The Diary · Chapter
March 1659–60 explained
Pepys prepares for his sea voyage with Lord Sandwich, managing naval affairs, personal finances, and his wife's lodging.
What happens
Pepys prepares for his sea voyage with Lord Sandwich, managing naval affairs, personal finances, and his wife's lodging. He navigates political shifts as Parliament votes to end its session and Monk is made a General at Sea. The chapter captures Pepys's daily routines, social interactions, and reflections on health and ambition.
Themes in this chapter
Naval Administration and Corruption
Pepys manages fleet establishments, lists of ships, and orders, highlighting the administrative demands and potential for corruption in naval affairs.
Social Ambition and Class
Pepys's pride in being addressed as 'Esq.' and his careful navigation of social hierarchies among officers and nobles.
Daily Life and Domesticity
Detailed accounts of Pepys's domestic arrangements, including his wife's caps, the wench's washing, and his cold remedy.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
Records his daily activities, preparations for sea, and interactions with naval and political figures.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Troubled by Pepys's departure; helps prepare for his voyage and agrees to stay at Mr. Bowyer's.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Appointed General at Sea; Pepys serves as his secretary aboard the Nazeby.
- Mr. Sheply
Dines with Pepys, discusses family matters, and assists with naval preparations.
- Mr. Howe
Sups with Pepys in his cabin and advises on provisions for the voyage.
- Mr. Blackburne
Sends Pepys a letter addressed to 'S. P. Esq.,' boosting Pepys's pride.
- Mr. Creed
Appointed deputy treasurer to the Fleet, causing Pepys some concern.
- Roger Pepys
Mentioned as speaking kindly of Pepys to Mr. Sheply.
Key passages
“Among the rest, there was the writ and mandate for him to dispose to the Cinque Ports for choice of Parliament-men.”
Lord Sandwich received official orders to manage the election of Parliament members for the Cinque Ports.
Highlights the political authority delegated to Sandwich during the transition.
“This day it is two years since it pleased God that I was cut of the stone at Mrs. Turner’s in Salisbury Court. And did resolve while I live to keep it a festival.”
Pepys commemorates the second anniversary of his successful surgery for bladder stones, vowing to celebrate it annually.
Shows Pepys's personal gratitude and ritualistic observance of his recovery.
“I took occasion to tell my wife of my going to sea, who was much troubled at it, and was with some dispute at last willing to continue at Mr. Bowyer’s in my absence.”
Pepys informed Elizabeth of his sea voyage; she was upset but eventually agreed to board with Mr. Bowyer.
Reveals the strain of separation and Elizabeth's reluctant accommodation to Pepys's career.