist her charms, the French monarch had instructed + this accomplished woman, who was trusted in his councils, to accept the + royal love, which it was surmised would be proffered her; so that by the + influence which she would consequently obtain, she might hold him to the + promises he might make the Duchess of Orleans. + </p> + <p> + As had been anticipated, the king became enamoured of this charming woman, + who, before departing with the princess, faithfully promised to return and + become his mistress. In his desire to possess her the merry monarch was + upheld by his grace of Buckingham, who, continuing in enmity with the + Duchess of Cleveland, resolved to prevent her regaining influence over the + king by adding the beautiful Frenchwoman to the number of his mistresses. + He therefore told Charles, in the sarcastic manner it was occasionally his + wont to use, "it was a decent piece of tenderness for his sister to take + care of some of her servants;" whilst on being sent into France, he + assured Louis "he could never reckon himself sure of the king, but by + giving him a mistress that should be true to his interests." But neither + king required urging to a resolution on which both had separately + determined; and soon Mademoiselle Querouaille was ready for her journey to + England. A yacht was therefore sent to Dieppe to convey her, and presently + she was received at Whitehall by the lord treasurer, and her arrival + celebrated in verse by Dryden. Moreover, that she might have apartments in + the palace, the king at once appointed her a maid of honour to her + majesty, this being the first of a series of favours she was subsequently + to receive. Evelyn, writing in the following October, says it was + universally reported a ceremonious espousal, devoid of the religious rite, + had taken place between his majesty and Mademoiselle Querouaille at Lord + Arlington's house at Euston. "I acknowledge," says this trustworthy + chronicler "she was for the most part in her undresse all day, and that + there was fondnesse and toying with that young wanton; nay, 'twas said I + was at the former ceremony, but 'tis utterly false; I neither saw nor + heard of any such thing whilst I was there, tho' I had ben in her chamber, + and all over that apartment late enough, and was myself observing all + passages with much curiosity." + </p> + <p> + She now became a central figure in the brilliant court of the merry + monarch, being loved by the king, flattered by the wits, and tolerated by + the queen, to whom—unlike the Duchess of Cleveland—she + generally paid the greatest respect. Her card tables were thronged by + courtiers eager to squander large sums for the honour of playing with the + reigning sultana; her suppers were attended by wits and gallants as merry + and amorous as those who had once crowded round my Lady Castlemaine in the + zenith of her power. No expense was too great for his majesty to lavish + upon her; no honour too high with which to reward her affection. The + authority just mentioned says her apartments at Whitehall were luxuriously + furnished "with ten times the richnesse and glory beyond the Queene's; + such massy pieces of plate, whole tables and stands of incredible value." + After a residence of little more than three years at court she was raised + by King Charles to the peerage as Baroness of Petersfield, Countess of + Farnham, and Duchess of Portsmouth; whilst the French king, as a mark of + appreciation for the services she rendered France, conferred upon her the + Duchy of Aubigny, in the province of Berri in France, to which he added + the title and dignity of Duchess and Peeress of France, with the revenues + of the territory of Aubigny. And two years later King Charles, prodigal of + the honours he conferred upon her, ennobled the son she had borne him in + 1672. The titles of the Duke of Richmond and Lennox having lately reverted + to the crown by the death of Frances Stuart's husband, who was last of his + line, the bastard son of the French mistress was created Duke of Richmond + and Earl of March in England, and Duke of Lennox and Earl of Darnley in + Scotland. To these proud titles the present head of the noble house of + Richmond and Lennox—by virtue of the grant made by Louis XIV. to his + ancestress likewise adds that of Duc d'Aubigny in the peerage of France. + </p> + <p> + But though honoured by the king, and flattered by the court, the Duchess + of Portsmouth was far from enjoying uninterrupted happiness; inasmuch as + her peace was frequently disturbed by jealousy. The principal cause of her + uneasiness during the first five years of her reign was the king's + continued infatuation for Nell Gwynn; now, by reason of the elevated + position she enjoyed, styled Madam Ellen. This "impudent comedian," as + Evelyn calls her, was treated by his majesty with, extreme indulgence and + royal liberality. In proof of the latter statement, it may be mentioned + that in less than four years from the date of her first becoming his + mistress, he had wantonly lavished sixty thousand pounds upon her, as + Burnet affirms. Moreover, he had purchased as a town mansion for her "the + first good house on the left-hand side of St. James's Square, entering + Pall Mall," now the site of the Army and Navy Club; had given her likewise + a residence situated close by the Castle at Windsor; and a summer villa + located in what was then the charming village of Chelsea. To such + substantial gifts as these he added the honour of an appointment at court: + when the merry player was made one of the ladies of the privy chamber to + the queen. Samuel Pegg states this fact, not generally known, and assures + us he discovered it "from the book in the lord chamberlain's office." + </p> + <p> + From her position as the king's mistress, Madam Ellen moved on terms of + perfect equality with the Duchess of Portsmouth's friends—supping + with my Lady Orrery, visiting my Lord Cavendish, and establishing a + friendship with the gay Duchess of Norfolk. This was a source of deep + vexation to the haughty Frenchwoman; but Nell Gwynn's familiarity with the + king was a cause of even greater mortification. Sir George Etherege + records in verse when the monarch was "dumpish" Nell would "chuck the + royal chin;" and it is stated that, mindful of her former conquests over + Charles Hart and Charles Lord Buckley, it was her habit to playfully style + his majesty "Charles the Third." Her wilfulness, wit, and beauty enabled + her to maintain such a strong hold upon the king's heart, that he shared + his time equally between her and the Duchess of Portsmouth. Indignant that + a woman from the playhouse should receive such evidences of the royal + affection, her grace lost no opportunity of insulting Nell, who responded + by mimicry and grimaces, which threw those who witnessed the comedy into + fits of laughter, and covered the wrathful duchess with confusion. + </p> + <p> + But though the light-hearted actress frequently treated disdain with + ridicule, she could occasionally analyze the respective positions held by + herself and the duchess with seriousness, Madame de Sevigne tells us, Nell + would reason in this manner: "This duchess pretends to be a person of + quality: she affirms she is related to the best families in France, and + when any person of distinction dies she puts herself in mourning. If she + be a lady of such quality, why does she demean herself to be a courtesan? + She ought to die with shame. As for me, it is my profession. I do not + pretend to anything better. The king entertains me, and I am constant to + him at present. He has a son by me; I contend that he ought to acknowledge + him—and I am well assured that he will, for he loves me as well as + the duchess." + </p> + <p> + To have her son ennobled, and by this means raise him to an equality with + the offspring of her grace, became the desire of Nell Gwynn's life. To her + request that this favour might be granted, the king had promised + compliance from time to time, but had as frequently postponed the + fulfilment of his word. At last, weary of beseeching him, she devised a + speech which she trusted might have the desired effect. Accordingly, when + the monarch came to see her one day, he found her in a pensive mood, + playing with her pretty boy; and the lad, being presently set upon his + feet, he promptly tottered down the room, whereon she cried out to him, + "Come here, you little bastard!" Hearing this word of evil import applied + to his son, the monarch begged she would not use the expression, "I am + sorry," said she regretfully, "but, alas, I have no other name to give + him!" His majesty took the hint, and soon after bestowed on him that of + Charles Beauclerk, and created him Baron of Heddington, in Oxon, and Earl + of Burford in the same county; and finally, when he had reached the age of + ten years, raised him to the dignity of Duke of St. Albans. + </p> + <p> + After a reign of five years in the court of the merry monarch, her Grace + of Portsmouth was destined to encounter a far more formidable rival than + Nell Gwynn, in the person of the Duchess of Mazarine. This lady, on her + arrival in England in 1675, possessed most of the charms which had + rendered her notable in youth. To the attraction they lent was added an + interest arising from her personal history, in which King Charles had once + figured, and to which fate had subsequently added many pages of romance. + </p> + <p> + Hortensia Mancini, afterwards Duchess of Mazarine, was descendant of a + noble Roman family, and niece of the great Julius Mazarine, cardinal of + the church, and prime minister of France. Her parents dying whilst she, + her sister and brother were young, they had been reared under the care of + his eminence. According to the memoirs of the duchess, the cardinal's + peace must have frequently been put to flight by his charges, whose + conduct, he declared, exhibited neither piety nor honour. Mindful of this, + he placed his nieces under the immediate supervision of Madame de Venelle, + who was directed to have the closest guard over them. A story related by + the duchess shows in what manner this lady's duty was carried out, and + what unexpected results attended it on one occasion. + </p> + <p> + When the court visited Lyons, in the year 1658, the cardinal's nieces and + their governess lodged in a commodious mansion in one of the public + squares. "Our chamber windows, which opened towards the market-place," + writes Hortensia, "were low enough for one to get in with ease. Madame de + Venelle was so used to her trade of watching us, that she rose even in her + sleep to see what we were doing. One night, as my sister lay asleep with + her mouth open, Madame de Venelle, after her accustomed manner, coming, + asleep as she was, to grope in the dark, happened to thrust her finger + into her mouth so far that my sister, starting out of her sleep, made her + teeth almost meet in her finger. Judge you the amazement they both were in + to find themselves in this posture when they were thoroughly awake. My + sister was in a grievous fret. The story was told the king the next day, + and the court had the divertisement of laughing at it." + </p> + <p> + Whilst the great minister's nieces were yet extremely young, Louis XIV. + fell passionately in love with the elder, Maria, and his marriage with her + was frustrated only by the united endeavours of the queen mother and the + cardinal. A proposal to raise Hortensia to the nominal dignity of queen + was soon after made on behalf of Charles II., who sought her as his bride. + But he being at the time an exile, banished from his kingdom, and with + little hope of regaining his throne, the offer was rejected by Cardinal + Mazarine as unworthy of his favourite niece. + </p> + <p> + His eminence was, however, anxious to see her married, and accordingly + sought amongst the nobility of France a husband suitable to her merits and + equal to her condition, she being not only a beautiful woman but, through + his bounty, the richest heiress in Christendom. It happened the cardinal's + choice settled upon one who had fallen in love with Hortensia, and who had + declared, with amorous enthusiasm, that if he had but the happiness of + being married to her, it would not grieve him to die three months + afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The young noble was Armand Charles de la Porte, Duke de Meilleraye, who + had the sole recommendation of being one of the richest peers of France. + On condition that he and his heirs should assume the name of Mazarine and + arms of that house, the cardinal consented to his becoming the husband of + his niece. And the great minister's days rapidly approaching their end, + the ceremony was performed which made Hortensia, then at the age of + thirteen, Duchess of Mazarine. A few months later the great cardinal + expired, leaving her the sum of one million six hundred and twenty-five + thousand pounds sterling. Alas that she should have died in poverty, and + that her body should have been seized for debt! + </p> + <p> + Scarce had the first weeks of her married life passed away, when the young + wife found herself mated to one wholly unsuited to her character. She was + beautiful, witty, and frivolous; he jealous, dull, and morose. The + incompatibility of their dispositions became as discernible to him, as + they had become intolerable to her; and, as if to avenge the fate which + had united them, he lost no opportunity of thwarting her desires, by such + means striving to bend her lissom quality to the gnarled shape of his + unhappy nature. + </p> + <p> + With such a purpose in view no opportunity was neglected to curb her + pleasures or oppose her inclinations. He continually forced her to leave + Paris, and even when her condition required rest and care, compelled her + to accompany him on long and weary journeys, undertaken by him in + consequence of his diplomatic missions. If she received two successive + visits from one man, he was instantly forbidden the house. If she called + her carriage, the coachman received orders not to obey. If she betrayed a + preference for one maid more than another, the favourite was instantly + dismissed, moreover, the duchess was surrounded by spies, her movements + being rigorously watched, and invariably reported. Nor would the duke + vouchsafe an explanation to his young wife regarding the cause of this + severe treatment, but continued the even course of such conduct without + intermission or abatement. + </p> + <p> + After displaying these eccentricities for some years, they suddenly + associated themselves with religion, when he became a fanatic. Her + condition was now less endurable than before; his whims more ludicrous and + exasperating. With solemnity he declared no one could in conscience visit + the theatre; that it was a sin to play blind man's buff, and a heinous + crime to retire to bed late. And presently, his fanaticism increasing, he + prohibited the woman who nursed his infant to suckle it on Fridays or + Saturdays; that instead of imbibing milk, it might, in its earliest life, + become accustomed to fasting and mortification of the flesh. + </p> + <p> + The young duchess grew hopeless of peace. All day her ears were beset by + harangues setting forth her wickedness, by exortations calling her to + repentance, and by descriptions of visions vouchsafed him. By night her + condition was rendered scarcely less miserable. "No sooner," says St. + Evremond, "were her eyes closed, than Monsieur Mazarine (who had the devil + always present in his black imagination) wakes his best beloved, to make + her partaker—you will never be able to guess of what—to make + her partaker of his nocturnal visions. Flambeaux are lighted, and search + is made everywhere; but no spectre does Madame Mazarine find, except that + which lay by her in the bed." + </p> + <p> + The distresses to which she was subjected were increased by the knowledge + that her husband was squandering her vast fortune. In what manner the + money was spent she does not state. "If" she writes, "Monsieur Mazarine + had only taken delight in overwhelming me with sadness and grief, and in + exposing my health and my life to his most unreasonable caprice, and in + making me pass the best of my days in an unparalleled slavery, since + heaven had been pleased to make him my master, I should have endeavoured + to allay and qualify my misfortunes by my sighs and tears. But when I saw + that by his incredible dilapidations and profuseness, my son, who might + have been the richest gentleman in France, was in danger of being the + poorest, there was no resisting the force of nature; and motherly love + carried it over all other considerations of duty, or the moderation I + proposed to myself. I saw every day vast sums go away: moveables of + inestimable prices, offices, and all the rich remains of my uncle's + fortune, the fruits of his labours, and the rewards of his services. I saw + as much sold as came to three millions, before I took any public notice of + it; and I had hardly anything left me of value but my jewels, when + Monsieur Mazarine took occasion to seize upon them." + </p> + <p> + She therefore sought the king's interference, but as the duke had interest + at court, she received but little satisfaction. Then commenced disputes, + which, after months of wrangling, ended by the duchess escaping in male + attire out of France, in company with a gay young cavalier, Monsieur de + Rohan. After various wanderings through Italy and many adventures in + Savoy, she determined on journeying to England. That her visit was not + without a political motive, we gather from St. Evremond; who, referring to + the ascendancy which the Duchess of Portsmouth had gained over his + majesty, and the uses she made of her power for the interests of France, + tells us, "The advocates for liberty, being excluded from posts and the + management of affairs, contrived several ways to free their country from + that infamous commerce; but finding them ineffectual, they at last + concluded that there was no other course to take than to work the Duchess + of Portsmouth out of the king's favour, by setting up against her a rival + who should be in their interest. The Duchess of Mazarine was thought very + fit for their purpose, for she outshined the other, both in wit and + beauty." + </p> + <p> + Charles de St. Denis, Seigneur de St. Evremond, was a soldier, + philosopher, and courtier, who had distinguished himself by his bravery, + learning, and politeness. Having fallen under the displeasure of the + French court, he had, in the year 1662, sought refuge in England, where he + had been welcomed with the courtesy due to his rank, and the esteem which + befitted his merits. Settling in the capital, he mixed freely in the + companionship of wits, gallants, and courtiers who constituted its + society; and delighted with London as a residence, he determined on making + England his country by adoption. An old friend and fervent admirer of the + Duchess of Mazarine, he had received the news of her visit with joy, and + celebrated her arrival in verse. + </p> + <p> + The reputation of her loveliness and the history of her life having + preceded her, the court became anxious to behold her; the king, mindful of + the relationship he had once sought; with the duchess, grew impatient to + welcome her. After a few days' rest, necessary to remedy the fatigue of + her journey, she appeared at Whitehall. By reason of her beauty, now + ripened rather than impaired by time, and those graces which attracted the + more from the fascination they had formerly exercised, she at once gained + the susceptible heart of the monarch. St. Evremond tells us her person + "contained nothing that was not too lovely." In the "Character of the + Duchess of Mazarine," which he drew soon after her arrival in London, he + has presented a portrait of her worth examining not only for sake of the + object it paints, but for the quaint workmanship it contains. "An + ill-natured curiosity," he writes, "makes me scrutinize every feature in + her face, with a design either to meet there some shocking irregularity, + or some disgusting disagreeableness. But how unluckily do I succeed in my + design. Every feature about her has a particular beauty, that does not in + the least yield to that of her eyes, which, by the consent of all the + world, are the finest in the universe. One thing there is that entirely + confounds me: her teeth, her lips, her mouth, and all the graces that + attend it, are lost amongst the great variety of beauties in her face and + what is but indifferent in her, will not suffer us to consider what is + most remarkable in others. The malice of my curiosity does not stop here. + I proceed to spy out some defect in her shape; and I find I know not what + graces of nature so happily and so liberally scattered in her person, that + the genteelness of others only seems to be constraint and affectation." + </p> + <p> + The king—to whom the presence of a beautiful woman was as sunshine + to the earth—at once offered her his affections, the gallants + tendered their homage, the ladies of the court volunteered the flattery + embodied in imitation. And by way of practically proving his admiration, + his majesty graciously allotted her a pension of four thousand pounds a + year, with apartments in St. James's Palace. + </p> + <p> + The sovereignty which the Duchess of Portsmouth had held for five years + over the monarch's heart was now in danger of downfall; and probably would + have ended, but for Madame Mazarine's indiscretions. It happened a few + months after her arrival in London, the Prince of Monaco visited the + capital. Young in years, handsome in person, and extravagant in + expenditure, he dazzled the fairest women at court; none of whom had so + much power to please him in all as the Duchess of Mazarine. + Notwithstanding the king's generosity, she accepted the prince's + admiration; and resolved to risk the influence she had gained, that she + might freely love where she pleased. Her entertainment of a passion, as + sudden in development as fervid in intensity, enraged the king; but his + fury served only to increase her infatuation, seeing which, his majesty + suspended payment of her pension. + </p> + <p> + The gay Prince of Monaco in due time ending his visit to London, and + leaving the Duchess of Mazarine behind him, she, through the interposition + of her friends, obtained his majesty's pardon, was received into favour, + and again allowed her pension. + </p> + <p> + She now ruled, not only mistress of the king's heart, but queen of a + brilliant circle of wits and men of parts, whose delight it became to heed + the epigrams and eccentricities which fell from her lips. Her rooms at St. + James's, and her house in Chelsea, became the rendezvous of the most + polite and brilliant society in England. In the afternoons, seated amongst + her monkeys, dogs, parrots, and pets, she discoursed on philosophy, love, + religion, politics, and plays; whilst at night her saloons were thrown + open to such as delighted in gambling. Then the duchess, seated at the + head of the table, her dark eyes flashing with excitement, her red lips + parted in expectation, followed the fortunes of the night with anxiety: + all compliments being suspended and all fine speeches withheld the while, + nought being heard but the rustle of cards and the chink of gold. + </p> + <p> + Dainty and luxurious suppers followed, when rare wines flowed, and wit + long suppressed found joyous vent. Here sat Charles beside his beautiful + mistress, happy in the enjoyment of the present, careless of the needs of + his people; and close beside him my Lord of Buckingham, watchful of his + majesty's face, hatching dark plots whilst he turned deft compliments. + There likewise were my Lord Dorset, the easiest and wittiest man living; + Sir Charles Sedley, one learned in intrigue; Baptist May, the monarch's + favourite; Tom Killigrew who jested on life's follies whilst he enjoyed + them; the Countess of Shrewsbury, beautiful and amorous; and Madam Ellen, + who was ready to mimic or sing, dance or act, for his majesty's diversion. + </p> + <p> + And so, whilst a new day stole upon the world without, tapers burned low + within the duchess's apartments; and the king, his mistress, and a brave + and gallant company ate, drank, and made merry. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A storm threatens the kingdom.—The Duke of York is touched in his + conscience.—His interview with Father Simons.—The king declares his + mind.—The Duchess of York becomes a catholic.—The circumstances of her + death.—The Test Act introduced.—Agitation of the nation.—The Duke + of York marries again.—Lord Shaftesbury's schemes.—The Duke of + Monmouth.—William of Orange and the Princess Mary.—Their marriage and + departure from England. +</pre> + <p> + Whilst the surface life of the merry monarch sped onward in its careless + course, watchful eyes took heed of potent signs boding storms and strife. + The storm which shook the kingdom to its centre came anon; the strife + which dethroned a monarch was reserved for the succeeding reign. These + were not effected by the king's profligacy, indolence, or extravagance, + but because of a change in the religious belief of the heir-apparent to + the crown. + </p> + <p> + The cloud, no bigger than a man's hand, which presently spread and + overcast the political horizon, was first observed towards the beginning + of the year 1669. The Rev. J. S. Clarke, historiographer to George III., + chaplain to the royal household, and librarian to the Prince Regent, in + his "Life of James II., collected out of Memoirs writ of his own hand," + tells us that about this time the Duke of York "was sensibly touched in + his conscience, and began to think seriously of his salvation." + Accordingly, the historian states, "he sent for one Father Simons, a + Jesuit, who had the reputation of a very learned man, to discourse with + him upon that subject; and when he came, he told him the good intentions + he had of being a catholic, and treated with him concerning his being + reconciled to the church. After much discourse about the matter, the + Jesuit very sincerely told him, that unless he would quit the communion of + the Church of England, he could not be received into the Catholic Church. + The duke then said he thought it might be done by a dispensation from the + pope, alleging the singularity of his case, and the advantage it might + bring to the catholic religion in general, and in particular to those of + it in England, if he might have such dispensation for outwardly appearing + a protestant, at least till he could own himself publicly to be a + catholic, with more security to his own person and advantage to them. But + the father insisted that even the pope himself had not the power to grant + it, for it was an unalterable doctrine of the Catholic Church, not to do + ill that good might follow. What this Jesuit thus said was afterwards + confirmed to the duke by the pope himself, to whom he wrote upon the same + subject. Till this time his royal highness believed (as it is commonly + believed, or at least said by the Church of England doctors) that + dispensations in any such cases are by the pope easily granted; but Father + Simons's words, and the letter of his holiness, made the duke think it + high time to use all the endeavours he could, to be at liberty to declare + himself, and not to live in so unsafe and so uneasy a condition." + </p> + <p> + Inasmuch as what immediately followed touches a point of great delicacy + and vast importance, the words of the historian, mainly taken from the + "Stuart Papers," are best given here, "His royal highness well-knowing + that the king was of the same mind, and that his majesty had opened + himself upon it to Lord Arundel of Wardour, Lord Arlington, and Sir Thomas + Clifford, took an occasion to discourse with him upon that subject about + the same time, and found him resolved as to his being a catholic, and that + he intended to have a private meeting with those persons above named at + the duke's closet, to advise with them about the ways and methods fit to + be taken for advancing the catholic religion in his dominions, being + resolved not to live any longer in the constraint he was under. The + meeting was on the 25th of January. When they were met according to the + king's appointment, he declared his mind to them on the matter of + religion, and said how uneasy it was to him not to profess the faith he + believed; and that he had called them together to have their advice about + the ways and methods fittest to be taken for the settling of the catholic + religion in his kingdoms, and to consider of the time most proper to + declare himself, telling them withal that no time ought to be lost; that + he was to expect to meet with many and great difficulties in bringing it + about, and that he chose rather to undertake it now, when he and his + brother were in their full strength and able to undergo any fatigue, than + to delay it till they were grown older and less fit to go through with so + great a design. This he spoke with great earnestness, and even with tears + in his eyes; and added, that they were to go about it as wise men and good + catholics ought to do. The consultation lasted long, and the result was, + that there was no better way for doing this work than to do it in + conjunction with France, and with the assistance of his Most Christian + majesty." Accordingly the secret treaty with France was entered into, as + already mentioned. + </p> + <p> + No further movement towards professing the catholic religion was made by + the king or his brother for some time. The tendencies of the latter + becoming suspected, his actions were observed with vigilance, when it was + noted, that although he attended service as usual with the king, he no + longer received the sacrament. It was also remarked the Duchess of York, + whose custom it had been to communicate once a month, soon followed his + example. Her neglect of this duty was considered the more conspicuous as + she had been bred a staunch protestant, and ever appeared zealous in her + support of that religion. Moreover, it was noted that, from the beginning + of the year 1670, she was wont to defend the catholic faith from such + errors as it had been charged withal. + </p> + <p> + These matters becoming subjects of conversation at court soon reached the + ears of Bishop Morley, who had acted as her confessor since her twelfth + year, confession being then much practised in the English Church. Thereon + he hastened to her, and spoke at length of the inferences which were drawn + from her neglect of receiving the sacrament, in answer to which she + pleaded business and ill-health as sufficient excuses. But he, suspecting + other causes, gave her advice, and requested she would send for him in + case doubts arose in her mind concerning the faith she professed. Being + now free from all uncertainties, she readily promised compliance with his + desire, and added, "No priest had ever taken the confidence to speak to + her on those matters." + </p> + <p> + The fact that she no longer communicated becoming more noticed as time + passed, the king spoke to his brother concerning the omission, when the + duke told him she had become a catholic. Hearing this, Charles requested + him to keep her change of faith a secret, which was accordingly done, none + being aware of the act but Father Hunt, a Franciscan friar, Lady Cranmer, + one of her women of the bedchamber, and Mr. Dupuy, servant to the duke. In + a paper she drew up relative to her adoption of the catholic religion, + preserved in the fifth volume of the "Harleian Miscellany," she professes + being one of the greatest enemies that faith ever had. She likewise + declares no man or woman had said anything, or used the least persuasion + to make her change her religion. That had been effected, she adds, by a + perusal of Dr. Heylin's "History of the Reformation;" after which she + spoke severally to Dr. Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury and Dr. + Blandford, Bishop of Worcester, who told her "there were many things in + the Roman Church which it was very much to be wished they had kept—as + confession, which was no doubt commanded by God; and praying for the dead, + which was one of the ancient things in Christianity—that for their + parts they did it daily, though they would not own to it." + </p> + <p> + The duchess pondered over what she had read and heard, and being a woman + accustomed to judge for herself, and act upon her decisions, she, in the + month of August, 1670 became a member of the Catholic Church, in which + communion she died seven months later. For fifteen months previous to her + demise she had been suffering from a complication of diseases, with which + the medical skill of that day was unable to cope, and these accumulating, + in March, 1671, ended her days. The "Stuart Papers" furnish an interesting + account of her death. Seeing the hour was at hand which would sever her + from all earthly ties, she besought her husband not to leave her whilst + life remained. She likewise requested that in case Dr. Blandford or any + other of the bishops should come to visit her, he would tell them she had + become a member of the Catholic Church; but if they insisted on seeing her + she was satisfied to admit them, providing they would not distress her by + arguments or controversy. + </p> + <p> + Soon after she had expressed these desires, Bishop Blandford arrived, and + begged permission to see her, hearing which the duke went into the + drawing-room, where his lordship waited, and delivered the message with + which the duchess had charged him. Thereon the bishop said, "he made no + doubt but that she would do well since she was fully convinced, and had + not changed out of any worldly end." He then went into the room, and + having made "a short Christian exhortation suitable to the condition she + was in," took his departure. Presently the queen came and sat by the dying + woman, with whom she had borne many wrongs in common; and later on, the + Franciscan friar being admitted, the duchess "received all the last + sacraments of the Catholick Church, and dyed with great devotion and + resignation." + </p> + <p> + Though no mystery was now made concerning the faith in which she died, the + duke, from motives of prudence, continued to preserve the secret of his + having embraced the same religion. He still publicly attended service on + Sundays with the king, but continued to absent himself from communion. At + last, the Christmastide of the year 1672 being at hand, his majesty + besought Lord Arundel and Sir Thomas (now Lord) Clifford to persuade the + duke to take the sacrament with him, "and make him sensible of the + prejudice it would do to both of them should he forbear so to do, by + giving the world so much reason to believe he was a catholick." To this + request these honest gentlemen replied it would be difficult to move the + duke to his majesty's desires; but even if they succeeded, it would fail + to convince the world his royal highness was not a catholic. With these + answers Charles seemed satisfied; but again on Christmas Eve he urged Lord + Clifford to advise the duke to publicly communicate on the morrow. His + royal highness, not being so unscrupulous as the king, refused compliance + with his wishes. + </p> + <p> + The following Easter he likewise refrained from communicating. Evelyn + tells us that "a most crowded auditorie" had assembled in the Chapel Royal + on this Sunday; possibly it had been drawn there to hear the eloquence of + Dr. Sparrow, Bishop of Exeter—probably to observe the movements of + the king's brother. "I staied to see," writes Evelyn, "whether, according + to costome, the Duke of York received the communion with the king; but he + did not, to the amazement of everybody. This being the second year he had + forborn and put it off, and within a day of the parliament sitting, who + had lately made so severe an act against ye increase of poperie, gave + exceeding griefe and scandal to the whole nation, that the heyre of it, + and ye sonn of a martyr for ye Protestant religion, should apostatize. + What the consequence of this will be God only knows, and wise men dread." + </p> + <p> + That the nation might no longer remain in uncertainty concerning the + change the duke was suspected to have made, a bill, commonly called the + "Test Act," was, at the instigation of Lord Shaftesbury, introduced into + the House of Commons, on its reassembling. In substance this set forth, + that all persons holding office, or place of trust, or profit, should take + the oaths of supremacy and allegiance in a public court; receive the + sacrament according to the Church of England in some parish church on the + Lord's Day; and deliver a certificate of having so received communion, + signed by the respective ministers and church-wardens, and proved by two + credible witnesses on oath. After prolonged debates upon this singular + bill, it was passed through both houses of parliament, and received a + reluctant consent from the king. [This act continued in force until the + reign of George IV.] + </p> + <p> + A great commotion followed the passing of this Act. Immediately the Duke + of York resigned his post of lord high admiral of England. Suspicion now + became certainty; he was truly a papist. His enemies were elated with + triumph, his friends dejected by regret. Before public feeling had time to + subside, it was thoroughly startled by the news that Lord Clifford, who + was supposed to be a staunch protestant, had delivered up his staff of + office as lord treasurer; and Lord Bellasis and Sir Thomas Strickland, + papists both, "though otherwise men of quality and ability," had + relinquished their places at court. The king was perplexed, the parliament + divided into factions, the nation disturbed. No man knew who might next + proclaim himself a papist. As days passed, excitement increased; for + hundreds who held positions in the army, or under the crown—many of + whom had fought for the king and his father—by tendering their + resignations, now proved themselves slaves of what a vigorous writer calls + the "Romish yoke: such a thing," he adds, "as cannot, but for want of a + name to express it, be called a religion." + </p> + <p> + Public agitation steadily rose. Evelyn tells us, "he dare not write all + the strange talk of the town." Distrust of the king, fear of his brother, + hatred of popery and papists, filled men's minds and blinded their reason + with prejudice. That the city had seven years ago been destroyed by fire, + in accordance with a scheme of the wicked Jesuits, was a belief which once + more revived: the story of the gunpowder plot was again detailed. Fearful + suspicions sprang up and held possession of the vulgar mind, that the + prosecutions suffered by protestants under Queen Mary might be repeated in + the reign of the present monarch, or of his brother. That heaven might + defend the country from being overrun by popery, the House of Commons + besought his majesty to order a day of fasting and humiliation. And by way + of adding fury to the gathering tempest, the bishops, Burnet states, + "charged the clergy to preach against popery, which alarmed the court as + well as the city, and the whole nation." + </p> + <p> + The king therefore complained to Dr. Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury, + that the discourse heard in every pulpit throughout the capital and the + kingdom was "calculated to inflame the people, and alienate them from him + and his government." Upon which Dr. Sheldon called the bishops together, + that he might consult with them as to what answer he had best make. + Whereon these wise men declared "since the king himself professed the + protestant religion, it would be a thing without a precedent that he + should forbid his clergy to preach in defence of a religion, while he + himself said he was of it." The next action which served to inflame public + prejudice against catholicism, was the marriage of the Duke of York to a + princess professing that faith. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the death of his wife, it was considered wise and well his + royal highness should marry again. Of the four sons and four daughters the + duchess had borne him, three sons and one daughter had died before their + mother, and the surviving son and another daughter quickly followed her to + the tomb; therefore, out of eight children but two survived, Mary and + Anne, at this time respectively aged nine and seven. It being desirable + there should be a male heir-presumptive to the crown, the king was anxious + his brother should take unto himself a second wife. And that a lady might + be found worthy of the exalted station to which such a union would raise + her, the Earl of Peterborough was sent incognito to report on the manners + and appearance of the princesses of the courts of Neuburg and of Modena. + Not being impressed by the merits of those belonging to the former, he + betook himself to the latter, where, seeing the young Princess d'Este, + then in her fifteenth year, he came to the conclusion no better choice + could be made on behalf of the duke than this fair lady. On communicating + this opinion to his royal highness and to his majesty, the king + commissioned him to demand the hand of the princess in marriage for his + brother. + </p> + <p> + Difficulties regarding this desired union now arose. The young lady, + having been bred in great simplicity and ignorance, had never heard of + such a country as England, or such a person as the Duke of York; and + therefore had no mind to adventure herself in a distant land, or wed a man + of whom she knew nought. Moreover, she had betrayed an inclination to + spend her days in the seclusion of a convent, and had no thought of + marriage. Her mother, the Duchess of Modena, then regent, by reason of her + husband's death and her son's minority, was anxious for so advantageous an + alliance. And being unable to gain her daughter's consent, she sought the + interference of the pope, who wrote to the young princess, that compliance + with her mother's request would "most conduce to the service of God and + the public good." On this, Mary Beatrice Eleonora, Princess d'Este, + daughter of the fourth Duke of Modena, consented to become Duchess of + York. Whereon the Earl of Peterborough made a public entry into Modena, as + ambassador extraordinary of Charles II.; and having agreed to all the + articles of marriage, wedded her by proxy for the royal duke. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, news that the heir to the crown was about to wed a papist + spread with rapidity throughout the kingdom, carrying alarm in its course. + If sons were born of the union, they would, it was believed, undoubtedly + be reared in the religion of their parents, and England in time became + subject to a catholic king. The possibility of such a fate was to the + public mind fraught with horror; and the House of Commons, after some + angry debates on the subject, presented an address to the king, requesting + he would abandon this proposed marriage. To this he was not inclined to + listen, his honour being so far involved in the business; but + notwithstanding his unwillingness, his councillors urged him to this step, + and prayed he would stop the princess, then journeying through France on + her way to England. This so incensed him that he immediately prorogued + parliament, and freed himself from further interference on the subject. + </p> + <p> + On the 21st of November, 1673, the future duchess landed at Dover, where + the duke awaited her, attended by a scant retinue. For the recent + protestations, made in the House of Commons against the marriage, having + the effect of scaring the courtiers, few of the nobility, and but one of + the bishops, Dr. Crew of Oxford, ventured to accompany him, or greet his + bride. On the day of her arrival the marriage was celebrated, "according + to the usual form in cases of the like nature." The "Stuart Papers" give a + brief account of the ceremony. "The Duke and Duchess of York, with the + Duchess of Modena her mother, being together in a room where all the + company was present, as also my Lord Peterborough, the bishop asked the + Duchess of Modena and the Earl of Peterborough whether the said earl had + married the Duchess of York as proxy of the duke? which they both + affirming, the bishop then declared it was a lawful marriage." + </p> + <p> + This unpopular union served to strengthen the gathering storm; Protests + against popery were universally heard; an article in the marriage + settlement, which guaranteed the duchess a public chapel, was broken; and + the duke was advised by Lord Berkshire to retire into the country, "where + he might hunt and pray without offence to any or disquiet to himself." + This counsel he refused to heed. Until his majesty should command him to + the contrary, he said, he would always attend upon him, and do such + service as he thought his duty and the king's security required of him. + His enemies became more wrathful at this reply, more suspicious of popery, + and more fearful of his influence with the king, They therefore sought to + have him removed from his majesty's councils and presence by act of + parliament. + </p> + <p> + Consequently, when both Houses assembled on the 7th of January, 1674, the + lords presented an address to the monarch, praying he would graciously + issue a proclamation, requiring all papists, or reputed papists, within + five miles of London, Westminster, or Southwark, to depart ten miles from + these respective cities, and not return during this session of Parliament. + A few days afterwards an act was introduced into the House of Commons + proposing a second test, impossible for catholics to accept, the refusal + of which would not only render them incapable of holding any office, civil + or military, or of sitting in either House of Parliament, but "of coming + within five miles of the court." This unjust bill, to which, if it passed + both houses, Charles dared not refuse assent, threw the court and country + into a state of renewed excitement. Knowing it was a blow levelled at the + duke, his friends gathered round him, determined to oppose it by might and + main; and after great exertions caused a clause to be inserted excepting + his royal highness from the test. This was ultimately carried by a + majority of two votes, which, says Clarke, "put the little Earl of + Shaftesbury so out of humour, that he said he did not care what became of + the bill, having that proviso in it." + </p> + <p> + This noble earl, who was chief among the royal duke's enemies, was a + prominent figure in the political history of the time. Mr. Burnet tells us + his lordship's strength lay in the knowledge of England, and of all + considerable men. "He understood," says the bishop, "the size of their + understandings and their tempers; and he knew how to apply himself to them + so dexterously, that though by his changing sides so often it was very + visible how little he was to be depended on, yet he was to the last much + trusted by all the discontented party. He had no regard to truth or + justice." As rich in resources as he was poor in honour, he renewed a plan + for depriving the Duke of York from succession to the crown; which, though + it had failed when formerly attempted, he trusted might now succeed. This + was to declare the Duke of Monmouth the king's legitimate son and heir to + the throne of England, a scheme which the ambitious son of Lucy Walters + was eager to forward. + </p> + <p> + His majesty's affection for him had strengthened with time, and his + favours had been multiplied by years. On the death of the Duke of + Albemarle, Captain General of the Forces, Monmouth had been appointed to + that high office; and some time later had been made General of the Kingdom + of Scotland, posts of greatest importance. Relying on the monarch's love + and the people's admiration for this illegitimate scion of royalty, Lord + Shaftesbury hoped to place him on the throne. As the first step necessary + in this direction was to gain his majesty's avowal of a union with Lucy + Walters, he ventured on broaching the subject to the king; at which + Charles was so enraged that he declared, "much as he loved the Duke of + Monmouth, he had rather see him hanged at Tyburn than own him as his + legitimate son." There was, however, another man engaged in a like design + to the noble earl, who, if not less scrupulous, was more daring. + </p> + <p> + This was one Ross, a Scotsman, who had been made governor of the young + duke on his first coming into England, and who had since acted as his + friend and confidant. Now Ross, who had not failed to whisper ambitious + thoughts into his pupil's head, at this time sought Dr. Cosin, Bishop of + Durham, and according to the "Stuart Papers," told him "he might do a + great piece of service to the Church of England in keeping out popery, if + he would but sign a certificate of the king's marriage to the Duke of + Monmouth's mother, with whom that bishop was acquainted in Paris. Ross + also told the bishop, to make the thing more easy to him, that during his + life the certificate should not be produced or made use of." The same + papers state that, as a bishop's certificate is a legal proof of marriage, + Dr. Cosin's compliance would have been invaluable to the duke and his + friends. His lordship, however, rejected the proposition, and laid the + matter before the king, who expelled Ross from court. + </p> + <p> + Horror of popery and fear of a papist sovereign increased with time, care + having been taken by my Lord Shaftesbury and his party that the public + mind, once inflamed, should be kept ignited. For this purpose he spread + reports abroad that the Irish were about to rise in rebellion, backed by + the French; and that the papists in London had entered into a vile + conspiracy to put their fellow citizens to the sword on the first + favourable opportunity. To give this latter statement a flavour of reality + he, assuming an air of fright, betook himself one night to the city, and + sought refuge in the house of a fanatic, in order, he said, that he might + escape the catholics, who had planned to cut his throat. + </p> + <p> + A tempest, dark and dangerous, was gathering fast, which the court felt + powerless to subdue. The king's assurance to parliament that "he would + endeavour to satisfy the world of his steadfastness for the security of + the protestant religion," had little avail in soothing the people. Many of + them suspected him to be a catholic at heart; others knew he had accepted + the bounty of a country feared and detested by the nation. Deeds, not + words, could alone dispel the clouds of prejudice which came between him + and his subjects; and accordingly he set about the performance of such + acts as might bring reconciliation in their train. + </p> + <p> + The first of these was the confirmation, according to the Protestant + Church, of the Lady Mary, eldest daughter of the Duke of York, and after + him heir presumptive to the crown; the second and more important was the + marriage of that princess to William of Orange. This prince was son of the + king's eldest sister, and therefore grandson of Charles I. As a hero who, + by virtue of his statesmanship and indomitable courage, had rescued + Holland from the hateful power of France, he was regarded not only as the + saviour of his country, but as the protector of protestantism. Already a + large section of the English nation turned their eyes towards him as one + whom they might elect some day to weald the sceptre of Great Britain. + Subtle, ambitious, and determined, a silent student of humanity, a grave + observer of politics, a sagacious leader in warfare, he had likewise begun + to look forward towards the chances of succeeding his uncle in the + government of England—in hopes of which he had been strengthened by + the private overtures made him by Shaftesbury, and sustained by the public + prejudices exhibited against the Duke of York. + </p> + <p> + The proposed union between him and the heiress presumptive to the crown + was regarded by the nation with satisfaction, and by the prince as an act + strongly favouring the realization of his desires for sovereignty. Cold + and grave in temperament, sickly and repulsive in appearance, blunt and + graceless in manner, he was by no means an ideal bridegroom for a fair + princess; but neither she nor her father had any choice given them in a + concern so important to the pacification of the nation. She, it was + whispered at court, had previously given her heart to a brave young + Scottish laird; and her father, it was known, had already taken an + instinctive dislike to the man destined to usurp his throne. In October, + 1677, the Prince of Orange came to England, ostensibly to consult with + King Charles regarding the establishment of peace between France and the + Confederates; but the chief motive of his visit was to promote his + marriage, which had some time before been proposed, and owing to political + causes had been coolly received by him. Now, however, his anxiety for the + union was made plain to the king, who quickly agreed to his desires. + "Nephew," said he to the sturdy Dutchman, "it is not good for man to be + alone, and I will give you a help meet for you; and so," continues Burnet, + "he told him he would bestow his niece on him." + </p> + <p> + The same afternoon the monarch informed his council that "the Prince of + Orange, desiring a more strict alliance with England by marriage with the + Lady Mary, he had consented to it, as a thing he looked on as very proper + to unite the family, and which he believed would be agreeable to his + people, and show them the care he had of religion, for which reason he + thought it the best alliance he could make." When his majesty had + concluded this speech, the Duke of York stepped forward, and declared his + consent to the marriage. He hoped "he had now given a sufficient testimony + of his right intentions for the public good, and that people would no more + say he designed altering the government in church or state; for whatever + his opinion on religion might be, all that he desired was, that men might + not be molested merely for conscience' sake." + </p> + <p> + The duke then dined at Whitehall with, the king, the Prince of Orange, and + a noble company; after which he returned to St. James's, where he then + resided. Dr. Edward Luke, at this time tutor to the Lady Mary, and + subsequently Archdeacon of Exeter, in his interesting manuscript diary, + informs us that on reaching the palace, the duke, with great tenderness + and fatherly affection, took his daughter aside, "and told her of the + marriage designed between her and the Prince of Orange; whereupon her + highness wept all that afternoon and the following day." Her tears had not + ceased to flow when, two days after the announcement of her marriage, Lord + Chancellor Finch, on behalf of the council, came to congratulate her; and + Lord Chief Justice Rainsford, on the part of the judges, complimented her + in extravagant terms. + </p> + <p> + This union, which the bride regarded with so much repugnance, was + appointed to take place on the 4th of November, that date being the + bridegroom's birthday, as likewise the anniversary of his mother's + nativity. Dr. Luke gives a quaint account of the ceremony. "At nine + o'clock at night," he writes, "the marriage was solemnized in her + highness's bedchamber. The king; who gave her away, was very pleasant all + the while; for he desired that the Bishop of London would make haste lest + his sister [the Duchess of York] should be delivered of a son, and so the + marriage be disappointed. And when the prince endowed her with all his + worldly goods [laying gold and silver on the book], he willed to put all + up in her pockett, for 'twas clear gains. At eleven o'clock they went to + bed, when his majesty came and drew the curtains, saying, 'Hey! St. George + for England!'" + </p> + <p> + For a time both court and town seemed to forget the trouble and strife + which beset them. Bonfires blazed in the streets, bells rang from church + towers, the populace cheered lustily; whilst at Whitehall there were many + brilliant entertainments. These terminated with a magnificent ball, held + on the 15th instant, the queen's birthday; at the conclusion of this + festivity the bride and bridegroom were to embark in their yacht, which + was to set sail next morning for Holland. For this ball the princess had + "attired herself very richly with all her jewels;" but her whole + appearance betrayed a sadness she could not suppress in the present, and + which the future did not promise to dispel. For already the bridegroom, + whom the maids of honour had dubbed the "Dutch monster" and "Caliban," had + commenced to reveal glimpses of his unhandsome character; "and the court + began to whisper of his sullennesse or clownishnesse, that he took no + notice of his princess at the playe and balle, nor came to see her at St. + James', the day preceding that designed for their departure." + </p> + <p> + The wind being easterly, they were detained in England until the 19th, + when, accompanied by the king, the Duke of York, and several persons of + quality, they went in barges from Whitehall to Greenwich. The princess was + sorely grieved, and wept unceasingly. When her tutor "kneeled down and + kissed her gown" at parting, she could not find words to speak, but turned + her back that she might hide her tears; and, later on, when the queen + "would have comforted her with the consideration of her own condition when + she came into England, and had never till then seen the king, her highness + replied, 'But, madam, you came into England; but I am going out of + England.'" + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The threatened storm bursts.—History of Titus Oates and Dr. Tonge.—A + dark scheme concocted.—The king is warned of danger.—The narrative of + a horrid plot laid before the treasurer.—Forged letters.—Titus Oates + before the council.—His blunders.—A mysterious murder.—Terror of the + citizens.—Lord Shaftesbury's schemes.—Papists are banished from the + capital.—Catholic peers committed to the Tower.—Oates is encouraged. +</pre> + <p> + The marriage of the Lady Mary, though agreeable to the public mind, by no + means served to distract it from the turmoil by which it was beset. Hatred + of catholicism, fear of the Duke of York, and distrust of the king, + disturbed the nation to its core. Rumours were now noised abroad, which + were not without foundation, that the monarch and his brother had renewed + the treaty with France, by which Louis engaged to send troops into England + to support Charles, when the latter saw fit to lay aside duplicity, and + proclaim himself a catholic. And, notwithstanding the rigorous Test Acts, + it was believed many high positions at court were held by those who were + papists at heart. Occasion was therefore ripe for the invention of a + monstrous fraud, the history of which has been transmitted under the title + of the Popish Plot. + </p> + <p> + The chief contrivers of this imposture were Titus Oates and Dr. Tonge. The + first of these was son of a ribbon-weaver, who, catching the fanatical + spirit of the Cromwellian period, had ranted as an Anabaptist preacher. + Dissent, however, losing favour under the restoration, Oates, floating + with the current of the times, resolved to become a clergyman of the + Church of England, He therefore took orders at Cambridge, officiated as + curate in various parishes, and served as chaplain on board a man-of-war. + The time he laboured as spiritual shepherd to his respective flocks was + necessarily brief; for his grossly immoral practices becoming notable, he + was in every case ousted from his charge. The odium attached to his name + was moreover increased by the fact, that his evidence in two cases of + malicious prosecution had been proved false; for which he had been tried + as a perjurer. Deprived of his chaplaincy for a revolting act of + profligacy, driven from congregations he had scandalized, homeless and + destitute, he in an evil hour betook himself to Dr. Ezrael Tonge, to whom + he had long been known, and besought compassion and relief. + </p> + <p> + The Rev, Dr. Tonge, rector of St. Michael's, Wood Street, was a confirmed + fanatic and political alarmist. For some years previous to this time, he + had published quarterly treatises dealing with such wicked designs of the + Jesuits as his heated brain devised. These he had printed and freely + circulated, in order, as he acknowledged, "to arouse and awaken his + majesty and the parliament" to a sense of danger. He had begun life as a + gardener, but left that honest occupation that he might cultivate flowers + of rhetoric for the benefit of Cromwell's soldiers. Like Titus Oates, he + had become suddenly converted to orthodox principles on return of the + king, and had, through interest, obtained the rectorship of St. Michael's. + Bishop Burnet considered him "a very mean divine, (who) seemed credulous + and simple, and was full of projects and notions." + </p> + <p> + Another historian who lived in those days, the Rev. Laurence Eachard, + Archdeacon of Stowe, states Dr. Tonge was "a man of letters, and had a + prolific head filled with all the Romish plots and conspiracies since the + reformation." According to this author, Tonge took Oates into his house, + provided him with lodging, diet, and clothes; and when the latter + complained he knew not where to get bread, the rector told him "he would + put him in a way." After this, finding Oates a man of great ingenuity and + cunning, "he persuaded him," says Archdeacon Eachard, "to insinuate + himself among the papists, and get particular acquaintance with them; + which being effected, he let him understand that there had been several + plots in England to bring in popery, and that if he would go beyond sea + among the Jesuits, and strictly observe their ways, it was possible there + might be one at present; and if he could make that out, it would be his + preferment for ever; but, however, if he could get their names, and some + information from the papists, it would be very easy to rouse people with + the fears of popery." + </p> + <p> + Hungering for gold, and thirsting for notoriety, Oates quickly agreed to + the scheme laid before him. Accordingly he became acquainted with, and was + received into the Catholic Church by, Father Berry, a Jesuit, and in May, + 1677, was sent by the Jesuits to study in one of their seminaries, + situated in Valladolid, in Spain. Oates, however, though he had proved + himself an excellent actor, could not overcome his evil propensities, and + before seven months had passed, he was expelled from the monastery. + </p> + <p> + Returning to England, he sought out Dr. Tonge, to whom he was unable to + recount the secret of a single plot. Confident, however, that wicked + schemes against the lives and properties of innocent protestants were + being concocted by wily Jesuits, the fanatical divine urged Oates to + present himself once more before them, bewail his misconduct, promise + amendment, and seek readmission to their midst. Following his advice, + Oates was again received by the Jesuits, and sent to their famous seminary + at St. Omer's; where, though he had reached the age of thirty years, he + was entered among the junior students. For six months he remained here, + until his vices becoming noted, he was turned away in disgrace. Again he + presented himself before the rector of St. Michael's, knowing as little of + popish plots as he did on his previous return. But Tonge, though + disappointed, was not disheartened; if no scheme existed, he would invent + one which should startle the public, and save the nation. Such proposals + as he made towards the accomplishment of this end were readily assented to + by Oates, in whose breast wounded pride and bitter hate rankled deep. + Therefore, after many consultations they resolved to draw up a "Narrative + of a Horrid Plot." This was repeatedly changed and enlarged, until + eventually it assumed the definite shape of a deposition, consisting of + forty-three distinct articles, written with great formality and care, and + embodying many shocking and criminal charges. + </p> + <p> + The narrative declared that in April, 1677, the deponent was employed to + carry letters from the Jesuits in London to members of their order in + Spain; these he broke open on the journey, and discovered that certain + Jesuits had been sent into Scotland to encourage the presbyterians to + rebel. Arrived in Valladolid, he heard one Armstrong, in a sermon + delivered to students, charge his majesty with most foul and black-mouthed + scandals, and use such irreverent, base expressions as no good subjects + could repeat without horror. He then returned to England, and was soon + after sent to St. Omer with fresh letters, in which was mentioned a design + to stab or poison his majesty—Pere la Chaise, the French king's + confessor, having placed ten thousand pounds at the disposal of the + Jesuits that they might, by laying out such a sum, the more successfully + accomplish this deed. While abroad the deponent had read many letters, + relating to the execution of Charles II., the subverting of the present + government, and the establishment of the Romish religion. Returning again + to England, he became privy to a treaty with Sir George Wakeham, the + queen's physician, to poison the king; and likewise with an agreement to + shoot him, made between the Jesuits and two men, named Honest William and + Pickering. He had heard a Jesuit preach a sermon to twelve persons of + quality in disguise, in which he asserted "that protestants and other + heretical princes were IPSO FACTO deposed because such; and that it was as + lawful to destroy them as Oliver Cromwell or any other usurper." He also + became aware that the dreadful