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diff --git a/13040-h/13040-h.htm b/13040-h/13040-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..11b87c6 --- /dev/null +++ b/13040-h/13040-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,18316 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta content="pg2html (binary v0.17)" name="linkgenerator" /> + <title> + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; text-align: justify; font-size: 80%; font-style: italic;} + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .xx-small {font-size: 60%;} + .x-small {font-size: 75%;} + .small {font-size: 85%;} + .large {font-size: 115%;} + .x-large {font-size: 130%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent25 { margin-left: 25%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + .indent35 { margin-left: 35%;} + .indent40 { margin-left: 40%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {position: absolute; right: 1%; font-size: 0.6em; + font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; + text-align: right; background-color: #FFFACD; + border: 1px solid; padding: 0.3em;text-indent: 0em;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 15%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + .head { float: left; font-size: 90%; width: 98%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: center; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 0.8 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13040 ***</div> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE PROSE WORKS OF JONATHAN SWIFT + </h1> + <h3> + VOL. X of BOHN'S STANDARD LIBRARY + </h3> + <h3> + THE PROSE WORKS + </h3> + <h3> + OF + </h3> + <h3> + JONATHAN SWIFT, D.D. + </h3> + <h3> + EDITED BY + </h3> + <h3> + TEMPLE SCOTT + </h3> + <h3> + VOL. X + </h3> + <h3> + HISTORICAL WRITINGS + </h3> + <h3> + 1902 + </h3> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_INTR"> INTRODUCTION </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + By the late JONATHAN SWIFT, D.D. D.S.P.D. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> <i>ADVERTISEMENT</i> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> THE AUTHOR'S PREFACE.[1] </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004B"> THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE + QUEEN. I </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + II </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + III </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + IV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> AN ABSTRACT OF THE HISTORY OF ENGLAND, FROM THE + INVASION OF IT BY JULIUS CAESAR TO THE REIGN OF HENRY THE SECOND. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0009"> SWIFT'S REMARKS ON THE CHARACTERS OF THE COURT + OF QUEEN ANNE. FROM "MEMOIRS OF THE SECRET SERVICES OF JOHN MACKY, ESQ." + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> REMARKS ON LORD CLARENDON'S HISTORY OF THE + REBELLION OXFORD EDITION, 1707, 3 VOLS. FROM THE ORIGINAL, IN ST. + PATRICK'S LIBRARY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> REMARKS ON "BISHOP BURNET'S HISTORY OF + ['SCOTLAND IN'SWIFT] HIS OWN TIME," FOLIO EDITION, 1724-34. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF2"> PREFACE</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE"> NOTES ON THE FREE-HOLDER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE1"> NOTES ON THE FREE-HOLDER.[1] </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0016"> INDEX. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_INTR" id="link2H_INTR"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + INTRODUCTION + </h2> + <p> + Of late years, that is to say, within the last thirty odd years, there has + existed a certain amount of doubt as to whether or no the work known to us + as "The History of the Four Last Years of the Queen," was really the + product of Swift's pen. That a work of this nature had occupied Swift + during his retirement at Windsor in 1713, is undoubted. That the work here + reprinted from the edition given to the world in 1758, "by an anonymous + editor from a copy surreptitiously taken by an anonymous friend" (to use + Mr. Churton Collins's summary), is the actual work upon which Swift was + engaged at Windsor, is not so certain. Let us for a moment trace the + history of what is known of what Swift did write, and then we shall be in + a better position to judge of the authenticity of what we have before us. + </p> + <p> + All that we know of this work is gathered from Swift's correspondence, as + published by Sir Walter Scott in his edition of Swift's Works issued in + 1824. The first reference there made is in a note from Dr. William King to + Mrs. Whiteway, from which we gather that Swift, towards the end of the + year 1736, was meditating the publication of what he had written in 1713. + "As to the History," writes King, "the Dean may be assured I will take + care to supply the dates that are wanting, and which can easily be done in + an hour or two. The tracts, if he pleases, may be printed by way of + appendix. This will be indeed less trouble than the interweaving them in + the body of the history, and will do the author as much honour, and answer + the purpose full as well." + </p> + <p> + This was written from Paris, under date November 9th, O.S., 1736. It can + easily be gathered from this that the tracts referred to are the tracts on + the same period which Swift wrote at the time in defence of the Oxford + ministry. They are given in the fifth volume of this edition. + </p> + <p> + On December 7th, 1736, King was in London, and he immediately writes to + Swift himself on the matter of the History. "I arrived here yesterday," he + says, "and I am now ready to obey your commands. I hope you are come to a + positive resolution concerning the History. You need not hesitate about + the dates, or the references which are to be made to any public papers; + for I can supply them without the least trouble. As well as I remember, + there is but one of those public pieces which you determined should be + inserted at length; I mean Sir Thomas Hanmer's Representation; this I have + now by me. If you incline to publish the two tracts as an Appendix to the + History, you will be pleased to see if the character given of the Earl of + Oxford in the pamphlet of 1715 agrees with the character given of the same + person in the History.[1] Perhaps on a review you may think proper to + leave one of them quite out. You have (I think) barely mentioned the + attempt of Guiscard, and the quarrel between Rechteren and Mesnager. But + as these are facts which are probably now forgot or unknown, it would not + be amiss if they were related at large in the notes; which may be done + from the gazettes, or any other newspapers of those times. This is all I + have to offer to your consideration...." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: See note on page 95 of this volume.] + </p> + <p> + There is thus no doubt left as to which were the tracts referred to by + King, and as to the desire of Swift to include Sir Thomas Hanmer's + Representation—two points that are important as evidence for the + authenticity of the edition issued by Lucas in 1758. + </p> + <p> + Towards the middle of 1737, it must have become common knowledge among + Swift's friends in London, that he was preparing for publication his + "History of the Four Last Years of Queen Anne's Reign." Possibly King may + have dropped a hint of it; possibly Swift may have written to others for + information and assistance. Be that as it may, on April 7th, 1737, the + Earl of Oxford (son of Swift's old friend) wrote to Swift as follows: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "... One reason of my writing to you now is, (next to my asking + your forgiveness) this: I am told that you have given leave and + liberty to some one or more of your friends to print a history + of the last four years of Queen Anne's reign, wrote by you. + + "As I am most truly sensible of your constant regard and sincere + friendship for my father, even to partiality, (if I may say so,) + I am very sensible of the share and part he must bear in such a + history; and as I remember, when I read over that history of + yours, I can recollect that there seemed to me a want of some + papers to make it more complete, which was not in our power to + obtain; besides there were some severe things said, which might + have been very currently talked of; but now will want a proper + evidence to support; for these reasons it is that I do entreat + the favour of you, and make it my earnest request, that you will + give your positive directions, that this history be not printed + and published, until I have had an opportunity of seeing it; + with a liberty of showing it to some family friends, whom I + would consult upon this occasion. I beg pardon for this; I hope + you will be so good as to grant my request: I do it with great + deference to you. If I had the pleasure of seeing you, I would + soon say something to you that would convince you I am not + wrong: they are not proper for a letter as you will easily + guess...." +</pre> + <p> + It is evident that Swift had gone so far as to consult with Faulkner on + the matter of the printing of the "History," because he was present when + Oxford's letter arrived, and he tells us that Swift answered the letter + immediately, and made him read the answer, the purport of which was: "That + although he loved his lordship's father more than he ever did any man; + yet, as a human creature, he had his faults, and therefore, as an + impartial writer, he could not conceal them." + </p> + <p> + On the 4th of June, 1737, Swift wrote at length to Oxford a letter in + which he details the circumstances and the reasons which moved him to + write the History. The letter is important, and runs as follows: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "MY LORD, + + "I had the honour of a letter from your lordship, dated April + the 7th, which I was not prepared to answer until this time. + Your lordship must needs have known, that the History you + mention, of the Four last Years of the Queen's Reign, was + written at Windsor, just upon finishing the peace; at which + time, your father and my Lord Bolingbroke had a misunderstanding + with each other, that was attended with very bad consequences. + When I came to Ireland to take this deanery (after the peace was + made) I could not stay here above a fortnight, being recalled by + a hundred letters to hasten back, and to use my endeavours in + reconciling those ministers. I left them the history you + mention, which I finished at Windsor, to the time of the peace. + When I returned to England, I found their quarrels and coldness + increased. I laboured to reconcile them as much as I was able: I + contrived to bring them to my Lord Masham's, at St. James's. My + Lord and Lady Masham left us together. I expostulated with them + both, but could not find any good consequences. I was to go to + Windsor next day with my lord-treasurer; I pretended business + that prevented me, expecting they would come to some + [agreement?]. But I followed them to Windsor; where my Lord + Bolingbroke told me, that my scheme had come to nothing. Things + went on at the same rate; they grew more estranged every day. My + lord-treasurer found his credit daily declining. In May before + the Queen died, I had my last meeting with them at my Lord + Masham's. He left us together; and therefore I spoke very freely + to them both; and told them, 'I would retire, for I found all + was gone'. Lord Bolingbroke whispered me, 'I was in the right'. + Your father said, 'All would do well'. I told him, 'That I would + go to Oxford on Monday, since I found it was impossible to be of + any use'. I took coach to Oxford on Monday, went to a friend in + Berkshire, there stayed until the Queen's death, and then to my + station here, where I stayed twelve years, and never saw my lord + your father afterward. They could not agree about printing the + History of the Four last Years and therefore I have kept it to + this time, when I determine to publish it in London, to the + confusion of all those rascals who have accused the queen and + that ministry of making a bad peace, to which that party + entirely owes the Protestant succession. I was then in the + greatest trust and confidence