Inside Whitehall all was confusion. Members
of the Privy Council assembled in the room adjoining that where
the monarch lay; politicians and ambassadors conversed in
whispers in the disordered apartments; courtiers of all degrees
flocked through the corridors bearing signs of deep concern upon
their countenances.
And amongst others who sought his majesty's presence was the
Archbishop of Canterbury, together with the Bishops of London,
Durham, Ely, and Bath and Wells; all being anxious to render
spiritual services to the king. Of these good men, Charles liked
best Dr. Ken, Bishop of Bath and Wells, having most faith in his
honesty. For, when his lordship was a prebend of Winchester, it
had happened Charles passed through that city, accompanied by
Nell Gwynn, when Dr. Ken refused to receive her beneath his roof
even at the king's request. This proof of integrity so pleased
his majesty, that he gave him the next vacant bishopric by way of
reward. And now, his lordship being at hand, he read prayers for
the Sick from out the Common Prayer Book for his benefit, until
coming to that part where the dying are exhorted to make
confession of their sins, when the bishop paused and said such
was not obligatory. He then asked his majesty if he were sorry
for the iniquities of his life? when the sick man, whose heart
was exceeding heavy, replied he was; whereon the bishop
pronounced absolution, and asked him if he would receive the
Sacrament.
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