jeannine

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jeannine has written 14 articles:

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jeannine has written summaries for eight topics:

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jeannine has posted 1,236 annotations/comments since 16 June 2004.

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First Reading

About Sunday 29 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"there I found my Lady Batten in a velvet gown, which vexed me that she should be in it before my wife, or that I am able to put her into one, but what cannot be, cannot be. However, when I came home I told my wife of it, and to see my weaknesse, I could on the sudden have found my heart to have offered her one, but second thoughts put it by,"

What in interesting set of emotions here. First Sam's honesty is so raw and revealing, it's almost embarrassingly painful--how many of us haven't at one time or another been jealous of what someone (especially someone we don't like!) has been able to do that we haven't been able to do. It's probably a universal feeling at some point in everyone's life as they are growing and finding their way. Then to come home and share this experience with Elizabeth is what I found even more revealing. Apparently he felt not only "safe" to share this thoughts with her about Lady B having a fine velvet dress, but then to acknowledge that they couldn't afford the same things as his rival could. My guess is that over the last few days as he has shared things with Elizabeth (Sandwich issues, etc.) that perhaps he tells her more of his "private" thoughts than we may be aware of.

There is also an interesting part of this that left me uneasy as Sam seems to have well provided for himself over the last month or so and made his needs a priority above his wife. I realize that this is probably the norm for the time, but with all of his expenses of late, it's rather glaring. It seems that Elizabeth is clearly second in line in their family hierarchy.

About Saturday 28 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"History shows that Charlie certainly did not have his pockets picked"
Pedro-nobody would have bothered as Charles never had any money anyway and everyone knew it!

About Saturday 28 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"for certain I am told how in Holland publickly they have pictured our King with reproach. One way is with his pockets turned the wrong side outward, hanging out empty; another with two courtiers picking of his pockets; and a third, leading of two ladies, while others abuse him; which amounts to great contempt"
Great contempt for sure, but unfortunately Holland has portrayed a very accurate description of Charles II.

About Friday 27 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"my poor wife"
I'll throw my 2 cents into the mix here. I think that this has become a habit for Sam, almost a nickname perhaps that started even before the Diary , when they were literally poor, she did all of the work and she did have health problems. Many people coin a phrase for another person, pet, etc. that sticks with them so that they are always referred to that way, ie. (and yes some of these examples are obnoxious, but it makes the point) "my better half", "the little woman", "the wife", "my sweet baby", etc.

And of course, there's always the option that will irk the Sam-can-do-no-wronger's, but I might as well throw that out too. Maybe Sam coined the phrase while being interviewed by Dr. Phil when he came to the realization that by being married to him, she really was his "poor wife".

About Wednesday 25 November 1663

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"Up and to Sir G. Carteret's house, and with him by coach to Whitehall. He uses me mighty well to my great joy, and in our discourse took occasion to tell me that as I did desire of him the other day so he desires of me the same favour that we may tell one another at any time any thing that passes among us at the office or elsewhere wherein we are either dissatisfied one with another, and that I should find him in all things as kind and ready to serve me as my own brother."
[General Spoiler]This is a REALLY good thing for Sam and he may not really understand exactly how good it is for him politically. I've been reading about Carteret of late, his own work, bios about him, etc. What strikes me most is his relationship to the King, something that the Diary doesn't really reflect fully enough. Carteret's most outstanding characteristic is his devout loyalty to the Kings -both CI and CII. He will find himself among the few people that CII will remain loyal to in return (not so for CI, who would have sold him out!). Carteret is NOT involved in Court "politics" but tied to CII through service, devotion and a history of taking care of him (financially, etc.) in consistent and creative ways. Sam probably isn't aware of the depths of this.
For quite awhile as I read along I was wondering if Sam's relationship with Coventry didn't mar his view of Carteret. From today's entry it seems as if Sam is starting to see that it's a "good" thing to be well thought of by Carteret.

About Sunday 22 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

I was curious as to how Sandwich's biographer's (Harris and Ollard) viewed the Letter of Reproof, so here's a summary from F.R. Harris (vol 1, pages 242-251). Both Ollard and Harris share similar view that the entire episode was blown far out of proportion to the reality of what was being gossiped about. Both also note that the episode reveals aspects of Sandwich's character vs. that of Sam's. Spoilers are noted!

Although Sam is convinced that Sandwich is having a relationship with Mrs. Becke, Harris reminds us that much of the time that Sandwich has been away from Court has been due to ill-health as well as the politics of the time. "He saw that the Court was being rent by faction, and in disgust he withdrew. He had undoubtedly great hopes as to the healing results of the Restoration, and it was to him a bitter disappointment that quarrels now divided his friends." Harris explains that "during the whole of this time Sandwich was in great doubt as to the security of his position....the issue of the settlement of religion had divided his friend Clarendon who represented moderation and his cousin Lord Manchester, who championed a variety of creed. Sandwich withdrew from situations where this hot topic was the source of debate, but while away from Court remained active in 'Committees concerning the Post-Office and wine licenses, and spoke upon a Bill for repairing the highways in his own country. He was also on the Committee regulating the Herring Fisheries, and reported on its work"... "Such small participation in politics only needed an occasional appearance in the House, and when not needed there Sandwich had continued in Chelsea". Also, Sandwich spent much time over the months "away" froun Court at his house, with his wife, family, etc. During this time the gossip spread, as Sam has recorded it over the past few months.

