November 8, Friday. At 12 oclock at night the Princess set sail for Cadiz with Mr. Bennett, Mr. Mackworth and my Lieutenant. Sir John and the Fairfax to cruise. The Greyhound to Malaga for the Purser General. By letter from Malaga by Mr. Lever I had the news that the Queen of Spain was brought to bed of another son. 1
1. Prince Carlos. Later Carlos II.
Copied from The Journal of Edward Mountagu, First Earl of Sandwich Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson Printed for the Navy Records Society MDCCCCXXIX
"The Supply Corps emerged from the traditions of ashore naval logistics and the shipboard position of Purser, which had been in use with the Royal Navy since the 14th Century. The ship's Purser was primarily responsible for the handling of money and the procurement and keeping of stores and supplies." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nav…
November 7, Thursday. Came along fleet of 28 sail of English merchantmen from Alicante and Malaga. The Greyhound and Gift were with them in convoy. I sent the Gift on to convoy them off the Rock 3 and so to go to Lisbon to victual. I sent by Capt. Trelawny letters to his R.H., Mr. Coventry, Lady S., Sir Richard Fanshawe and the Conde da Ponte.
Sir John Lawson and the Fairfax came in also to an anchor by us, the wind blowing so hard they couldn't keep it up.
3. Cape da Roca, north of the Targus.
Copied from The Journal of Edward Mountagu, First Earl of Sandwich Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson Printed for the Navy Records Society MDCCCCXXIX
The Princess came in from Faro. Brought the report thaat the King of Portugal's being to be married to a daughter of the old Prince of Orange, and that the Ambassador was gone away from Lisbon to Holland about it.2
2 Alfonso IV of Portugal married the daughter of the Duc de Nemours. (I omit a spoiler which is not material to Sandwich's log.)
Copied from The Journal of Edward Mountagu, First Earl of Sandwich Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson Printed for the Navy Records Society MDCCCCXXIX
Section III - Mediterranean 1661/62
@@@
The Princess https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl… Faro https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Far… Alphonso IV and his bride, Queen Maria Francisca Isabel de Sabóia https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl… Charles Amadeus of Savoy, Duke of Nemours (1624 – 1652) was a French military leader and magnate. He was the father of the penultimate Duchess of Savoy and of a Queen of Portugal. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cha… The Ambassador -- I guess he means Sir Richard Fanshawe, but why would be do that? His Parliamentary bio says: "In the opening weeks of the Cavalier Parliament he was named to the committee of elections and privileges, and those for confirming public acts, the fen drainage bill, and a Hertfordshire estate bill. But he never became an active Member, and during the recess he was sent to Catherine of Braganza at Lisbon with the King’s letter and picture. He returned to England at Christmas, but after the royal marriage went back to Portugal as ambassador." So maybe this was just a bad rumor? In fact he had sailed for London. https://www.historyofparliamenton…
KLvM I think "prisoners of war" is a misleading understatement. Some of the men were made to row the Barbery pirates' warships -- and starved and beaten to death in the process. Others were field and house slaves. Women were made to work in brothels and as house slaves. Only the nobility -- when recognized -- were held as hostages for money. European Catholic churches were more successful in raising funds to buy back slaves than were the English. Funds in Britain were mostly raised by and from individuals like William Coventry. https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/… https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
That's why it was so important for the Navy to capture Barbary ships and free the slaves rather than sink the ships from a safer distance.
Roger L'Estrange was appointed as the Licenser of the Press in 1662 to repress the evil of the hundreds of anti-Royalist pamphlets which rolled off the unregulated London presses every year. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Milton had warned the populace of the inevitability of this happening is his 1660 book, "The Ready and Easy Way," when Parliament preferred “easy servitude” over “hard liberty" and invited Charles II to come home instead of learning how to self-rule responsibly. https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
“Rule, Britannia!” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful symbol of British history and identity. Composed by Thomas Arne in the 18th century, it has endured through the ages as a rallying cry for British independence and pride in its naval strength (thank you, Pepys) -- which was pittied against the French at the time of composition.
Good question, RLB. I suspect young teens enjoyed the 5th of November gunpowder treason and plot celebrations, with bonfires and fireworks, just as much as we do. But I've no idea how he got the gunpowder. Presumably it wouldn't be readily available then any more than it is today.
What a shame no British organization throught to take Catherine of Braganza's statue and honor this good woman -- Somerset House was her home during the Popish Plot. That would be an interesting place for it to go, and they could have some fun with the background stories.
