Episode 1

Kris Marshall returns as the famous diarist. Rumours that 1666 might prove to be an unlucky year, or even herald the end of the world, are of no concern to Samuel Pepys. He's far more interested in his new friend, Mrs Knipp. Mrs Knipp is an actress and singer, and is often to be found entertaining the guests in the homes of Sam's friends. As their friendship develops, they even have nicknames for each other - she is 'Barbara Allen' and he is 'Dapper Dicky'. Elizabeth meanwhile is having much less fun. As Sam admits, she's working like a horse at decorating his closet - as well as being kept awake at night by Sam's disturbed sleep and, worst of all, his snoring! Adapted by Hattie Naylor.

Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.

Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Catherine Robinson

A BBC/Cymru Wales production, directed by Kate McAll.