with your father the + lord-treasurer, as well as with my Lord Bolingbroke, and all + others who had part in the administration I had all the letters + from the secretary's office, during the treaty of peace out of + those, and what I learned from the ministry, I formed that + History, which I am now going to publish for the information of + posterity, and to control the most impudent falsehoods which + have been published since. I wanted no kind of materials. I knew + your father better than you could at that time, and I do + impartially think him the most virtuous minister, and the most + able, that ever I remember to have read of. If your lordship has + any particular circumstances that may fortify what I have said + in the History, such as letters or materials, I am content they + should be printed at the end, by way of appendix. I loved my + lord your father better than any other man in the world, + although I had no obligation to him on the score of preferment, + having been driven to this wretched kingdom, to which I was + almost a stranger, by his want of power to keep me in what I + ought to call my own country, although I happened to be dropped + here, and was a year old before I left it, and to my sorrow did + not die before I came back to it again. As to the History, it + is only of affairs which I know very well and had all the + advantages possible to know, when you were in some sort but a + lad. One great design of it is, to do justice to the ministry at + that time, and to refute all the objections against them, as if + they had a design of bringing in Popery and the Pretender: and + farther to demonstrate, that the present settlement of the crown + was chiefly owing to my lord your father...." +</pre> + <p> + The Earl of Oxford had failed to extract the manuscript from Swift for the + purpose he had expressed in his letter. But his friend and Swift's old + friend, Erasmus Lewis, who had been Under-Secretary of State during Lord + Oxford's administration, came to the Earl's assistance. He had not written + to Swift for many years, but on June 30th, 1737, he took occasion to renew + the correspondence and referred to the proposal for publishing the History + in a manner which leaves no doubt as to who suggested to him to write: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + " ... Now I name him, I mean Lord Oxford, let me ask you if it + be true, that you are going to print a History of the Four Last + Years of the Queen? if it is, will not you let me see it before + you send it to the press? Is it not possible that I may suggest + some things that you may have omitted, and give you reasons for + leaving out others? The scene is changed since that period of + time: the conditions of the peace of Utrecht have been applauded + by most part of mankind, even in the two Houses of Parliament: + should not matters rest here, at least for some time? I presume + your great end is to do justice to truth; the second point may + perhaps be to make a compliment to the Oxford family: permit me + to say as to the first, that though you know perhaps more than + any one man, I may possibly contribute a mite; and, with the + alteration of one word, viz. by inserting <i>parva</i> instead of + <i>magna</i>, apply to myself that passage of Virgil, <i>et quorum pars + parva fui</i>. As to the second point, I do not conceive your + compliment to Lord Oxford to be so perfect as it might be, + unless you lay the manuscript before him, that it may be + considered here." +</pre> + <p> + On the 4th of July, 1737, Oxford replied to Swift's letter of the 4th of + June (referring to it as of the 14th of June), and emphasizes his earnest + wish to see the manuscript. He also asks that it may be permitted him to + show it to some friends: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "GOOD MR. DEAN, + + "Your letter of June 14th, in answer to mine of the 7th of + April, is come to my hands; and it is with no small concern that + I have read it, and to find that you seem to have formed a + resolution to put the History of the Four last Years of the + Queen to the press; a resolution taken without giving your + friends, and those that are greatly concerned, some notice, or + suffering them to have time and opportunity to read the papers + over, and to consider them. I hope it is not too late yet, and + that you will be so good as to let some friends see them, before + they are put to the press; and, as you propose to have the work + printed here, it will be easy to give directions to whom you + will please to give the liberty of seeing them; I beg I may be + one: this request I again repeat to you, and I hope you will + grant it. I do not doubt that there are many who will persuade + you to publish it; but they are not proper judges: their reasons + may be of different kinds, and their motives to press on this + work may be quite different, and perhaps concealed from you. + + "I am extremely sensible of the firm love and regard you had for + my father, and have for his memory; and upon that account it is + that I now renew my request, that you would at least defer this + printing until you have had the advice of friends. You have + forgot that you lent me the History to read when you were in + England, since my father died; I do remember it well. I would + ask your pardon for giving you this trouble; but upon this + affair I am so nearly concerned, that, if I did not my utmost to + prevent it, I should never forgive myself." +</pre> + <p> + While this correspondence was in progress, Swift had given the manuscript + to Lord Orrery to hand over to Dr. King. On June 24th, 1737, King wrote to + Swift stating that he had received a letter from Mrs. Whiteway in which he + was told to expect the manuscript from the hands of Lord Orrery. To Mrs. + Whiteway he replied, on the same day, that he would wait on Lord Orrery to + receive the papers. On July 23rd, 1737, Lord Orrery wrote to Swift + informing him that "Dr. King has his cargo." + </p> + <p> + With the knowledge that the manuscript was on its way to King, Swift wrote + the following reply to Lewis's letter: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + July 23, 1737. + + "DEAR FRIEND, + + "While any of those who used to write to me were alive, I always + inquired after you. But, since your secretaryship in the queen's + time, I believed you were so glutted with the office, that you + had not patience to venture on a letter to an absent useless + acquaintance; and I find I owe yours to my Lord Oxford. The + History you mention was written above a year before the queen's + death. I left it with the treasurer and Lord Bolingbroke, when I + first came over to take this deanery. I returned in less than a + month; but the ministry could not agree about printing it. It + was to conclude with the peace. I staid in London above nine + months; but not being able to reconcile the quarrels between + those two, I went to a friend in Berkshire, and, on the queen's + death, came hither for good and all. I am confident you read + that History; as this Lord Oxford did, as he owns in his two + letters, the last of which reached me not above ten days ago. + You know, on the queen's death, how the peace and all + proceedings were universally condemned. This I knew would be + done; and the chief cause of my writing was, not to let such a + queen and ministry lie under such a load of infamy, or posterity + be so ill-informed, &c. Lord Oxford is in the wrong to be in + pain about his father's character, or his proceedings in his + ministry; which is so drawn, that his greatest admirers will + rather censure me for partiality; neither can he tell me + anything material out of his papers, which I was not then + informed of; nor do I know anybody but yourself who could give + me more light than what I then received; for I remember I often + consulted with you, and took memorials of many important + particulars which you told me, as I did of others, for four + years together. I can find no way to have the original delivered + to Lord Oxford, or to you; for the person who has it will not + trust it out of his hands; but, I believe, would be contented to + let it be read to either of you, if it could be done without + letting it out of his hands, although, perhaps, that may be too + late." +</pre> + <p> + Swift is evidently about to accede to the desires of his two friends, and + Lewis, in his reply, takes it for granted that the manuscript will soon be + in his possession for perusal and examination: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + London, Aug. 4, 1737. + + "I assure you, my dear Dean, 'twas matter of joy to me to + receive a letter from you, and I hope 'tis an earnest of many + more I may have hereafter, before you and I leave this world; + though I must tell you, that if you and I revive our former + Correspondence, you must indulge me the liberty of making use of + another hand; for whether it be owing to age, or writing + formerly whole nights by candle-light, or to both those causes, + my sight is so far impaired, that I am not able, without much + pain, to scratch out a letter. + + "I do not remember ever to have read your History. I own my + memory is much decayed; but still I think I could not have + forgotten a matter of so much consequence, and which must have + given me so great a pleasure. It is fresh in my mind, that Lord + Oxford and the Auditor desired you to confer with me upon the + subject matter of it; that we accordingly did so; and that the + conclusion was, you would bury everything in oblivion. We + reported this to those two, I mean to his lordship and his + uncle, and they acquiesced in it. Now I find you have finished + that piece. I ask nothing but what you grant in your letter of + July 23d, viz. That your friend shall read it to me, and forbear + sending it to the press, till you have considered the + objections, if any should be made. + + "In the meantime, I shall only observe to you in general, that + three and twenty years, for so long it is since the death of + Queen Anne, having made a great alteration in the world, and + that what was sense and reason then, is not so now; besides, I + am told you have treated some people's characters with a + severity which the present times will not bear, and may possibly + bring the author into much trouble, which would be matter of + great uneasiness to his friends. I know very well it is your + intention to do honour to the then treasurer. Lord Oxford knows + it; all his family and friends know it; but it is to be done + with great circumspection. It is now too late to publish a + pamphlet, and too early to publish a History. + + "It was always my opinion, that the best way of doing honour to + the treasurer, was to write a History of the Peace of Utrecht, + beginning with a short preamble concerning the calamitous state + of our debt, and ending with the breaking our army, and + restoring the civil power; that these great things were + completed under the administration of the Earl of Oxford, and + this should be his epitaph. Lord Bolingbroke is undoubtedly + writing a History, but I believe will not live to finish it, + because he takes it up too high, viz. from the Restoration. In + all probability he'll cut and slash Lord Oxford. This is only my + guess. I don't know it...." + + King must have taken the manuscript to Lord Oxford and Lewis, + and been present at its reading. When that reading actually took + place is not ascertainable; but there is no doubt that before + March 15th, 1738, King was aware of the criticisms made on it. + On that day he writes to Mr. Deane Swift, explaining that he has + been obliged to defer the publication until he has received + Swift's answers to the objections made by the friends who read + it. On April 25th, 1738, King wrote again to Mr. Deane Swift, + regretting that he could not see him, "because I might have + talked over with you all the affair of this History, about which + I have been much condemned: and no wonder, since the Dean has + continually expressed his dissatisfaction that I have so long + delayed the publication of it. However, I have been in no fault: + on the contrary, I have consulted the Dean's honour, and the + safety of his person. In a word, the publication of this work, + as excellent as it is, would involve the printer, publisher, + author, and everyone concerned, in the greatest difficulties, if + not in a certain ruin; and therefore it will be absolutely + necessary to omit some of the characters...." +</pre> + <p> + From which we gather that Lewis and the friends had been able to show King + the extreme inadvisability of publishing the work. Swift knew nothing of + this at the time, but Lewis did not long keep him in doubt, and the letter + Lewis wrote Swift on April 8th, 1738, sets forth at length the objections + and criticisms which had so changed King's attitude. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "London, April 8, 1738. + + "I can now acquaint you, my dear Dean, that I have at last had + the pleasure of reading your History, in the presence of Lord + O———d, and two or three more, who think, in all political + matters, just as you do, and are as zealous for your fame and + safety as any persons in the world. That part of it which + relates to the negotiations of peace, whether at London or at + Utrecht, they admire exceedingly, and declare they never yet saw + that, or any other transaction, drawn up with so much + perspicuity, or in a style so entertaining and instructive to + the reader, in every respect; but I should be wanting to the + sincerity of a friend, if I did not tell you plainly, that it + was the unanimous opinion of the company a great deal of the + first part should be retrenched, and many things altered. + + "1st, They conceive the first establishment of the South Sea + Company is not rightly stated, for no part of the debt then + unprovided for was paid: however the advantages arising to the + public were very considerable; for, instead of paying for all + provisions cent. per cent. dearer than the common market-price, + as we did in Lord Godolphin's times, the credit of the public + was immediately restored, and, by means of this scheme, put upon + as good a footing as the best private security. + + "2d, They think the transactions with Mr. Buys might have been + represented in a more advantageous light, and more to the honour + of that administration; and, undoubtedly they would have been so + by your pen, had you been master of all the facts. + + "3d, The D—— of M——'s courage not to be called in question. + + "4th, The projected design of an assassination they believe + true, but that a matter of so high a nature ought not to be + asserted without exhibiting the proofs. + + "5th, The present ministers, who are the rump of those whose + characters you have painted, shew too plainly that they have not + acted upon republican, or, indeed, any other principles, than + those of interest and ambition. + + "6th, Now I have mentioned characters, I must tell you they were + clearly of opinion, that if those you have drawn should be + published as they now stand, nothing could save the author's + printer and publishers from some grievous punishment. As we have + no traces of liberty now left but the freedom of the press, it + is the most earnest desire of your friends that you would strike + out all that you have said on that subject. + + "Thus, my dear Dean, I have laid before you, in a plain manner + the sentiments of those who were present when your History was + read; if I have mistaken in anything, I ask pardon of you and + them. + + "I am not at liberty to name those who were present, excepting + only the E—— of O——d, who has charged me to return you his + thanks for what you have said of his father. + + "What I have to say from myself is, that there were persons in + the company to whose judgment I should pay entire deference. I + had no opportunity of paying any on this occasion, for I + concurred in the same opinion with them, from the bottom of my + heart, and therefore conjure you as you value your own fame as + an author, and the honour of those who were actors in the + important affairs that make the subject of your History, and as + you would preserve the liberty of your person, and enjoyment of + your fortune, you will not suffer this work to go to the press + without making some, or all the amendments proposed. I am, my + dear Dean, most sincerely and affectionately yours, + + "E.L. + + "I thank you for your kind mention of me in your letter to Lord + Oxford. + + "I had almost forgot to tell you, you have mistaken the case of + the D—— of S——, which, in truth, was this, that his grace + appearing at court, in the chamber next to the council-chamber, + it was apprehended he would come into the cabinet-council; and + therefore the intended meeting was put off: whereas one would + judge, by your manner of stating it, that the council had met, + and adjourned abruptly upon his taking his place there. + + "I must add, that if you would so far yield to the opinions of + your friends, as to publish what you have writ concerning the + peace, and leave out everything that savours of acrimony and + resentment, it would, even now, be of great service to this + nation in general, and to them in particular, nothing having + been yet published on the peace of Utrecht in such a beautiful + and strong manner as you have done it. Once more, my dear Dean, + adieu; let me hear from you." +</pre> + <p> + It is to be presumed that Swift was again persuaded to abandon the + publication of his History. Nothing further is heard of it, except a + slight reference by Pope in a letter he wrote to Swift, under date May + 17th, 1739, in which Pope informed him that Bolingbroke (who is writing + his History of his own Time) has expressed his intention of differing from + Swift's version, as he remembers it when he read the History in 1727. The + variation would relate in particular to the conduct of the Earl of Oxford. + </p> + <p> + Slight as this reference is, there is yet enough in it to suggest another + reason why Swift should withhold the publication of his work. It might be + that this expressed intention of Bolingbroke's to animadvert on his dear + friend's conduct, would just move Swift to a final rejection of his + intention, and so, possibly, prevent Bolingbroke from publishing his own + statement. However, the manuscript must have been returned, for nothing + more was heard of it during Swift's lifetime. + </p> + <p> + Swift