
A meticulous record kept by a mid‑century London clerk offers an intimate glimpse of everyday life at the heart of the Restoration capital. Written in his own shorthand and later decoded, the entries trace his duties at the Admiralty, his social engagements, and the rhythms of a household striving for normalcy amid political change.
Within its pages you’ll hear the clamor of the city’s most dramatic moments—the sudden spread of fire through the streets, the lingering threat of disease, and the heated debates in Parliament. At the same time, the diarist shares personal concerns: his health, his marriage, his love of music and theatre, and the small pleasures that punctuate a busy schedule. These observations paint a vivid portrait of a society balancing ambition and anxiety.
This complete edition brings to listeners the full scope of the original manuscript, including passages previously omitted. The added notes help clarify obscure references, making the narrative both accessible and richly detailed for anyone curious about 17th‑century England.
Language
en
Duration
~11 hours (685K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger
Release date
2004-10-31
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1633–1703
Best known for the diary that captures everyday life in Restoration London, this lively observer recorded everything from the Great Fire to the small dramas of his own household. His pages feel unusually modern: curious, candid, funny, and full of detail.
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