The Diary · Chapter
December 1665 explained
In December 1665, Samuel Pepys navigates the complexities of naval administration, personal finance, and social life amidst the lingering plague.
What happens
In December 1665, Samuel Pepys navigates the complexities of naval administration, personal finance, and social life amidst the lingering plague. He secures significant financial gains through dealings with Mr. Gawden and Captain Cocke, celebrates his net worth exceeding £4,000, and learns of Lord Sandwich's appointment as Ambassador to Spain. The month is marked by music-filled evenings with friends, tensions with colleagues, and a year-end focus on organizing accounts and reforming pursers' practices.
Themes in this chapter
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys grapples with naval office inefficiencies, pursers' trade reforms, and the King's financial losses from coinage projects.
Money, Debt, and Economy
Pepys celebrates his net worth exceeding £4,000, secured through prize goods and Gawden's payment, while discussing the kingdom's money supply.
Social Ambition and Class
Pepys enjoys elite music gatherings and notes the Duchess of Albemarle's insult toward Lord Sandwich, reflecting courtly social dynamics.
Daily Life and Domesticity
Pepys records domestic details: his wife's desire for a maid, music sessions at home, and the danger of ice on the Thames.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
Pepys records his financial triumphs, administrative duties, and social engagements, expressing joy over his growing wealth and Lord Sandwich's favor.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Elizabeth joins Pepys in social visits and music gatherings, though Pepys is angry with her for wanting a new maid during the plague.
- Lord Brouncker
Lord Brouncker accompanies Pepys to the Duke of Albemarle and notes the Duchess's insulting remark about Lord Sandwich.
- Sir George Carteret
Carteret discusses office business with Pepys and informs him of Lord Sandwich's appointment as Ambassador to Spain.
- Captain Cocke
Cocke is a frequent companion, dining and discussing prize goods; Pepys gains £500 from Cocke's bargains.
- Mr. Hewer
Hewer assists Pepys in office work and is present during discussions about pursers' trade.
- Mr. Pierce
Pierce brings news from Oxford about Lord Sandwich's favor and the Duke of York's new command.
- Mrs. Pierce
Mrs. Pierce hosts a music gathering with excellent company, including Mrs. Knipp and Mr. Coleman.
Key passages
“This is a great blessing, and God make me thankful truly for it.”
Pepys feels deeply grateful for the financial windfall from Mr. Gawden.
Reflects Pepys's piety and relief at his improved finances.
“I spent the night in ecstasy almost; and, having invited them to my house a day or two hence, we broke up.”
Pepys was overjoyed by the musical evening and invited the company to his home.
Highlights Pepys's love of music and social pleasure.
“I answered him sharply, that I did [not] make, nor any honest man, any difference between night and day in the King's business.”
Pepys rebuked an East India officer for delaying the King's business until daytime.
Shows Pepys's dedication to duty and his temper with inefficiency.
