dined, and Mr.
Povy by agreement with me (where his boldness with Mercer, poor innocent
wench, did make both her and me blush, to think how he were able to
debauch a poor girl if he had opportunity) at a dish or two of plain
meat of his own choice. After dinner comes Creed and then Andrews, where
want of money to Andrews the main discourse, and at last in confidence
of Creed's judgement I am resolved to spare him 4 or L500 of what lies
by me upon the security of some Tallys. This went against my heart to
begin, but when obtaining Mr. Creed to joyne with me we do resolve to
assist Mr. Andrews. Then anon we parted, and I to my office, where late,
and then home to supper and to bed. This night I am told the first play
is played in White Hall noon-hall, which is now turned to a house of
playing. I had a great mind, but could not go to see it.

21st. Up and to my office about business. Anon comes Creed and Povy, and
we treat about the business of our lending money, Creed and I, upon a
tally for the satisfying of Andrews, and did conclude it as in papers
is expressed, and as I am glad to have an opportunity of having 10 per
cent. for my money, so I am as glad that the sum I begin this trade with
is no more than L350. We all dined at Andrews' charge at the Sun behind
the 'Change, a good dinner the worst dressed that ever I eat any, then
home, and there found Kate Joyce and Harman come to see us. With them,
after long talk, abroad by coach, a tour in the fields, and drunk at
Islington, it being very pleasant, the dust being laid by a little rain,
and so home very well pleased with this day's work. So after a while at
my office to supper and to bed. This day we hear that the Duke and the
fleete are sailed yesterday. Pray God go along with them, that they have
good speed in the beginning of their worke.

22nd. Up, and Mr. Caesar, my boy's lute-master, being come betimes to
teach him, I did speak with him seriously about the boy, what my mind
was, if he did not look after his lute and singing that I would turn him
away; which I hope will do some good upon the boy. All the morning busy
at the office. At noon dined at home, and then to the office again very
busy till very late, and so home to supper and to bed. My wife making
great preparation to go to Court to Chappell to-morrow. This day I have
newes from Mr. Coventry that the fleete is sailed yesterday from Harwich
to the coast of Holland to see what the Dutch will do. God go alo