fire had been managed by Strange, the + provincial of the Jesuits, who employed eighty-six men in distributing + seven hundred fire-balls to destroy the city; and that notwithstanding his + vast expenses, he gained fourteen thousand pounds by plunder carried on + during the general confusion, a box of jewels, consisting of a thousand + carat weight of diamonds, being included in the robbery. + </p> + <p> + The document containing these remarkable statements was finished in + August, 1678. It now remained to have it brought before the king or the + council. Tonge was resolved this should be done in a manner best + calculated to heighten the effect of their narrative; at the same time he + was careful to guard the fact that he and Oates had an intimate knowledge + of each other. Not knowing any one of interest at court, he sought out + Christopher Kirby, a man employed in the king's laboratory, of whom he had + some slight knowledge, and, pledging him to the strictest secrecy, showed + him the "Narrative of the Horrid Plot," and besought his help in bringing + it under the notice of his majesty in as private a manner as possible. + </p> + <p> + This aid was freely promised; and next day, the date being the 13th of + August, when the monarch was about to take his usual airing in the park, + Kirby drew near, and in a mysterious tone bade his majesty take care, for + his enemies had a design against his life, which might be put into + execution at any moment. Startled by such words, the king asked him in + what manner was it intended his life should be taken; to which he replied, + "It might be by pistol; but that to give a more particular account of the + matter, required greater privacy." The monarch, who quickly recovered his + first surprise, resolved to take his usual exercise; and, subduing his + curiosity, he bade Kirby attend him on his return from the park, and tell + him what he knew of the subject. + </p> + <p> + When the time arrived, Kirby saw his majesty alone, and related to him in + brief that two men waited but an opportunity to shoot him; and Sir George + Wakeham had been hired to poison him; which news, he concluded, had been + imparted to him by a worthy man living close at hand, who would attend his + majesty's pleasure when that was manifested. + </p> + <p> + Bewildered by such intelligence, yet suspicious of its veracity, the king + ordered Kirby to summon his informant that evening by eight o'clock. When + that hour came his majesty repaired to the Red Room, and there met Dr. + Tonge, who delivered his narrative into his hands. The rector was + convinced the great moment he had so long awaited, in which he would + behold the monarch aroused to a sense of his danger, had arrived. He was + doomed to bitter disappointment. His majesty coolly took the narrative, + and without opening it, said it should be examined into. On this Tonge + begged it might be kept safe and secret, "lest the full discovery should + otherwise be prevented and his life endangered." The monarch replied that, + before starting with the court to-morrow for Windsor, he would place it in + the hands of one he could trust, and who would answer for its safety. He + then bade him attend on the Lord Treasurer Danby next morning. + </p> + <p> + In obedience to this command, Tonge waited on his lordship at the + appointed time, and by the character of his replies helped to develop his + story of the plot. When asked if the document he had given his majesty was + the original of the deponent, Tonge admitted it was in his own + handwriting. On this, Lord Danby expressed a desire to see the original, + and likewise become acquainted with its author. Nothing abashed, the + rector replied the manuscript was in his house, and accounted for its + possession by stating that, singularly enough, it had been thrust under + his door—he did not know by whom, but fancied it must be by one who, + some time before, had discussed with him on the subject of this + conspiracy. Whereon his lordship asked him if he knew the man, and was + answered he did not, but he had seen him lately two or three times in the + streets, and it was likely he should see him soon again. + </p> + <p> + Being next questioned as to whether he had any knowledge of Honest + William, or Pickering, the villains who sought the king's life, he + answered he had not. Immediately, however, he remembered it was their + habit to walk in St. James's Park, and said, if any man was appointed to + keep him company, he was almost certain he would have opportunities of + letting that person see these abominable wretches. Finally, Lord Danby + asked him if he knew where they dwelt, for it was his duty to have them + arrested at once; but of their abode Tonge was completely ignorant, though + he was hopeful he should speedily be able to obtain the required + information. + </p> + <p> + He was therefore dismissed, somewhat to his satisfaction, being unprepared + for such particular examination; but in a couple of days he returned to + the charge, determined his tale should not be discredited for lack of + effrontery, On this occasion he said he had met the man he suspected of + being author of the document, who owned himself as such, and stated that + his name was Titus Oates, but requested Tonge would keep it a strict + secret, "because the papists would murder him if they knew what he was + doing." Moreover, Oates had given him a second paper full of fresh horrors + concerning this most foul plot. Taking this with him, the lord treasurer + hastened to Windsor, that he might consult the king, having first left a + servant with Tonge, in hopes the latter might catch sight of Honest + William and Pickering in their daily walk through the park, and have them + arrested. On Danby recounting Tonge's statements to the king, his majesty + was more convinced than before the narrative was wholly without + foundation, and refused to make it known to his council or the Duke of + York. Therefore the lord-treasurer, on conclusion of a brief visit, left + Windsor for his country residence, situated at Wimbledon. + </p> + <p> + For some days no fresh disclosure was made concerning this horrid plot, + until late one night, when Dr. Tonge arrived in great haste at Lord + Danby's house, and informed him some of the intended regicides had + resolved on journeying to Windsor next morning, determined to assassinate + the king. He added, it was in his power to arrange that the earl's servant + should ride with them in their coach, or at least accompany them on + horseback, and so give due notice of their arrival, in order that they + might be timely arrested. Alarmed by this intelligence, Danby at once + hastened to Windsor, and informed the king of what had come to his + knowledge. Both endured great suspense that night, and next day their + excitement was raised to an inordinate pitch by seeing the earl's servant + ride towards the castle with all possible speed. When, however, the man + was brought into his majesty's presence, he merely delivered a message + from Dr. Tonge, stating the villains "had been prevented from taking their + intended journey that day, but they proposed riding to Windsor next day, + or within two days at farthest." Before that time had arrived, another + message came to say, "one of their horses being slipped in the shoulder, + their trip to Windsor was postponed." + </p> + <p> + Taking these foolish excuses, as well as Dr. Tonge's prevaricating answers + and mysterious statements, into consideration, the king was now convinced + the "Narrative of a Horrid Plot" was an invention of a fanatic or a rogue. + He was, therefore; desirous of letting the subject drop into obscurity; + but Lord Danby, foreseeing in the sensation which its avowal would create, + a welcome cloud to screen the defects of his policy, which parliament + intended to denounce, urged his majesty to lay the matter before his privy + council. This advice the king refused to accept, saying, "he should alarm + all England, and put thoughts of killing him into people's heads, who had + no such ideas before." Somewhat disappointed, the lord treasurer returned + once more to Wimbledon, the king remaining at Windsor, and no further news + of the plot disturbed the even tenour of their lives for three days. + </p> + <p> + At the end of that time Dr. Tonge, now conscious of the false steps he had + taken, conceived a fresh scheme by which his story might obtain credence, + and he gain wealth and fame. Accordingly he wrote to Danby, informing him + a packet of letters, written by the Jesuits and concerning the plot, + would, on a certain date, be sent to Mr. Bedingfield, chaplain to the + Duchess of York. Such information was most acceptable to Danby at the + moment; he at once started for Windsor, and laid this fresh information + before the king. To his lordship's intense surprise, his majesty handed + him the letters. These, five in number, containing treasonable expressions + and references to the plot, had been some hours before handed by Mr. + Bedingfield to the Duke of York, saying, he "feared some ill was intended + him by the same packet, because the letters therein seemed to be of a + dangerous nature, and that he was sure they were not the handwriting of + the persons whose names were subscribed to the letters." On examination, + they were proved to be most flagrant forgeries. Written in a feigned hand, + and signed by different names, they were evidently the production of one + man; the same want of punctuation, style of expression, and peculiarities + of spelling being notable in all. The Duke of York, foreseeing malice was + meant by them, forcibly persuaded the king to place the epistles before + the privy council. Accordingly, they were handed to Sir William Jones, + attorney general, and Sir Robert Southwell, who stated, upon comparing + them with Dr. Tonge's narrative, they were convinced both were written by + the same hand. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Tonge and Oates, aware of the coldness and doubt with which his + majesty had received the "Narrative of the Horrid Plot," and ignorant of + the fact he had placed the letters before his privy council, resolved to + make their story public to the world. It therefore happened on the 6th of + September they presented themselves before Sir Edmondbury Godfrey, a + justice of the peace, in the parish of St. Martin's, who, not without + considerable persuasion, consented to receive a sworn testimony from Titus + Oates regarding the truth of his narrative, which had now grown from + forty-three to eighty-one articles. This action prevented further secrecy + concerning the so-called plot. + </p> + <p> + A few days later the court returned to town for the winter, when the Duke + of York besought the privy council to investigate the strange charges made + in the declaration. Accordingly, on the 28th of the month, Tonge and Oates + were summoned before it, when the latter, making many additions to his + narrative, solemnly affirmed its truth. Aghast at so horrible a relation, + the council knew not what to credit. The evil reputation Oates had borne, + the baseness of character he revealed in detailing his actions as a spy, + the mysterious manner in which the fanatical Tonge accounted for his + possession of the document, tended to make many doubt; whilst others, + believing no man would have the hardihood to bring forward such charges + without being able to sustain them by proof, contended it was their duty + to sift them to the end. Believing if he had been entrusted with secret + letters and documents of importance, he would naturally retain some of + them in order to prove his intended charges, the council asked Oates to + produce them; but of these he had not one to show. Nor, he confessed, + could he then furnish proof of his words, but promised if he were provided + with a guard, and given officers and warrants, he would arrest certain + persons concerned in the plot, and seize secret documents such as none + could dispute. These being granted him, he immediately caused eight + Jesuits to be apprehended and imprisoned. Then he commenced a search for + treasonable letters, not only in their houses, but in the homes of such + catholics as were noted for their zeal. His investigations were awaited + with impatience; nor were they without furnishing some pretext for his + accusations. + </p> + <p> + One of the first dwellings which Titus Oates investigated was that of + Edward Coleman. This gentleman, the son of an English divine, had early in + life embraced catholicity, for the propagation of which he thenceforth + became most zealous. Coming under notice of the court, he became the + confidant of the Duke of York, and by him was made secretary to the + duchess. A man of great mental activity, religious fervour, and + considerable ambition, he had, about four years previous to this time, + entered into a correspondence with the confessor of the French king and + other Jesuits, regarding the hopes he entertained of Charles II. + professing catholicity. Knowing him to be bold in his designs and + incautious in his actions, the duke had discharged him from his post as + secretary to the duchess, but had retained him in his dependence. This + latter circumstance, together with a suspicion of the confidence which had + existed between him and his royal highness, prompted Oates to have him + arrested, and his house searched. Coleman, having received notice of this + design, fled from his home, incautiously leaving behind him some old + letters and copies of communications which had passed between him and the + Jesuits. These were at once seized, and though not containing one + expression which could be construed as treasonable, were, from + expectations they set forth of seeing catholicity re-established in + England, considered by undiscerning judges, proofs of the statements made + by Oates. + </p> + <p> + On the strength of his discovery, Oates hastened to Sir Edmondbury + Godfrey, and swore false informations; becoming aware of which, Coleman, + conscious of his innocence, delivered himself up, in hopes of meeting a + justice never vouchsafed him. + </p> + <p> + The Privy council now sat morning and evening, in order to examine Oates, + whose evidence proved untrustworthy and contradictory to a bewildering + degree. When it was pointed out to him the five letters, supposed to come + from men of education, contained ill-spelling, bad grammar, and other + faults, he, with much effrontery, declared it was a common artifice among + the Jesuits to write in that manner, in order to avoid recognition; but + inasmuch as real names were attached to the epistles, that argument was + not considered just. The subject was not mentioned again. When an agent + for these wicked men in Spain, he related, he had been admitted into the + presence of Don John, and had seen him counting out large sums of money, + with which he intended to reward Sir George Wakeham when he had poisoned + the king. Hearing this, his majesty inquired what kind of person Don John + was. Oates said he was tall, lean, and black; whereas the monarch knew him + to be small, stout, and fair. And on another occasion, when asked where he + had heard the French king's confessor hire an assassin to shoot Charles, + he replied, "At the Jesuits' monastery close by the Louvre;" at which the + king, losing patience with the impostor, cried out, "Tush, man! the + Jesuits have no house within a mile of the Louvre!" Presently Oates named + two catholic peers, Lord Arundel of Wardour and Lord Bellasis, as being + concerned in the plot, when the king again spoke to him, saying these + lords had served his father faithfully, and fought his wars bravely, and + unless proof were clear against them, he would not credit they sought him + ill. Then Oates, seeing he had gone too far, said they did not know of the + conspiracy, but it had been intended to acquaint them with it in good + time. Later on he swore falsely against them. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the wildest sensation was caused by the revelations of this + "hellish plot and attempt to murder the king." The public mind, long + filled with hatred of papacy, was now inflamed to a degree of fury which + could only be quenched by the blood of many victims. To the general + sensation which obtained, a new terror was promptly added by the + occurrence of a supposed horrible and mysterious murder. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of Saturday, the 12th of October, Sir Edmondbury Godfrey + was missing from his home in the parish of St. Martin's. The worthy + magistrate was an easy going bachelor of portly appearance, much given to + quote legal opinions in his discourse, and to assert the majesty of the + law as represented in his person. He was alike respected for his zeal by + the protestants, and esteemed for his lenity by the catholics. Bishop + Burnet records the worthy knight "was not apt to search for priests or + mass-houses;" and Archdeacon Eachard affirms "he was well known to be a + favourer rather than a prosecutor of the papists." Accordingly, his + disappearance at first begot no evil suspicions; but as he did not return + on Monday, his servants became alarmed at the absence of a master whose + regularity was proverbial. His brothers were of opinion he was in debt, + and sought escape from his creditors; whilst his friends, after their + kind, were ready to name certain houses of doubtful repute in which they + were certain he had taken temporary lodgings. On his papers being + examined, it was found he had set his affairs in order, paid all his + debts, and destroyed a quantity of his letters and documents. It was then + remembered he had been occasionally susceptible to melancholia—a + disease he inherited from his father, who had perished by his own hand. It + was noted some days before that on which he was missed, he had appeared + listless and depressed. It was known the imprisonment of his friend + Coleman had weighed heavily on his spirits. A terrible fear now taking + possession of his relatives and friends, thorough search was made for him, + which proved vain until the Thursday following his disappearance, when he + was accidentally discovered lying in a ditch, a cloth knotted round his + neck, and a sword passed through his body, "at or near a place called + Primrose Hill, in the midway between London and Hampstead." + </p> + <p> + If he had been murdered, no motive appeared to account for the deed; + neither robbery nor revenge could have prompted it. His rings and money, + gloves and cane, were found on and near his body; and it was known he had + lived in peace with all men. Nor did an inquest lasting two days throw any + light upon the mystery. If it were proved he had died by his own hand, the + law of that day would not permit his brothers to inherit his property, + which was found to be considerable. It was therefore their interest to + ignore the fact that strangulation pointed to FELO DE SE, and to assume he + had been murdered. Accordingly they prohibited the surgeons from opening + the body, lest examination should falsify conclusions at which they + desired to arrive. A verdict was ultimately returned "that he was murdered + by certain persons unknown to the jurors, and that his death proceeded + from suffocation and strangling by a certain piece of linen cloth of no + value." + </p> + <p> + Occurring at such a moment, his death was at once attributed to the + papists, who, it was said, being incensed that the magistrate had received + the sworn testimonies of Oates, had sought this bloody revenge. Fear now + succeeded bewilderment; desires of vengeance sprang from depths of horror. + For two days the mangled remains of the poor knight were exposed to public + view, "and all that saw them went away inflamed." They were then interred + with all the pomp and state befitting one who had fallen a victim to + catholicism, a martyr to protestantism. The funeral procession, which took + its sad way through the principal thoroughfares from Bridewell to St. + Martin's-in-the-Fields, numbered seventy-two divines, and over twelve + hundred persons of quality and consideration. Arriving at the church, Dr. + Lloyd, a clergyman remarkable for his fine abhorrence of papists, ascended + the pulpit, where, protected by two men of great height and strength, he + delivered a discourse, pointing to the conclusion that Sir Edmondbury + Godfrey had been sacrificed to the catholic conspiracy, and instigating + his hearers to seek revenge. Sir Roger North tells us the crowd in and + about the church was prodigious, "and so heated, that anything called + papist, were it cat or dog, had probably gone to pieces in a moment. The + catholics all kept close in their houses and lodgings, thinking it a good + composition to be safe there." + </p> + <p> + The whole city was terror-stricken. "Men's spirits were so sharpened," + says Burnet, "that it was looked on as a very great happiness that the + people did not vent their fury upon the papists about the town." Tonge and + Oates went abroad protected by body guards, arresting hundreds of + catholics; cannon were mounted around Whitehall and St. James's; patrols + paraded the streets by day and night; the trained bands were ready to fall + in at a moment's notice; preparations were made for barricading the + principal thoroughfares; the city gates were kept closed so that admission + could be only had through the wickets; and the Houses of Parliament + demanded a guard should keep watch on the vaults over which they sat, lest + imitators of Guy Fawkes might blow them to pieces. Moreover, it was not + alone the safety of the multitude, but the protection of the individual + which was sought to be secured. In the dark confusion which general terror + produced, each man felt he might be singled out as the next victim of this + diabolical plot, and therefore devised means to guard his life from the + hands of murderous papists. North, in his "Examen," speaking of this + period, tells us: "There was much recommendation of silk armour, and the + prudence of being provided with it against the time the Protestants were + to be massacred. And, accordingly, there were abundance of those silken + back, breast, and headpots made and sold, that were pretended to be pistol + proof; in which any man dressed up was as safe as in a house, for it was + impossible anyone could go to strike him for laughing; so ridiculous was + the figure, as they say, of hogs in armour. This was the armour of + defence; but our sparks were not altogether so tame as to carry their + provision no further, for truly they intended to be assailants upon fair + occasion, and had for that end recommended also to them a certain pocket + weapon, which for its design and efficacy had the honour to be called a + protestant flail. It was for street and crowd work; and the engine lurking + perdue in a coat pocket, might readily sally out to execution, and so, by + clearing a great hall, or piazza or so, carry an election by a choice of + polling called knocking down. The handle resembled a farrier's blood + stick, and the fall was joined to the end by a strong nervous ligature, + that in its swing fell just short of the hand, and was made of LIGNUM + VITAE, or rather, as the poet termed it, MORTIS." + </p> + <p> + One day, whilst the town was in this state of consternation, Tonge sent + for Dr. Burnet, who hastened to visit him in the apartments allotted him + and Oates at Whitehall. The historian says he found Tonge "so lifted up + that he seemed to have lost the little sense he had. Oates came in," he + continues, "and made me a compliment that I was one that was marked out to + be killed. He had before said the same to Stillingfleet of him. But he had + made that honour which he did us too cheap, when he said Tonge was to be + served in the same manner, because he had translated 'The Jesuits' Morals' + into English. He broke out into great fury against the Jesuits, and said + he would have their blood. But I, to divert him from that strain, asked + him what were the arguments that prevailed on him to change his religion + and to go over to the Church of Rome? He upon that stood up, and laid his + hands on his breast, and said, 'God and His holy angels knew that he had + never changed, but that he had gone among them on purpose to betray them.' + This gave me such a character of him, that I could have no regard to + anything he said or swore after that." + </p> + <p> + The agitation now besetting the public mind had been adroitly fanned into + flame by the evil genius of Lord Shaftesbury. Eachard states that if he + was not the original contriver of this disturbance, "he was at least the + grand refiner and improver of all the materials. And so much he seemed to + acknowledge to a nobleman of his acquaintance, when he said, 'I will not + say who started the game, but I am sure I had the full hunting of it.'" In + the general consternation which spread over the land he beheld a means + that might help the fulfilment of his strong desires. Chief among these + were the exclusion of the Duke of York from the throne, and the + realization of his own inordinate ambition. A deist in belief, he abhorred + catholicism; a worshipper of self, he longed for power. He had boasted + Cromwell had wanted to crown him king, and he narrated to Burnet that a + Dutch astrologer had predicted he would yet fill a lofty position. He had + long schemed and dreamed, and now it seemed the result of the one and + fulfilment of the other were at hand. The pretended discovery of this plot + threatened to upheave the established form of government, for the king was + one at heart with those about to be brought to trial and death. A quarter + of a century had not passed since a bold and determined man had risen up + and governed Great Britain. Why should not history repeat itself in this + respect? the prospect was alluring. Possessing strong influence, great + vanity, and an unscrupulous character, Shaftesbury resolved to stir the + nation to its centre, at the expense of peace, honour, and bloodshed. + </p> + <p> + On the 21st of October, Parliament assembled, when Lord Danby, much + against his majesty's inclination, brought the subject of the plot before + the Commons. This was a movement much appreciated by the House, which, + fired by the general indignation, resolved to deal out vengeance with a + strong hand. As befitted such intention, they began by requesting his + majesty would order a day of general fasting and prayer, to implore the + mercy of Almighty God. The king complying with this desire, they next, "in + consideration of the bloody and traitorous designs," besought him to issue + a proclamation "commanding all persons being popish recusants, or so + reputed," to depart ten miles from the city. Accordingly, upwards of + thirty thousand citizens left London before the 7th of the following + month, "with great lamentations leaving their trades and habitations." + Many of them in a little while secretly returned again. A few days before + this latest petition was presented to the monarch, Oates had been examined + before the House for over six hours; and so delighted was he by the + unprejudiced manner in which his statements were received, that he added + several items to them. These were not only interesting in themselves, but + implicated peers and persons of quality to the number of twenty-six. The + former, including Lords Stafford, Powis, Petre, Bellasis, and Arundel of + Wardour, were committed to the Tower, the latter to Newgate prison. + </p> + <p> + At the end of his examination he was several times asked if he knew more + of the plot, or of those concerned with it, to which he emphatically + replied he did not. Three days later he remembered a further incident + which involved many persons not previously mentioned by him. + </p> + <p> + Both Houses now sat in the forenoon and afternoon of each day; excitement + was not allowed to flag. Oates seldom appeared before the Commons without + having fresh revelations to make; but the fertility of his imagination by + no means weakened the strength of his evidence in the opinions of his + hearers. "Oates was encouraged," writes John Evelyn, "and everything he + affirmed taken for gospel." Indignation against the papists daily + increasing in height, the decrees issued regarding them became more + rigorous in severity. + </p> + <p> + On the 2nd of November the king, in obedience to his Parliament, offered a + reward of twenty pounds for the discovery of any officer or soldier who, + since the passing of the Test Act, "hath been perverted to the Romish + religion, or hears mass." Two days later a bill was framed "for more + effectually preserving the king's person and government, by disabling + papists from sitting in either House of Parliament." As it was feared a + clause would be inserted in this, excluding the Duke of York, the enemies + of his royal highness more plainly avowed their object by moving that an + address be presented to the king, praying his brother should "withdraw + himself from his majesty's person and counsels." This was the first step + towards the Bill of Exclusion from Succession which they hoped + subsequently to obtain. The monarch, however, determined to check such + designs whilst there was yet time; and accordingly made a speech to the + peers, in which he said to them, "Whatever reasonable bills you shall + present to be passed into laws, to make you safe in the reign of my + successor, so they tend not to impeach the right of succession, nor the + descent of the crown in the true line, shall find from me a ready + concurrence." + </p> + <p> + The intended address was therefore abandoned for the present; but the bill + for disabling catholics from sitting in either House of Parliament, having + a clause which excepted the Duke of York from that indignity, passed on + the 30th of November. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Reward for the discovery of murderers.—Bedlow's character + and evidence.—His strange story.—Development of the "horrid + plot."—William Staley is made a victim.—Three Jesuits hung.—Titus + Oates pronounced the saviour of his country.—Striving to ruin the + queen.—Monstrous story of Bedlow and Oates.—The king protects + her majesty.—Five Jesuits executed.—Fresh rumours concerning + the papists.—Bill to exclude the Duke of York.—Lord Stafford is + tried.—Scene at Tower Hill.