Unheard-of cruelties to the persecuted Protestants of France, such as hardly any age has seen the like, even among the Pagans.
6th February, 1686. Being the day on which his Majesty began his reign, by order of Council it was to be solemnized with a particular office and sermon, which the Bishop of Ely preached at Whitehall on Numb. xi. 12; a Court oration upon the regal office. It was much wondered at, that this day, which was that of his late Majesty's death, should be kept as a festival, and not the day of the present King's coronation. It is said to have been formerly the custom, though not till now since the reign of King James I.
The Duchess of Monmouth, being in the same seat with me at church, appeared with a very sad and afflicted countenance.