The Diary · Chapter
June 1660 explained
Pepys records the joyful aftermath of the King's return, his own rising fortunes at sea and in London, and the political and social maneuvering of Lord Sandwich and other courtiers.
What happens
Pepys records the joyful aftermath of the King's return, his own rising fortunes at sea and in London, and the political and social maneuvering of Lord Sandwich and other courtiers. He settles into his new house, manages naval business, and enjoys the first fruits of patronage.
Themes in this chapter
Political Intrigue and Restoration
Pepys details Lord Sandwich's rise at court, the swearing-in as Privy Counsellor, and the maneuvering for offices and favors in the new royal administration.
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys computes ship pay, deals with commissions for captains, and observes the financial and bureaucratic workings of the Navy Office.
Money, Debt, and Economy
Pepys counts his growing wealth (near £100), receives gifts and payments, and notes the cost of offices and the promise of a month's pay for the fleet.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
Records his share of the Duke of York's gift, his growing wealth (near £100), and his delight at the King's return. He also begins to settle into his new house and manage naval business.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Takes physic, gives Pepys thanks and promises future favors, is sworn as a Privy Counsellor, and receives the place of the great Wardrobe from the King.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Has been in London with the Bowyers, is recovering from illness, and writes to Pepys about the Joyces' pride and rumors of his knighthood.
- Mr. Sheply
Disposes of the Duke of York's money among Lord Sandwich's servants, giving Pepys his share of 22 ducatoons.
- Sir William Penn
Accompanies Lord Sandwich to Trinity House for entertainment.
- Mr. Creed
Goes with Pepys to Rawlinson's and the Rhenish wine-house, and accompanies Lord Sandwich to Trinity House.
- Mr. Howe
Plays ninepins with Pepys and others, and receives a pair of silk stockings from Mr. Hetley.
- Mr. Moore
Helps Pepys set things in order at his house and accompanies him to his father's.
Key passages
“My Lord told me, that the last words that he parted with the Protector with (when he went to the Sound), were, that he should rejoice more to see him in his grave at his return home, than that he should give way to such things as were then in hatching, and afterwards did ruin him”
Lord Sandwich said that when he left the Protector (Richard Cromwell) for the Sound, his parting words were that he would rather find him dead than see him allow the plots that later destroyed him.
Pepys records Lord Sandwich's harsh judgment of Richard Cromwell's weakness.
“He told the he hoped to do me a more lasting kindness, if all things stand as they are now between him and the King, but, says he, 'We must have a little patience and we will rise together; in the meantime I will do you all the good jobs I can.'”
Lord Sandwich promised Pepys a greater future favor if his own standing with the King remains secure, advising patience and pledging to help him in the meantime.
Shows the patron-client relationship and the expectation of mutual advancement.