All the World's a Stage Door, Johnny

"The affairs of state must take precedence over the affairs of State." (“Blazing Saddles”, Mel Brooks)

     Groupies come from all walks of life and all professions. Some even grow up to be President. Not long ago, much was made of the attempted cover-up of President Kennedy's apparent affair with Marilyn Monroe during his administration. Not to condone such things, but if true, it wouldn't have been the first time that a head of state was, shall we say, indiscreet? Or the last.

     We find the late JFK in the company of no less than King Charles II of England, who, much to the chagrin of his subjects, was smitten by the charms of actress, Nell Gwynn. While fidelity doesn't seem to be an inherent virtue of the crown (or Oval Office for that matter), for the English sovereign to keep as one of his courtesans... (Gasp!) ...an actress, well it was just too much for 17th century sensibilities.

     Sir Walter Scott reflected on the sentiment of the day when he wrote in "Peveril of the Peak" (chapter XL): "Mrs. Nelly, wit she has; let her keep herself warm with it in worse company, for the cant of strollers is not language for prince's chamber." Charles obviously felt otherwise. Reportedly, his last words were, "Let not poor Nelly starve."