Matt, in the text Charing Cross is highlighted in blue. That means you can click through and see background information about those words. In this case you would have seen that the cross was destroyed by Parliament in 1647. So, no, Pepys probably didn't remember it. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir John Duncombe; who brought up these Bills, wherein they agree to the Amendments as they were sent down to them: ...
The Answer returned was: That this House will send an Answer by Messengers of their own.
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons, return with this Answer: That they will give a Conference, as is desired, concerning the King's Message. ...
A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Sir Wm. Childe and Sir Thomas Birde for the Conference on the Corporations Bill: To let them know, that the Lords will give a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, touching the Bill concerning regulating Corporations. The Lord Steward and the Earl of Portland were appointed to report this Conference.
Message from H. C. brought by Sir James Smyth and others for the Coldstreamers, &c. who served under Gen. Monck, not to be compelled to leave London, on the Proclamation: To let their Lordships know, that the Commons had been moved, in the Behalf of the Coldstreamers and other Soldiers that served under the Command of the Lord Gen. Monck, at his coming out of Scotland into England, to know their Opinion, "Whether, in their Votes and Address to the King to send the disbanded Officers and Soldiers out of this Town, the said Officers and Soldiers were included?" And the Commons have voted, "That their Intention was not to include "the said Officers and Soldiers;" whereunto they desire their Lordships Concurrence.
The said Vote being read, and after some Debate: It was Resolved, To have a Conference with the House of Commons, to let them know, that this House is of Opinion, "That the King's Proclamation is according to the Advice of both Houses of Parliament; and if any Officers of the Coldstreamers can make their Integrity and good Affections to appear, there is an open and ready Way for them to apply themselves for obtaining Dispensation and Leave for their staying in Town."
The Answer returned by the Messengers was: That the Lords will return an Answer, by Messengers of their own, concerning the Coldstreamers.
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons return with this Answer: That they will give a present Conference, as is desired, concerning the Bill touching Corporations.
A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Sir William Childe and Sir Thomas Birde about the Proclamation: To desire a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, concerning their Message touching the Proclamation. ...
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons return with this Answer: That they will give a present Conference, as is desired, touching the Proclamation. ...
Message from the King, concerning a Plot in Agitation: The Lord Chancellor acquainted the House, "That he had a Message to deliver from the King; which was, To let them know, that, besides the Apprehensions and Fears that are generally Abroad, His Majesty hath received Letters from several Parts of the Kingdom, and also by intercepted Letters it does appear, that divers discontented Persons are endeavouring to raise new Troubles, to the Disturbance of the Peace of the Kingdom, as in many Particulars was instanced: Which Matter being of so great Consequence, His Majesty's Desire is, That the House of Commons may be made acquainted with it, that so His Majesty may receive the Advice and Counsel of both Houses of Parliament, what is fit to be done herein; and to think of some proper Remedy to secure the Peace of the Kingdom."
Hereupon this House ORDERED, To communicate this Business presently to the House of Commons, by a Conference; and nominated these Lords following, to meet with a proportionable Number of the House of Commons, to consider of this Message of His Majesty's now delivered by the Lord Chancellor; and what proper Remedies are fit in this Conjuncture of Time to offer to the Houses, for securing the Peace of the Kingdom, with most Ease to the People:
Committee to meet with one of H. C. about it. HRH the Duke of York Dux Cumberland L. Chancellor L. Treasurer L. Privy Seal Dux Albemarle L. Steward Epus. London Epus. Exon Ds. Lucas Ds. Bellasis Ds. Berkeley de Strat. Ds. Ashley Power to the Committee to meet during the Recess, &c. ORDERED, That this Committee, appointed to join with a proportionable Number of the House of Commons (at this Time, and upon this Occasion, being in the Time of the Adjournment of both Houses of Parliament), have Power to meet on Monday next, being 23 December Instant, in the Forenoon, the First Time at the Lord Chancellor's Lodgings in Whitehall, and afterwards at any other Time and Place as the Committee shall think fit; and to dispense with all usual Forms, Ceremonies, and other Things, as they shall find it necessary for the carrying on the Public Service.
Message from the King, about adjourning. The Lord Chancellor further signified from the King, "That His Majesty, considering what Time of the Year this is (so near Christmas), holds it convenient that there be an Adjournment for a small Time; therefore is willing that both Houses do adjourn Tomorrow at Noon, until the next Day after Twelfth Day."
Hereupon it is ORDERED, That this be signified at the next Conference with the House of Commons; and to acquaint them with their Lordships Resolutions to adjourn accordingly at the same Time.
Message to H. C. for a Conference about these Messages from the King. A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Justice Tyrrell and Baron Turner:
To desire a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, upon Occasion of a Message from the King.
