great beautys and dress, that ever I did see in my life. But,
above all, Mrs. Stuart in this dresse with her hat cocked and a
red plume, with her sweet eye, little Roman nose, and excellent
taille, is now the greatest beauty I ever saw, I think, in my
life; and, if ever woman can, do exceed my Lady Castlemaine, at
least in this dresse: nor do I wonder if the king changes, which
I verily believe is the reason of his coldness to my Lady
Castlemaine."

Having returned from the park, dined at noon, walked in the
palace gardens, or played cards till evening came, their
majesties, surrounded by a brilliant and joyous court, would in
summer time descend the broad steps leading from Whitehall to the
Thames, and embark upon the water for greater diversion. Never
was there so goodly a sight, seldom so merry a company. The
barges in which they sailed were draped to the water's edge with
bright fabrics, hung with curtains of rich silk, and further
adorned with gay pennants. And, as the long procession of boats,
filled with fair women and gallant men, followed their majesties
adown the placid Thames towards pleasant Richmond, my Lord Arran
would delight the ears of all by his performance on the guitar;
the fair Stuart would sing French songs in her sweet childlike
voice; or a concert of music would suddenly resound from the
banks, being placed there to surprise by some ingenious courtier.

And presently landing on grassy meads, delightful to sight by
freshness of their colour, and sweet to scent from odour of their
herbs, the court would sup right heartily; laugh, drink, and make
love most merrily, until early shadows stole across the summer
sky, and night-dews fell upon the thirsty earth. Then king,