The Diary · Chapter
April 1664 explained
Pepys navigates the complexities of naval administration and the growing tensions with the Dutch, while managing personal finances, family concerns, and his own ambitions.
What happens
Pepys navigates the complexities of naval administration and the growing tensions with the Dutch, while managing personal finances, family concerns, and his own ambitions. He engages in political discourse, observes the royal court, and reflects on the state of the Navy Office, all against the backdrop of preparations for a potential war.
Themes in this chapter
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys details the mismanagement and corruption at the Navy Office, particularly by Sir W. Batten and Sir J. Minnes, and discusses reforms with Mr. Coventry.
Political Intrigue and Restoration
The chapter captures the political maneuvering around the Dutch war, the Duke of York's stance, and the scrutiny of individuals like Creed by the Council.
Money, Debt, and Economy
Pepys is preoccupied with his own finances, particularly money held by Lord Sandwich, who is deep in debt, reflecting the economic anxieties of the period.
Daily Life and Domesticity
The diary includes domestic scenes such as Pepys's father staying overnight, visits to the park, and the couple's decision to avoid a play, illustrating everyday life.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
The diarist and narrator, deeply involved in office politics, naval preparations, and personal financial worries.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Pepys's wife, who accompanies him on outings and visits, and shares concerns about their money held by Lord Sandwich.
- Sir William Batten
A colleague at the Navy Office, frequently criticized by Pepys for his poor management and knavery.
- Sir John Minnes
A fellow Navy Commissioner, described by Pepys as a doting fool who blindly follows Batten.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Pepys's patron, whose financial troubles and potential sea voyage cause Pepys anxiety about his own money.
- Sir William Coventry
A key figure in naval administration, with whom Pepys discusses office disorders and the prospect of war with the Dutch.
- Mr. Creed
A man Pepys suspects of being a false rogue, involved in questionable dealings and under scrutiny by the Council.
- Roger Pepys
Pepys's father, who stays with him and evokes deep affection and concern for his family's welfare.
Key passages
“I perceive do much wish that the Parliament will find reason to fall out with them.”
Pepys notes that the Duke of York seems eager for Parliament to have a pretext for conflict with the Dutch.
Reflects the political desire for war with the Dutch Republic.
“he told me fully that he believes it will not come to a war; for first, he showed me a letter from Sir George Downing, his own hand, where he assures him that the Dutch themselves do not desire, but above all things fear it”
Mr. Coventry shares a letter from Sir George Downing indicating the Dutch fear and do not want war, suggesting conflict may be avoided.
Highlights the diplomatic uncertainty and conflicting intelligence about Dutch intentions.
“He counted to me how my Lord pays use now for above £9,000, which is a sad thing, especially considering the probability of his going to sea, in great danger of his life, and his children, many of them, to provide for.”
Mr. Moore informs Pepys that Lord Sandwich is over £9,000 in debt, a worrying situation given his possible naval command and family responsibilities.
Illustrates the financial precariousness of even high-ranking nobles during this period.