"There hath lately been great clapping up of some old statesmen, such as Ireton, Moyer, and others, and they say, upon a great plot, but I believe no such thing; but it is but justice that they should be served as they served the poor Cavaliers; and I believe it will oftentimes be so as long as I live, whether there be cause or no."
If there was no cause, Charles II and the Cavalier Court / Parliament seemed to be quite capable of making things up -- but who today can know: historians can spin the same story to prove whatever point they are making. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl… https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
Call of the House. Resolved, That this House be Called on Thursday, next after Twelfth Day: And that every Member then absent, whose Excuse shall not be allowed by this House, shall pay 5/.s for his Default.
Committee on Conspiracy. Resolved, That the Committee now appointed to join with the Committee named by the Lords, do make Report of their Proceedings on Friday, next after Twelfth Day.
Prisoner in the Tower, dead. Sir John Robinson, Lt. of the Tower, acquainted this House, that Isaac Pennington, one of the Regicides who were Prisoners in the Tower, is dead. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Conference; Conspiracy. Mr. Solicitor General reports from the Conference had with the Lords, arising upon the Message sent from his Majesty, That the Lord Chancellor declared, that the same did concern Things of a high and dangerous Nature: And that there had been a real Design, which had been forming ever since March last, to disturb the Union and Peace of the Kingdom: And named several of the Parties engaged; with the Manner and Contrivance of their traiterous Design; and the Progress they had, from time to time, made therein: And that, although their Designs were at present disordered, as to the Effecting of them in this Town (to which end they had made a general Invitation of disbanded Officers and Soldiers, and other disaffected Persons, to resort hither about the 11th of this Month); yet still they were practising to put the same in Execution in the Country: And that the Lords, to provide a Remedy against these Evils, had appointed a Committee of Twelve of their House; and did propose it to this House, to appoint an answerable Number of their Members, to be joined with the Lords; who might, during the Recess, examine the said traiterous Designs: And to report it to the House, with such Expedients as they shall find necessary, for preventing and suppressing thereof, and securing the Peace of this Kingdom, in the Juncture of Affairs: And that they were to meet at the Lodgings assigned to my Lord Chancellor, in Whitehall; and to adjourn from Time to Time, and Place to Place, as they find convenient.
Committee on Conspiracy. Resolved, That this House doth agree with the Lords, to appoint a Committee of 24 Members of their House, to be joined to the Committee appointed by the Lords, as aforesaid.
And the Question being put, That this Committee should be named according to the usual Course;
The House was divided: And The Noes went out. Mr. Seymour, Tellers for the Noes: 92. Sir Rich. Temple, With the Noes, Lord St.John, Tellers for the Yeas: 142. Lord Angier, With the Yeas, So it was resolved in the Affirmative, That a Committee be appointed, according to the usual Course.
And a Committee was accordingly appointed, of the Persons hereafter named; Mr. Comptroller, Mr. Vice Chamberlain, Mr. Solicitor General, Mr. Waller, Lord Bruce, Lord Fanshaw, Sir Richard Onslow, Serjeant Charleton, Sir Robert Atkins, Mr. George Mountague, Sir John Duncombe, Sir George Ryve, Sir Robert Howard, Sir John Goodrick, Lord Falkland, Mr. Clifford, Mr. Lowther, Sir Thomas Meres, Sir Allen Apsley, Lord Herbert, Sir John Brampston, Mr. Vaughan, Sir Baynham Throgmorton, and Sir Thomas Littleton.
When asked if Rev. James had anything to say why sentence of death should not pronounced against him, he said: "As for me, behold, I am in your hands: do with me as it seemeth good and meet unto you. But know ye for certain that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of this saints. He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of mine eye." And when Mr. James heard his sentence, he immediately added, "Blessed be God: whom man hath condemned, God hath justified."
The sentence was executed November 26, 1661. He was bound to a sled and drawn through the slush of the streets to Tyburn where he spoke with such power and prayed with such fervor that the hangman would not execute the full sentence, but permitted life to be fully extinct before he was drawn and quartered.
On the same sled which brought him to the place of execution, his quarters were taken back to Newgate and then upon Aldgate, Bishopgate, Moorgate, and Aldergate - the 4 gates nearest to the meeting-place in Bull Stake Alley, in front of which his head was exposed upon a pole.
Elder James gained great sympathy and respect for his devotion and submission to God. At the place of execution his remarks were gentle and loving, and his soul brave and full of hope. He was an inoffensive and benevolent man, free from any blemish in his character, and guiltless of every charge in the indictment. He was savagely murdered by Charles II, his courtiers and his tools (the judges) to terrify the Dissenters, and especially the Baptists, into loyalty. And undoubtedly the vengeance of God, invoked by the innocent blood of John James had something to do with driving the Stuarts from the throne of England.
