st, which is very pretty. In
our discourse in the boat Mr. Coventry told us how the Fanatiques and
the Presbyters, that did intend to rise about this time, did choose this
day as the most auspicious to them in their endeavours against monarchy:
it being fatal twice to the King, and the day of Oliver's death.

[Cromwell had considered the 3rd of September as the most fortunate
day of his life, on account of his victories at Dunbar and
Worcester. It was also remarkable for the great storm that occurred
at the time of his death; and as being the day on which the Fire of
London, in 1666, burnt with the greatest fury.--B.]

But, blessed be God! all is likely to be quiet, I hope. After the sale I
walked to my brother's, in my way meeting with Dr. Fairbrother, of
whom I enquired what news in Church matters. He tells me, what I heard
confirmed since, that it was fully resolved by the King's new Council
that an indulgence should be granted the Presbyters; but upon the Bishop
of London's speech

[Gilbert Sheldon, born July 19th, 1598; Fellow of All Souls, Oxford,
1622; Warden, 1635; Bishop of London, 1660-63; Archbishop of
Canterbury, 1663. Died November 9th, 1677.]

(who is now one of the most powerful men in England with the King),
their minds were wholly turned. And it is said that my Lord Albemarle
did oppose him most; but that I do believe is only in appearance. He
told me also that most of the Presbyters now begin to wish they had
complied, now they see that no Indulgence will be granted them, which
they hoped for; and that the Bishop of London hath taken good care that
places are supplied with very good and able men, which is the only thing
that will keep all quiet. I took him in the tavern at Puddle dock, but
neither he nor I drank any of the wine we called for, but left it, and
so after discourse parted, and Mr. Townsend not being at home I went to
my brother's, and there heard how his love matter proceeded, which do
not displease me, and so by water to White Hall to my Lord's lodgings,
where he being to go to Hinchingbroke to-morrow morning, I staid and
fiddled with Will. Howe some new tunes very pleasant, and then my Lord
came in and had much kind talk with him, and then to bed with Mr. Moore
there alone. So having taken my leave of my Lord before I went to bed, I
resolved to rise early and be gone without more speaking to him--

4th. Which I did, and by water betimes to th