News of this scene spread rapidly through the court, and
was subsequently discussed in the coffee-houses and taverns all
over the town, where great freedom was made with the lady's name,
and great sport of the king's passion. And now it was said the
monarch had parted with his mistress for ever, concerning which
there was much rejoicement and some doubt. For notwithstanding
the king had passed his word to this effect, yet it was known
though his spirit was willing his flesh was weak. Indeed, three
days had scarcely passed when, mindful of her temper, he began to
think his words had been harsh, and, conscious of her power, he
concluded his vows had been rash. He therefore sought her once
more, but found she was not inclined to relent, until, as Pepys
was assured, this monarch of most feeble spirit, this lover of
most ardent temper, "sought her forgiveness upon his knees, and
promised to offend her no more."
CHAPTER XIV.
The kingdom in peril.--The chancellor falls under his majesty's
displeasure.--The Duke of Buckingham's mimicry.--Lady
Castlemaine's malice.--Lord Clarendon's fall.--The Duke of Ormond
offends the royal favourite.--She covers him with abuse.--Plots
against the Duke of York.--Schemes for a royal divorce.--Moll
Davis and Nell Gwynn.--The king and the comedian.--Lady
Castlemaine abandons herself to great disorders.--Young Jack
Spencer.--The countess intrigues with an acrobat.--Talk of the
town.--The mistress created a duchess.
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