Charles How

Charles How (1661-1742) served as a courtier in King Charles II’s court, nicknamed the “Merry Monarch” for his pleasure-seeking approach to the English throne. When Charles II died, his brother, King James II, took over and assigned the courtier Charles to accompany a family member on a diplomatic mission to a foreign country. When this ambassador died, Charles successfully managed the work of the embassy in his stead. King James II offered Charles the job of permanent ambassador, but he declined the offer, citing that he “disliked the measures that were then carried on at court.” I interpret this to mean that Charles didn’t care for the shenanigans characterizing the reigns of James II and his playboy brother. History records these two kings fathered a staggering number of children from assorted mistresses during their monarchies. Charles How turned his attention to writing and married Elianor, with whom he had six children, only one of whom survived to adulthood. After Elianor’s death in 1696, Charles retired to the country, chiefly to write devotional literature. He didn’t compose for publication but simply for his private use. After his death, his writings were given to his granddaughter, who, upon sharing it with a friend, published Charles’ Devout Meditations nine years later, omitting Charles’ name from the first edition. Only in the second edition was Charles’ name restored to his devotions. Contemporary author Charles Marshall, yet another Charles, wrote, “Integrity is doing the right thing when you don’t have to—while no one else is looking or will ever know—when there will be no congratulations or recognition for having done so.” Charles How lived with integrity during the reigns of two derelict English monarchs. He wrote the following prayer to begin his Devout Meditations: