# April 1667 explained — The Diary

> Chapter companion for The Diary by Samuel Pepys.

## What happens

In April 1667, Pepys navigates the Navy's dire financial straits, confronts internal office conflicts, and receives news of a potential peace. He also enjoys domestic pleasures, including singing with his wife and maids, and learns of a match for Lord Hinchingbroke.

## Themes in this chapter

### Naval Administration and Corruption

Pepys and Coventry discuss the Navy's lack of funds and internal conflicts, highlighting administrative decay.

### Political Intrigue and Restoration

Carteret's private talk about Lord Sandwich's return and potential appointment as Lord Treasurer reveals court maneuvering.

### Daily Life and Domesticity

Pepys enjoys walks, singing with his wife and maids, and notes domestic gossip about neighbors.

## Character check-ins

### Samuel Pepys

Records his daily activities, including office work, social visits, and domestic life.

### Sir William Coventry

Discusses the need for peace due to lack of funds and criticizes Sir G. Carteret's inaction on money matters.

### Sir George Carteret

Shows discontent over naval administration and shares private plans for Lord Sandwich's return and a match for Lord Hinchingbroke.

### Elizabeth Pepys

Accompanies Pepys on walks and sings with him at home.

### Sir William Penn

Mentioned in gossip about his family's poor household management despite outward show.

### Lord Brouncker

Involved in office disputes over Carcasse's case, with Pett eager to use it against him.

### Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich

Expected home soon; discussed as a potential Lord Treasurer and for his son's marriage arrangement.

### Mr. Hewer

Mentioned as part of Pepys's household, though not directly active in this chapter.

## Key lines

> he flatly owns that we must have a peace, for we cannot set out a fleet

Coventry admits that peace is unavoidable because the Navy cannot afford to equip a fleet.

_Highlights the dire financial state of the Navy._

> I did pacify all I could, and then away by water home

Pepys calmed the situation and then returned home by boat.

_Shows Pepys's role as a mediator in office disputes._

> he could wish, when my Lord comes, that he would think fit to forbear playing, as a thing below him

Carteret hopes Lord Sandwich will stop gambling, which he sees as beneath his dignity.

_Reflects contemporary attitudes toward gambling and social status._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/april-1667
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters