Wisdom of a Whispering Oak

 Dear Reader,

 

Charles II, also known as the Merry Monarch was king of England, Scotland and Ireland from 1660 until his death in 1685, marking the end of the Interregnum and Restoration of the Monarchy.

His reign was characterized by a vibrant cultural scene, The Great Plague and Great Fire of London and a complex relationship with Parliament  and religious factions.

Born in 1630, Charles II early life was disrupted by the English Civil War.  He fought alongside his father, Charles I, against Parliamentarians led by Oliver Cromwell.  He was defeated by Cromwell at the Battle of Worcester and forced into exile.

However, Charles was invited back to England in 1660, marking the Restoration of the Monarchy.  Charles II reign was marked by a blend of political skill and personal indulgence.  He was known for his charm and wit, earning him the name "Merry Monarch".

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From Francis Kilvert   July 29th   1871 in Radnorshire

'Torrents of lashing and streaming rain all the morning, a thunderstorm without thunder breaking into a beautiful sunny afternoon.  I went to Hay to pay some bills.  On the crest of the hill above Hay I met a tall woman smoking a clay pipe and driving a black donkey.'

 

From Dorothy Wordsworth  July 31st  1802 in London

'We mounted the Dover Coach at Charing Cross.  It was a beautiful morning.  The city, St. Paul's, with the river and a multitude of little boats, made a most beautiful sight as we crossed Westminster Bridge.  The houses were not overhung by their cloud  of smoke, and they were spread out endlessly, yet the sun shone so brightly with such a fierce light, that here was even something like the purity of one of nature's own grand spectacles.'

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Wisdom of a Whispering Oak

 

The old oak whispers quietly,

spreads its branches,

shakes its leaves,

this is a true tale it says.

One day, long ago, a man climbed

into the depth of me,

frightened, out of breath

soldiers in pursuit.

I held him tight

wrapped my branches

round his body

hugged him.

The trees in the wood

told me he was a King,

but to me he was just a man

like all others.

 

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With very best wishes, Patricia