—Fate of the conspirators. +</pre> + <p> + Before the remains of Sir Edmondbury Godfrey were laid to rest, a + proclamation was issued by the king, offering a reward of five hundred + pounds for discovery of the murderers. If one of the assassins betrayed + those who helped him in the deed, he should receive, not only the sum + mentioned, but likewise a free pardon, and such protection for his + security as he could in reason propose. Two days after this had been made + public, a man named William Bedlow put himself in communication with Sir + William Coventry, Secretary of State, declaring he had a certain knowledge + of the murder in question. + </p> + <p> + Archdeacon Eachard tells us this man "was one of a base birth and worse + manners, who from a poor foot-boy and runner of errands, for a while got + into a livery in the Lord Bellasis's family; and having for his villainies + suffered hardships and want in many prisons in England, he afterwards + turned a kind of post or letter carrier for those who thought fit to + employ him beyond sea. By these means he got the names and habitations of + men of quality, their relations, correspondents, and interests; and upon + this bottom, with a daring boldness, and a dexterous turn of fancy and + address, he put himself into the world. He was skilful in all the arts and + methods of cheating; but his masterpiece was his personating men of + quality, getting credit for watches, coats, and horses; borrowing money, + bilking vintners and tradesmen, lying and romancing to the degree of + imposing upon any man of good nature. He lived like a wild Arab upon prey, + and whether he was in Flanders, France, Spain, or England, he never failed + in leaving the name of a notorious cheat and impostor behind him." + </p> + <p> + On the 7th of November, Bedlow was brought before the king, and examined + by two Secretaries of State. Here he made the extraordinary declaration + that he had seen the body of the murdered magistrate lying at Somerset + House—then the residence of the queen; that two Jesuits, named La + Faire and Walsh, told him they, with the assistance of an attendant in the + queen's chapel, had smothered Sir Edmondbury Godfrey between two pillows; + that he had been offered two thousand guineas if he would safely remove + the body, which on his refusal was carried away, a couple of nights after + the murder, by three persons unknown to him, who were servants of the + queen's household. Hearing this statement, Sir William Coventry asked him + if he knew anything of the popish plot, when he affirmed on oath he was + entirely ignorant regarding it; he likewise swore he knew no such man as + Titus Oates. + </p> + <p> + That night he was lodged in Whitehall, in company with Tonge and Oates; + and next morning appeared before the House of Lords, when it was evident + his memory had wonderfully improved since the previous day. His story now + assumed a more concise form. In the beginning of October, he stated, he + had been offered the sum of four thousand pounds, to be paid by Lord + Bellasis, provided he murdered a man whose name was withheld from him, + This he refused. He was then asked to make the acquaintance and watch the + movements of Sir Edmondbury Godfrey. With this he complied. Soon after + dusk on the 12th of October, the magistrate had been dragged into the + court of Somerset House by the Jesuits, and asked if he would send for the + documents to which Oates had sworn. On his refusal he had been smothered + with a piece of linen cloth; the story of suffocation by pillows, being at + variance with the medical evidence, was now abandoned. One of the Jesuits, + La Faire, had asked Bedlow to call at Somerset House that night at nine + o'clock; and on presenting himself, he was conducted through a gloomy + passage into a spacious and sombre room, where a group of figures stood + round a body lying on the floor. Advancing to these, La Faire turned the + light of a lantern he carried on the face of the prostrate man, when + Bedlow recognised Sir Edmondbury Godfrey. He was then offered two thousand + guineas if he would remove the body, which was allowed to remain there + three days. This he promised to accomplish, but afterwards, his conscience + reproving him, he resolved to avoid the assassins; and rather than accept + the sum proffered, he had preferred discovering the villainy to the + Government. + </p> + <p> + This improbable story obtained no credit with the king, nor indeed with + those whose minds were free from prejudice. "His majesty," writes Sir John + Reresby, "told me Bedlow was a rogue, and that he was satisfied he had + given false evidence concerning the death of Sir Edmondbury Godfrey." Many + circumstances regarding the narrator and his story showed the viciousness + of the one and the falsity of the other. The authority just mentioned + states, when Bedlow "was taxed with having cheated a great many merchants + abroad, and gentlemen at home, by personating my Lord Gerard and other men + of quality, and by divers other cheats, he made it an argument to be more + credited in this matter, saying nobody but a rogue could be employed in + such designs." Concerning the murder, it chanced the king had been at + Somerset House visiting the queen, at the time when, according to Bedlow, + the deed had been committed. His majesty had been attended by a company of + guards, and sentries had been placed at every door; yet not one of them + had witnessed a scuffle, or heard a noise. Moreover, on the king sending + Bedlow to Somerset House, that he might indicate the apartment in which + the magistrate's remains had lain three days, he pointed out a room where + the footman waited, and through which the queen's meals were daily + carried. + </p> + <p> + But the dishonesty of his character and falsity of his statements by no + means prevented the majority of his hearers from believing, or pretending + to believe, his statements; and therefore, encouraged by the ready + reception they met, he ventured to make fresh and startling revelations. + Heedless of the oath he had taken on the first day of his examination, + regarding his ignorance of the popish plot, he now asserted he was well + acquainted with all its details. For some four years he had been in the + secret employment of the wicked Jesuits, and knew they intended to stab + and poison his majesty, establish catholicity in England, and make the + pope king. So far, indeed, had their evil machinations been planned, that + several popish peers already held commissions for posts they expected to + fill in the future. Lord Bellasis and Lord Powis were appointed commanders + of the forces in the north and south; whilst Lord Arundel of Wardour had + permission to grant such positions as he pleased. Then the Dukes of + Buckingham, Ormond, and Monmouth, with Lords Shaftesbury and Ossory, + together with many others, were to be murdered by forty thousand papists, + who were ready to rise up all over the country at a moment's notice. "Nor + was there," he added, "a Roman Catholic of any quality or credit but was + acquainted with these designs and had received the sacrament from their + father confessors to be secret in carrying it out." + </p> + <p> + It by no means pleased Oates that Bedlow should surpass him in his + knowledge of this hellish plot. Therefore, that he might not lose in + repute as an informer, he now declared he was also aware of the + commissions held by popish peers. He, however, assigned them in a + different order. Arundel was to be made chancellor; Powis, treasurer; + Bellasis general of the army; Petre, lieutenant-general; Ratcliffe, + major-general; Stafford, paymaster-general; and Langhorn, + advocate-general. Nay, his information far outstripped Bedlow's, for he + swore that to his knowledge Coleman had given four ruffians eighty guineas + to stab the king, and Sir George Wakeham had undertaken to poison his + majesty for ten thousand pounds. When, however, he was brought face to + face with these men, he was unable to recognise them, a fact he accounted + for by stating he was exhausted by prolonged examination. + </p> + <p> + All England was scared by revelations so horrible; "the business of life," + writes Macpherson, "was interrupted by confusion, panic, clamour, and + dreadful rumours." In London, two thousand catholics were cast into + prison; houses were daily searched for arms and treasonable documents; and + in good time merciless executions filled up the sum of bitter + persecutions. + </p> + <p> + One of the first victims of this so-called plot was William Staley, a + catholic banker of fair renown. The manner in which his life was + sacrificed will serve as an example of the injustice meted to those + accused. One day, William Staley happened to enter a pastrycook's shop in + Covent Garden, opposite his bank, where there chanced to stand at the time + a fellow named Carstairs; one of the infamous creatures who, envious of + the honours and riches heaped on Oates and Bedlow, resolved to make new + discoveries and enjoy like rewards. At this time he was, as Bishop Burnet + states, "looking about where he could find a lucky piece of villainy." + Unfortunately the banker came under his notice, and Bedlow and an + associate pretended to have heard Staley say the king was a rogue and a + persecutor of the people whom he would stab if no other man was found to + do the deed. These words Carstairs wrote down, and next morning called on + the banker, showed him the treasonable sentence, and said he would swear + it had been uttered by him, unless he, Staley, would purchase his silence. + Though fully aware of his danger, he refused to do this; whereon Carstairs + had him instantly arrested and committed for trial. Hearing of his + situation, and knowing the infamous character of his accusers, Dr. Burnet + thought it his duty to let the lord chancellor and the attorney-general + know "What profligate wretches these witnesses were." His interference was + received with hostility. The attorney-general took it ill that he should + disparage the king's evidence; Lord Shaftesbury avowed those who sought to + undermine the credit of witnesses were to be looked on as public enemies; + whilst the Duke of Lauderdale said Burnet desired to save Staley because + of the regard he had for anyone who would murder his majesty. Frightened + by such remarks at a time when no man's life or credit was safe, Burnet + shrank from further action; but rumour of his interference having got + noised abroad, it was resented by the public to such an extent, that he + was advised not to stir abroad for fear of public affronts. + </p> + <p> + Within five days of his arrest, William Staley was condemned to death. In + vain he protested his innocence, pointed out the improbability of his + using such words in a public room, and referred to his character as a + loyal man and worthy citizen. He was condemned and executed as a traitor. + </p> + <p> + The next victim was Coleman. He denied having hired assassins to murder + his majesty, or entertained desires for his death; but honestly stated he + had striven to advance his religion, not by bloodshed, but by tolerance. + Whilst lying in chains at Newgate prison under sentence of death members + of both Houses of Parliament visited him, and offered him pardon if he + confessed a knowledge of the plot; but, in answer to all persuasions and + promises, he avowed his innocence; protesting which, he died at Tyburn. + </p> + <p> + A little later, three Jesuits, named Ireland, Whitehead, and Fenwick, and + two attendants of the queen's chapel, named Grove and Pickering, were + executed on a charge of conspiracy to kill the king. Oates and Bedlow + swore these Jesuits had promised Grove fifteen hundred pounds as price of + the murder; Pickering chose as his reward to have thirty thousand masses, + at a shilling a mass, said for him. Three times they had attempted this + deed with a pistol; but once the flint was loose, another time there was + no powder in the pan, and again the pistol was charged only with bullets. + These five men died denying their guilt to the last. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Dr. Tonge, the ingenious inventor of the plot, had sunk into + insignificance by comparison with his audacious pupil. Not only did the + latter have apartments at Whitehall allotted him, and receive a pension of + twelve hundred a year, but he was lauded as the saviour of his country, + complimented with the title of doctor of divinity, honoured in public, and + entertained in private. Eachard mentions "a great supper in the city," + given in compliment to Oates by "twenty eminent rich citizens;" and Sir + John Reresby writes of meeting him at the dinner-table of Dr. Gunning, + Bishop of Ely. Nothing could exceed the insolence and arrogance of the + impostor. He appeared in a silk gown and cassock, a long scarf, a broad + hat with satin band and rose, and called himself a doctor of divinity. No + man dared contradict or oppose him, lest he should be denounced as a + conniver of the plot, and arrested as a traitor. "Whoever he pointed at + was taken up and committed," says North. "So that many people got out of + his way as from a blast, and glad they could prove their last two years' + conversation. The very breath of him was pestilential, and if it brought + not imprisonment, it surely poisoned reputation." Sir John, speaking of + him at the bishop's dinner-table, says "he was blown up with the hopes of + running down the Duke of York, and spoke of him and his family after a + manner which showed himself both a fool and a knave. He reflected not only + on him personally, but upon her majesty; nobody daring to contradict him, + for fear of being made a party to the plot. I at least did not undertake + to do it, when he left the room in some heat. The bishop told me this was + his usual discourse, and that he had checked him formerly for taking so + indecent a liberty, but he found it was to no purpose." + </p> + <p> + The impostor's conversation on this occasion furnishes the key-note of a + vile plot now contrived to intercept the lawful succession, either by + effectually removing the queen, and thereby enabling the king to marry + again; or otherwise excluding the Duke of York by act of parliament from + lawful right to the crown. Though Shaftesbury's hand was not plainly seen, + there can be no doubt it was busily employed in working out his favourite + design. + </p> + <p> + The blow was first aimed at her majesty by Bedlow, who, on the 25th of + November, accused her of conspiring to kill her husband. About eighteen + months previously, he said, there had been a consultation in the chapel + gallery at Somerset House, which had been attended by Lord Bellasis, Mr. + Coleman, La Faire, Pritchard, Latham, and Sheldon, four Jesuits, and two + Frenchmen whom he took to be abbots, two persons of quality whose faces he + did not see, and lastly by her majesty. The Jesuits afterwards confided in + him as a person of trust, that the queen wept at a proposal to murder the + king which had been made, but subsequently yielding to arguments of the + French abbots, had consented to the design. Indeed, Bedlow, who was in the + sacristy when her majesty passed through at the termination of this + meeting, noticed her face had much changed. Here his story ended; but, as + was now usual, it was taken up and concluded by Oates. + </p> + <p> + Appearing at the Bar of the House of Commons, this vile impostor cried + out, "Aye, Taitus Oates, accause Caatharine, Quean of England, of haigh + traison." Then followed his audacious evidence. In the previous July, Sir + George Wakeham, in writing to a Jesuit named Ashby, stated her majesty + would aid in poisoning the king. A few days afterwards, Harcourt and four + other Jesuits having been sent for, attended the queen at Somerset House. + On that occasion Oates waited on them; they went into a chamber, he stayed + without. Whilst there he heard a woman's voice say she would endure her + wrongs no longer, but should assist Sir George Wakeham in poisoning the + king. He was afterwards admitted to the chamber, and saw no woman there + but her majesty; and he heard the same voice ask Harcourt, whilst he was + within, if he had received the last ten thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + The appetite of public credulity seeming to increase by that on which it + fed, this avowal was readily believed. That the accusation had not been + previously made; that Oates had months before sworn he knew no others + implicated in the plot beyond those he named; that the queen had never + interfered in religious matters; that she loved her husband exceeding + well, were facts completely overlooked in the general agitation. + Parliament "was in a rage and flame;" and next day the Commons drew up an + address to the king, stating that "having received information of a most + desperate and traitorous design against the life of his sacred majesty, + wherein the queen is particularly charged and accused" they besought him + that "she and all her family, and all papists and reputed papists, be + forthwith removed from his court." Furthermore, the House sent a message + to the Peers, desiring their concurrence in this request; but the Lords + made answer, before doing so they would examine the witnesses against her + majesty. This resolution was loudly and indecently protested against by + Lord Shaftesbury and two of his friends. + </p> + <p> + The king had discredited the story of the plot from the first; but + remembering the unhappy consequences which had resulted upon the + disagreement of the monarch and his parliament in the previous reign, he + weakly resolved to let himself be carried away by the storm, other than + offer it resistance. On the condemnation of the Jesuits, he had appeared + unhappy and dissatisfied; "but," says Lord Romney, "after he had had a + little advice he kept his displeasure to himself." The Duke of York + states, in the Stuart Papers, that "the seeming necessity of his affairs + made his majesty think he could not be safe but by consenting every day to + the execution of those he knew in his heart to be most innocent." Now, + however, when foul charges were made against the queen, calculated not + merely to ruin her honour but destroy her life, he resolved to interfere. + He therefore requested she would return to Whitehall, where she should be + safe under his protection; and feeling assured Oates had received + instructions from others more villainous than their tool, he ordered a + strict guard to be kept upon him. This he was, however, obliged to remove + next day at request of the Commons. + </p> + <p> + On the examination before the House of Lords of Oates and Bedlow, their + evidence proved so vague and contradictory that it was rejected even by + the most credulous. When Bedlow was asked "why he had not disclosed such a + perilous matter in conjunction with his previous information touching the + murder of Sir Edmondbury Godfrey," he coolly replied, "it had escaped his + memory." On Oates being sent to point out the apartment in which he had + seen her majesty and the Jesuits, he first selected the guard-room, and + afterwards the privy chamber, places in which it would have been + impossible to have held secret consultation. Aware that the king was + resolved to protect her majesty, and conscious the evidence of her + accusers was more wildly improbable than usual, the Lords refused to + second the address of the Commons, when the charge against this hapless + woman was abandoned, to the great vexation of my Lord Shaftesbury. + </p> + <p> + Though the queen happily escaped the toils of her enemies, the reign of + terror was by no means at an end. At request of the king, the Duke of York + left England and took refuge in Brussels; the catholic peers imprisoned in + the Tower were impeached with high treason; Hill, Green, and Berry, + servants of her majesty, charged with the murder of Sir Edmondbury + Godfrey, were, without a shadow of evidence, hurried to the scaffold, as + were soon after Whitebread, Fenwick, Harcourt, Gavan and Turner, Jesuits + all, and Langhorn, a catholic lawyer, for conspiring to murder the king. + On the morning when these unfortunate men stood ignominiously bound to the + gallows at Tyburn, the instruments of death before their eyes, the angry + murmurs of the surging mob ringing in their ears, suddenly the sound of a + voice crying aloud, "A pardon! a pardon!" was heard afar off, and + presently a horseman appeared riding at full speed. The soldiers with some + difficulty making way for him through a line of excited people, he + advanced to the foot of the scaffold, and handed a roll of paper bearing + the king's seal to the sheriff, who, opening it, read a promise of pardon + to those now standing face to face with death, provided "they should + acknowledge the conspiracy, and lay open what they knew thereof." To this + they replied they knew of no plot, and had never desired harm to the king; + and, praying for those who had sought their lives, they died. + </p> + <p> + The firmness and patience with which the victims of judicial murder had + one and all met death, refusing bribes, and resisting persuasions to own + themselves guilty, could not fail in producing some effect upon the public + mind; and towards the middle of the year 1679 the first signs of reaction + became visible, when three Benedictine monks and the queen's physician + were tried for conspiracy "to poison the king, subvert the government, and + introduce popery." During the examination, Evelyn tells us, "the bench was + crowded with the judges, lord mayor, justices, and innumerable + spectators." After a tedious trial of nine hours, the jury brought the + prisoners in not guilty, "without," says Evelyn, "sufficient disadvantage + and reflection on witnesses, especially on Oates and Bedlow." + </p> + <p> + As my Lord Shaftesbury had not yet succeeded in his desired project of + excluding the Duke of York from succession, the symptoms of change in + public opinion were thoroughly distasteful to him. He therefore resolved + to check them immediately, and stimulate the agitation and fear that had + for many months reigned paramount through out the nation. For this purpose + he had recourse to his former method of circulating wild and baseless + reports. Accordingly a rumour was soon brought before the House of Commons + of a horrible plot hatched by the papists to burn London to the ground. + This, it was alleged, would be effected by a servant-maid setting a + clothes-press on fire in the house of her master, situated in Fetter Lane. + Two vile Irishmen were to feed the flames, and meanwhile the catholics + would rise in rebellion, and, assisted by an army of sixty thousand French + soldiers, kill the king, and put all protestants to the sword. Though this + tale was in due time discredited, yet it served its purpose in the + present. The violent alarm it caused had not subsided when another + terrible story, started on the excellent authority of Lord Shaftesbury's + cook, added a new terror. This stated the Duke of York had placed himself + at the head of the French troops, with intention of landing in England, + murdering the king and forcing papacy on his subjects. The scare was + sufficiently effectual to cause Parliament to petition his majesty that he + might revoke all licenses recently granted catholic householders to reside + in the capital; and order the execution of all priests who administered + sacraments or celebrated mass within the kingdom. Soon after this address, + Lord Russell was sent by the Commons to the Peers, requesting their + concurrence in the statement that "the Duke of York's being a papist, the + hope of his coming to the crown had given the greatest countenance and + encouragement to the conspiracies and designs of the papists." And now, in + May, 1679, the condition of popular feeling promising well for its + success, the Bill of Exclusion was introduced, ordaining that "James, Duke + of York should be incapable of inheriting the crowns of England and + Ireland; that on the demise of his majesty without heirs of his body, his + dominions should devolve, as if the Duke of York were also dead, on that + person next in succession who had always professed the protestant religion + established by law." This passed the House of Commons by a majority of + seventy-nine votes. + </p> + <p> + Alarmed by this bill, Charles resolved to show signs of resentment, and at + the same time check the increasing power of the Commons, by a sudden and + decisive movement. Therefore, without previously hinting at his + intentions, he prorogued parliament before the bill was sent to the House + of Lords. This was a keen surprise to all, and a bitter disappointment to + Shaftesbury, who vowed those who advised the king to this measure should + answer for it with their heads. Owing to various delays, the Bill of + Exclusion was not brought before the Peers until eighteen months later. + Its introduction was followed by a debate lasting six hours, in which + Shaftesbury distinguished himself by his force and bitterness. At nine + o'clock at night the House divided, when the measure was rejected by a + majority of thirty-three votes, amongst which were those of the fourteen + bishops present. + </p> + <p> + Mortified by this unexpected decision, the violent passions of the + defeated party hurried them on to seek the blood of those peers lodged in + the Tower. Of the five, William Howard, Viscount Stafford—youngest + son of the Earl of Arran, and nephew of the Duke of Norfolk—was + selected to be first put upon his trial; inasmuch as, being over sixty + years, and a sufferer from many infirmities, it was judged he would be the + least capable of making a vigorous defence. Three perjured witnesses swore + he had plotted against the king's life, but no proof was forthcoming to + support their evidence. Notwithstanding this was "bespattered and + falsified in almost every point," it was received as authentic by the + judges, who made a national cause of his prosecution, and considered no + punishment too severe for a papist. After a trial of five days sentence of + death was pronounced upon him, and on the 29th of December, 1680, he was + beheaded on Tower Hill. + </p> + <p> + Like those who had suffered from similar charges, he protested his + innocence to the last; but his words met with a reception different from + theirs. Their dying speeches had been greeted by groans, hisses, and signs + of insatiable fury; but his declarations fell upon silent and sympathizing + hearts. When he had made denial of the crimes of which he was accused, a + great cry rose from the mob, "We believe you—we believe you, my + lord;" and then a single voice calling out "God bless you!" the words were + taken up and repeated by a vast throng, so that the last sounds he heard + on earth were those of prayer. He died with a firmness worthy of his + caste. Having laid his head upon the block, the executioner brandished his + axe in the air, and then set it quietly down at his feet. Raising his + head, Lord Stafford inquired the cause of delay; the executioner replied + he awaited a sign. "Take your time," said he who stood at the verge of + eternity; "I shall make no sign." He who held the axe in his hand + hesitated a second, and then said in a low and troubled voice, "Do you + forgive me, sir?" To which Lord Stafford made brief answer, "I do." Then + he laid his head again upon the blood-stained block. Once more the glitter + of steel flashed through the air, a groan arose from the crowd, and Lord + Stafford's head was severed from his body. + </p> + <p> + A reaction now set in, and gained strength daily. The remaining peers were + in due time liberated; the blood of innocent victims was no longer shed; + and the Duke of York was recalled. Such was the end of the popish plot, + which, says Archdeacon Eachard, "after the strictest and coolest + examinations, and after a full length of time, the government could find + very little foundation to support so vast a fabrick, besides downright + swearing and assurance; not a gun, sword, nor dagger, not a flask of + powder or dark lanthorn, to effect this strange villainy, and with the + exception of Coleman's writings, not one slip of an original letter of + commission among those great numbers alledged to uphold the reputation of + the discoveries." + </p> + <p> + Concerning those through whose malice such disturbance was wrought, and so + much blood shed, a few words may be added. Within twelve months of Lord + Stafford's execution, Shaftesbury was charged with high treason, but + escaping condemnation, fled from further molestation to Holland, where, + after a residence of six weeks, he died. Tonge departed this life in 1680, + unbenefited by the monstrous plot he had so skilfully devised; and in the + same year Bedlow was carried to the grave after an illness of four days. + Oates survived to meet a share of the ignominy and punishment due to his + crimes. After a residence of three years in Whitehall, he was driven out + of the palace on account of "certain misdemeanors laid to his charge," and + deprived of his salary. Two years later, in May, 1683, he was accused of + calling the Duke of York a traitor, and using scandalous words towards his + royal highness. Upon hearing of the case the jury fined him one hundred + thousand pounds. Unable to pay the sum, he was cast into prison, where he + remained six years, until liberated in the reign of William and Mary, His + punishment was not, however, at an end. At the Michaelmas term of 1684 he + was accused of having wilfully perjured himself at the late trials. As he + pleaded not guilty, his case was appointed to be heard at the King's Bench + Court. His trial did not take place until May, 1685, on which occasion the + lord chief justice, in summing up the evidence, declared, "There does not + remain the slightest doubt that Oates is the blackest and most perjured + villain on the face of the earth." + </p> + <p> + After a quarter of an hour's absence from court, the jury returned a + verdict of guilty, and sentence was pronounced against him. He was + stripped of his canonical habit; forced to walk through all the courts of + Westminster Hall proclaiming his crimes; to stand an hour on the pillory + opposite Westminster Hall gate on Monday; an hour on the pillory at the + Royal Exchange on Tuesday; and on Wednesday he was tied to a cart and + whipt at the hands of the common hangman from Aldgate to Newgate, in the + presence, says Eachard, "of innumerable spectators, who had a more than + ordinary curiosity to see the sight." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + London under Charles II.—Condition and appearance of the + thoroughfares.—Coffee is first drunk in the capital.—Taverns and + their frequenters.—The city by night.—Wicked people do creep + about.—Companies of young gentlemen.—The Duke of Monmouth kills + a beadle.—Sir Charles Sedley's frolic.—Stately houses of the + nobility.—St. James's Park.—Amusement of the town.—At Bartholomew + Fair.—Bull, bear, and dog fights.—Some quaint sports. +</pre> + <p> + During the first six years of the merry monarch's reign, London town, east + of Temple Bar, consisted of narrow and tortuous streets of quaintly gabled + houses, pitched roofed and plaster fronted. Scarce four years had passed + after the devastating fire which laid this portion of the capital in + ashes, when a new and stately city rose upon the ruins of the old. + Thoroughfares lying close by the Thames, which were wont to suffer from + inundations, were raised; those which from limited breadth had caused + inconvenience and bred pestilence were made wide; warehouses and dwellings + of solid brick and carved stone, with doors, window-frames, and + breastsummers of stout oak, replaced irregular though not unpicturesque + habitations; whilst the halls of companies, eminent taverns, and abodes of + great merchants, were now built "with fair courtyards before them, and + pleasant gardens behind them, and fair spacious rooms and galleries in + them, little inferior to some princes' palaces." Moreover, churches + designed by the genius of Christopher Wren, adorned with spires, steeples, + and minarets, intersected the capital at all points. + </p> + <p> + This new, handsome, and populous city presented an animated, ever + changing, and merry scene. From "the high street which is called the + Strand," far eastwards, great painted signs, emblazoned with heraldic + arms, or ornamented with pictures of grotesque birds and animals, swung + above shop-doors and taverns. Stalls laden with wares of every + description, "set out with decorations as valuable as those of the stage," + extended into the thoroughfares. In the new Exchange, built by the + worshipful company of mercers at a cost of eight thousand pounds, and + adorned by a fair statue of King Charles II. in the habit of a Roman + emperor, were galleries containing rows of very rich shops, displaying + manufactures and ornaments of rare description, served by young men known + as apprentices, and likewise by comely wenches. + </p> + <p> + At corners and nooks of streets, under eaves of churches and great + buildings, and other places of shelter, sat followers of various trades + and vendors of divers commodities, each in the place which had become his + from daily association and long habit. These good people, together with + keepers of stalls and shops, extolled their wares in deafening shouts; + snatches of song, shouts of laughter, and the clang of pewter vessels came + in bursts of discord from open tavern doors; women discoursed with or + abused each other, according to their temper and inclination as they + leaned from the jutting small-paned windows and open balconies of their + homesteads; hackney coaches or "hell carts," as they drove by, cast filth + and refuse lying in kennels upon the clothes of passengers; the carriers + of sedan-chairs deposited their burthens to fight for right of way in + narrow passages and round crowded corners. + </p> + <p> + Through the busy concourse flowing up and down the thoroughfares from dawn + to dusk, street-criers took their way, bearing wares upon their heads in + wicker baskets, before them on broad trays, or slung upon their backs in + goodly packs. And as they passed, their voices rose above the general din, + calling "Fair lemons and oranges, oranges and citrons!" "Cherries, sweet + cherries, ripe and red!" "New flounders and great plaice; buy my dish of + great eels!" "Rosemary and sweet briar; who'll buy my lavender?" "Fresh + cheese and cream!" "Lily-white vinegar!" "Dainty sausages!" which calls, + being frequently intoned to staves of melody, fell with pleasant sounds + upon the ear. [These hawkers so seriously interfered with legitimate + traders, that in 1694 they were forbidden to sell any goods or merchandise + in any public place within the city or liberties, except in open markets + and fairs, on penalty of forty shillings for each offence, both to buyers + and sellers.] Moreover, to these divers sights and sounds were added + ballad singers, who piped ditties upon topics of the day; quacks who sold + nostrums and magic potions; dancers who performed on tight-ropes; + wandering musicians; fire-eaters of great renown; exhibitors of dancing + dolls, and such like itinerants "as make show of motions and strange + sights," all of whom were obliged to have and to hold "a license in red + and black letters, under the hand and seal of Thomas Killigrew, Esq., + master of the revels to his sacred majesty Charles II." + </p> + <p> + Adown the Strand, Fleet Street, and in that part of the city adjoining the + Exchange, coffee-houses abounded in great numbers. Coffee, which in this + reign became a favourite beverage, was introduced into London a couple of + years before the restoration. It had, however, been brought into England + at a much earlier period. John Evelyn, in the year 1638, speaks of it + being drunk at Oxford, where there came to his college "one Nathaniel + Conoposis out of Greece, from Cyrill the patriarch of Constantinople, who, + returning many years after, was made Bishop of Smyrna." Twelve good years + later, a coffee-house was opened at Oxford by one Jacobs, a Jew, where + this beverage was imbibed "by some who delighted in novelty." It was, + however, according to Oldys the antiquarian, untasted in the capital till + a Turkey merchant named Edwards brought to London a Ragusan youth named + Pasqua Rosee, who prepared this drink for him daily. The eagerness to + taste the strange beverage drawing too much company to his board, Edwards + allowed the lad, together with a servant of his son-in-law, to sell it + publicly; whence coffee was first sold in St. Michael's Alley in Cornhill + by Pasqua Rosee, "at the sign of his own head," about the year 1658. + </p> + <p> + Though coffee-drinkers first met with much ridicule from wits about town, + and writers of broadsheet ballads, the beverage became gradually popular, + and houses for its sale quickly multiplied. Famous amongst these, in the + reign of the merry monarch, besides that already mentioned, was Garraway's + in Exchange Alley; the Rainbow, by the Inner Temple Gate; Dick's, situated + at No. 8, Fleet Street; Jacobs', the proprietor of which moved in 1671 + from Oxford to Southampton Buildings, Holborn; the Grecian in the Strand, + "conducted without ostentation or noise;" the Westminster, noted as a + resort of peers and members of parliament; and Will's, in Russell Street, + frequented by the poet Dryden. + </p> + <p> + These houses, the forerunners of clubs, were, according to their situation + and convenience, frequented by noblemen and men of quality, courtiers, + foreign ministers, politicians, members of learned professions, wits, + citizens of various grades, and all who loved to exchange greetings and + gossip with their neighbours and friends. Within these low-ceilinged + comfortable coffee-house rooms, fitted with strong benches and oak chairs, + where the black beverage was drunk from handless wide brimmed cups, Pepys + passed many cheerful hours, hearing much of the news he so happily + narrates, and holding pleasant discourse with many notable men. It was in + a coffee-house he encountered Major Waters, "a deaf and most amorous + melancholy gentleman, who is under a despayer in love, which makes him bad + company, though a most good-natured man." And in such a place he listened + to "some simple discourse about quakers being charmed by a string about + their wrists;" and saw a certain merchant named Hill "that is a master of + most sorts of musique and other things, the universal character, art of + memory, counterfeiting of hands, and other most excellent discourses." + </p> + <p> + In days before newspapers came into universal circulation, and general + meetings were known, coffee-houses became recognised centres for exchange + of thought and advocacy of political action. Aware of this, the + government, under leadership of Danby, not desiring to have its motives + too freely canvassed, in 1675 issued an order that such "places of resort + for idle and disaffected persons" should be closed. Alarmed by this + command, the keepers of such houses petitioned for its withdrawal, at the + same time faithfully promising libels should not be read under their + roofs. They were therefore permitted to carry on their business by + license. + </p> + <p> + Next in point of interest to coffee-houses were taverns where men came to + make merry, in an age when simplicity and good fellowship largely + obtained. As in coffee-houses, gossip was the order of the day in such + places, each tavern being in itself "a broacher of more news than + hogsheads, and more jests than news." Those of good standing and fair + renown could boast rows of bright flagons ranged on shelves round panelled + walls; of hosts, rotund in person and genial in manner; and of civil + drawers, who could claim good breeding. The Bear, at the bridge-foot, + situated at the Southwark side, was well known to men of gallantry and + women of pleasure; and was, moreover, famous as the spot where the Duke of + Richmond awaited Mistress Stuart on her escape from Whitehall. The Boar's + Head, in Eastcheap, which gained pleasant mention in the plays of William + Shakespeare, when rebuilt, after the great fire, became a famous resort. + The Three Cranes, in the Vintry, was sacred to the shade of rare Ben + Jonson. The White Bear's Head, in Abchurch Lane, where French dinners were + served from five shillings a head "to a guinea, or what sum you pleased," + was the resort of cavaliers, The Rose Tavern, in the Poultry, was famous + for its excellent ale, and no less for its mighty pretty hostess, to whom + the king had kissed hands as he rode by on his entry. The Rummer was + likewise of some note, inasmuch as it was kept by one Samuel Prior, uncle + to Matthew Prior, the ingenious poet. On the balcony of the Cock, near + Covent Garden, Sir Charles Sedley had stood naked in a drunken frolic; and + at the King's Head, over against the Inner Temple Gate, Shaftesbury and + his friends laid their plots, coming out afterwards on the double balcony + in front, as North describes them, "with hats and no peruques, pipes in + their mouths, merry faces and dilated throats, for vocal encouragement of + the canaglia below." + </p> + <p> + All day long the streets were crowded by those whom business or diversion + carried abroad; but when night fell apace, the keepers of stalls and shops + speedily secured their wares and fastened their doors, whilst the honest + citizen and his family kept within house. For the streets being unlighted, + darkness fell upon them, relieved only as some person of wealth rode + homewards from visiting a friend, or a band of late revellers returned + from a feast, when the glare of flambeaux, carried by their attendants, + for a moment brought the outlines of houses into relief, or flashed red + light upon their diamond panes, leaving all in profound gloom on + disappearing. + </p> + <p> + The condition of the thoroughfares favouring the inclination of many loose + persons, they wandered at large, dealing mischief to those whose duty took + them abroad. From the year 1556, in the reign of Queen Mary, "fit persons + with suitable strength" had been appointed to walk the streets and watch + the city by night; to protect those in danger, arrest suspected persons, + warn householders of danger by fire and candle, help the poor, pray for + the dead, and preserve the peace. These burly individuals were known as + watch or bell men; one was appointed for each ward, whose duty it was to + pass through the district he guarded ringing his bell, "and when that + ceaseth," says Stow, "he salutes his masters and mistresses with his + rhymes, suitable to the seasons and festivals of the year, and bids them + look to their lights." + </p> + <p> + In the third year of the reign of King Charles II., whilst Sir John + Robinson was mayor of London town, divers good orders were made by him and + his common council for the better service of these watches. The principal + of these set forth that each should be accompanied by a constable and a + beadle selected from the inhabitants of their respective wards, who should + be required in turn to render voluntary service in guarding the city, from + nine of the clock at night till seven in the morning, from Michaelmas to + the 1st of April; and from that date until the 31st of March, from ten at + night till five in the morning. + </p> + <p> + These rules were not, however, vigorously carried out; the volunteers were + frequently unwilling to do duty, or when, fearful of fine, they went + abroad, they usually spent their time in tippling in ale-houses, so that, + as Delaune remarks, "a great many wicked persons capable of the blackest + villainies do creep about, as daily and sad experience shows." It was not + only those who, with drawn swords, darted from some deep porch or + sheltering buttress, in hopes of enriching themselves at their neighbour's + expense, that were to be dreaded. It was a fashion of the time for + companies of young gentlemen to saunter forth in numbers after route or + supper, when, being merry with wine and eager for adventure, they were + brave enough to waylay the honest citizen and abduct his wife, beat the + watch and smash his lantern, bedaub signboards and wrench knockers, + overturn a sedan-chair and vanquish the carriers, sing roystering songs + under the casements of peaceful sleepers, and play strange pranks to which + they were prompted by young blood and high spirits. + </p> + <p> + Among those who made prominent figures in such unholy sports was the + king's eldest son, my Lord Duke of Monmouth. He and his young grace of + Albemarle—son to that gallant soldier now deceased, who was + instrumental in restoring his majesty—together with some seven or + eight young gentlemen, whilst on their rounds one Sunday morning + encountered a beadle, whose quaint and ponderous figure presented itself + to their blithe minds as a fit object for diversion in lieu of better. + Accordingly they accosted him with rough words and unceremonious usage, + the which he resenting, they came to boisterous threats and many blows, + that ended only when the poor fellow lay with outstretched limbs stark + dead upon the pavement. Sir Charles Sedley and Lord Brockhurst were also + notable as having been engaged in another piece of what has been called + "frolick and debauchery," when "they ran up and down all night almost + naked through the streets, at last fighting and being beaten by the watch, + and clapped up all night." + </p> + <p> + It was not until the last years of the merry monarch's reign that there + was introduced "an ingenious and useful invention for the good of this + great city, calculated to secure one's goods, estates, and person; to + prevent fires, robberies and housebreakings, and several accidents and + casualties by falls to which man is liable by walking in the dark" This + was a scheme for lighting the streets, by placing an oil-lamp in front of + every tenth house on each side of the way, from Michaelmas to Lady-day, + every night from six of the clock till twelve, beginning the third night + after every full moon, and ending on the sixth night after every new moon; + one hundred and twenty nights in all. The originator of this plan was one + Edward Hemming, of London, gentleman. His project was at first ridiculed + and opposed by "narrow-souled and self-interested people," who were no + doubt children of darkness and doers of evil deeds; but was eventually + hailed with delight by all honest men, one of whom, gifted with + considerable imagination, declared these poor oil-lamps "seemed but one + great solar light that turned nocturnal shades to noonday." + </p> + <p> + In this reign the city proper was confined eastward of Temple Bar; to the + west lay the palaces of Somerset House and Whitehall, the stately parks, + and great houses of the nobility surrounded by wide gardens and wooded + grounds. Monsieur Sorbiere, who in this reign made a journey into England, + an account of which he subsequently published "to divert a person of + quality who loved him extremely," resided close by Covent Garden during + his stay. It was usual, he writes, for people in the district to say, "I + go to London," for "indeed 'tis a journey for those who live near + Westminster. 'Tis true," he adds, "they may sometimes get thither in a + quarter of an hour by water, which they cannot do in less than two hours + by land, for I am persuaded no less time will be necessary to go from one + end of its suburb to the other." For a crown a week this ingenious and + travelled gentleman had lodgings in Covent Garden, not far removed from + Salisbury House, a vicinity which he avows was "certainly the finest place + in the suburbs." Covent Garden itself has been described by John Strype, + native of the city of London, as "a curious large and airy square enclosed + by rails, between which railes and houses runs a fair street." The square, + or, as it was commonly called, garden, was well gravelled for greater + accommodation of those who wished to take the air; and that its surface + might more quickly dry after rain, it was raised by an easy ascent to the + centre, where stood a sundial fixed on a black marble pillar, at the base + of which were stone steps, "whereon the weary' might rest." + </p> + <p> + The west side of the square was flanked by the handsome portico of St. + Paul's Church, erected at the expense of Francis, Earl of Bedford, from + designs by Mr. Inigo Jones; the south side opened to Bedford Gardens, + "where there is a small grotto of trees, most pleasant in the summer + season." Here, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, a market was held, + well stocked with roots, fruits, herbs, and flowers. On the north and east + sides stood large and stately houses of persons of quality and + consideration, the fronts of which, being supported by strong pillars, + afforded broad walks, known as the Piazza, and found convenient in wet and + sultry weather. + </p> + <p> + Here amongst other houses was that of my Lord Brouncker, where Mr. Pepys + enjoyed a most noble French dinner and much good discourse, in return for + which he gave much satisfaction by the singing of a new ballad, to wit, + Lord Dorset's famous song, "To all ye ladies now on land." Not far + distant, its face turned to the Strand, was the stately residence of the + Duke of Bedford, a large dark building, fronted by a great courtyard, and + backed by spacious gardens enclosed by red-brick walls. Likewise in the + Strand stood Arundel House, the residence of Henry Frederick Howard, Earl + of Arundel and Surrey, and Earl Marshal of England; Hatfield House, built + by Thomas Hatfield, Bishop of Durham, as a town residence for himself and + his heirs lawfully begotten; York House, richly adorned with the arms of + Villiers and Manners—one gloomy chamber of which was shown as that + wherein its late noble owner, George, first Duke of Buckingham, was + stabbed by Felton; Worcester House, at one time occupied by Lord + Chancellor Clarendon; and Essex House, situated near St. Clement Danes, + the town residence of Arthur Capel, Earl of Essex, "a sober, wise, + judicious, and pondering person, not illiterate beyond the rate of most + noblemen of this age." + </p> + <p> + There were also many other noble mansions lying westward, amongst them + being those of the Dukes of Ormond and Norfolk in St. James's Square, + which was built at this time; Berkeley House, which stood on the site now + occupied by Berkeley Square, a magnificent structure containing a + staircase of cedar wood, and great suites of lofty rooms; Leicester House, + situated in Leicester Fields, subsequently known as Leicester Square, + behind which stretched a goodly common; Goring House, "a very pretty villa + furnished with silver jars, vases, cabinets, and other rich furniture, + even to wantonnesse and profusion," on the site of which Burlington Street + now stands; Clarendon House, a princely residence, combining "state, use, + solidity, and beauty," surrounded by fair gardens, that presently gave + place to Bond Street; Southampton House, standing, as Evelyn says, in "a + noble piazza—a little town," now known as Bloomsbury Square, whose + pleasant grounds commanded a full view of the rising hills of Hampstead + and Highgate; and Montagu House, described as a palace built in the French + fashion, standing on the ground now occupied by the British Museum, which + in this reign was backed by lonely fields, the dread scenes of "robbery, + murder, and every species of depravity and wickedness of which the heart + can think." + </p> + <p> + Besides the grounds and gardens surrounding these stately mansions, a + further aspect of space and freshness was added to the capital by public + parks. Foremost amongst these was St. James's, to which the merry monarch + added several fields, and for its greater advantage employed Monsieur La + Notre, the famous French landscape-gardener. Amongst the improvements this + ingenious man effected were planting trees of stately height, contriving a + canal one hundred feet broad and two hundred and eighty feet long, with a + decoy and duck island, [The goodnatured Charles made Monsieur St. Evremond + governor of Duck Island, to which position he attached a salary much + appreciated by the exile. The island was removed in 1790 to make room for + fresh improvements.] and making a pleasant pathway bordered by an aviary + on either side, usually called Bird Cage Walk. An enclosure for deer was + formed in the centre of the park; not far removed was the famous Physic + Garden, where oranges were first seen in England; and at the western end, + where Buckingham Palace has been erected, stood Arlington House, described + as "a most neat box, and sweetly seated amongst gardens, enjoying the + prospect of the park and the adjoining fields." + </p> + <p> + The great attraction of St. James's Park was the Mall, which Monsieur + Sorbiere tells us was a walk "eight hundred and fifty paces in length, + beset with rows of large trees, and near a small wood, from whence you may + see a fine mead, a long canal, Westminster Abbey, and the suburbs, which + afford an admirable prospect." This path was skirted by a wooded border, + and at the extreme end was set with iron hoops, "for the purpose of + playing a game with a ball called the mall." ["Our Pall Mall is, I + believe, derived from paille maille, a game somewhat analogous to cricket, + and imported from France in the reign of the second Charles. It was + formerly played in St. James's Park, and in the exercise of the sport a + small hammer or mallet was used to strike the ball. I think it worth + noting that the Malhe crest is a mailed arm and hand, the latter grasping + a mallet."—NOTES AND QUERIES, 1st series, vol. iii. p. 351.] + </p> + <p> + In St. James's Park Samuel Pepys first saw the Duke of York playing at + "pelemele"; and likewise in 1662 witnessed with astonishment people skate + upon the ice there, skates having been just introduced from Holland; on + another occasion he enjoyed the spectacle of Lords Castlehaven and Arran + running down and killing a stout buck for a wager before the king. And one + sultry July day, meeting an acquaintance here, the merry soul took him to + the farther end, where, seating himself under a tree in a corner, he sung + him some blithesome songs. It was likewise in St. James's Park the Duke of + York, meeting John Milton one day, asked him if his blindness was not to + be regarded as a just punishment from heaven, due to his having written + against the martyred king. "If so, sir," replied the great poet and + staunch republican, "what must we think of his majesty's execution upon a + scaffold?" To which question his royal highness vouchsafed no reply. + </p> + <p> + It was a favourite custom of his majesty, who invariably rose betimes, to + saunter in the park whilst the day was young and pass an hour or two in + stroking the heads of his feathered favourites in the aviary, feeding the + fowls in the pond with biscuits, and playing with the crowd of spaniels + ever attending his walks. For his greater amusement he had brought + together in the park a rare and valuable collection of birds and beasts; + amongst which were, according to a quaint authority, "an onocratylus, or + pelican, a fowl between a stork and a swan—a melancholy water-fowl + brought from Astracan by the Russian ambassador." This writer tells us, + "It was diverting to see how the pelican would toss up and turn a flat + fish, plaice or flounder, to get it right into its gullet at its lower + beak, which being filmy stretches to a prodigious wideness when it devours + a great fish. Here was also a small water-fowl, not bigger than a + more-hen, that went almost quite erect like the penguin of America. It + would eate as much fish as its whole body weighed, yet ye body did not + appear to swell the bigger. The Solan geese here are also great devourers, + and are said soon to exhaust all ye fish in a pond. Here was a curious + sort of poultry not much exceeding the size of a tame pidgeon, with legs + so short as their crops seemed to touch ye earth; a milk-white raven; a + stork which was a rarity at this season, seeing he was loose and could fly + loftily; two Balearian cranes, one of which having had one of his leggs + broken, and cut off above the knee, had a wooden or boxen leg and thigh, + with a joint so accurately made that ye creature could walke and use it as + well as if it had ben natural; it was made by a souldier. The park was at + this time stored with numerous flocks of severall sorts of ordinary and + extraordinary wild fowle breeding about the decoy, which, looking neere so + greate a citty, and among such a concourse of souldiers and people, is a + singular and diverting thing. There are also deere of several countries, + white, spotted like leopards; antelopes, an elk, red deere, roebucks, + staggs, Guinea goates, Arabian sheepe, etc. There are withy-potts or nests + for the wild fowle to lay their eggs in, a little above ye surface of ye + water." + </p> + <p> + Hyde Park, lying close by, likewise afforded a pleasant and convenient + spot for recreation. Here, in a large circle railed off and known as the + Ring, the world of quality and fashion took the air in coaches. The king + and queen, surrounded by a goodly throng of maids of honour and gentlemen + in waiting, were wont to ride here on summer evenings, whilst courtiers + and citizens looked on the brilliant cavalcade with loyal delight. Horse + and foot races were occasionally held in the park, as were reviews + likewise, Cosmo, Grand Duke of Tuscany, "a very jolly and good comely + man," whilst visiting England in 1669, was entertained by his majesty with + a military parade held here one Sunday in May. + </p> + <p> + On arriving at Hyde Park, he found a great concourse of people and + carriages waiting the coming of his majesty, who presently appeared with + the Duke of York and many lords and gentlemen of the court. Having + acknowledged an enthusiastic greeting, Charles retired under shade of some + trees, in order to protect himself from the sun, and then gave orders for + the troops to march past. "The whole corps," says the Grand Duke, + "consisted of two regiments of infantry, and one of cavalry, and of three + companies of the body-guard, which was granted to the king by parliament + since his return, and was formed of six hundred horsemen, each armed with + carabines and pistols, all well mounted and dressed, which are uniform in + every thing but colour. When they had marched by, without firing either a + volley or a salve, his majesty dismounted from his horse, and entering his + carriage, retired to Whitehall." + </p> + <p> + Besides such diversions as were enjoyed in the parks, the people had + various other sources of public amusement; amongst these puppet-shows, + exhibitions of strength and agility, bear-baiting, cock-fighting, and + dancing obtained. Until the restoration, puppet-shows had not been seen + for years; for these droll dolls, being regarded as direct agents of + Satan, were discountenanced by the puritans. With the coming of his + majesty they returned in vast numbers, and were hailed with great delight + by the people. One of these exhibitions which found special favour with + the town, and speedily drew great audiences of gallants and ladies of + quality, was situated within the rails of Covent Garden. And so perfect + were the marionettes of this booth in the performance of divers sad + tragedies and gay comedies, that they had the honour of receiving a royal + command to play before their majesties at Whitehall. Amongst the most + famous tumblers, or, as they were then styled, posturemakers, of this + reign were Jacob Hall the friend of my Lady Castlemaine, and Joseph + Clarke, beloved by the citizens. Though the latter was "a well-made man + and rather gross than thin," we are told he "exhibited in the most natural + manner almost every species of deformity and dislocation; he could + dislocate his vertebrae so as to render himself a shocking spectacle; he + could also assume all the uncouth faces he had seen at a quaker's meeting, + at the theatre, or any public place. He was likewise the plague of all the + tailors about town. He would send for one of them to take measure of him, + but would so contrive it as to have a most immoderate rising in one of his + shoulders; when his clothes were brought home and tried upon him, the + deformity was removed into the other shoulder, upon which the tailor + begged pardon for the mistake, and mended it as fast as he could; but on + another trial found him as straight-shouldered a man as one would desire + to see, but a little unfortunate in a hump back. In fact, this wandering + tumour puzzled all the workmen about town, who found it impossible to + accommodate so changeable a customer." + </p> + <p> + Florian Marchand, "the water-spouter," was another performer who enjoyed + considerable fame. Such was the dexterity of this conjurer that, "drinking + only fountaine-water, he rendered out of his mouth in severall glasses all + sorts of wine and sweete waters." A Turk, who walked up an almost + perpendicular line by means of his toes, danced blindfold on a tight rope + with a boy dangling from his feet, and stood on his head on the top of a + high mast, shared an equal popularity with Barbara Vanbeck, the bearded + woman, and "a monstrous beast, called a dromedary." These wondrous sights, + together with various others of a like kind, which were scattered + throughout the town and suburbs during the greater part of the year, + assembled in full strength at the fairs of St. Margaret, Southwark, and + St. Bartholomew, in Smithfield. These gatherings, which usually lasted a + fortnight, were looked forward to with considerable pleasure, and + frequented not only by citizens bent on sport, but by courtiers in search + of adventure. + </p> + <p> + Nay, even her majesty was tempted on one occasion to go a-fairing, as we + gather from a letter addressed to Sir Robert Paston, contained in Ives's + select papers. "Last week," says the writer thereof, "the queen, the + Duchess of Richmond, and the Duchess of Buckingham had a frolick to + disguise themselves like country lasses, in red petticoates, waistcoates, + etc., and so goe see the faire. Sir Bernard Gascoign, on a cart jade, rode + before the queen; another stranger before the Duchess of Buckingham, and + Mr. Roper before Richmond. They had all so overdone it in their disguise, + and look'd so much more like antiques than country volk, that as soon as + they came to the faire, the people began to goe after them; but the queen + going to a booth to buy a pair of yellow stockins for her sweethart, and + Sir Bernard asking for a pair of gloves, sticht with blew, for his + sweethart, they were soon, by their gebrish, found to be strangers, which + drew a bigger flock about them. One amongst them [who] had seen the queen + at dinner, knew her, and was proud of her knowledge. This soon brought all + the faire into a crowd to stare at the queen. Being thus discovered, they + as soon as they could got to their horses; but as many of the faire as had + horses, got up with their wives, children, sweetharts, or neighbours + behind them, to get as much gape as they could till they brought them to + the court gate. Thus by ill conduct was a merry frolick turned into a + penance." + </p> + <p> + On another occasion my Lady Castlemaine went to Bartholomew fair to see + the puppets play "Patient Grissel;" and there was the street "full of + people expecting her coming out," who, when she appeared, "suffered her + with great respect to take the coach." Not only the king's mistress, but + likewise the whole court went to St. Margaret's fair to see "an Italian + wench daunce and performe all the tricks on the high rope to admiration; + and monkies and apes do other feates of activity." "They," says a quaint + author, "were gallantly clad A LA MODE, went upright, saluted the company, + bowing and pulling off their hats, with as good a grace as if instructed + by a dancing master. They turned heels over head with a basket having eggs + in it, without breaking any; also with lighted candles on their heads, + without extinguishing them; and with vessells of water without spilling a + drop." + </p> + <p> + The cruel sport of bull and bear baiting was also commonly practised. + Seated round an amphitheatre, the people witnessed these unfortunate + animals being torn to pieces by dogs, the owners of which frequently + jumped into the arena to urge them to their sanguinary work, on the result + of which great wagers depended. Indignation arising against those who + witnessed such sights may be somewhat appeased by the knowledge that + infuriated bulls occasionally tossed the torn and bleeding carcases of + their tormentors into the faces and laps of spectators. Pepys frequently + speaks of dense crowds which assembled to witness this form of cruelty, + which he designates as good sport; and Evelyn speaks of a gallant steed + that, under the pretence that he had killed a man, was baited by dogs, but + fought so hard for his life "the fiercest of them could not fasten on him + till he was run through with swords." Not only bull and bear baiting, cock + and dog fighting were encouraged, but prize combats between man and man + were regarded as sources of great diversion. Pepys gives a vivid picture + of a furious encounter he, in common with a great and excited crowd, + witnessed at the bear-garden stairs, at Bankside, between a butcher and a + waterman. "The former," says he, "had the better all along, till by-and-by + the latter dropped his sword out of his hand; and the butcher, whether not + seeing his sword dropped I know not, but did give him a cut over the + wrist, so as he was disabled to fight any longer. But Lord! to see how in + a minute the whole stage was full of watermen to revenge the foul play, + and the butchers to defend their fellow, though most blamed him; and then + they all fell to it to knocking down and cutting many on each side. It was + pleasant to see, but that I stood in the pit, and feared that in the + tumult I might get some hurt." + </p> + <p> + Among the more healthy sports which obtained during the reign were + horse-racing, tennis, and bowling. The monarch had, at vast expense, built + a house and stables at Newmarket, where he and his court regularly + repaired, to witness racing. Here likewise the king and "ye jolly blades + enjoyed dauncing, feasting, and revelling, more resembling a luxurious and + abandoned route than a Christian court." He had likewise a tennis-court + and bowling green at Whitehall, where at noonday and towards eve, blithe + lords, and ladies in brave apparel, might be seen at play. Bowling was a + game to which the people were much devoted, every suburban tavern having + its green, where good friends and honest neighbours challenged each + other's strength and skill. And amongst other pleasant sports and customs + were those practised on May-day, when maids rose betimes to bathe their + faces in dew, that they might become sweet-complexioned to men's sight; + and milk-maids with garlands of spring flowers upon their pails, and + posies in their breasts, danced to the merry music of fiddles adown the + streets. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Court customs in the days of the merry monarch.—Dining in public.—The + Duke of Tuscany's supper to the king.—Entertainment of guests by + mountebanks.—Gaming at court.—Lady Castlemaine's losses.—A fatal + duel.—Dress of the period.—Riding-habits first seen.—His majesty + invents a national costume.—Introduction of the penny post.—Divorce + suits are known.—Society of Antiquaries.—Lord Worcester's + inventions.