Harris then recounts today's entry and adds a few comments along the way about Sandwich's character vs. that of Sam's. As Sandwich is shown to question Sam today, Harris tells us that "Sandwich knew Pepys for somewhat of a busybody, and insisted here Pepys should give him leave to except one. This he said in the real Mountagu manner, 'speaking it as a quick retort'. His perception of the truth reduced poor Pepys to tears, for he had actually gossiped over the matter with Howe, and he feared 'no medium between my Lords' taking it very well of very ill'"

"But my Lord was in no mood to reveal his mind, not was he made of such metal as melted under a reproof. He talked cheerfully of other things; walked with Pepys to Whitehall, and there discoursed of the pictures in the gallery. Pepys was infinitely troubles, and in part abashed" .....As we see from today, this whole episode is causing Sam great anxiety about what to expect from Sandwich's reaction over time. "The key to all this doubt lay in the difference of character. Pepys was demonstrative as Sandwich was reticent. His manner was cold and abrupt, but the coldness covered a kind heart. And least of all would Sandwich open out upon such a subject. It was the very matter to make a Mountgu more reserved." [SPOILERS FROM NOW ON] "Sandwich took heed of the letter, but did not seek conversation on what was best ignored. He was not vindictive, nor did he behave in a mean or petty way. At times he was more guarded with his 'servants', and both Howe and Pepys were taught how far they might go. Sandwich, however, treated them kindly enough....."
"The whole story, which bears examination, gives an insight into Sandwich's character. During the relation the famous diary abounds in touches which reveal the man. His moods are well depicted; the lengthy fits of despondency; the choice of music which accords with his humour; the pretended indifference to men's opnions; the quick retort by which he could pierce a weak spot in Pepys's amour; the gratitude with which he received advice; the gruff manner in which he repelled effusive thanks; the quiet determination to avoid familiarity, are all chronicled. If Sandwich had dallied with Betty Becke, the girl certainly took no harm. Sandwich was still under forty years of age, and could well have flirted with a girl of eighteen. But he had none of the attributes of a rake; to judge him an immoral man upon such slender evidence seems unfair to one whom Evelyn particularly describes as 'chaste' and who was certainly one of the cleanest men at the Court of King Charles II."

About Sunday 22 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"and there my mind being yet unsettled I could mind nothing, and after sermon home and there told my wife what had passed,"
I personally found this the most stunning part of the entry. Up until now I never really got a sense of exactly how much Sam actually shared with Elizabeth. From this sentence I would get the feeling that she was totally aware of the Sandwich issue which I am sure weighed most heavily on Sam's mind. Others may want to offer their better informed insights here.
To me this establishes a deep level of trust in their relationship in the sense that Sam felt free to divulge his worries to Elizabeth and not fear that she would betray him.

About Monday 16 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

Thanks Terry! Sounds miserable for Elizabeth. The Occasional Paper that L&M refer to was written by D'Arcy Power and quotes today's entry (and tomorrow's too) and states
"Mrs. Pepys has a long illness in the winter of 1663. It began, so far as I can ascertain, as an abscess in the vulva, thought I think that it may have been an ischio-rectal abscess, pointing perhaps, a little more anteriorly than is usual. It terminated in a fistula."
He also goes on to say that :
"I cannot find out when the abscess causing the fistula began, but so far back as 1661 there is an entry that she was suffering from some abdominal trouble, for on 12 May 1661, 'My wife had a very troublesome night this night and in great pain, but about the morning her swelling broke, and she was in great ease presently as she useth to be. So I put in a vent (which Dr. Williams sent me yesterday) into the hole to keep it open till all the matter be come out, and so I question not that she will soon be well again'.

It was some time before the abscess healed for on Midsummer Day Pepys went with his father
'and Dr. Williams (who is come to see my wife, whose soare belly is now grown dangerous as she thinks)" ....
There is, however, no further entry in regard to this illness of his wife, though it may have been the starting point of the subsequent fistula."
http://www.pepysdiary.com/archive…
http://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/1…

About Sunday 15 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"my wife not being up, she lying to expect Mr. Holyard the surgeon"
Given the delicate nature of Elizabeth's medical condition, I am curious as to what the norm would be for a male doctor when treating a patient. Dr. H. will make a house call for Elizabeth and Sam doesn't seem to have any concern about that at all. I'm wondering if the doctor examined the patient surrounded by a female nurse, or if he physically would examine her at all. With all of Sam's usual anxiety around men being with his wife alone, this just seems like the norm. Any ideas of the protocol of the times for these things?
Also, not sure if this exam was in relation to the cyst (or whatever her actual medical condition is as it's really not known) or if this is in any way related to her belief of a few days ago that she may be with child?