died in 1745, and thirteen years later appeared the anonymously + edited "History of the Four Last Years." Is this the work which Swift + wrote in 1713, which he permitted Pope and Bolingbroke to read in 1727, + and which he prepared for publication in 1737? + </p> + <p> + In 1758 there was no doubt whatever raised, although there were at least + two persons alive then—Lord Orrery and Dr. William King—who + could easily have proved any forgery, had there been one. + </p> + <p> + The first suspicion cast on the work came from Dr. Johnson. Writing, in + his life of Swift, of the published version, he remarks, "that it seemed + by no means to correspond with the notions that I had formed of it from a + conversation that I once heard between the Earl of Orrery and old Mr. + Lewis." In what particulars this want of correspondence was made evident + Johnson does not say. In any case, his suspicion cannot be received with + much consideration, since the conversation he heard must have taken place + at least twenty years before he wrote the poet's life, and his + recollection of such a conversation must at least have been very hazy. + Johnson's opinion is further deprived of weight when we read what he wrote + of the History in the "Idler," in 1759, the year after its publication, + that "the history had perished had not a straggling transcript fallen into + busy hands." If the straggling manuscript were worth anything, it must + have had some claims to authenticity; and if it had, then Johnson's + recollection of what he heard Orrery and Lewis say, twenty years or more + after they had said it, goes for very little. + </p> + <p> + Sir Walter Scott concludes, from the fact that Swift sent the manuscript + to Oxford and Lewis, that it was afterwards altered in accordance with + Lewis's suggestions. But a comparison of Lucas's text with Lewis's letter + shows that nothing of the kind was done. + </p> + <p> + Lord Stanhope had "very great reason to doubt" the authenticity of the + History, and considered it as "falsely ascribed to Swift." What this "very + great reason" was, his lordship nowhere stated. + </p> + <p> + Macaulay, in a pencilled note in a copy of Orrery's "Remarks" (now in the + British Museum) describes the History as "Wretched stuff; and I firmly + believe not Swift's." But Macaulay could scarcely have had much ground for + his note, since he took a description of Somers from the History, and + embodied it in his own work as a specimen of what Somers's enemies said of + him. If the History were a forgery, what object was gained in quoting from + it, and who were the enemies who wrote it? + </p> + <p> + When, in 1873, Lord Beaconsfield, then Mr. Disraeli, made a speech at + Glasgow, in which he quoted from the History and spoke of the words as by + Swift, a correspondent in the "Times" criticised him for his ignorance in + so doing. But the discussion which followed in the columns of that + periodical left the matter just where it was, and, indeed, justified + Beaconsfield. The matter was taken up by Mr. Edward Solly in "Notes and + Queries;" but that writer threw no new light whatever on the subject. + </p> + <p> + But the positive evidence in favour of the authenticity is so strong, that + one wonders how there could have been any doubt as to whether Swift did or + did not write the History. + </p> + <p> + In the first place we know that Swift was largely indebted for his facts + to Bolingbroke, when that statesman was the War Secretary of Queen Anne. A + comparison of those portions of Swift's History which contain the facts + with the Bolingbroke Correspondence, in which the same facts are embodied, + will amply prove that Swift obtained them from this source, and as Swift + was the one man of the time to whom such a favour was given, the argument + in favour of Swift's authorship obtains an added emphasis. + </p> + <p> + In the second place, a careful reading of the correspondence between Swift + and his friends on the subject of the publication of the History enables + us to identify the references to the History itself. The "characters" are + there; Sir Thomas Hanmer's Representation is also there, and all the + points raised by Erasmus Lewis may be told off, one by one. + </p> + <p> + In the third place, Dr. Birch, the careful collector, had, in 1742, access + to what he considered to be the genuine manuscript. This was three years + before Swift's death. He made an abstract of this manuscript at the time, + and this abstract is now preserved in the British Museum. Comparing the + abstract with the edition published in 1758, there is no doubt that the + learned doctor had copied from a manuscript which, if it were not genuine, + was certainly the text of the work published in 1758 as "The History of + the Four Last Years." But Dr. Birch's language suggests that he believed + the manuscript he examined to be in Swift's own handwriting. If that be + so, there is no doubt whatever of the authenticity. Birch was a very + careful person, and had he had any doubts he could easily have settled + them by applying to the many friends of the Dean, if not to the Dean + himself. Moreover, it is absurd to believe that a forged manuscript of + Swift's would be shown about during Swift's lifetime without it being + known as a forgery. Mrs. Whiteway alone would have put a stop to its + circulation had she suspected of the existence of such a manuscript. + </p> + <p> + Finally, it must be remembered that when the History was published in + 1758, Lord Orrery was still living. If the work were a forgery, why did + not Lord Orrery expose it? Nothing would have pleased him more. He had + read the manuscript referred to in the Correspondence. He had carried it + to Oxford and given it to King, at Swift's request. He knew all about it, + and he said nothing. + </p> + <p> + These considerations, both negative and positive, lead us to the final + conclusion that the History published in 1758 is practically the History + referred to in Swift's Correspondence, and therefore the authentic work of + Swift himself. We say practically, because there are some differences + between it and the text published here. The differences have