Reprinted from "Seventh Day Baptists in Europe and America" Vol 1 (pp. 78-79) Published by the American Sabbath Tract Society, Plainfield, New Jersey 1910. https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/…
The fall guy for the recent unrest was executed today:
Rev. John James was one of the first, if not the first, pastor of the Seventh-day Baptist Church worshipping in Bull Stake Alley, Whitechapel Road, London (since known as the Mill Yard Church). He was born of poor parents, and became a ribbon weaver, afterwards a small coal man; but finding this business too much for his health, he returned to ribbon weaving. On the Sabbath-day, October 19, 1661, while preaching to his people at their meeting place, he was twice rudely interrupted by officers of the law and commanded to come down. He was then dragged out of his pulpit. The charge of uttering treasonable words against the king was made by a journeyman tobacco-pipe maker, named Tipler; but so disreputable a person was Tipler that the justice refused to commit Mr. James on his testimony unless it was corroborated; this was done, and the good pastor was sent to Newgate prison.
On I4 November Rev. James was brought before Chief Justice Forster, and 3 other judges, at Westminster Hall, where he was charged with "endeavouring to levy war against the king, with seeking a change in government, with saying that the king was a bloody tyrant, a blood sucker and a bloodthirsty man, and that his nobles were the same; and that the king and his nobles had shed the blood of the saints at Charing Cross, and in Scotland." There was no evidence to substantiate any of the charges. Mr. James was remanded to Newgate for 4 days, when his trial came off. Previous to this he received a letter from a friend of distinction, informing him that for many years there had not been such efforts to pack a jury, and that his only hope of safety lay in challenging them, or "most of the chief men of them."
When Mr. James was brought into court, the chief justice exclaimed, "Oh, Oh, are you come?" and this was a typical of the way in which his trial was conducted. He was condemned in accordance with the plot of those who planned his murder, and was sentenced to be hanged at Tyburn, near Hyde Park, and while still alive to have his entrails drawn and his heart taken out and burned; his head to be taken off and placed first on London Bridge, and afterward set up on a pole in Whitechapel Road opposite to the meeting place in Bull Stake Alley; his body to be cut in quarters and placed on four of the seven gates of the city.
The next day after sentence was pronounced against him, his wife presented a petition to Charles II, proving his innocence and appealing for mercy; but the only reply of his majesty was, "Oh! Mr. James, he is sweet gentleman!" and the door was shut against her. The next morning she made another appeal to the king, and his response was, "He is a rogue, and shall be hanged."
Comments
Third Reading
About Friday 8 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
From Sandwich's log, at anchor in Tangier Bay:
November 8, Friday.
At 12 oclock at night the Princess set sail for Cadiz with Mr. Bennett, Mr. Mackworth and my Lieutenant.
Sir John and the Fairfax to cruise.
The Greyhound to Malaga for the Purser General.
By letter from Malaga by Mr. Lever I had the news that the Queen of Spain was brought to bed of another son. 1
1. Prince Carlos. Later Carlos II.
Copied from
The Journal of Edward Mountagu,
First Earl of Sandwich
Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson
Printed for the Navy Records Society
MDCCCCXXIX
Section III - Mediterranean 1661/62
@@@
The Princess
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Cadiz
Mr. Bennett -- this might be Capt. Bennett?
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
Mr. Mackworth -- There's a Parliament-man named Mackworth who knew Shepley, with whom Pepys had a drink earlier this year: https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
My Lieutenant -- I have just remembered Sandwich's trusted Lt. David Lambert from before this cruise. I bet he's the man! Oh, but Bill says he was made Captain of the Norwich in 1661, so perhaps not ...
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Vice Adm. Sir John Lawson
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
The Fairfax
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
The Greyhound
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Malaga
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Mr. Lever is probably William Lever, the Purser-General to Sandwich's fleet 1661-2 (L&M Companion)
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Mariana of Austria was the Queen of Spain
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Prince Carlos. Later Carlos/Charles II the King of Spain
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Does this mean that The Greyhound could make it to Malaga and back in one day?
About William Lever
San Diego Sarah • Link
"The Supply Corps emerged from the traditions of ashore naval logistics and the shipboard position of Purser, which had been in use with the Royal Navy since the 14th Century. The ship's Purser was primarily responsible for the handling of money and the procurement and keeping of stores and supplies."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nav…
About Thursday 7 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
From Sandwich's log, at anchor in Tangier Bay:
November 7, Thursday.
