Context:

Tom quotes from Samuel Pepys' diary when discussing Lord Rochester's behavior at the Dutch ambassador's dinner, describing how Rochester boxed Tom Killigrew's ear in the king's presence.

Context:

Dominic references historian David Loades' book when quoting his harsh characterization of Catherine Howard, noting how unsympathetically she was described in historical writing.

Context:

Dominic quotes from the Byzantine historian Michael Psellus (spelled 'Sellus' in transcript) when describing Empress Zoe's appearance and character, including details about her beauty and temperament.

Context:

Dominic extensively quotes from Tony Benn's published diaries, including the famous wasp sting entry, his grief over his wife Caroline's death, and his friendship with Natasha Kaplinsky.