# September 1667 explained — The Diary

> Chapter companion for The Diary by Samuel Pepys.

## What happens

Pepys navigates political shifts, including Sir William Coventry's resignation from the Duke of York's service and the fall of the Lord Chancellor, while balancing domestic life, visits to Bartholomew Fair, and naval administration.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Intrigue and Restoration

The chapter details the fall of the Chancellor, Coventry's resignation, and court factions.

### Naval Administration and Corruption

Pepys attends to Navy Office business and discusses ship sales with the Duke of York.

### Daily Life and Domesticity

Pepys's domestic disputes, purchases, and visits to Bartholomew Fair illustrate everyday life.

## Character check-ins

### Samuel Pepys

Records political changes, attends the Duke of York, and deals with domestic matters.

### Elizabeth Pepys

Accompanies Pepys to Bartholomew Fair and Walthamstow; buys a nightgown.

### Sir William Coventry

Resigns from the Duke of York's service, explaining his reasons to Pepys.

### Sir William Batten

Hosts a dinner at Walthamstow; discusses Coventry's departure.

### Sir William Penn

Present at Batten's dinner; his family's sluttishness is discussed.

### Sir George Carteret

Discusses the Chancellor's fall and Lord Sandwich's Wardrobe profits.

### Mr. Creed

Pepys visits his chamber before going to Whitehall.

### Mr. Hewer

Mentioned as part of Pepys's circle; not directly active in excerpts.

## Key lines

> Our new Lord-keeper, Bridgeman, did this day, the first time, attend the King to chapel with his Seal.

Bridgeman, the new Lord Keeper, accompanied the King to chapel bearing the Great Seal for the first time.

_Highlights the ceremonial transfer of power._

> Sir W. Coventry called me down with him to his chamber, and there told me that he is leaving the Duke of York's service, which I was amazed at.

Coventry privately informed Pepys of his resignation from the Duke of York's service, surprising him.

_Key moment of political change._

> The King, playing at tennis, had a steelyard carried to him, and I was told it was to weigh him after he had done playing.

The King weighed himself before and after tennis, losing 4½ pounds.

_A curious royal habit noted by Pepys._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters/september-1667
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_diary_se/chapters