About Saturday 14 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"Hard for me to read the relative political strengths of the board members from the Duke's perspective"
AH-Awhile ago I was looking for a book about James II and the Navy -trying to find something that overlapped the Diary and offered his perspective on the building of the Navy, the players, etc., but to no avail. If anyone can suggest something that may have his perspective it would be appreciated. I did find James' 'autobiography' which carried a nice introduction of his work in the Navy and the work that Sam did also. It has spoilers but for any interested the review is here
http://www.pepysdiary.com/encyclo…

About Saturday 14 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"I hear to-day that my boy Waynman has behaved himself so with Mr. Davis that they have got him put into a Barbadoes ship to be sent away, and though he sends to me to get a release for him I will not out of love to the boy, for I doubt to keep him here were to bring him to the gallows."
My guess is that he won't fare much better in the Barbadoes and will sadly end up dead there after not too long.
Spoiler Question-Does anyone know whatever happens to Wayneman? I suppose we could hear of him again via his sister?

About Thursday 12 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"her hollow sore place" --herpes?
Andy, Probably not. There is a discussion about Elizabeth's medical background under her name in the people section. David Quidnunc had supplied this note from Tomilin's biography about Sam, which points us in another direction....His entry read:

"Fair warning: The following quote is not for the squeamish. Here's an excerpt from footnote 15, page 53 (footnote appears on page 389; I've capitalized the most relevant phrase):"

"Elizabeth probably was suffering from Bartholin's abcess or cyst, a relatively common condition treated today with antibiotics and, if necessary, surgery; in the seventeenth century there was no effective treatment, and the condition tended to recur, as it clearly did in Elizabeth's case. Although it was not caused by venereal infection but by bacteria living on the skin, Elizabeth may have suspected her husband of infecting her. It does not begin until puberty because it is the action of the glands that produces it, and IN ELIZABETH'S CASE PUBERTY PROBABLY COINCIDED MORE OR LESS WITH HER MARRIAGE. I am indebted to Patrick French for the medical information. [Tomalin then cites information from diary entries for 29 Oct. 1660 and 24 Oct. 1663.]"

http://www.pepysdiary.com/encyclo…

About Monday 9 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"SPOILER: As I recall, he became quite successful in maturity. Didn't Pepys' spend his last years at his house?)."
FURTHER SPOILERS: Yes, JonTom you are correct. Sam lived out his later years with Will, who was a very true friend to him throughout his life, which makes it even more interesting to read the entries about him as of late, where he obviously is going through some "growing pains".

About Monday 9 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

The Royal Joke
Tony, you may be quite right about the sense of humor. As Buckingham once said (don't have book for exact quote here, but something like this)
"Charles would do things if he would, James would do things if he could".
I don't believe that James had the quickness of thought that is often required to pull of a joke. He seems to have lacked that type of wit, while his brother Charles (albeit lazy in many ways) was very much the wit, surrounded himself with a group of wits like Buckingham, and Lord Rochester(who hasn't arrived on the scene yet), etc. James was of a different style, as was Charles I.

About Friday 6 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"There is the famous Jean Heroard's Journal. He was Luis XIII's Physician and he kept a very detailed journal since his birth; so far I have not been able to read it."
As I move a little off -topic here...
A. DeAraujo, when I was writing the article about Elizabeth her father Alexandre was referenced by one of the biographers of Elizabeth (Patrick Delaforce). In his books he details her father's life (Alexandre de St. Michel) and makes a reference to Jean Heroard in regard to an interaction involving Alexandre and the King. I too, would love to find/read the journal, but don't know if it's available and/or if it's in English, but there may be some interesting links to Sam's world (and his father-in-law, perhaps) if any other Pepys site readers can locate it.

Part IV of the article has ths story that is said to appear in the journal of Heroard.
http://www.pepysdiary.com/indepth…

About Sunday 8 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"for I thought that all the church would presently have cast their eyes all upon me, but I found no such thing"
Of course nobody in church would notice Sam's new wig -they were already asleep listening to the sound of the Scott!
I wish I had a recording of the Scot for those nights when I can't sleep; perhaps he had a voice like a hypnotist "you are getting sleepy, very sleepy". For all we know he had the whole church under his trance and make them cluck like chickens!

About Friday 6 November 1663

jeannine  •  Link

"This morning waking, my wife was mighty-earnest with me to persuade me that she should prove with child since last night, which, if it be, let it come, and welcome."
I wish this section gave a little more insight into Sam's feelings here. I'm not sure if this is the dignified "let it come, and welcome" of someone who has been through disappointments here and is timid to be over joyous, or if he is thrilled and excited. Can't quite figure out why it seems that that more zest is put into the Court Gossip, etc. then the possibility of parenthood.