# March 1663–64 explained — The Diary

> Chapter companion for The Diary by Samuel Pepys.

## What happens

Pepys records a speech by the King about plots and the Triennial Parliament, domestic incidents involving dogs, visits from family, and a chapel sermon. He also deals with office business, a falling-out with his wife over a gown, and attends a play.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Intrigue and Restoration

The King's speech about plots and the Triennial Parliament reflects ongoing political tensions and the consolidation of royal power.

### Naval Administration and Corruption

Pepys's office work, including the letter about masts and the meeting of the East India Company, underscores the complexities of naval administration.

### Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality

Pepys's conflict with Elizabeth over the laced gown and the dog-breeding incident reveal domestic tensions and gendered expectations.

### Daily Life and Domesticity

Scenes of family visits, dog breeding, and household management illustrate the rhythms of Pepys's domestic life.

## Character check-ins

### Samuel Pepys

Narrator and protagonist; records daily events, office work, and personal conflicts.

### Elizabeth Pepys

Pepys's wife; involved in a dispute over a laced gown and in a dog-breeding incident.

### Sir William Batten

Mentioned as one of only two seamen in Parliament; accompanies Pepys to the city.

### Sir William Penn

Mentioned as the other seaman in Parliament.

### Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich

Pepys speaks with him about the Fishery; Pepys feels slighted by his demeanor.

### Sir William Coventry

Pepys sends him a letter about masts; they ride together to the 'Change.

### Sir George Carteret

Pepys briefly goes by water towards Deptford with him.

### Mr. Hewer

Mentioned as a clerk; Pepys secures a raise for him in this period (implied by context).

## Key lines

> God forgive me, it went against me to have my wife and servants look upon them while they endeavoured to do something.

Pepys felt uncomfortable having his wife and servants watch the dogs mate.

_Reflects Pepys's conflicted feelings about sexuality and propriety._

> At this she flounced away in a manner I never saw her, nor which I could ever endure.

Elizabeth stormed off in a way Pepys had never seen and could not tolerate.

_Highlights the intensity of marital conflict over money and appearance._

> I told them my pretence; so they turned to the orders of the chapel, which hung behind upon the wall, and read it; and were satisfied; but they did not demand whether I was in waiting or no; and so I was in some fear lest he that was in waiting might come and betray me.

Pepys bluffed his way into a crowded chapel pew and worried he might be caught by the actual attendant.

_Shows Pepys's social maneuvering and anxiety about status._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/march-1663-64
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters