Hudson Geoffery

Hudson, Geoffery (1619-1682), a celebrated English dwarf, born at Oakham in Rutlandshire. The story goes that he was brought to table before Charles I. and his Queen Henrietta, enclosed in a pie, and that he was then attached to the queen's suite. In 1630 he was sent on a mission abroad, and was captured by Flemish pirates. After his return from captivity he was made captain of horse. He was so unfortunate as to be again captured by pirates, and during this imprisonment he grew considerably. After the Restoration he was pensioned, but being accused of participation in the Popish plot, was imprisoned, and is said to have finished his life in prison. Scott introduces him, with effect in the The Fortunes of Nigel.