AustLit

'School history books formerly gave a poor view of the Stuart kings, and especially Charles II (1630-1685), but modern historians take a much more tolerant line. They point out that Charles was one of the most astute monarchs of his period, that his kindness and courage were undoubted and that, if he had a cynical outlook, it was not without reason, seeing that his father, Charles I, had been - from the stand point of most people of the day - judicially murdered by a gang of rebels. He would probably have shared the same fate had he not gone into exile for ten years. Charles comes down to us as the 'Merrie Monarch,' but his gaiety deceived everyone but himself, and was merely a façade which hid a nature essentially melancholy. His charm of manner gained him high popularity, and if his personal character did not conform to modern standards it is to be remembered that those things were judged very differently in the 17^th century, when few people thought less of a king who sought love outside the bonds of a marriage of state. Unfortunately for Charles Stuart, however, he was destined never to achieve the happiness for which he searched. The woman who brought most into his life was Nell Gwynn (1656-1687). A daughter of the people, Nell began her career selling oranges at Drury Lane Theatre, afterwards going on the stage and becoming the leading comedienne of her day. Her gaiety and generosity made her an immense favourite with the public and gained her a great influence over her royal lover. She persuaded him to found the Royal Chelsea Hospital, in which many generations of aged and disabled soldiers have found a haven, and which still stands as a monument to 'Pretty Nelly.' Old-time playgoers will recall 'Sweet Nell of Old Drury,' the play based on her life, and made famous by the distinguished Australian actress, Nellie Stewart.' (p. 21)