The Diary · Chapter
August 1662 explained
Pepys records his daily activities, including a trip to Chatham, attendance at the theatre, and various naval and personal business.
What happens
Pepys records his daily activities, including a trip to Chatham, attendance at the theatre, and various naval and personal business. He deals with headaches, physical pain, and domestic concerns, while also engaging in social and professional interactions with figures like Mr. Coventry and Lord Sandwich.
Themes in this chapter
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys inspects Chatham dockyard, discusses naval abuses, and engages with officials like Commissioner Pett and Mr. Coventry.
Political Intrigue and Restoration
Discussions with Lord Sandwich about discontents of the times and the political climate under Charles II.
Daily Life and Domesticity
Pepys records his health issues, domestic arrangements, and personal interactions, including his interest in maids.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
Narrator and central figure; records his health, work, and social engagements.
- Mr. Creed
Dines with Pepys and Mr. Moore on August 1st.
- Mr. Moore
Dines with Pepys and Mr. Creed on August 1st; walks with Pepys on August 10th.
- Captain Cocke
Travels with Pepys to Chatham; hosts him for dinner and shares lodging.
- Sir William Coventry
Meets with Pepys at the office on August 9th; praised for his ingenuity.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Private discourse with Pepys on August 23rd about political discontents and naval matters.
- Roger Pepys
Mentioned in context of family matters; Pepys writes to his brother John.
Key passages
“I was sorry to hear that Sir W. Penn’s maid Betty was gone away yesterday, for I was in hopes to have had a bout with her before she had gone, she being very pretty.”
Pepys regrets missing a chance to seduce Sir William Penn's maid, Betty, before she left.
Reveals Pepys's sexual desires and opportunistic attitude toward servants.
“I find him the most ingenuous person I ever found in my life, and am happy in his acquaintance and my interest in him.”
Pepys highly esteems Mr. Coventry for his honesty and intelligence, valuing their connection.
Highlights Pepys's admiration for Coventry's character and their professional relationship.
“He told me the new service-book (which is now lately come forth) was laid upon their deske at St. Sepulchre’s for Mr. Gouge to read; but he laid it aside, and would not meddle with it: and I perceive the Presbyters do all prepare to give over all against Bartholomew-tide.”
The new prayer book was rejected by some ministers, who plan to resign rather than conform by the deadline.
Illustrates the religious tensions following the Restoration and the Puritan resistance to Anglican uniformity.