wellinghall | Another page from the diary of Samuel Pepys

Up betimes, and out to the shops; first to Mr Twist the butcher, who provided us with a fine plump fowl; and then to Mr Patel the newsagent, who had a ready supply of the latest broadsheets.

Then to London town. First to Bloomsbury, there to see an exhibition of the works of Mr Pont, an artist of the last century. These we thought very droll. There were also pieces by Mr Heath Robinson, with working models, which caused much amusement.

Thence to Covent Garden, there to meet with the family of my good lady wife. We had a luncheon of the Italian Style; which was generally considered to be good.

Promenading around the East Piazza, we were astonished to encounter two giant peacocks, newly-arrived from the East. A rendition of them can be seen here.

Afterwards, the ladies did repair to the Opera House, there to see a performance of Sleeping Beauty; which I hear was much enjoyed by all. I returned home, and read. My wife joined me later, just in time for us to be entertained by the inventiveness of Mr Russell T Davies.

And so to bed.