The Diary · Chapter
February 1659–60 explained
Pepys records the political turmoil of February 1659–60, including mutinies by soldiers demanding pay, the readmission of secluded members to Parliament, and General Monk's maneuvering.
What happens
Pepys records the political turmoil of February 1659–60, including mutinies by soldiers demanding pay, the readmission of secluded members to Parliament, and General Monk's maneuvering. He manages his finances, collects money for Lord Sandwich, visits taverns and plays, and prepares his brother John for Cambridge.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the news of the impending naval battle throws the Board into…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Political Intrigue and Restoration
The chapter focuses on the political crisis, including soldier mutinies, the readmission of secluded members, and Monk's role.
- Money, Debt, and Economy
Pepys handles financial transactions, collects £60, and notes his net worth of £40.
- Daily Life and Domesticity
Pepys describes meals, lute practice, and preparing his brother for Cambridge.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pepys
Narrator and protagonist; manages money, observes political events, and socializes.
- Elizabeth Pepys
Dines with Pepys on pease porridge and attends church with him.
- Edward Montagu, Earl of Sandwich
Pepys collects £60 on his behalf and sends him letters and goods.
- Mr. Moore
Dines with Pepys and reports on the secluded members' meeting with Monk.
- Roger Pepys
Mentioned as cousin; Pepys sits with him discussing public business.
- Mr. Creed
Not directly mentioned in excerpts, but included as a placeholder; no interaction found.
Key passages
“In the morning went to my office where afterwards the old man brought me my letters from the carrier. At noon I went home and dined with my wife on pease porridge and nothing else.”
Pepys started his day at the office, received letters, and had a simple meal of pease porridge with his wife.
Shows Pepys's daily routine and modest domestic life.
“I heard that some of the members of the House were gone to meet with some of the secluded members and General Monk in the City.”
Pepys learns that Parliament members are meeting with the secluded members and General Monk in the City.
Highlights the political negotiations leading to the Restoration.