Came along fleet of 28 sail of English merchantmen from Alicante and Malaga.
The Greyhound and Gift were with them in convoy.
I sent the Gift on to convoy them off the Rock 3 and so to go to Lisbon to victual.
I sent by Capt. Trelawny letters to his R.H., Mr. Coventry, Lady S., Sir Richard Fanshawe and the Conde da Ponte.
Sir John Lawson and the Fairfax came in also to an anchor by us, the wind blowing so hard they couldn't keep it up.
3. Cape da Roca, north of the Targus.
Copied from
The Journal of Edward Mountagu,
First Earl of Sandwich
Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson
Printed for the Navy Records Society
MDCCCCXXIX
Section III - Mediterranean 1661/62
@@@
Malaga
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Alicante
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
The Greyhound
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
The [Great] Gift
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Lisbon
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Capt. Trelawny -- this is a guess: He might have been "Captain John Trelawny (ca. 1646 – 14 May 1680), eldest son and heir apparent, a soldier killed in action at Tangier. He had no children and predeceased his [Royalist] father" [Sir Jonathan Trelawny MP]. Cornish children went to see very young in those days.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
His R.H., James, Duke of York
Mr. Coventry, presumably Secretary William
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Lady S., Our Jemima
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Sir Richard Fanshawe -- apparently Sandwich didn't thionk he was on his way to the Dutch Republic
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Amb. Francisco de Mello e Torres, Conde da Ponte
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Vice Adm. Sir John Lawson
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
The Fairfax
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
Cabo da Roca, The Edge Of The World and The End of Europe
https://www.beportugal.com/cabo-d…
The Targus
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
About Wednesday 6 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
From Sandwich's log, at anchor in Tangier Bay:
November 6, Wednesday.
The Princess came in from Faro.
Brought the report thaat the King of Portugal's being to be married to a daughter of the old Prince of Orange,
and that the Ambassador was gone away from Lisbon to Holland about it.2
2 Alfonso IV of Portugal married the daughter of the Duc de Nemours. (I omit a spoiler which is not material to Sandwich's log.)
Copied from
The Journal of Edward Mountagu,
First Earl of Sandwich
Admiral and General-at-Sea 1659 - 1665
Edited by RC Anderson
Printed for the Navy Records Society
MDCCCCXXIX
Section III - Mediterranean 1661/62
@@@
The Princess
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Faro
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Far…
Alphonso IV and his bride, Queen Maria Francisca Isabel de Sabóia
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Charles Amadeus of Savoy, Duke of Nemours (1624 – 1652) was a French military leader and magnate. He was the father of the penultimate Duchess of Savoy and of a Queen of Portugal.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cha…
The Ambassador -- I guess he means Sir Richard Fanshawe, but why would be do that? His Parliamentary bio says:
"In the opening weeks of the Cavalier Parliament he was named to the committee of elections and privileges, and those for confirming public acts, the fen drainage bill, and a Hertfordshire estate bill. But he never became an active Member, and during the recess he was sent to Catherine of Braganza at Lisbon with the King’s letter and picture. He returned to England at Christmas, but after the royal marriage went back to Portugal as ambassador." So maybe this was just a bad rumor? In fact he had sailed for London.
https://www.historyofparliamenton…
About Tuesday 5 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
KLvM I think "prisoners of war" is a misleading understatement. Some of the men were made to row the Barbery pirates' warships -- and starved and beaten to death in the process. Others were field and house slaves. Women were made to work in brothels and as house slaves. Only the nobility -- when recognized -- were held as hostages for money. European Catholic churches were more successful in raising funds to buy back slaves than were the English. Funds in Britain were mostly raised by and from individuals like William Coventry.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
That's why it was so important for the Navy to capture Barbary ships and free the slaves rather than sink the ships from a safer distance.
About Chelsea
San Diego Sarah • Link
The Chelsea Physic Garden, established 1673
https://www.facebook.com/reel/531…
About Roger L'Estrange
San Diego Sarah • Link
Roger L'Estrange was appointed as the Licenser of the Press in 1662 to repress the evil of the hundreds of anti-Royalist pamphlets which rolled off the unregulated London presses every year.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Milton had warned the populace of the inevitability of this happening is his 1660 book, "The Ready and Easy Way," when Parliament preferred “easy servitude” over “hard liberty" and invited Charles II to come home instead of learning how to self-rule responsibly.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
About Tuesday 5 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
“Rule, Britannia!” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful symbol of British history and identity. Composed by Thomas Arne in the 18th century, it has endured through the ages as a rallying cry for British independence and pride in its naval strength (thank you, Pepys) -- which was pittied against the French at the time of composition.
