Blog: A Day in The Life of Matthew Starble

London, 4 February 1667

What follows is the occurrences and activities that I would have participated in if I lived in 17^th century London.

“Oh what fun I have planned for today. The most glorious of days. My birthday. I am surprised I am still alive. Because of my life I will be throwing a huge party to celebrate. I have to get ready though for all the guests to come over. I have not even powdered my wig yet. I must wear a wig because my hair has been a little thin lately and I cannot risk anything. I recently got my suit back from the tailor because I got a small tear in it but it is fine now. It is a really fine suit. The jacket is a solid dark blue with silver buttons, it used to be my fathers and my fathers father. I also have a magnificent wool vest and navy breeches to go along with the jacket. I usually finish of the outfit with my white cravat. Next to prepare for the party I apply ceruse to my face to give it that white look. It somewhat burns but that is the price for looking great.

“ I am so excited for the food we will be having at my party. My friend, who is an exquisite cook, is making roasted duck, chicken and rabbit. There will be two legs of mutton, a whole side of lamb and five lobsters. All of this food will be accompanied with the finest of whines and beers. For dessert we will have four tarts with a mixture of tarts, including my favorite, boysenberry. We will also have some apple and blueberry pies and some fruit that was just picked.”

“ The party was great. And now we are all going out for one of my favorite things. A public execution. This man was a thief and tried stealing pastries from my favorite pastry shop. He should be ashamed. After that my guests and me went on down to the south bank to enjoy some bear baiting. It took a while but afterwards we went to the river to take a relaxing boat ride. Today was a glorious day. “

“ I feel terrible. I do not know why. I decided to take my self on down to the doctor to have myself checked out. The doctor let me blood, it was only 14 ounces but I still felt a little off. I thought my magic hares foot I always carry kept me healthy. I guess that didn’t work. I went to see the wise woman that lives down the street. She was no help so I went back down to the doctor. Turns out I have bladder stones… I had surgery, and the doctor said it went well. It was excruciatingly painful. But I will get over it.”