The Diary of John Evelyn (volume 2 of 2)

A historical account written in the late 17th century. The book is a continuation of the detailed personal journal kept by John Evelyn, chronicling his life, thoughts, and the significant events of his time, particularly in relation to the socio-political landscape of England during a tumultuous period marked by war, plague, and fire. The diary presents a vivid portrayal of both Evelyn’s personal experiences and the broader historical moments he witnessed. The opening of this second volume begins with entries from January 1665, where Evelyn reflects upon his publishing activities and his appointments related to the sick and wounded during the naval conflicts with the Dutch. As he travels through Kent, he notes the challenges of managing military logistics and caring for prisoners during the war. Evelyn details his interactions with key historical figures, including the King, and provides rich observations about the conditions of both society and nature amidst escalating tensions, including the plague that ravaged London. The early entries set a tone of duty, reflection, and responsiveness to the crises of his time, illustrating his significant role and the historical context through which he lived.