About Saturday 2 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Good question, RLB. I suspect young teens enjoyed the 5th of November gunpowder treason and plot celebrations, with bonfires and fireworks, just as much as we do. But I've no idea how he got the gunpowder. Presumably it wouldn't be readily available then any more than it is today.
About Wednesday 4 November 1663
San Diego Sarah • Link
What a shame no British organization throught to take Catherine of Braganza's statue and honor this good woman -- Somerset House was her home during the Popish Plot. That would be an interesting place for it to go, and they could have some fun with the background stories.
About Friday 1 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Matt, in the text Charing Cross is highlighted in blue. That means you can click through and see background information about those words. In this case you would have seen that the cross was destroyed by Parliament in 1647. So, no, Pepys probably didn't remember it.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
About Thursday 19 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
CONCLUSION:
A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir John Duncombe; who brought up these Bills, wherein they agree to the Amendments as they were sent down to them: ...
The Answer returned was: That this House will send an Answer by Messengers of their own.
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons, return with this Answer:
That they will give a Conference, as is desired, concerning the King's Message. ...
A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Sir Wm. Childe and Sir Thomas Birde for the Conference on the Corporations Bill:
To let them know, that the Lords will give a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, touching the Bill concerning regulating Corporations.
The Lord Steward and the Earl of Portland were appointed to report this Conference.
Message from H. C. brought by Sir James Smyth and others for the Coldstreamers, &c. who served under Gen. Monck, not to be compelled to leave London, on the Proclamation:
To let their Lordships know, that the Commons had been moved, in the Behalf of the Coldstreamers and other Soldiers that served under the Command of the Lord Gen. Monck, at his coming out of Scotland into England, to know their Opinion, "Whether, in their Votes and Address to the King to send the disbanded Officers and Soldiers out of this Town, the said Officers and Soldiers were included?"
And the Commons have voted, "That their Intention was not to include "the said Officers and Soldiers;" whereunto they desire their Lordships Concurrence.
The said Vote being read, and after some Debate: It was Resolved, To have a Conference with the House of Commons, to let them know, that this House is of Opinion, "That the King's Proclamation is according to the Advice of both Houses of Parliament; and if any Officers of the Coldstreamers can make their Integrity and good Affections to appear, there is an open and ready Way for them to apply themselves for obtaining Dispensation and Leave for their staying in Town."
The Answer returned by the Messengers was: That the Lords will return an Answer, by Messengers of their own, concerning the Coldstreamers.
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons return with this Answer:
That they will give a present Conference, as is desired, concerning the Bill touching Corporations.
A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Sir William Childe and Sir Thomas Birde about the Proclamation: To desire a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, concerning their Message touching the Proclamation. ...
The Messengers sent to the House of Commons return with this Answer:
That they will give a present Conference, as is desired, touching the Proclamation. ...
Adjourn.
https://www.british-history.ac.uk…
So the Coldstream Guards will be around for the foreseeable future in London.
About Thursday 19 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Highlights from the Lords:
Message from the King, concerning a Plot in Agitation:
The Lord Chancellor acquainted the House, "That he had a Message to deliver from the King; which was, To let them know, that, besides the Apprehensions and Fears that are generally Abroad, His Majesty hath received Letters from several Parts of the Kingdom, and also by intercepted Letters it does appear, that divers discontented Persons are endeavouring to raise new Troubles, to the Disturbance of the Peace of the Kingdom, as in many Particulars was instanced: Which Matter being of so great Consequence, His Majesty's Desire is, That the House of Commons may be made acquainted with it, that so His Majesty may receive the Advice and Counsel of both Houses of Parliament, what is fit to be done herein; and to think of some proper Remedy to secure the Peace of the Kingdom."
Hereupon this House ORDERED, To communicate this Business presently to the House of Commons, by a Conference; and nominated these Lords following, to meet with a proportionable Number of the House of Commons, to consider of this Message of His Majesty's now delivered by the Lord Chancellor; and what proper Remedies are fit in this Conjuncture of Time to offer to the Houses, for securing the Peace of the Kingdom, with most Ease to the People:
Committee to meet with one of H. C. about it.
HRH the Duke of York
Dux Cumberland
L. Chancellor
L. Treasurer
L. Privy Seal
Dux Albemarle
L. Steward
Epus. London
Epus. Exon
Ds. Lucas
Ds. Bellasis
Ds. Berkeley de Strat.
Ds. Ashley
Power to the Committee to meet during the Recess, &c.