—The Duchess of Newcastle. +</pre> + <p> + Few courts have been more brilliant than that of the merry monarch. All + the beauty of fair women, the gallantry of brave men, and the gaiety of + well-approved wits could compass, perpetually surrounded his majesty, + making the royal palace a lordly pleasure house. Noble banquets, + magnificent balls, and brilliant suppers followed each other in quick + succession. Three times a week—on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—the + king and queen dined publicly in ancient state, whilst rare music was + discoursed, and many ceremonies observed, amongst these being that each + servitor of the royal table should eat some bread dipped in sauce of the + dish he bore. On these occasions meats for the king's table were brought + from the kitchen by yeomen of the guard, or beef-eaters. These men, + selected as being amongst the handsomest, strongest, and tallest in + England, were dressed in liveries of red cloth, faced with black velvet, + having the king's cipher on the back, and on the breast the emblems of the + Houses of York and Lancaster. By them the dishes were handed to the + gentlemen in waiting, who served royalty upon their knees. "You see," said + Charles one day to the Chevalier de Grammont, "how I am waited on." "I + thank your majesty for the explanation," said the saucy Frenchman; "I + thought they were begging pardon for offering you so bad a dinner." [This + mode of serving the sovereign continued unto the coming of George I.] + </p> + <p> + The costliness and splendour of some royal entertainments require the + description of an eye-witness to be fully realized. Evelyn, speaking of a + great feast given to the Knights of the Garter in the banqueting-hall, + tells us "the king sat on an elevated throne, at the upper end of the + table alone, the knights at a table on the right hand, reaching all the + length of the roome; over against them a cupboard of rich gilded plate; at + the lower end the musick; on the balusters above, wind musick, trumpets, + and kettle-drums. The king was served by the lords and pensioners who + brought up the dishes. About the middle of the dinner the knights drank + the king's health, then the king theirs, when the trumpets and musick + plaid and sounded, the guns going off at the Tower. At the banquet came in + the queene and stood by the king's left hand hand, but did not sit. Then + was the banquetting stuff flung about the roome profusely. In truth the + crowd was so great that I now staied no longer than this sport began for + fear of disorder. The cheere was extraordinary, each knight having forty + dishes to his messe, piled up five or six high." + </p> + <p> + Concerning the habit mentioned by Evelyn, of mobs rushing into + banquet-halls, in order to possess themselves of all on which they could + lay hands, many instances are mentioned. The Duke of Tuscany, amongst + other authorities, narrates the inconvenience it caused at a supper he + gave the king. When his majesty drove to the duke's residence he was + preceded by trumpeters and torch-bearers, attended by the horse-guards and + a retinue of courtiers, and accompanied by a vast crowd. On alighting from + the coach the Duke of Tuscany, together with the noblemen and gentlemen of + his household, received and conducted him through passages lighted by + torches to the banquet-hall. From the ceiling of this saloon was suspended + a chandelier of rock crystal, blazing with tapers; beneath it stood a + circular table, at the upper end of which was placed a chair of state for + the king. The whole entertainment was costly and magnificent. As many as + eighty dishes were set upon the table; foreign wines, famous for great age + and delicate flavour, sparkled in goblets of chased gold; and finally, a + dessert of Italian fruits and Portuguese sweetmeats was served. But scarce + had this been laid upon the board, when the impatient crowd which had + gathered round the house and forced its way inside to witness the banquet, + now violently burst into the saloon and carried away all that lay before + them. Neither the presence of the king nor the appearance of his soldiers + guarding the entrance with carbines was sufficient to prevent entrance or + hinder pillage. Charles, used to such scenes, left the table and retired + into the duke's private apartments. + </p> + <p> + A quaint and curious account of a less ceremonious and more convivial + feast, also graced by the king's presence, was narrated by Sir Hugh + Cholmely to a friend and gossip. This supper was given by Sir George + Carteret, a man of pleasant humour, and moreover treasurer of the navy. By + the time the meats were removed, the king and his courtiers waxed + exceedingly merry, when Sir William Armorer, equerry to his majesty, came + to him and swore, "'By God, sir,' says he, 'you are not so kind to the + Duke of York of late as you used to be.' 'Not I?' says the king. 'Why so?' + 'Why,' says he, 'if you are, let us drink his health.' 'Why, let us,' says + the king. Then he fell on his knees and drank it; and having done, the + king began to drink it. 'Nay, sir,' says Armorer; 'by God, you must do it + on your knees!' So he did, and then all the company; and having done it, + all fell acrying for joy, being all maudlin and kissing one another, the + king the Duke of York, the Duke of York the king; and in such a maudlin + pickle as never people were." + </p> + <p> + Throughout this reign the uttermost hospitality and good-fellowship + abounded. Scarce a day passed that some noble house did not throw open its + doors to a brilliant throng of guests; few nights grew to dawn that the + vicinities of St. James's and Covent Garden were not made brilliant by the + torches of those accompanying revellers to their homes. The fashionable + hour for dinner was three of the clock, and for greater satisfaction of + guests it now became the mode to entertain them after that meal with + performances of mountebanks and musicians, Various diaries inform us of + this custom. When my Lord Arlington had bidden his friends to a feast, he + subsequently diverted them by the tricks of a fellow who swallowed a knife + in a horn sheath, together with several pebbles, which he made rattle in + his stomach, and produced again, to the wonder and amusement of all who + beheld him. [At a great dinner given by this nobleman, Evelyn, who was + present, tells us that Lord Stafford, the unfortunate nobleman afterwards + executed on Tower Hill, "rose from the table in some disorder, because + there were roses stuck about the fruite when the descert was set on the + table; such an antipathie it seems he had to them, as once Lady St. Leger + also had, and to that degree, that, as Sirr Kenelm Digby tell us, laying + but a rose upon her cheeke when she was asleepe, it raised a blister; but + Sir Kenelm was a teller of strange things."] The master of the mint, + worthy Mr. Slingsby, a man of finer taste, delighted his guests with the + performances of renowned good masters of music, one of whom, a German, + played to great perfection on an instrument with five wire strings called + the VOIL D'AMORE; whilst my Lord Sunderland treated his visitors to a + sight of Richardson, the renowned fire eater, who was wont to devour + brimstone on glowing coals; melt a beer-glass and eat it up; take a live + coal on his tongue, on which he put a raw oyster, and let it remain there + till it gaped and was quite broiled; take wax, pitch and sulphur, and + drink them down flaming; hold a fiery hot iron between his teeth, and + throw it about like a stone from hand to hand, and perform various other + prodigious feats. + </p> + <p> + Other means of indoor amusement were practised in those days, which seem + wholly incompatible with the gravity of the nation in these latter times. + Pepys tells us that going to the court one day he found the Duke and + Duchess of York, with all the great ladies, sitting upon a carpet on the + ground playing "I love my love with an A, because he is so-and-so; and I + hate him with an A, because of this and that;" and some of the ladies were + mighty witty, and all of them very merry. Grown persons likewise indulged + in games of blind man's buff, and amusements of a like character; whilst + at one time, the king, queen, and the whole court falling into much + extravagance, as Burnet says, "went about masked, and came into houses + unknown, and danced there with a great deal of wild frolic. In all this + they were so disguised, that without being in the secret, none could + distinguish them. They were carried about in hackney chairs. Once the + queen's chairmen, not knowing who she was, went from her; so she was alone + and was much disturbed, and came to Whitehall in a hackney coach; some say + it was in a cart." + </p> + <p> + Dancing was also a favourite and common amusement amongst all classes. + Scarce a week went by that Whitehall was not lighted up for a ball, at + which the king, queen, and courtiers danced bransles, corants, and French + figures; [The bransle, or brawl, had all the characteristics of a + country-dance; several persons taking part in it, and all at various times + joining hands. The corant was a swift lively dance, in which two persons + only took part, and was not unlike our modern galop.] and no night passed + but such entertainments were likewise held in the city. Billiards and + chess were also played, whilst gambling became a ruling passion. The + queen, Duchess of York, and Duchess of Cleveland had each her card-table, + around which courtiers thronged to win and lose prodigious sums. The + latter being a thorough rake at heart, delighted in the excitement which + hazard afforded; and the sums changing owners at her hoard were sometimes + enormous. Occasionally she played for a thousand, or fifteen hundred + pounds at a cast, and in a single night lost as much as twenty-five + hundred guineas. It is related that once when playing basset she lost all + her money; but, being unwilling to retire, and hopeful of regaining her + losses, she asked young Churchill, on whom she had bestowed many favours, + to lend her twenty pieces. Though the wily youth had a thousand before him + on the table, he coolly refused her request, on the plea that the bank—which + he was then keeping—never lent. "Not a person in the place," says + the narrator of this anecdote, "but blamed him; as to the duchess, her + resentment burst out into a bleeding at her nose, and breaking of her + lace, without which aid it is believed her vexation had killed her on the + spot." + </p> + <p> + The courtly Evelyn speaks of a certain Twelfth-night, when the king opened + the revels in his privy chamber by throwing dice, and losing one hundred + pounds; and Pepys describes the groom-porters' rooms where gambling + greatly obtained, and "where persons of the best quality do sit down with + people of any, though meaner." Cursing and swearing, grumbling and + rejoicing, were heard here to an accompanying rattle of guineas; the whole + causing dense confusion. And amongst the figures crouching round the + tables of this hell, that of my Lord St. Albans was conspicuous. So great, + indeed, was his passion for gambling, that when approaching his eightieth + year, and quite blind, he was unable to renounce his love for cards, but + with the help of a servant who named them to him, indulged himself in this + way as of yore. + </p> + <p> + As may be expected, disputes, frequently ending in duels, continually + arose betwixt those who gambled. Although the king had, on his + restoration, issued a proclamation against this common practice, + threatening such as engaged in it with displeasure, declaring them + incapable of holding any office in his service, and forbidding them to + appear at court, yet but little attention was paid his words, and duels + continually took place, Though most frequently resorted to as a means of + avenging outraged honour, they were occasionally the result of + misunderstanding. A pathetic story is told of a fatal encounter, caused by + a trifle light as air, which took place in the year 1667 at Covent Garden, + between Sir Henry Bellasis and Tom Porter—the same witty soul who + wrote a play called "The Villain," which was performed at the Duke's + Theatre, and described as "a pleasant tragedy." + </p> + <p> + These worthy gentlemen and loyal friends loved each other exceedingly. One + fatal day, both were bidden to dine with Sir Robert Carr, at whose table + it was known all men drank freely; and having feasted, they two talked + apart, when bluff Sir Henry, giving words of counsel to honest Tom, from + force of earnestness spoke louder than his wont. Marvelling at this, some + of those standing apart said to each other, "Are they quarrelling, that + they talk so high?" overhearing which the baronet replied in a merry tone, + "No, I would have you know I never quarrel but I strike; and take that as + a rule of mine." At these words Tom Porter, being anxious, after the + manner of those who have drunk deep, to apprehend offence in speech of + friend or foe, cried out he would like to see the man in England that + durst give him a blow. Accepting this as a challenge, Sir Henry dealt him + a stroke on the ear, which the other would have returned in anger but that + they were speedily parted. + </p> + <p> + And presently Tom Porter, leaving the house full of resentment for the + injury he had received, and of resolution to avenge it, met Mr. Dryden the + poet, to whom he recounted the story. He concluded by requesting he might + have his boy to bring him word which way Sir Henry Bellasis would drive, + for fight he would that night, otherwise he felt sure they should be + friends in the morning, and the blow would rest upon him. Dryden complying + with his request, Tom Porter, still inflamed by fury, went to a + neighbouring coffee-house, when presently word arrived Sir Harry's coach + was coming that way. On this Tom Porter rushed out, stopped the horses, + and bade the baronet alight. "Why," said the man, who but an hour before + had been his best friend, "you will not hurt me in coming out, will you?" + "No," answered the other shortly. Sir Henry then descended, and both drew + their swords. Tom Porter asked him if he were ready, and hearing he was, + they fought desperately, till of a sudden a sharp cry was heard; Sir + Henry's weapon fell upon the ground, and he placed one hand to his side, + from which blood flowed freely. Then calling his opponent to him, he + looked in his face reproachfully, kissed him lovingly, and bade him seek + safety. "For, Tom," said he, struggling hard to speak, "thou hast hurt me; + but I will make shift to stand upon my legs till thou mayest withdraw, and + the world not take notice of you, for," continued he, with much + tenderness, "I would not have thee troubled for what thou hast done." And + the little crowd who had gathered around carried him to his coach and + twenty days later they followed him to his grave. + </p> + <p> + Throughout this merry reign, many fantastic changes took place in the + costumes of courtiers and their followers. At the restoration, the dress + most common to women of all ranks consisted of a gown with a laced + stomacher and starched neckerchief, a sad-coloured cloak with a French + hood, and a high-crowned hat. Such habiliments, admitting of little + variety and less ornament, found no favour in the eyes of those who + returned from foreign courts with the king, and therefore a change was + gradually effected. The simple gown of wool and cotton gave place to loose + and flowing draperies of silk and satin; the stiff neckerchief was removed + to display fair shoulders and voluptuous breasts; the hat was bedecked by + feathers of rare plumage and rich colour; the cloaks changed hues from sad + to gay; the hoods being of "yellow bird's eye," and other bright tints. + Indeed, the prodigal manner in which ladies of quality now exposed their + bosoms, though pleasing to the court, became a matter of grave censure to + worthy men. One of these in a pamphlet, entitled "A Just and Seasonable + Reprehension of Naked Breasts and Shoulders," charges women of fashion + with "overlacing their gown bodies, and so thrusting up their breasts in + order that they might show them half-naked." It was not only at balls and + in chambers of entertainment, he avowed, they appeared in this manner, but + likewise at church, where their dress was "not only immodest, but + sometimes impudent and lascivious;" for they braved all dangers to have + the satisfaction of being seen, and the consolation of giving pleasure. + </p> + <p> + The riding-habit, first introduced in 1664 caused considerable notice, and + no small amount of mirth. The garb, as it was called, consisted of a + doublet buttoned up the breast, a coat with long skirts, a periwig and + tall hat, so that women clad in this fashion might be mistaken for men, if + it were not for the petticoat which dragged under the coat. At the + commencement of the reign, ladies of the court wore their hair after the + French fashion, cut short in front and frizzed upon the forehead. When the + queen arrived, her hair was arranged A LA NEGLIGENCE, a mode declared + mighty pretty; but presently a fashion came in vogue of wearing "false + locks set on wyres to make them stand at a distance from the head; as + fardingales made the clothes stand out in Queen Elizabeth's reign." + Painting the face, which had been practised during the Commonwealth, + became fashionable; as did likewise the use of patches and vizards or + masks; which from the convenience they afforded wearers whilst witnessing + an immoral play, or conducting a delicate intrigue, came greatly into use. + </p> + <p> + According to Randal Holmes's notes on dress, in the Harleian Library, the + male costume at the restoration consisted of "a short-waisted doublet, and + petticoat breeches—the lining, being lower than the breeches, is + tied above the knees. The breeches are ornamented with ribands up to the + pocket, and half their breadth upon the thigh; the waistband is set about + with ribands, and the shirt hanging out over them." This dress gradually + increased in richness and ornamentation: the doublet and breeches being + changed from cloth to velvet and satin, the hat trimmed with plumes of gay + feathers, and the neck adorned with bands of cambric, trimmed with + Flanders and Brussels lace. The perfection and costliness to which the + costume eventually reached is best shown by a description of Sir Richard + Fanshaw ambassador of the king, as presented in the diary of his spouse. + "Sir Richard was dressed," she writes, "in a very rich suit of clothes of + a dark FILLEMONTE brocade, laced with silver and gold lace—nine + laces—every one as broad as my hand, and a little silver and gold + lace laid between them, both of very curious workmanship; his suit was + trimmed with scarlet taffety ribbon; his stockings of white silk upon long + scarlet silk ones; his shoes black, with scarlet shoestrings and gaiters; + his linen very fine, laced with rich Flanders lace; a black beaver + buttoned on the left side with a jewel of twelve hundred pounds' value, a + rich curious wrought gold chain, made in the Indies at which hung the king + his master's picture, richly set with diamonds; on his fingers he wore two + rich rings; his gloves trimmed with the same ribbon as his clothes." + </p> + <p> + The uttermost extravagance and luxury in dress now obtained; indeed, to + such a passion and pride did it reach that the monarch resolved on giving + it some check by inventing a suit of plainer pretensions, which should + become the national costume, and admit no change. + </p> + <p> + This determination he solemnly declared to his council in October, 1666, + and on the 14th of the month appeared clad in a long vest slashed with + white silk, reaching the knee, having the sword girt over it, a loose + coat, straight Spanish breeches ruffled with black ribbons, and buskins + instead of shoes and stockings. Though the habit was pronounced decent and + becoming to his majesty, and was quickly adopted by the courtiers, there + were those amongst his friends who offered him a wager he would not + persist in wearing it long. At this the king stated his resolution afresh + of never changing; but before the month was out he had made an alteration, + for inasmuch as the vest being slashed with white, was said by a wag to + make the wearers look like magpies, his majesty changed the colour of the + silk to black. This "manly and comely habit" might have become permanently + the fashion, if the King of France, by way of ridiculing the merry + monarch, had not caused his footmen to be clad in like manner. Therefore, + in less than two years, this mode gave place to others more fantastical. + The vest was retained, but the shape and material were altered; the + surcoat of cloth was discarded for velvet and rich plush, adorned with + buckles of precious stones and chains of gold; the Spanish leather boots + were laid aside for high-heeled shoes with rosettes and silver buckles. + Towards the close of the reign the costume became much plainer. Through + all these varying fashions the periwig, introduced in 1663, held its own, + increasing in length and luxuriance with time. On its first coming into + general use, the clergy had cried out against it as ministering to the + vanity and extravagance of the age; but in a while many of them adopted + its use, for, as Granger remarks, "it was observed that a periwig procured + many persons a respect and even veneration which they mere strangers to + before, and to which they had not the least claim from their personal + merit." + </p> + <p> + Amongst other strange innovations and various improvements known in this + reign, the introduction of a penny post may be considered the most useful. + King James I., of happy memory, had, in imitation of like regulations in + other countries, established a general post for foreign parts; King + Charles I. had given orders to Thomas Witherings, Esquire, his + postmaster-general, to settle "a running post or two, to run night and day + between Edinburgh, in Scotland, and the city of London, to go thither and + back in six days;" but the organization of a penny post, for the + conveyance of letters and parcels throughout the capital and suburbs, was + reserved for the reign of the merry monarch. This beneficial scheme was + originated by an upholsterer named Murray, who communicated it to one + William Dockwra, a man who for over ten years had laboured with fidelity + in the Custom House. Uniting their efforts, they, with great labour and + vast expense, carried the plan into execution in the year 1680. + </p> + <p> + The principal office was stationed at the residence of William Dockwra, in + Lime Street; seven sorting-houses and as many as four hundred + receiving-houses were speedily established in the cities of London, + Westminster, and the suburbs; and a great number of clerks and messengers + were employed to collect, enter, and deliver parcels and letters not + exceeding one pound in weight nor ten pounds in value. Stamps were used as + an acknowledgment that postage was paid, and likewise to mark the hours + when letters were sent out from the offices, by which, in case of delay, + its cause might be traced to the messengers; and deliveries took place ten + times in the vicinity of the Exchange and Inns of Court, and four times in + the suburbs daily. All persons were requested to post their communications + before six o'clock in the winter, and seven in the summer, on Saturday + nights, "that the many poor men employed may have a little time to provide + for their families against the Lord's Day." And it was moreover intimated + that upon three days at Christmas, and two at Easter and Whitsuntide, as + likewise upon the 30th of January, the post would not be delivered. + </p> + <p> + From the first this scheme promised success, the manner in which it was + carried out being wholly admirable; yet there were many who raised their + voices against it persistently. Porters and messengers declared it took + away their means of subsistence; whilst those of higher grade were + confident it was a contrivance of the papists, which enabled them to carry + out their wicked schemes with greater security. But these illusions + vanished with time; and the penny post became such a success that + Government laid claim to it as a branch of the General Post Office, and + annexed its revenues to the Crown. [In the year 1703 Queen Anne bestowed a + grant on Elizabeth, Dowager countess of Thanet, to erect a penny + post-office in Dublin, similar to that in existence in London.] + </p> + <p> + Another innovation in this interesting reign were stage-coaches, described + as affording "admirable commodiousness both for men and women of better + rank, to travel from London and to almost all the villages near this great + city, that the like hath not been known in the world, wherein one may be + transported to any place, sheltered from foul weather and foul ways, free + from endamaging one's health or body by hard jogging or over-violent + emotion, and this not only at a low price, as about a shilling for every + five miles in a day; for the stage-coaches called flying coaches make + forty or fifty miles in a day, as from London to Cambridge or Oxford, and + that in the space of twelve hours, not counting the time for dining, + setting forth not too early, nor coming in too late." + </p> + <p> + Likewise were divorce suits introduced whilst Charles II. sat upon the + throne for the first time—if the case of Henry VIII. be excepted—when + my Lord Rosse, in consequence of the misconduct of his lady, had a bill + brought into the House of Lords for dissolving his marriage and enabling + him to wed again. There being at this period, 1669, a project for + divorcing the king from the queen, it was considered Lord Rosse's suit, if + successful, would facilitate a like bill in favour of his majesty. After + many and stormy debates his lordship gained his case by a majority of two + votes. It is worth noting that two of the lords spiritual, Dr. Cosin, + Bishop of Durham, and Dr. Wilkins, Bishop of Chester, voted in favour of + the bill. + </p> + <p> + The social history of this remarkable reign would be incomplete without + mention of the grace and patronage which Charles II. extended towards the + Society of Antiquaries. This learned body, according to Stow, had been in + existence since the days of Elizabeth; but for lack of royal + acknowledgment of its worth and lore, was permitted to languish in neglect + and finally become extinct. However, under the commonwealth the society + had revived, from the fact that numbers of the nobility being unemployed + in affairs of state, and having no court to attend, applied themselves + whilst in retirement to the study of chemistry, mathematics, mechanism, + and natural philosophy. The Duke of Devonshire, Marquis of Worcester, + Viscount Brouncker, Honourable Robert Boyle, and Sir Robert Murray, built + laboratories, made machines, opened mines, and perfected inventions. When + the temper of the times permitted, these men, with various others of like + tastes, drew together, held weekly meetings at Gresham College in + Bishopsgate Street, discoursed on abstruse subjects, and heard erudite + lectures, from Dr. Petty on chemistry, from Dr. Wren on astronomy, from + Mr. Laurence Rooke on geometry; so that the Society of Antiquaries may be + said to have been founded in the last years of the republic. + </p> + <p> + Now Charles II., having some knowledge of chemistry and science, looked + upon the society with favourable eyes; and in the first year of his + restoration desired to become one of its members; expressed satisfaction + it had been placed upon a proper basis in his reign; represented the + difficulty of its labours; suggested certain investigations, and declared + his interest in all its movements. Moreover, in the year 1662 he bestowed + on the society a charter in which he styled himself its founder and + patron; presented it with a silver mace to be borne before the president + on meeting days; and gave it the use of the royal arms for a seal. Nor did + his concern for its welfare cease here. He was frequently present at its + meetings, and occasionally witnessed, and assisted "with his own hands," + in the performance of experiments. Some of these were of a singularly + interesting character; amongst which may be mentioned infusion of the + blood of an animal into the veins of a man. This took place in the year + 1667, the subject being one Arthur Coga, a minister poor in worldly + substance, who, in exchange for a guinea, consented to have the operation + performed on him. Accordingly two surgeons of great skill and learning, + named Lower and King, on a certain day injected twelve ounces of sheep's + blood into his veins. After which he smoked an honest pipe in peace, drank + a glass of good canary with relish, and found himself no worse in mind or + body. And in two days more fourteen ounces of sheep's blood were + substituted for eight of his own without loss of virility to him. + </p> + <p> + Nor were experiments in vivisection unknown to the Royal Society, as it + was called, for the "Philosophical Transactions" speak of a dog being tied + through the back above the spinal artery, thereby depriving him of motion + until the artery was loosened, when he recovered; and again, it is + recorded that Dr. Charleton cut the spleen out of a living dog with good + success. + </p> + <p> + The weighty discourses of the learned men who constituted the society + frequently delighted his majesty; though it must be confessed he sometimes + laughed at them, and once sorely puzzled them by asking the following + question. "Supposing," said Charles, assuming a serious expression, and + speaking in a solemn tone, "two pails of water were placed in two + different scales and weighed alike, and that a live bream or small fish + was put into one, now why should not the pail in which it was placed weigh + heavier than the other?" Most members were troubled to find the king a + fitting reply, and many strange theories were advanced by way of + explaining why the pail should not be found heavier, none of them being + thought satisfactory. But at last a man sitting far down the table was + heard to express an opinion, when those surrounding him laughed; hearing + which the king, who had not caught his words, asked him to repeat them. + "Why, your majesty," said he boldly, "I do believe the pail would weigh + heavier." "Odds-fish!" cried Charles, bursting out into laughter, "you are + right, my honest fellow!" and so the merriment became general. + </p> + <p> + The Royal Society was composed of men of quality with a genius for + investigation, and men of learning eager for further knowledge. Persons of + all nationalities, religions, and professions were admitted members; and + it was continually enriched by the addition of curiosities, amongst which + in particular were an herb which grew in the stomach of a thrush; the skin + of a Moor tanned, with the beard and hair white; a clock, having movements + directed by loadstone; an ostrich, whose young had been born alive; + mummies; strange fish; and the hearts and livers of vipers. Likewise was + the society endowed with gifts, amongst the most notable being the + valuable library of Henry Howard, afterwards Duke of Norfolk. + </p> + <p> + Fostered by this society, science received its first impulse towards the + astounding progress it has since achieved. Nay, in this reign the germs of + some inventions were sown, which, subsequently springing into existence, + have startled the world by their novelty, utility, and power, Monsieur + Sorbiere, when in England, was shown a journal kept by Montconis, + concerning the transactions of the Royal Society, in which several new + devices, "which scarce can be believed unless seen," were described. + Amongst these were an instrument for showing alterations in the weather, + whether from heat, cold, wind, or rain; a method for blowing up ships; a + process for purifying salt water, so that it could be drunk; and an + instrument by which those ignorant of drawing could sketch and design any + object. He also states Dr. Wallis had taught one born deaf and dumb to + read. + </p> + <p> + In 1663, "the right honourable (and deservedly to be praised and admired) + Edward Somerset, Marquis of Worcester," published a quaint volume entitled + "A Century of the Names and Scantlings of such Inventions as at present I + can call to mind to have tried and perfected, which (my former notes being + lost) I have, at the instance of a powerful friend, endeavoured to set + down in such a way as may sufficiently instruct me to put any of them in + practice." Amongst these are enumerated false decks, such as in a moment + should kill and take prisoners as many as should board the ship, without + blowing her up, and in a quarter of an hour's time should recover their + former shape without discovering the secret; a portable fortification, + able to contain five hundred men, which in the space of six hours might be + set up, and made cannon-proof; a dexterous tinder-box which served as a + pistol, and was yet capable of lighting a fire or candle at any hour of + the night without giving its possessor the trouble of stretching his hand + from bed; a lock, the ways of opening which might be varied ten millions + of times, but which on a stranger touching it would cause an alarm that + could not be stopped, and would register what moneys had been taken from + its keeping; a boat which would work against wind and tide; with various + other discoveries to the number of one hundred, all arrived at from + mathematical studies. + </p> + <p> + The means of propelling a boat against such disadvantages, to which the + Marquis of Worcester alludes, was in all probability by steam-power. This + he described as "an admirable and most forcible way to drive up water by + fire," the secret of which he is believed to have first discovered. + [Before the century was concluded, Captain Savery contrived a steam-engine + which was certainly the first put to practical uses. It has been stated + that he owed the knowledge of this invention to hints conveyed in Lord + Worcester's little volume.] In the preface to his little book, the marquis + states he had sacrificed from six to seven hundred thousand pounds in + bringing his various inventions to perfection; after which it is + satisfactory to find he derived some profit from one of them, conceived, + as he says, "by heavenly inspiration." This was a water-engine for drying + marsh-lands and mines, requiring neither pump, suckers, barrels, bellows, + nor external nor additional help, save that afforded from its own + operations. This engine Sorbiere describes as one of the most curious + things he had a mind to see, and says one man by the help of this machine + raised four large buckets full of water in an instant forty feet high, + through a pipe eight inches long. An act of parliament was passed enabling + the marquis to reap the benefit and profit from this invention, subject to + a tenth part which was reserved for the king and his heirs. + </p> + <p> + The Royal Society soon became one of the foremost objects of interest in + the city. Foreigners of distinction were conducted to its rooms that they + might behold the visible signs of knowledge it could proudly boast; and + women of culture were admitted to hear the lectures its members delivered. + </p> + <p> + Amongst these latter may be mentioned the eccentric Duchess of Newcastle; + a lady who dressed her footmen in velvet coats, habited herself in antique + gowns, wrote volumes of plays and poetry, desired the reputation of + learning, and indulged in circumstances of pomp and state. Having + expressed her desire to be present at one of the meetings of the Royal + Society, the council prepared to receive her, not, it must be admitted, + without some fear her extravagance would expose them to the ridicule of + the town, and place them fit the mercy of ballad-mongers. So it happened + one fair May-day, in the year 1667 a vast concourse of people had + assembled to witness her arrival at Arundel House in the Strand, where the + society held its meetings for some years after the burning of Gresham + College. And she in good time reaching there, surrounded by her maids of + honour, gentlemen in waiting, and lackeys, was met by the president, + Viscount Brouncker, having his mace carried before him, and was conducted + to the great room. When the meeting was over, various experiments were + tried for her satisfaction; amongst others a piece of roasted mutton was + turned into pure blood. The while she witnessed these sights, crowds of + gallants gathered round her that they might catch and retain such fine + things as fell from her lips; but she only cried out her wonder and + admiration at all she saw; and at the end of her visit was conducted in + state to her coach by several noble lords, notable amongst whom was a + vastly pretty young man, Francis Seymour, fifth Duke of Somerset. