There are also deere of several countries, white, spotted
like leopards; antelopes, an elk, red deere, roebucks, staggs,
Guinea goates, Arabian sheepe, etc. There are withy-potts or
nests for the wild fowle to lay their eggs in, a little above ye
surface of ye water."
Hyde Park, lying close by, likewise afforded a pleasant and
convenient spot for recreation. Here, in a large circle railed
off and known as the Ring, the world of quality and fashion took
the air in coaches. The king and queen, surrounded by a goodly
throng of maids of honour and gentlemen in waiting, were wont to
ride here on summer evenings, whilst courtiers and citizens
looked on the brilliant cavalcade with loyal delight. Horse and
foot races were occasionally held in the park, as were reviews
likewise, Cosmo, Grand Duke of Tuscany, "a very jolly and good
comely man," whilst visiting England in 1669, was entertained by
his majesty with a military parade held here one Sunday in May.
On arriving at Hyde Park, he found a great concourse of people
and carriages waiting the coming of his majesty, who presently
appeared with the Duke of York and many lords and gentlemen of
the court. Having acknowledged an enthusiastic greeting, Charles
retired under shade of some trees, in order to protect himself
from the sun, and then gave orders for the troops to march past.
"The whole corps," says the Grand Duke, "consisted of two
regiments of infantry, and one of cavalry, and of three companies
of the body-guard, which was granted to the king by parliament
since his return, and was formed of six hundred horsemen, each
armed with carabines and pistols, all well mounted and dressed,
which are uniform in every; thing but colour.
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