Having expressed her desire to
be present at one of the meetings of the Royal Society, the
council prepared to receive her, not, it must be admitted,
without some fear her extravagance would expose them to the
ridicule of the town, and place them fit the mercy of ballad-
mongers. So it happened one fair May-day, in the year 1667 a
vast concourse of people had assembled to witness her arrival at
Arundel House in the Strand, where the society held its meetings
for some years after the burning of Gresham College. And she in
good time reaching there, surrounded by her maids of honour,
gentlemen in waiting, and lackeys, was met by the president,
Viscount Brouncker, having his mace carried before him, and was
conducted to the great room. When the meeting was over, various
experiments were tried for her satisfaction; amongst others a
piece of roasted mutton was turned into pure blood. The while
she witnessed these sights, crowds of gallants gathered round her
that they might catch and retain such fine things as fell from
her lips; but she only cried out her wonder and admiration at all
she saw; and at the end of her visit was conducted in state to
her coach by several noble lords, notable amongst whom was a
vastly pretty young man, Francis Seymour, fifth Duke of Somerset.
CHAPTER XXI.
A period rich in literature.--John Milton's early life.--Writing
"Paradise Lost."--Its publication and success.--His later works
and death.--John Dryden gossips with wits and players.
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