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A period rich in literature.—John Milton's early life.—Writing + "Paradise Lost."—Its publication and success.—His later works and + death.—John Dryden gossips with wits and players.—Lord Rochester's + revenge.—Elkanah Settle.—John Crowne.—Thomas Otway rich in + miseries.—Dryden assailed by villains.—The ingenious Abraham + Cowley.—The author of "Hudibras."—Young Will Wycherley and Lady + Castlemaine—The story of his marriage.—Andrew Marvell, poet and + politician.—John Bunyan. +</pre> + <p> + The men of genius who lived in the days of the merry monarch have rendered + his reign, like that of Elizabeth, illustrious in the annals of + literature. The fact of "Paradise Lost," the "Pilgrim's Progress," + "Hudibras," and "Alexander's Feast" being given to the world whilst + Charles II. occupied the throne, would have sufficiently marked the epoch + as one exceeding in intellectual brilliancy; but besides these works, an + abundance of plays, poems, satires, treatises, and histories added fresh + lustre to this remarkable age. + </p> + <p> + At the period of the restoration, John Milton had reached his fifty-second + year. He had studied in the University of Cambridge; published the "Masque + of Comus;" likewise a treatise against the Established Church; taught + school at Aldersgate Street; married a wife and advocated divorce; printed + a pamphlet to compose the minds of those disturbed by the murder of + Charles I.; as also a defence of his murderers, justifying the monarch's + execution, for which the author was awarded a thousand pounds; had become + secretary to Cromwell, whom he stooped to flatter; and had even, on the + advent of his majesty's return, written and set forth "A Ready and Easy + Way to establish a Free Commonwealth." ["To your virtue," writes John + Milton to Oliver Cromwell, "overpowering and resistless, every man gives + way, except some who, without equal qualifications, aspire to equal + honours, who envy the distinctions of merit greater than their own, and + who have yet to learn that, in the coalition of human society, nothing is + more pleasing to God, or more agreeable to reason, than that the highest + mind should have the sovereign power. Such, sir, are you, by general + confession: such are the things achieved by you, the greatest and most + glorious of our countrymen, the director of our public councils, the + leader of unconquered armies the father of your country; for by that title + does every good man hail you with sincere and voluntary praise."] + </p> + <p> + On the landing of Charles II. Milton withdrew to the privacy afforded by a + residence in Bartholomew Close, near West Smithfield. For a time he was + apprehensive of punishment. His pamphlet justifying the late king's + execution was, with others of a like kind, burned by the common hangman; + but though parliament ordered the attorney-general would prosecute the + authors of these works, Milton was neither seized nor brought to trial. + Soon after his arrival, Charles published an act of grace promising free + pardon to those instrumental in overthrowing his father's government, with + the exception of such as had contrived his death; and inasmuch as Milton + had but justified that monstrous act after it had taken place, he escaped + condemnation. Moreover, he received a special pardon, which passed the + privy seal in December, 1660. His escape has been attributed to his friend + Davenant. This loyal soldier had, when taken by Cromwell's troopers in the + civil war, been condemned to speedy death; from which, by Milton's + intercession, he escaped; an act of mercy Davenant now repaid in kind, by + appealing to his friends in behalf of the republican's safety. + </p> + <p> + Having secured his freedom, Milton lived in peace and obscurity in Jewin + Street, near Aldersgate Street. During the commonwealth his first wife, + the mother of his three children, had died; on which he sought solace and + companionship in a union with Catherine Woodcock, who survived her + marriage but twelve months; and being left free once more, he, in the year + of grace 1661, entered into the bonds of holy matrimony for a third time, + with Elizabeth Minshul, a lady of excellent family and shrewish temper, + who rendered his daughters miserable in their father's lifetime, and + defrauded them after his death. + </p> + <p> + In order to support his family he continued to keep a school, and likewise + employed himself in writing "Paradise Lost" the composition of which he + had begun five years previously. From his youth upwards he had been + ambitious to furnish the world with some important work; and prevision of + resulting fame had given him strength and fortitude in periods of + difficulty and depression. And now the time had arrived for realization of + his dream, though stricken by blindness, harassed by an unquiet wife, and + threatened by poverty, he laboured sore for fame. The more fully to enjoy + quiet necessary to his mental condition, he removed to a house in + Artillery Walk, Bunhill Fields. His life was one of simplicity. He rose as + early as four o'clock in summer and five in winter, and being "smit with + the love of sacred song," had a chapter of the Bible read to him; studied + until twelve, dined frugally at one, and afterwards held discourse with + such friends as came to visit him. + </p> + <p> + One of these was Thomas Elwood, a quaker much esteemed amongst good men, + who, in order that he might enjoy the advantages of the poet's + conversation, read Latin to him every afternoon save Sunday. The whilst + his voice rose and fell in regular monotony, the blind man drank his words + with thirsty ears; and so acute were the senses remaining to him, that + when Elwood read what he did not understand, Milton perceived it by the + inflection of his voice, and stopped him to explain the passage. In fair + weather the poet wandered abroad, enjoying the fragrance of sweet pasture + land, and the warmth of glad sunlight he might not behold. And anon, + seated in a high-backed chair without his door, his straight pale face + full of repose and dignity, his light brown hair falling in curls upon his + shoulders, his large grey eyes, "clear to outward view of blemish or of + spot," fixed on vacancy, his figure clad in coarse cloth—he received + those who sought his society. + </p> + <p> + In their absence the poet spent solitary hours conning over as many lines + of the great poem as his memory could store, until one of his friends + arrived, and relieved him by taking the staazas down. Frequently his + nephew, Edward Philips, performed this task for him. To him Milton was in + the habit of showing his work as it advanced, and Philips states he found + it frequently required correction in orthography and punctuation, by + reason of the various hands which had written it. As summer advanced, he + was no longer favoured by a sight of the poem; inquiring the reason of + which, Milton told him "his vein never happily flowed but from the + autumnal equinox to the vernal; and that whatever he attempted at other + times was never to his satisfaction, though he courted his fancy never so + much." + </p> + <p> + In the year 1665 "Paradise Lost" was completed, but no steps were taken + towards its publication, as the author, in company with his neighbours, + fled from the dreaded plague. The following year the citizens were + harassed by losses sustained from the great fire, so that Milton did not + seek to dispose of his poem until 1667; when, on the 27th of April, it was + sold to Samuel Simmons, a publisher residing in Aldersgate Street. The + agreement entered into stated Milton should receive an immediate payment + of five pounds, with the stipulation that he should be given an equal sum + on sale of thirteen hundred copies of the first edition, and five pounds + on disposal of the same number of the second edition, and yet five pounds + more after another such sale of the third edition. Each edition was to + number fifteen hundred books. Two years after the publication of "Paradise + Lost," its author received the second payment of five pounds; five years + later a third payment was made him; before the fourth fell due his life + had been set free from care. + </p> + <p> + From the first his poem had come in contact with a few receptive minds, + and borne the blessed fruit of appreciation. Richardson recounts that Sir + John Denham, a poet and man of culture, one morning brought a sheet of the + great epic fresh from the press to his friend Sir George Hungerford. "Why, + what have you there?" asked the latter. "Part of the noblest poem that was + ever written in any, language or in any age," said Sir John, as he laid + the pages before him. And a few weeks later my Lord Dorset, looking over a + bookstall in Little Britain, found a copy of this work, which he opened + carelessly at first, until he met some passages which struck him with + surprise and filled him with admiration: observing which the honest + bookseller besought him to speak in favour of the poem, for it lay upon + his hands like so much waste-paper. My lord bought a copy, carried it + home, read and sent it to Dryden, who, in due time returning the volume, + expressed his opinion of its merits in flattering terms. "The author," + said he, "cuts us all out—aye, even the ancients too." + </p> + <p> + Such instances as these were, however, few in number. That the work did + not meet with wider appreciation and quicker sale is not surprising when + it is called to mind that from 1623 to 1664 but two editions of + Shakespeare's works, comprising in all about one thousand copies, had been + printed. In an age when learning was by no means universal, and polite + reading uncommon, it was indeed a scource of congratulation, rather than a + topic for commiseration, that the work of a republican had in two years + reached a sale of thirteen hundred copies. + </p> + <p> + Before a third edition was required his fame had spread. The house in + which he had been born, in Bread Street, was shown with pride to foreign + visitors; parents sent their sons to read to him, that they might reap the + benefit of his remarks. The latter testimony to his genius was a tribute + the blind poet appreciated. But it happened there were times and seasons + when these obliging youths were not at hand, or when it was inconvenient + for him to receive them. On such occasions he demanded that his daughters + should read him the books he required, though these were frequently + written in Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Italian, and Spanish—languages of + which they were wholly ignorant. The torment this inflicted on those + striving to pronounce unaccustomed words which had no meaning to their + ears, and the torture endured by him, may readily be conceived. + Expressions of complaint on the one side, and of pain on the other, + continually interrupted the readings, which were eventually wholly + abandoned; the poet sending his children, whose education was so limited + that they were unable to write, to learn "ingenious sorts of manufacture + proper for women, particularly embroideries in gold and Silver." + </p> + <p> + When in 1665 Milton had shown his poem to Elwood, the good quaker + observed, "Thou hast said a great deal upon Paradise Lost: what hast thou + to say upon Paradise Found?" This question resting in the poet's mind, in + due time produced fruit; for no sooner had his first poem been published + than he set about composing the latter, which, under the name of "Paradise + Regained," was given to the world in 1670 "This," said he to Elwood, "is + owing to you; for you put it into my head by the question which you put to + me, which otherwise I had not thought of." This poem, he believed, had + merits far superior to those of "Paradise Lost," which he could not bear + to hear praised in preference to "Paradise Regained." In the same year he + published "Samson Agonistes," and two years later a treatise on "Logic," + and another on "True Religion, Heresy, Schism, Toleration, and the Best + Methods to Prevent the Growth of Popery." In this, the mind which had + soared to heaven and descended to hell in its boundless flight, argues + that catholics should not be allowed the right of public or private + worship. In the last year of his life he republished his "Juvenile Poems," + together with "Familiar Epistles in Latin." + </p> + <p> + He had now reached his sixty-sixth year. His life had been saddened by + blindness, his health enfeebled by illness, his domesticity troubled by + his first marriage and his last, his desires disappointed by the result of + political events. So that when, on the 10th of November, 1674, death + summoned him, he departed without regret. + </p> + <p> + Amongst those who visited Milton was John Dryden, whom the author of + "Paradise Lost" regarded as "a good rhymester, but no poet," an opinion + with which posterity has not held. At the restoration, John Dryden was in + his twenty-ninth year. The son of Sir Erasmus Dryden, Baronet, of Canons + Ashby, he enjoyed an income of two hundred pounds a year, a sum then + considered sufficient to defray the expenses of a young man of good + breeding. He had passed through Westminster School, taken a degree at + Cambridge, written a eulogistic stanza on the death of Cromwell, and a + joyous poem on the happy restoration of the merry monarch. + </p> + <p> + Three years after the arrival of his majesty, Dryden's comedy entitled + "The Wild Gallant" was produced, this being the first of twenty-eight + plays which followed. In the year 1668 he had the honour to succeed Sir + William Davenant as poet laureate, the salary attached to which office was + one hundred pounds a year and a tierce of wine. His dignity was moreover + enhanced, though his happiness was by no means increased, by his marriage + with the Lady Elizabeth Howard, daughter of the Earl of Berkshire. For my + lady's temper sorely marred the poet's peace, and left such impressions + upon his mind, that to the end of his days his invectives against the + bonds of matrimony were bitter and deep. In justice it must be mentioned + the Lady Elizabeth's mental condition was supposed to be unsettled; a + conjecture which was proved true by a madness which befell her, subsequent + to her husband's death. + </p> + <p> + Dryden was now a well known figure in town, consorting with men of the + highest quality and parts, and gossiping with wits and players who + frequented Will's coffee-house. Here, indeed, a special chair was + appropriated to his use; which being placed by the fire in winter, and on + the balcony in summer, he was pleased to designate as his winter and his + summer seat. At Will's he was wont to hold forth on the ingenuity of his + plays, the perfection of his poems, and the truth of astrology. It was + whilst leaving this coffee house one night a memorable occurrence befell + the poet, of which more anon. + </p> + <p> + It happened at one time the brilliant, poetical, and mercurial Earl of + Rochester extended his favour and friendship towards Dryden, gratified by + which, the poet had, after the manner of those days, dedicated a play to + him, "Marriage a la Mode." This favour his lordship received with + graciousness, and no doubt repaid with liberality. After a while, Dryden, + led by choice or interest, sought a new patron in the person of the Earl + of Mulgrave. For this nobleman Rochester had long entertained a bitter + animosity, which had arisen from rivalry, and had been intensified from + the fact that Rochester, refusing to fight him, had been branded as a + coward. Not daring to attack the peer, Rochester resolved to avenge + himself upon the poet. In order to effect his humiliation, the earl at + once bestowed his favour on Elkanah Settle, a playwright and poet of mean + abilities. He had originally been master of a puppet-show, had written + verses to order for city pageants, and produced a tragedy in heroic verse, + entitled "Cambyses, King of Persia." + </p> + <p> + His patron being at this time in favour with the king, introduced Settle + to the notice of the court, and induced the courtiers to play his second + tragedy, "The Empress of Morocco," at Whitehall, before their majesties. + This honour, which Dryden, though poet laureate, had never received, gave + Elkanah Settle unmerited notoriety; the benefit of which was apparent by + the applause his tragedy received when subsequently produced at the Duke's + Theatre in Dorset Gardens. Nor did the honour and profit which "The + Empress of Morocco" brought him end here; it was published by William + Cademan, and had the distinction of being the first English play ever + illustrated, or sold for the price of two shillings. It was scarce to be + expected, in an age when men ventilated their merest grievances by the + publication of pamphlets, Dryden could refrain from pointing out to the + public the mistake into which they had fallen by honouring this man. Nor + was he singular in his feelings of animosity. The poets Shadwell and + Crowne, believing themselves ignored and neglected, whilst their rival was + enriched and exalted, joined Dryden in writing a merciless criticism upon + Settle's tragedy. This was entitled "The Empress of Morocco, or some few + erratas to be printed instead of the sculptures + </p> + <p> + With the Second Edition of The Play. "This Settle Was Described As "an + Animal of a Most Deplored Intellect, Without Reading and Understanding;' + Whilst his Play Was Characterized As 'a Tale Told by an Idiot, Full of + Noise and Fury Signifying Nothing.' To These Remarks and Others of Like + Quality, Settle Replied in the Same Strain, So That the Quarrel Diverted + The Town and Even Disturbed The Quiet Of The Universities. Time Did Ample + Justice to Both Men; Lowering Settle To Play the Part of a Dragon in A + Booth at Bartholomew Fair, And Consecrating Dryden to Immortality." + </p> + <p> + Before the clamour resulting from this dispute had ended, Rochester, + fickle and eccentric, grew weary of his PROTEGE and consequently abandoned + him. He had not, however, tired of humiliating the laureate, and to + mortify him the more, introduced a new poet at court, This was John + Crowne, a man then little known to the town, and now best remembered as + author of "Sir Courtly Nice," a comedy of wit and entertainment. So well + did he succeed in obtaining favour at court, through Rochester's + influence, that the queen ordered him to write a masque. This command he + immediately obeyed, producing "Calisto, or the Chaste Nymph," which was + acted at Whitehall by the Duke of York's fair daughters, the Princesses + Mary and Anne, together with many gracious ladies and noble lords. Dryden, + probably the better to hide the mortification he felt at seeing his office + as laureate unceremoniously usurped, offered to write an epilogue for the + occasion; but this service was, through Rochester's interference, + rejected. The masque proved a brilliant success; "the dancing, singing, + and music, which were all in the highest perfection, and the graceful + action, incomparable beauty, and splendid habits of those ladies who + accompanied them, afforded the spectators extraordinary delight." + "Calisto" was therefore performed thirty times. + </p> + <p> + The author's gratitude for his lordship's patronage was only equalled by + his disappointment upon its hasty withdrawal. Growing weary of him, + Rochester found a more worthy object for his favour in Thomas Otway, a + poet rich in all the miseries which afflicted genius in those days. Son of + the rector of Woolbeding, pupil at Winchester School, and commoner of + Christchurch, Cambridge, he had on his arrival in town vainly sought + employment as an actor, and barely earned bread as a play-writer. Before + he became a PROTEGE of my Lord Rochester he had written "Alcibiades," a + tragedy, he being then, in 1665, in his twenty-fifth year. His next play + was "Don Carlos, Prince of Spain," which, through the earl's influence, + gained great success. In the preface to this tragedy he acknowledges his + unspeakable obligations to my lord, who he says made it his business to + establish "Don Carlos" in the good opinion of the king and of his royal + highness the Duke of York. Unwarned by the fate of his predecessors, and + heedless of the fickleness of his patron, he basked in hope in the + present, mercifully unconscious of the cruel death by starvation which + awaited him in the future. Alas! Rochester not only forsook him, but + loaded him with satire in a poem entitled "Session of the Poets." + </p> + <p> + In verses which he wrote soon after, entitled "An Allusion to the Tenth + Satire," Rochester likewise attacked Dryden; who, in the preface of his + "All for Love," replied in like manner. Then there appeared an "Essay on + Satire," which ridiculed the king, dealt severely with his mistresses, + said uncivil things of the courtiers in general, and of my Lord Rochester + in particular. The noble earl was indeed described as being "lewd in every + limb," affected in his wit, mean in his actions, and cowardly in his + disposition. Now, though this was conceived and brought forth by my Lord + Mulgrave, Rochester suspected Dryden of its authorship, and resolved to + punish him forthwith. Accordingly on the night of the 18th of December, + 1679, when Dryden was passing through Rose Street, Covent Garden, on his + homeward way from Will's Coffee House, he was waylaid by some ruffians, + and, before he could draw his sword, promptly surrounded and severely + beaten. + </p> + <p> + This occurrence caused considerable sensation throughout the town, and + though surmises arose in many minds as to who had hired the bravoes, it + was found impossible to prove them. In hope of gaining some clue to the + instigator of the attack, Dryden caused the following advertisement to be + inserted in the LONDON GAZETTE AND DOMESTIC INTELLIGENCE for three + consecutive days: "Whereas John Dryden, Esq., was on Monday, the 18th + instant, at night, barbarously assaulted and wounded in Rose Street, in + Covent Garden, by divers men unknown; if any person shall make discovery + of the said offenders to the said Mr. Dryden, or to any justice of the + peace, he shall not only receive fifty pounds, which is deposited in the + hands of Mr. Blanchard Goldsmith, next door to Temple Bar, for the said + purpose; but if he be a principal or an accessory in the said fact, his + majesty is graciously pleased to promise him his pardon for the same." + </p> + <p> + Dryden sought no opportunity for revenge; for which restraint, outliving + Rochester, and having a noble mind and generous disposition, he was no + doubt glad at heart. Not only did he survive the earl, but likewise the + king. To the company and conversation of that gracious sovereign the poet + was frequently admitted, a privilege which resulted in satisfaction and + pleasure to both. One pleasant day towards the end of his majesty's reign, + whilst they walked in the Mall, Charles said to him, "If I were a poet, + and indeed I think I am poor enough to be one, I would write a satire on + sedition." Taking this hint, Dryden speedily set himself to work, and + brought a poem on such a subject to his royal master, who rewarded him + with a hundred broad pieces. + </p> + <p> + Amongst Dryden's friends was the excellent and ingenious Abraham Cowley, + whose youth had given the promise of distinction his manhood fulfilled. It + is related that when quite a lad, he found in the window recess of his + mother's apartment a copy of Spencer's "Faerie Queene." Opening the book, + he read it with delight, and his receptive mind reflecting the poet's + fire, he resolved likewise to exercise the art of poesy. In 1628, when at + the age of ten, he wrote "The Tragic History of Pyramus and Thisbe;" five + years later he published a volume of poems; and whilst yet a schoolboy + wrote his pastoral comedy, "Love's Riddle." + </p> + <p> + When at St. John's College, Oxford, he gave proof of his loyalty by + writing a poem entitled the "Puritan and the Papist," which gained him the + friendship of courtiers. On the Queen of Charles I. taking refuge in + France, he soon followed her, and becoming secretary to the Earl of St. + Albans, conducted the correspondence between her majesty and the king, + ciphering and deciphering their letters, and such as were sent or received + by those immediately concerned in the cause of royalty. In this situation + he remained until four years previous to the restoration, when he was sent + into England for the purpose of observing the condition of the nation, and + reporting the same. Scarce had he set foot in London when he was seized, + examined, and only liberated on a friend offering bail for him to the + amount of one thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + The better to disguise the object of his visit, and lull suspicions of + republicans, he took out the degree of Doctor of Physic at Oxford; after + which he retired into Kent, where he devoted a great portion of his time + to the study of botany and the composition of poetry. On Cromwell's death + he hastened to France, and remained there until the king's return; which + he celebrated by a song of triumph. Like hundreds of others who had served + Charles in his exile, he looked forward to gratitude and reward, but met + disappointment and neglect. Amongst the numerous places and employments + the change of government opened in court and state, not one was offered + the loyal poet. + </p> + <p> + Nay, his hardships did not end here; for having, in 1663, produced his + merry comedy, "Cutter of Coleman Street," it was treated with severity as + a censure upon the king. Feeling over-nervous to witness the result of its + first representation, the poet absented himself from the playhouse; but + thither his friends Dryden and Sprat sped, hoping they might be able to + bear him tidings of its triumph. When they returned to him at night and + told him of its fate, "he received the news of its ill success," says + Sprat, "not with so much firmness as might have been expected from so + great a man." Of all intent to satirize the king he was entirely innocent—a + fact he set before the public in the preface to his play on its + publication. Having, he argues, followed the fallen fortunes of the royal + family so long, it was unlikely he would select the time of their + restoration to quarrel with them. + </p> + <p> + Feeling his grievances acutely, he now published a poem called "The + Complaint," which met with but little success; whereon, depressed by + ill-fortune and disgusted by ingratitude, he sought consolation in the + peace of a country life. Through the influence of his old friend, Lord St. + Albans, and the Duke of Buckingham, he obtained a lease of the queen's + lands at Chertsey, which produced him an income of about three hundred + pounds a year—a sum sufficient for his few wants and moderate + desires. He resided here but two years, when he died, on the 28th of July, + 1667. Milton, on hearing of his death, was troubled. The three greatest + English poets, he declared, were Spenser, Shakespeare, and Cowley. + </p> + <p> + The ungrateful neglect with which he was treated in life was sought to be + atoned for by useless honours paid him after death. His remains were first + conveyed to Wallingford House, then a residence of the Duke of Buckingham, + from whence they were carried in a coach drawn by six horses, and followed + by all the men of letters and wits of the town, divers stately bishops, + courtiers, and men of quality, whose carriages exceeded one hundred in + number, to Westminster Abbey. Here the Poet was laid at rest beside + Geoffrey Chaucer, and not far removed from gentle Spenser, whose words had + first inspired his happy muse. + </p> + <p> + The literary wealth of this reign was furthermore enhanced by the genius + of Butler, the inimitable author of "Hudibras," concerning whom little is + known, save that he was born in 1612, and spent his life in poverty. He + passed some years as clerk to a justice of the peace; he also served a + great man's steward, and acted as secretary to Sir Samuel Luke, one of + Cromwell's officers. With those of the commonwealth he held no part; that + he was a royalist at heart his great satire indicates. The first part of + this was published in the third year of the restoration, and was + introduced to the notice of his majesty by my Lord Dorset. So delighted + was the monarch by its wit that its lines were continually on his lips, an + example speedily followed by the courtiers. It was considered certain a + man possessing such brilliant genius and loyal nature would be rewarded + with place or pension; but neither boon was bestowed upon him. Resting his + hopes on future achievements, the second part of "Hudibras" appeared in + 1664; but again his recompense was delayed. Clarendon made him promises of + valuable employments, which were never fulfilled; and to soothe his + disappointment the king sent him a present of three hundred guineas. + </p> + <p> + Indignant at the neglect from which he suffered, his friend Wycherley + spoke to the Duke of Buckingham on his behalf, saying it was a shame to + the court a man of Butler's parts should be allowed to suffer want. With + this his grace readily agreed, and promised to use his influence towards + remedying the poet's ill-fortune; but time went by, and his condition + remained unaltered. Whereon Wycherley conceived the idea of bringing + Butler and the duke together, that the latter might the more certainly + remember him. He therefore succeeded in making his grace name an hour and + place in which they might meet. So it came to pass they were together one + day at the Roebuck Tavern; but scarce had Buckingham opened his lips when + a pimp of his acquaintance—"the creature was likewise a knight"—passed + by with a couple of ladies. To a man of Buckingham's character the + temptation was too seductive to be neglected; accordingly, he darted after + those who allured him, leaving the needy poet, whom he saw no more. Butler + lived until 1680, dying in poverty. Longueville, having in vain solicited + a subscription to defray the expenses of the poet's burial in Westminster + Abbey, laid him to rest in the churchyard of Covent Garden. + </p> + <p> + Wycherley, the friend of Butler, though a child of the Muses, was superior + to poverty. He was born in the year of grace 1640, and early in life sent + for his better education into France. Returning to England soon after the + king had come unto his own, young Wycherley entered Queen's College, + Oxford, from whence he departed without obtaining a degree. He then betook + himself to town, and became a law student. The Temple, however, had less + attraction for him than the playhouse. Indeed, before leaving Oxford he + had, written a couple of comedies—to wit, "Love in a Wood," and "The + Gentleman Dancing Master," a fact entitling him to be considered a man of + parts. Not satisfied with this distinction, he soon developed tastes for + pleasures of the town, and became a man of fashion. His wit illuminated + choice gatherings of congenial spirits at coffee-houses; his epigrams were + repeated by boon companions in the precincts of the court. + </p> + <p> + In the year 1672 his comedy "Love in a Wood" was produced. It immediately + gained universal favour, and, moreover, speedily attracted the attention + of his majesty's mistress, the Duchess of Cleveland. Wycherley was a man + well to look upon: her grace was a lady eager for adventure. Desiring his + acquaintance, and impatient of delay, she introduced herself to his notice + in a manner eminently characteristic of the age. It happened when driving + one day through Pall Mall, she encountered Wycherley riding in his coach + in an opposite direction. Thrusting her head out of the window of her + vehicle, she saluted the author with a title unknown to the conversations + of polite society in the present day. + </p> + <p> + The fashionable playwright understanding the motive which prompted her + remark, hastily ordered his coach to follow hers; and, overtaking her, + uncovered and began a speech becoming so ardent a gallant. + </p> + <p> + "Madam," said he, "you have been pleased to bestow a title on me which + belongs only to the fortunate. Will your ladyship be at the play + to-night?" + </p> + <p> + "Well," replied her grace, well pleased at this beginning, "what if I am + there?