The date is January 1696. James is in exile in France. He is writing his memoirs and contacts a publisher to see if they are interested in publishing his manuscript.

James II really did write a manuscript of his memoirs but it was lost for centuries. He really did take 10 volumes of diaries and 4 volumes of correspondance with him when he fled and then had the rest sent over. The reference to his son being born 'flattish' was because there was a rumour that he had been smuggled into the birth chamber in a warming pan (old fashioned hot water bottle) in order to provide proof of a real baby. He really did escape in women's clothing and New York is indeed named after him. Pepys was his Secretary when he was Lord Admiral. The story about the Battle of Lowestoft is true. And a bit gruesome.

The quote about his spending is directly from his lips. He did have trouble with nephews. Or rather they had trouble with him. He really did throw The Great Seal into the river hoping it would delay things. The story about the fishermen in Faversham is true. He really did live in Rochester High Street with Sir Richard Head. He really did leave a note in his lodgings and legged it. The story about the bacon is true. And dull. Whereas the story of the diamond buckles is a lot more interesting and also true!

In France, he really did have a brewery in his castle and his daily routine is as mentioned. The quote about being a victim of tragic circumstances is also verbatim.  The Jacobite drinking dens mentioned are all real. He also hated novels. He really was offered the job of King of Poland.

If you want to find out more about James, check out the sources and places below:

James II: King in Exile - John Callow

Penguin Monarchs Series: James II - David Womersley

The English Monarchs Series: James II - John Miller