July-December, 1663 Summary

Pepys' friends relate various items of local interest, including the arrest of Sir Charles Sydly for debauchery of various sorts. He is fined 5,000 pounds. Letters from Pepys' wife in the country prove cold, which worries him. Pepys receives word that Ashwell, his wife's companion, has lied. When the women return from the country, Pepys cannot get the truth from either party, but Ashwell is dismissed. A replacement maid goes for a clothes fitting and disappears, taking the new clothes with her. Finally, Jane is hired as his wife's newest maid.

Upon running into Mrs. Lane, Pepys enjoys an afternoon affair with her. He vows to suspend activities of this sort. The next afternoon, he is once again troubled by the relationship between the dance instructor and his wife. Pepys also learns of Lord Sandwich's possible affair with one of the daughters of Mrs...