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, then," answered he, "I will be there to wait on your ladyship, + though I disappoint a fine woman who has made me an assignation." + </p> + <p> + "So," said this frail daughter of Eve, greedily swallowing his flattery, + "you are sure to disappoint a woman who has favoured you for one who has + not?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," quoth he, readily enough, "if the one who has not favoured me is + the finer woman of the two. But he who can be constant to your ladyship + till he can find a finer, is sure to die your captive." + </p> + <p> + That night her grace sat in the front row of the king's box at Drury Lane + playhouse, and sure enough there was handsome Will Wycherley sitting in + the pit underneath. The gentleman cast his eyes upwards and sighed; the + lady looked down and played with her fan; after which preliminaries they + fell into conversation which both found far more interesting than the + comedy then being enacted before their eyes. This was the beginning of an + intimacy concerning which the court made merry, and of which the town + spoke scandal. My lady disguised herself as a country wench, and visited + his chambers, Mr. Wycherley dedicated his play, "Love in a Wood," to her + in elegant phraseology, He was of opinion that she stood as little in need + of flattery as her beauty did of art; he was anxious to let the world know + he was the greatest admirer she had; and he was desirous of returning her + his grateful acknowledgment for the favours he had received from her. + </p> + <p> + The interest of this romance was presently intensified by the introduction + of a rival in the person of the Duke of Buckingham. Probably from fear an + intrigue with such a prominent figure would, if indulged in, quickly + become known to the king, she refused to encourage Buckingham's love. His + grace was not only a passionate lover, but likewise a revengeful man; + accordingly, he resolved to punish my lady for her lack of good taste. It + therefore became his habit to speak of her intrigues before the court, and + to name the individuals who received her favours. Now Wycherley, being + amongst these, grew fearful his amour with the duchess should become known + to the king, from whom at this time he expected an appointment. + Accordingly, he besought his good friends, Lord Rochester and Sir Charles + Sedley, to remonstrate on his behalf with the duke. These gentlemen + undertook that kindly office, and in order to make the rivals acquainted, + besought his grace to sup with the playwright. The duke complying with + their request, met Wycherley in a friendly spirit, and soon professed + himself delighted with his wit; nay, before the feast was over he drank + his health in a bumper of red wine, and declared himself Mr. Wycherley's + very good friend and faithful servant henceforth. + </p> + <p> + Moreover, he was as good as his word; for, being master of the horse, he + soon after appointed Wycherley an equerry, and subsequently gave him a + commission as captain of a regiment of which he was colonel. Nor did the + duke's services to the dramatist end here; for when occasion offered he + introduced him to the merry monarch, and so pleased was the king with the + author's conversational powers that he admitted him to his friendship. His + majesty's regard for Wycherley gradually ripened, and once when he lay ill + of fever at his lodgings in Bow Street, Covent Garden, the merry monarch + visited him, cheered him with words of kindness, and promised he would + send him to Montpelier when he was well enough to travel. For this good + purpose Charles sent him five hundred pounds, and Wycherley spent the + winter of 1679 abroad. + </p> + <p> + Previous to this date he had written, besides his first comedy, three + others which had been received with great favour by the town, viz., "The + Gentleman Dancing Master," "The Country Wife," and "The Plain Dealer." + Soon after his return to England the crisis of his life arrived, and he + married. His introduction to the lady whom fate ordained to become his + wife is not the least singular episode in a remarkable biography. Being at + Tunbridge Wells, then a place of fashion and liberty, he was one day + walking with a friend named Fairbeard. And it happened as they were + passing a book-stall they overheard a gentlewoman inquire for the "Plain + Dealer." + </p> + <p> + "Madam," says Mr. Fairbeard, uncovering, "since you are for the 'Plain + Dealer,' there he is for you;" whereon he led Wycherley towards her. + </p> + <p> + "This lady," says that gentleman, making her a profound bow, "can bear + plain speaking; for she appears to be so accomplished, that what would be + compliment said to others, spoken to her would be plain dealing." + </p> + <p> + "No truly, sir," replied the lady; "I am not without my faults, like the + rest of my sex; and yet, notwithstanding all my faults, I love plain + dealing, and never am more fond of it than when it points out my errors." + </p> + <p> + "Then, madam," said Mr. Fairbeard, "you and the plain dealer seem designed + by heaven for each other." + </p> + <p> + These pretty speeches having been delivered and received with every mark + of civility, Mr. Wycherley made his exit with the lady, who was none other + than the Countess of Drogheda, a young widow gifted with beauty and + endowed by fortune. Day by day he waited on her at her lodging, + accompanied her in her walks, and attended her to the assemblies. Finally, + when she returned to town he married her. It is sad yet true the union did + not result in perfect happiness. Mr. Wycherley had a reputation for + gallantry, the Countess of Drogheda was the victim of suspicion. Knowing + jealousy is beget by love, and mindful of sacrifices she had made in + marrying him, Wycherley behaved towards her with much kindness. In + compliance with her wishes he desisted visiting the court, a place she + probably knew from experience was rife with temptation; and moreover when + he cracked a bottle of wine with convivial friends at the Cock Tavern, + opposite his lodgings in Bow Street, he, for the greater satisfaction of + his wife, would leave the windows open of the room in which he sat, that + she might from the vantage ground of her home see there were no hussies in + the company. + </p> + <p> + As proof of her love, she, when dying, settled her fortune upon him; but + unhappily his just right was disputed by her family. The case therefore + went into litigation, for the expenses of which, together with other + debts, Wycherley was cast into prison. Here the brilliant wit, clever + writer, and boon companion, was allowed to remain seven long years. When + released from this vile bondage, another king than the merry monarch + occupied the English throne. + </p> + <p> + The name of Andrew Marvel is inseparably connected with this period. He + was born in the year 1620 in the town of Kingston-upon-Hull; his father + being a clever school-master, worthy minister, and "an excellent preacher, + who never broached what he had never brewed, but that which he had studied + some compitent time before." At the age of fifteen, Andrew Marvell was + sent to Trinity College, Cambridge. But he had not long been there when he + withdrew himself, lured, as some authorities state, by wiles of the wicked + Jesuits; repulsed, as others say, by severities of the head of his + college. Leaving the university, he set out for London, where his father, + who hastened thither in search of him, found him examining some old + volumes on a book-stall. He was prevailed to return to his college, where, + in 1638, he took his degree as bachelor of arts. + </p> + <p> + On the completion of his studies and death of his father, he travelled + through Holland, France, and Italy. Whilst abroad he began to produce + those satirical verses such as were destined to render him famous. One of + his earliest efforts in this direction was aimed at the Abbe de Maniban, a + learned ecclesiastic, whose chief fault in Marvell's eyes lay in the fact + of his professing to judge characters from handwriting. + </p> + <p> + Whilst in Italy, Andrew Marvell met John Milton, and they having many + tastes and convictions in common, became fast friends. In 1653, the former + returned to England, and for some time acted as tutor to Mistress Fairfax; + he being an excellent scholar, and a great master of the Latin tongue. He + now led a peaceful and obscure life until 1657. In that year, Milton, + "laying aside," as he wrote, "those jealousies, and that emulation which + mine own condition might suggest to me," introduced him to Bradshaw; soon + after which he was made assistant-secretary to Milton, who was then in the + service of Cromwell. + </p> + <p> + He had not been long engaged in this capacity, when the usurper died; and + Marvell's occupation being gone, the goodly burgesses of the town of Hull, + who loved him well, elected him as their representative in parliament, for + which service, in accordance with a custom of the time, he was paid. The + salary, it is true, was not large, amounting to two shillings a day for + borough members; yet when kindly feeling and honest satisfaction mutually + existed between elector and representative, as in Marvell's case, the wage + was at times supplemented by such acceptable additions as home-cured pork + and home-brewed ale, "We must first give you thanks," wrote Marvell on one + occasion to his constituents, on the receipt of a cask of beer, "for the + kind present you have pleased to send us, which will give occasion to us + to remember you often; but the quantity is so great, that it might make + sober men forgetful." + </p> + <p> + He now, in the warfare of political life, made free use of his keen wit + and bitter sarcasm as serviceable weapons. These were chiefly employed in + exposing measures he considered calculated to ruin the country, though + they might gratify the king. However, he had no hatred of monarchy, but + would occasionally divert Charles by the sharpness of his satire and + brilliancy of his wit. Considering how valuable these would be if employed + in service of the court, Charles resolved to tempt Marvell's integrity. + For this purpose the Lord Treasurer Danby sought and found him in his + chamber, situated in the second floor of a mean house standing in a court + off the Strand. Groping his way up the dark and narrow staircase of the + domicile, the great minister stumbled, and falling against a door, was + precipitated into Marvell's apartment, head foremost. Surprised at his + appearance, the satirist asked my Lord Danby if he had not mistaken his + way. "No," said the courtier with a bow, "not since I have found Mr. + Marvell." He then proceeded to tell him that the king, being impressed by + a high sense of his abilities, was desirous of serving him. Apprehending + what services were expected in return, Marvell answered that he who + accepted favours from the court was bound to vote in its interests. "Nay," + said my lord, "his majesty but desires to know if there is any place at + court you would accept." On which Marvell replied he could receive nothing + with honour, for either he must treat the king with ingratitude by + refusing compliance with court measures, or be a traitor to his country by + yielding to them. The only favour he therefore begged was, that his + majesty would esteem him a loyal subject; the truer to his interests in + refusing his offers than he would be by accepting them. It is stated that + Lord Danby, surprised at so much purity in an age of corruption, + furthermore tempted him with a bag of gold, which Marvell obstinately + refused to accept. + </p> + <p> + He died suddenly in the year 1678, leaving behind him a reputation for + humour and satire which has rarely been excelled. + </p> + <p> + Besides these poets and dramatists, there were other great men, who as + prose writers, helped to render the literary history of the period + remarkable for its brilliancy. Amongst these were Lord Clarendon, High + Chancellor of England, concerning whom much has already been said; and + Thomas Hobbs of Malmesbury, better known as author of "The History of the + Causes of the Civil War," and of "Human Nature," than as a translator of + the Iliad and the Odyssey. Dr. Gilbert Burnet, author of "The History of + his Own Times;" and Dr. Ralph Cudworth, author of "The True Intellectual + System of the Universe," were likewise men of note. But one whose name is + far more familiar than any writer of his time is John Bunyan, author of + "The Pilgrim's Progress." + </p> + <p> + He was the son of a tinker, and was born within a mile of Bedford town in + the year 1628. He imbibed at an early age the spirit of Puritanism, fought + in the civil wars, took to himself a wife, and turned preacher. Six months + after the merry monarch landed, Bunyan was flung into Bedford gaol, where, + rather than refrain from puritanical discourses, in the utterance of which + he believed himself divinely inspired, he remained, with some short + intervals of liberty, for twelve years. When offered freedom at the price + of silence, he replied, "If you let me out to-day, I will preach + to-morrow." Nay, even in his confinement he delivered sermons to his + fellow-prisoners; and presently he commenced to write. His convictions + leading him to attack the liturgy of the Church of England, and the + religion of the Quakers, his productions became popular amongst + dissenters. At length, by an act annulling the penal statutes against + Protestant Nonconformists and Roman Catholics, passed in 1671, he was + liberated. When he left prison he carried with him a portion of his + "Pilgrim's Progress," which was soon after completed and published, though + at what date remains uncertain. In 1678 a second edition was printed, and + such was the growth of its popularity, that six editions were issued + within the following four years. + </p> + <p> + Now he became famous, his lot was far different from what it had been; his + sermons were heard by eager audiences, his counsel was sought by those in + trouble, his prayers were regarded as the utterances of inspiration. Once + a year he rode, attended by vast crowds, from Bedford Town to London City, + that he might preach to those burdened by sin; and from the capital he + made a circuit of the country, where he was hailed as a prophet. His life + extended beyond the reign of King Charles; his influence lasted till his + death. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Time's flight leaves the king unchanged.—The Rye House + conspiracy.—Profligacy of the court.—The three duchesses.—The king + is taken ill.—The capital in consternation.—Dr. Ken questions his + majesty.—A Benedictine monk sent for.—Charles professes catholicity + and receives the Sacraments.—Farewell to all.—His last night on + earth.—Daybreak and death.—He rests in peace. +</pre> + <p> + His majesty's habits changed but little with the flight of time, To the + end of his reign the court continued brilliant and profligate. Wits, + courtezans, and adventurers crowded the royal drawing-rooms, and conversed + without restraint; the monarch pursued his pleasures with unsatiated zest, + taking to himself two new mistresses, Lady Shannon and Catherine Peg, who + respectively bore him a daughter and a son, duly created Countess of + Yarmouth and Earl of Plymouth. For a while, indeed, a shadow fell upon the + life of the merry monarch, when, in 1683, he was roused to a sense of + danger by discovery of the Rye House conspiracy. + </p> + <p> + This foul plot, entered into by the Whigs on failure of the Exclusion + Bill, had for its object the murder of his majesty and of the Duke of + York. Before arriving at maturity its existence and intentions were + revealed by one of the conspirators, when William Lord Russell, the Earl + of Essex, and Algernon Sidney, second son of the Earl of Leicester, were + arrested and charged with high treason. My Lord Essex died in the Tower by + his own hand; Lord Russell was condemned on testimony of one witness, and + duly executed; as was likewise Algernon Sidney, whose writings on + Republicanism were used as evidence against him. On the revelation of this + wicked scheme the country became wildly excited, and the king grievously + afflicted. A melancholy seized upon his majesty, who stirred not abroad + without double guards; and the private doors of Whitehall and avenues of + the park were closed. + </p> + <p> + From this condition, however, he gradually recovered, and resumed his + usual habits. Accordingly, we find him engaged in "luxurious dalliance and + prophaneness" with the Duchess of Mazarine, and visiting the Duchess of + Portsmouth betimes in her chamber, where that bold and voluptuous woman, + fresh risen from bed, sat in loose garments talking to the king and his + gallants, the while her maids combed her beautiful hair. + </p> + <p> + "I can never forget," says John Evelyn, writing on the 4th of February, + 1685, "the inexpressible luxury and prophaneness, gaming, and all + dissoluteness, and as it were total forgetfullnesse of God (it being + Sunday evening), which this day se'nnight I was witnesse of, the king + sitting and toying with his concubines, Portsmouth, Cleveland, and + Mazarine, etc., a French boy singing love songs in that glorious gallery, + whilst about twenty of the greate courtiers and other dissolute persons + were at basset round a large table, a bank of at least two thousand in + gold before them, upon which two gentlemen who were with me made + reflexions with astonishment. Six days after was all in the dust." + </p> + <p> + For now the end of all things had come for Charles Stuart. It happened on + the morning of the 2nd of February, 1685, the day being Monday, the king + whilst in his bedroom was seized by an apoplectic fit, when crying out, he + fell back in his chair, and lay as one dead. Wildly alarmed, his + attendants summoned Dr. King, the physician in waiting, who immediately + bled him, and had him carried to bed. Then tidings spread throughout the + palace, that his majesty hovered betwixt life and death; which should + claim him no man might say. Whereon the Duke of York hastened to his + bedside, as did likewise the queen, her face blanched, her eyes wild with + terror. His majesty after some time recovering consciousness, slowly + realized his sad condition. Then he conceived a fear, the stronger as + begotten by conviction, that the sands of his life had run their course. + Throughout that day and the next he fainted frequently, and showed + symptoms of epilepsy. On Wednesday he was cupped and bled in both + jugulars; but on Thursday he was pronounced better, when the physicians, + anxious to welcome hope, spoke of his probable recovery. + </p> + <p> + But, alas, the same evening he grew restless, and signs of fever became + apparent. Jesuits' powders, then of great repute, were given him, but with + no good result. Complaining of a pain in his side, the doctors drew twelve + ounces more of blood from him. Exhaustion then set in; all hope of life + was over. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the capital was in a state of consternation. Prayers for his + majesty's recovery were offered up in all churches throughout the city; + likewise in the royal chapels, where the clergy relieved each other every + quarter of an hour. Crowds gathered by day and night without the palace + gates, eager to learn the latest change in the king's condition from those + who passed to and fro. Inside Whitehall all was confusion. Members of the + Privy Council assembled in the room adjoining that where the monarch lay; + politicians and ambassadors conversed in whispers in the disordered + apartments; courtiers of all degrees flocked through the corridors bearing + signs of deep concern upon their countenances. + </p> + <p> + And amongst others who sought his majesty's presence was the Archbishop of + Canterbury, together with the Bishops of London, Durham, Ely, and Bath and + Wells; all being anxious to render spiritual services to the king. Of + these good men, Charles liked best Dr. Ken, Bishop of Bath and Wells, + having most faith in his honesty. For, when his lordship was a prebend of + Winchester, it had happened Charles passed through that city, accompanied + by Nell Gwynn, when Dr. Ken refused to receive her beneath his roof even + at the king's request. This proof of integrity so pleased his majesty, + that he gave him the next vacant bishopric by way of reward. And now, his + lordship being at hand, he read prayers for the Sick from out the Common + Prayer Book for his benefit, until coming to that part where the dying are + exhorted to make confession of their sins, when the bishop paused and said + such was not obligatory. He then asked his majesty if he were sorry for + the iniquities of his life? when the sick man, whose heart was exceeding + heavy, replied he was; whereon the bishop pronounced absolution, and asked + him if he would receive the Sacrament. To this Charles made no reply, + until the same question had been repeated several times, when his majesty + answered he would think of it. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of York, who stood by the while, noting the king's answer, and + aware of his tendencies towards Catholicism, bade those who had gathered + round stand aside; and then, bending over him, asked in a low tone if he + might send for a priest. A look of unspeakable relief came into the king's + face, and he answered, "For God's sake do, brother, and lose no time." + Then another thought flashing across his mind, he said, "But will not this + expose you to much danger?" James made answer, "Though it cost me my life + I will bring you a priest." He then hurried into the next room, where, + among all the courtiers, he could find no man he could trust, save a + foreigner, one Count Castelmachlor. Calling him aside, he secretly + despatched him in search of a priest. + </p> + <p> + Between seven and eight o'clock that evening, Father Huddleston, the + Benedictine friar who had aided the king's escape after the battle of + Worcester, awaited at the queen's back stairs the signal to appear in his + majesty's presence. The duke being made aware of the fact, announced it to + the king, who thereon ordered all in his room to withdraw; but James, + mindful that slander might afterwards charge him with killing his brother, + begged the Earl of Bath, the lord of the bedchamber then in waiting, and + the Earl of Feversham, captain of the guard, might stay—saying to + the king it was not fitting he should be unattended in his weak condition. + These gentlemen therefore remained. And no sooner had all others departed + than the monk was admitted by a private entrance to the chamber. The king + received him with great joy and satisfaction, stating he was anxious to + die in the communion of the catholic church, and declaring he was sorry + for the wrongs of his past life, which he yet hoped might be pardoned + through the merits of Christ. + </p> + <p> + He then, as we read in the Stuart Papers, "with exceeding compunction and + tenderness of heart," made an exact confession of his sins, after which he + repeated an act of contrition, and received absolution. He next desired to + have the other Sacraments of the church proper to his condition + administered to him: on which the Benedictine asked if he desired to + receive the Eucharist; eagerly he replied, "If I am worthy pray fail not + to let me have it." Then Father Huddleston, after some exhortation, + prepared to give him the Sacrament; when the dying man, struggling to + raise himself, exclaimed, "Let me meet my heavenly Lord in a better + posture than lying in bed." But the priest begged he would not move, and + then gave him the Communion, which he received with every sign of fervour. + And for some time he prayed earnestly, the monk and the duke kneeling by + the while, silence obtaining in the room. This was presently broken by the + sad and solemn tones of the priest's voice, reading a commendation of the + soul to its Maker: the which being ended, the Benedictine, with tears in + his eyes, took leave of his majesty. "Ah," said Charles, "you once saved + my body; you have now saved my soul." Then the monk gave him his + benediction, and departed as quietly as he had come. + </p> + <p> + Then those waiting without were once more admitted to the room, when + Charles nerved himself to take a sad farewell of those around him. He + first publicly thanked his brother for the services and affection he had + ever rendered him through life, and extolled his obedience and submission + to his commands. Giving him his keys, he said he had left him all he + possessed, and prayed God would bless him with a happy and prosperous + reign. Finally, he recommended all his children to him by name, excepting + only the Duke of Monmouth then in Holland, and suffering from the king's + displeasure; and besought him to extend his kindness towards the Duchesses + of Portsmouth and Cleveland; "and do not," said he, "let poor Nelly + starve." Whilst these commands were addressed him, the duke had flung + himself on his knees by the bedside, and, bursting into tears, kissed his + brother's hand. + </p> + <p> + The queen, who had scarce left his majesty since the beginning of his + illness, was at this time absent, her love and grief not permitting her to + endure this afflicting scene. He spoke most tenderly of her; and when + presently she sent a message praying he would pardon her absence in regard + to her excessive grief, and forgive her withal if at any time she had + offended him, he replied, "Alas, poor woman! She beg my pardon?—I + beg hers, with all my heart." He next summoned his children to him, one by + one, and addressing them with words of advice, embraced them heartily and + blessed them fervently. And he being the Lord's anointed, the bishops + present besought he would give them his benediction likewise, and all that + were present, and in them the whole body of his subjects; in compliance + with which request he, with some difficulty, raised himself, and all + falling on their knees, he blessed them fervently. Then they arose and + departed. + </p> + <p> + Silence fell upon the palace; night wore slowly away. Charles tossed upon + his bed racked with pain, but no complaint escaped his lips. Those who + watched him in the semi-darkened room heard him ask God to accept his + sufferings in atonement for his sins. Then, speaking aloud, he declared + himself weary of life, and hoped soon to reach a better world. Courteous + to the last, he begged pardon for the trouble he gave, inasmuch as he was + long in dying. And anon he slumbered, and quickly woke again in agony and + prayed with zeal. Never had time moved with slower passage for him; not + hours, but weeks, seemed to elapse between each stroke of the clock; and + yet around him was darkness and tardy night. But after much weary waiting, + morning was at hand, the time-piece struck six. "Draw the curtains," said + the dying man, "that I may once more see day." The grey light of a + February dawn, scarce brightened to eastward a cheerless sky; but he + hailed this herald of sunrise with infinite relief and terrible regret; + relief that he had lived to see another day; regret that no more morns + should break for him. + </p> + <p> + His soul tore itself from his body with fierce struggles and bitter pain. + It was hard for him to die, but he composed himself to enter eternity + "with the piety becoming a Christian, and the resolution becoming a king;" + as his brother narrates. About ten o'clock on Friday morning, February + 6th, 1685, he found relief in unconsciousness; before midday chimed he was + dead. He had reached the fifty-fifth year of his life, and the + twenty-fifth year of his reign. + </p> + <p> + His illegitimate progeny was numerous, numbering fifteen, besides those + who died in infancy. These were the Duke of Monmouth and a daughter + married to William Sarsfield, children of Lucy Walters; the Dukes of + Southampton, Grafton, and Northumberland, the Countesses of Litchfield and + of Sussex, and a daughter Barbara, who became a nun, children of the + Duchess of Cleveland; the Duke of Richmond, son of the Duchess of + Portsmouth; the Duke of St. Albans, and a son James, children of Nell + Gwynn; Lady Derwentwater, daughter of Moll Davis; the Countess of + Yarmouth, daughter of Lady Shannon; and the Earl of Plymouth, son of + Catherine Peg. + </p> + <p> + For seven days the remains of the late king lay in state; on the eighth + they were placed in Westminster Abbey. The ceremony was of necessity + conducted in a semi-private manner for by reason of his majesty dying in + the Catholic religion, his brother considered it desirable the ceremonies + prescribed for the occasion by the English church should be dispensed + with. Therefore, in order to avoid disputes or scandal, the king was laid + in the tomb without ostentation. At night his remains were carried from + the painted chamber in Westminster sanctuary to the abbey. The procession, + headed by the servants of the nobility, of James II., and his queen, of + the dowager queen, and of the late king, was followed by the barons, + bishops, and, peers according to their rank; the officers of the + household, and the Archbishop of Canterbury. Then came all that was mortal + of his late majesty, borne under a canopy of velvet, supported by six + gentlemen of the privy chamber, the pall being held by six earls. Prince + George of Denmark—subsequently husband of Queen Anne—acted as + chief mourner, attended by the Dukes of Somerset and Beaufort, and sixteen + earls. One of the kings of Arms carried the crown and cushion, the train + being closed by the king's band of gentlemen pensioners, and the yeomen of + the guard. + </p> + <p> + At the abbey entrance the dean and prebendaries, attended by torch + bearers, and followed by a surpliced choir, met the remains, and joined + the procession, the slow pacing figures of which seemed spectral in this + hour and place; then the sad cortege passed solemnly through the grey old + abbey, the choir chanting sorrowfully the while, the yellow flare of + torches marking the prevailing gloom. And being come to the chapel of + Henry VII., the body of the merry monarch was suffered there to rest in + peace. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Royalty Restored, by J. 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