ABSTRACT
After the tumult of the Civil Wars, the long drawn-out strain of Cromwell’s Protectorate, and the traumas of plague and fire, the Merchant Taylors, along with London’s other livery companies, might fairly have hoped for a time of respite, a spell of tranquillity in which to recuperate, to enjoy the restored Hall with its new screen, to build up the academic prowess of the handsomely rebuilt school, and to watch, with relief rather than complacency, as overstretched finances gradually rebalanced themselves. At some time during 1649, the year that saw the execution of Charles I, a son was born to Samuel and Lucy Oates. The various charities for which the Company was responsible must have consumed a great deal of the Court’s time and energy. With so many duties to perform and obligations to fulfil, it is surprising that brethren could be found, willing to spare the time, voluntarily, away from their own concerns.