ORDERED, That this Committee, appointed to join with a proportionable Number of the House of Commons (at this Time, and upon this Occasion, being in the Time of the Adjournment of both Houses of Parliament), have Power to meet on Monday next, being 23 December Instant, in the Forenoon, the First Time at the Lord Chancellor's Lodgings in Whitehall, and afterwards at any other Time and Place as the Committee shall think fit; and to dispense with all usual Forms, Ceremonies, and other Things, as they shall find it necessary for the carrying on the Public Service.
Message from the King, about adjourning.
The Lord Chancellor further signified from the King, "That His Majesty, considering what Time of the Year this is (so near Christmas), holds it convenient that there be an Adjournment for a small Time; therefore is willing that both Houses do adjourn Tomorrow at Noon, until the next Day after Twelfth Day."
Hereupon it is ORDERED, That this be signified at the next Conference with the House of Commons; and to acquaint them with their Lordships Resolutions to adjourn accordingly at the same Time.
Message to H. C. for a Conference about these Messages from the King.
A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by Justice Tyrrell and Baron Turner:
To desire a present Conference, in the Painted Chamber, upon Occasion of a Message from the King.
About Sunday 1 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
"There hath lately been great clapping up of some old statesmen, such as Ireton, Moyer, and others, and they say, upon a great plot, but I believe no such thing; but it is but justice that they should be served as they served the poor Cavaliers; and I believe it will oftentimes be so as long as I live, whether there be cause or no."
If there was no cause, Charles II and the Cavalier Court / Parliament seemed to be quite capable of making things up -- but who today can know: historians can spin the same story to prove whatever point they are making.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
About Thursday 19 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Ignore the Duchess of Portsmouth -- she doesn't set foot on England's green and pleasant land until after the Diary.
About Thursday 19 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
CONCLUSION:
Call of the House.
Resolved, That this House be Called on Thursday, next after Twelfth Day: And that every Member then absent, whose Excuse shall not be allowed by this House, shall pay 5/.s for his Default.
Committee on Conspiracy.
Resolved, That the Committee now appointed to join with the Committee named by the Lords, do make Report of their Proceedings on Friday, next after Twelfth Day.
Prisoner in the Tower, dead.
Sir John Robinson, Lt. of the Tower, acquainted this House, that Isaac Pennington, one of the Regicides who were Prisoners in the Tower, is dead.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
And then the House adjourned till To-morrow Morning, at Eight of the Clock.
https://www.british-history.ac.uk…
About Thursday 19 December 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Lots of action in the Commons today:
Conference; Conspiracy.
Mr. Solicitor General reports from the Conference had with the Lords, arising upon the Message sent from his Majesty, That the Lord Chancellor declared, that the same did concern Things of a high and dangerous Nature: And that there had been a real Design, which had been forming ever since March last, to disturb the Union and Peace of the Kingdom: And named several of the Parties engaged; with the Manner and Contrivance of their traiterous Design; and the Progress they had, from time to time, made therein: And that, although their Designs were at present disordered, as to the Effecting of them in this Town (to which end they had made a general Invitation of disbanded Officers and Soldiers, and other disaffected Persons, to resort hither about the 11th of this Month); yet still they were practising to put the same in Execution in the Country: And that the Lords, to provide a Remedy against these Evils, had appointed a Committee of Twelve of their House; and did propose it to this House, to appoint an answerable Number of their Members, to be joined with the Lords; who might, during the Recess, examine the said traiterous Designs: And to report it to the House, with such Expedients as they shall find necessary, for preventing and suppressing thereof, and securing the Peace of this Kingdom, in the Juncture of Affairs: And that they were to meet at the Lodgings assigned to my Lord Chancellor, in Whitehall; and to adjourn from Time to Time, and Place to Place, as they find convenient.
Committee on Conspiracy.
Resolved, That this House doth agree with the Lords, to appoint a Committee of 24 Members of their House, to be joined to the Committee appointed by the Lords, as aforesaid.
And the Question being put, That this Committee should be named according to the usual Course;
The House was divided: And
The Noes went out.
Mr. Seymour, Tellers for the Noes: 92.
Sir Rich. Temple, With the Noes,
Lord St.John, Tellers for the Yeas: 142.
Lord Angier, With the Yeas,
So it was resolved in the Affirmative, That a Committee be appointed, according to the usual Course.