been recorded + from a comparison between Lucas's version and the transcript of a + manuscript discovered in Dublin in 1857, and made by Mr. Percy Fitzgerald. + Mr. Fitzgerald found that this manuscript contained many corrections in + Swift's own handwriting. At the time he came across it the manuscript was + in the possession of two old ladies named Greene, grand-daughters of Mrs. + Whiteway, and grand-nieces of Swift himself. On the title-page there was + the following note: + </p> + <p> + "This is the originall manuscript of the History, corrected by me, and + given into the custody of Mrs. Martha Whiteway by me Jonathan Swift, June + 15, 1737. seven. + </p> + <p> + "I send a fair copy of this History by the Earl of Orrery to be printed in + England. + </p> + <h3> + "JONATH. SWIFT." + </h3> + <p> + Mr. Fitzgerald was permitted to make a collation of this manuscript, and + his collation he sent to the late John Forster. It is now in the Victoria + and Albert Museum, South Kensington.[2] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: I regret that I have been unable to trace the existence of + this manuscript of Swift's "History." Mr. Fitzgerald himself has no + recollection of having made the collation. "Forty-five years ago," he + writes, "is a long time to look back to," and he cannot recall the fact.] + </p> + <p> + If this manuscript be what, on the face of it, it claims to be, then the + question of authenticity is for ever settled. As we have no doubt on this + point, the corrections and variations between this manuscript, as collated + by Mr. Percy Fitzgerald and the Lucas version, have been noted in the + present edition. + </p> + <p> + In 1752 Lord Orrery issued his "Remarks" on the life and character of + Swift. The work obtained for him a certain notoriety, and brought down + upon him some severe censure from the friends of Swift who were still + alive. But, whatever may have been Orrery's private opinion of Swift, that + should not invalidate any information as to fact of which he had the + knowledge to speak. Writing in that book of the History, he says: "Dr. + Swift left behind him few manuscripts. Not one of any consequence, except + an account of the peace of Utrecht, which he called 'An History of the + four last Years of Queen Anne.' The title of an history is too pompous for + such a performance. In the historical style, it wants dignity and candour: + but as a pamphlet it will appear the best defence of Lord Oxford's + administration, and the clearest account of the Treaty of Utrecht, that + has hitherto been written."[3] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: Second edition, pp. 206-207.] + </p> + <p> + The most ardent and devoted of Swift's admirers could hardly find a juster + criticism of the work. It should satisfy any unprejudiced reader of the + printed History as we now have it, and to that extent emphasize the + authenticity. + </p> + <p> + An interesting sidelight on Swift's History is thrown by Chesterfield in a + letter he wrote to Dr. Chenevix, Bishop of Waterford, on May 23rd, 1758. + We must believe that the noble lord wrote in good faith and certainly in + the full belief that the work he was criticising was the work of Swift. + Chesterfield's criticism points directly to Swift as the author, since his + justification for Bolingbroke's story is to be found in the work as Lucas + printed it in 1758. Speaking of the History, Chesterfield calls it "a + party pamphlet, founded on the lie of the day, which, as lord Bolingbroke + who had read it often assured me, was coined and delivered out to him, to + write Examiners, and other political papers upon. That spirit remarkably + runs through it. Macarteney, for instance, murdered duke Hamilton;[4] + nothing is falser, for though Macarteney was very capable of the vilest + actions, he was guiltless of that, as I myself can testify, who was at his + trial on the king's bench, when he came over voluntarily to take it, in + the late king's time. There did not appear even the least ground for a + suspicion of it; nor did Hamilton, who appeared in court, pretend to tax + him with it, which would have been in truth accusing himself of the utmost + baseness, in letting the murderer of his friend go off from the field of + battle, without either resentment, pursuit, or even accusation, till three + days afterwards. This <i>lie</i> was invented to inflame the Scotch nation + against the Whigs; as the other, that prince Eugene intended to murder + lord Oxford, by employing a set of people called Mohocks, which society, + by the way, never existed, was calculated to inflame the mob of London. + Swift took those hints <i>de la meilleure foi du monde</i>, and thought + them materials for history. So far he is blameless."[5] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: See page 178 of this volume.] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: "Chesterfield's Works," pp. 498-499.] + </p> + <p> + Ignoring Chesterfield's indignation, we must believe that the references + made by him to Macartney and Eugene, must have been in the manuscript + Bolingbroke read; else how could Bolingbroke tell Chesterfield of their + meaning? If this be so, we have a still further warrant for a strong + presumption in favour of authenticity. There can really be very little + doubt on the matter. + </p> + <p> + What we may doubt, however, is not the authenticity, but the value of the + History as an historical document. Without question, Swift wrote in good + faith; but he also wrote as a partisan, and a partisan with an + affectionate leaning for the principal character in the drama he was + describing. Orrery was right when he called it "a pamphlet," and "the best + defence of Lord Oxford's administration." As a pamphlet and as a defence + it has some claim on our attention. As a contribution to the history of + the treaty of Utrecht it is of little account. Swift could not, had he + even known everything, write the true story of the negotiations for + publication at the time. In the first place, he would never have attempted + it—the facts would have been demoralizing; and in the second place, + had he accomplished it, its publication