_Three Dukes_ (Vol. ii., p. 9.).--I should like a more satisfactory
answer to this Query than that I given by C. (Vol. ii., p. 46.). I can
give the I names of _two_ of the Dukes (viz. Monmouth and Albermarle);
but who was the _third_, and where can a _detailed account_ of the
transaction be found? In Wades' _British History chronologically
arranged_, 3rd edit. p. 230, is the following paragraph under the date
of Feb. 28, 1671 (that is, 1670-1):--
"The Duke of Monmouth, who had contrived the outrage on
Coventry, in a drunken frolic with the young Duke of Albemarle
and others, deliberately kills a ward-beadle. Charles, to save
his son, pardoned all the murderers."
The date given in the _State Poems_ is Sunday
morning, Feb. 26th, 1670-71. Mr. Lister, in his
_Life of Edward, Earl of Clarendon_ (vol. ii. p. 492.),
alludes to the affair:--
"The King's illegitimate son Monmouth, in company with the young
Duke of Albemarle and others, kills a watchman, who begs for
mercy, and the King pardons all the murderers."