And a Committee was accordingly appointed, of the Persons hereafter named;
Mr. Comptroller,
Mr. Vice Chamberlain,
Mr. Solicitor General,
Mr. Waller,
Lord Bruce,
Lord Fanshaw,
Sir Richard Onslow,
Serjeant Charleton,
Sir Robert Atkins,
Mr. George Mountague,
Sir John Duncombe,
Sir George Ryve,
Sir Robert Howard,
Sir John Goodrick,
Lord Falkland,
Mr. Clifford,
Mr. Lowther,
Sir Thomas Meres,
Sir Allen Apsley,
Lord Herbert,
Sir John Brampston,
Mr. Vaughan,
Sir Baynham Throgmorton,
and Sir Thomas Littleton.
About Tuesday 26 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
CONCLUSION:
When asked if Rev. James had anything to say why sentence of death should not pronounced against him, he said: "As for me, behold, I am in your hands: do with me as it seemeth good and meet unto you. But know ye for certain that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of this saints. He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of mine eye."
And when Mr. James heard his sentence, he immediately added, "Blessed be God: whom man hath condemned, God hath justified."
The sentence was executed November 26, 1661. He was bound to a sled and drawn through the slush of the streets to Tyburn where he spoke with such power and prayed with such fervor that the hangman would not execute the full sentence, but permitted life to be fully extinct before he was drawn and quartered.
On the same sled which brought him to the place of execution, his quarters were taken back to Newgate and then upon Aldgate, Bishopgate, Moorgate, and Aldergate - the 4 gates nearest to the meeting-place in Bull Stake Alley, in front of which his head was exposed upon a pole.
Elder James gained great sympathy and respect for his devotion and submission to God. At the place of execution his remarks were gentle and loving, and his soul brave and full of hope. He was an inoffensive and benevolent man, free from any blemish in his character, and guiltless of every charge in the indictment.
He was savagely murdered by Charles II, his courtiers and his tools (the judges) to terrify the Dissenters, and especially the Baptists, into loyalty. And undoubtedly the vengeance of God, invoked by the innocent blood of John James had something to do with driving the Stuarts from the throne of England.
Reprinted from "Seventh Day Baptists in Europe and America" Vol 1 (pp. 78-79) Published by the American Sabbath Tract Society, Plainfield, New Jersey 1910.
https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/…
About Tuesday 26 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
The fall guy for the recent unrest was executed today:
Rev. John James was one of the first, if not the first, pastor of the Seventh-day Baptist Church worshipping in Bull Stake Alley, Whitechapel Road, London (since known as the Mill Yard Church).
He was born of poor parents, and became a ribbon weaver, afterwards a small coal man; but finding this business too much for his health, he returned to ribbon weaving.
On the Sabbath-day, October 19, 1661, while preaching to his people at their meeting place, he was twice rudely interrupted by officers of the law and commanded to come down. He was then dragged out of his pulpit. The charge of uttering treasonable words against the king was made by a journeyman tobacco-pipe maker, named Tipler; but so disreputable a person was Tipler that the justice refused to commit Mr. James on his testimony unless it was corroborated; this was done, and the good pastor was sent to Newgate prison.
On I4 November Rev. James was brought before Chief Justice Forster, and 3 other judges, at Westminster Hall, where he was charged with "endeavouring to levy war against the king, with seeking a change in government, with saying that the king was a bloody tyrant, a blood sucker and a bloodthirsty man, and that his nobles were the same; and that the king and his nobles had shed the blood of the saints at Charing Cross, and in Scotland."
There was no evidence to substantiate any of the charges.
Mr. James was remanded to Newgate for 4 days, when his trial came off. Previous to this he received a letter from a friend of distinction, informing him that for many years there had not been such efforts to pack a jury, and that his only hope of safety lay in challenging them, or "most of the chief men of them."
When Mr. James was brought into court, the chief justice exclaimed, "Oh, Oh, are you come?" and this was a typical of the way in which his trial was conducted.
He was condemned in accordance with the plot of those who planned his murder, and was sentenced to be hanged at Tyburn, near Hyde Park, and while still alive to have his entrails drawn and his heart taken out and burned; his head to be taken off and placed first on London Bridge, and afterward set up on a pole in Whitechapel Road opposite to the meeting place in Bull Stake Alley; his body to be cut in quarters and placed on four of the seven gates of the city.
The next day after sentence was pronounced against him, his wife presented a petition to Charles II, proving his innocence and appealing for mercy; but the only reply of his majesty was, "Oh! Mr. James, he is sweet gentleman!" and the door was shut against her.
The next morning she made another appeal to the king, and his response was, "He is a rogue, and shall be hanged."
About Wednesday 27 November 1661
San Diego Sarah • Link
Dorothy and Elizabeth must have had a bad falling out -- employment generally went from Quarter Day to Quarter Day.