Many of the neighbouring gentry were in attendance, not disdaining to
wear, out of grace and courtesy to Sir Richard Hoghton, the livery of
their thrice-honoured entertainer.
The king's train alone were very numerous, amongst whom appeared Lord
Zouch, Constable of Dover Castle, and Sir George Goring, Lieutenant of
the Gentlemen Pensioners.[29] With the latter rode Sir John Finett,[30]
Assistant Master of the Ceremonies, but who acted the chief part in this
important office during the king's journey; two worthies, of whom it
might be said, that for tempering of the king's humour, and aptness in
ministering to his delights, their like could scarcely have been found.
Such nights of feasting and dancing, such days of hawking, hunting, and
horse-racing, had never before gladdened the heart of "Merry Englonde,"
or England's monarchs. It seemed as if the whole realm were given up to
idolatry and dissipation. The idol pleasure was worshipped with such
ardour and devotion, that all ranks were striving to outdo each other in
tinsel, trumpery, and deeds of worthlessness and folly.
The king loved such disguises and representations as were witty and
sudden; the more ridiculous, and to him the more pleasant.
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