We went through Horslydowne, where I
never was since a boy, that I went to enquire after my father,
whom we did give over for lost coming from Holland. It was
dangerous to walk the streets, the bricks and tiles falling from
the houses that the whole streets were covered with them; and
whole chimneys, nay, whole houses in two or three places, blowed
down. But, above all, the pales of London-bridge on both sides
were blown away, so that we were fain to stoop very low for fear
of blowing off of the bridge. We could see no boats in the
Thames afloat, but what were broke loose, and carried through the
bridge, it being ebbing water. And the greatest sight of all
was, among other parcels of ships driven here and there in
clusters together, one was quite overset and lay with her masts
all along in the water, and keel above water.
25th. It is now certain that the King of France hath publickly
declared war against us, and God knows how little fit we are for
it.
28th. Took coach, and to Hampton Court, where we find the King,
and Duke, and Lords, all in council; so we walked up and down:
there being none of the ladies come, and so much the more
business I hope will be done.
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