would have been a matter for much + more serious consideration than was given even to the story he did write. + For Swift's purpose, it was much better that he did not know the full + extent of the ministry's perfidy. His affection for Oxford and his + admiration for Bolingbroke would have received a great shock. He knew + their weaknesses of character, though not their infidelity to honour. + There can be no defence of the Oxford administration, for the manner in + which it separated England from its allies and treated with a monarch who + was well known to it as a political chicaner. The result brought a treaty + by which Louis XIV. gained and the allies lost, and this in spite of the + offers previously made by the bankrupt monarch at Gertruydenberg. + </p> + <p> + The further contents of this volume deal with what might better be called + Swiftiana. They include a collection of very interesting annotations made + by Swift in his copies of Macky's "Characters," Clarendon's "History of + the Rebellion," Burnet's "History of his Own Time," and Addison's + "Freeholder." The notes to Clarendon and Burnet have always found an + important place in the many editions of these well-known works which have + been issued from time to time. As here reprinted, however, they have in + all cases been compared with the originals themselves. It will be found + that very many additions have been made, the result of careful comparison + and collation with the originals in Swift's handwriting. + </p> + <p> + My obligations are again due to Mr. W. Spencer Jackson for very valuable + assistance in the collation of texts; to Mr. George Ravenscroft Dennis for + several important suggestions; to Mr. Percy Fitzgerald for the use I have + made of his transcriptions; and to Mr. Strickland of the National Gallery + of Ireland for his help in the matter of Swift portraits. + </p> + <p> + I am greatly indebted to Mr. C. Litton Falkiner of Killiney, co. Wicklow, + for his untiring assistance to me during my stay in Dublin; to the Very + Rev. the Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral for permission to consult the + Marsh collection; and to the Rev. Newport J.D. White, the courteous + librarian of the Marsh Library, for enthusiastic aid in my researches. I + also owe very hearty thanks to Mr. Stanley Lane-Poole for introductions to + the librarians of Trinity College and the Royal Irish Academy. + </p> + <p> + The portrait prefixed to this volume is a reproduction of the bust by + Roubiliac in the Library of Trinity College, Dublin. + </p> + <h3> + TEMPLE SCOTT. + </h3> + <h3> + DUBLIN, + </h3> + <p> + <i>August 14th</i>, 1902. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE HISTORY OF + </h2> + <h3> + THE FOUR LAST YEARS + </h3> + <h3> + OF THE QUEEN. + </h3> + <h4> + By the late + </h4> + <h3> + JONATHAN SWIFT, D.D. D.S.P.D. + </h3> + <h4> + Published from the + </h4> + <h4> + Last MANUSCRIPT Copy, Corrected and + </h4> + <h4> + Enlarged by the Author's OWN HAND. + </h4> + <h3> + LONDON: + </h3> + <h5> + Printed for A. MILLAR, in the Strand: + </h5> + <h3> + MDCCLVIII. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + <i>ADVERTISEMENT</i> + </h2> + <h3> + <i>PREFIXED TO THE EDITION OF</i> 1758.[1] + </h3> + <p> + [Footnote 1: This advertisement was written by the editor, Dr. Charles + Lucas of Dublin. This Lucas was the patriot who created such a stir in + Irish politics between the years 1743 and 1750. Lord Townshend, in a + letter to the Marquis of Granby, called him "the Wilkes of Ireland." As an + author he seems to have been very prolific, though of no polish in his + writings. Lucas's disclaimers of sympathy with the opinions contained in + the work he edited are somewhat over-stated, and his criticisms are petty. + A full account of this hot-headed physician may be found in the Dictionary + of National Biography. It was Dr. Johnson, in his life of Swift, who first + published the information that Lucas edited this "History." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + <i>Thus, the long wished for</i> History of the Four Last Years of the + Queen's Reign <i>is at length brought to light, in spite of all attempts + to suppress it</i>! + </p> + <p> + As this publication is not made under the sanction of the name, or names, + which the author and the world had a right to expect; it is fit some + account of the works appearing in this manner should be here given. + </p> + <p> + Long before the Dean's apparent decline, some of his intimate friends, + with concern, foresaw the impending fate of his fortune and his works. To + this it is owing, that these sheets, which the world now despaired of ever + seeing, are rescued from obscurity, perhaps from destruction. + </p> + <p> + For this, the public is indebted to a gentleman, now in Ireland, of the + greatest probity and worth, with whom the Dean long lived in perfect + intimacy. To this gentleman's hands the Dean entrusted a copy of his + History, desiring him to peruse and give his judgment of it, with the last + corrections and amendments the author had given it, in his own hand. + </p> + <p> + His friend read, admired, and approved. And from a dread of so valuable + and so interesting a work's being by any<i> </i>accident lost or effaced, + as was probable by its not being intended to be published in the author's + lifetime; he resolved to keep this copy, till the author should press him + for it; but with a determined purpose, it should never see the light, + while there was any hopes of the author's own copy being published, or + even preserved. + </p> + <p> + This resolution he inviolably kept, till he and the world had full + assurance, that the Dean's executors, or those into whose hands the + original copy fell, were so far from intending to publish it, that it was + actually suppressed, perhaps destroyed. + </p> + <p> + Then, he thought himself not only at liberty, but judged it his duty to + his departed friend, and to the public, to let this copy, which he had now + kept many years most secretly, see the light. + </p> + <p> + Thus it has at length fallen into the hands of a person, who publishes it + for the satisfaction of the public, abstracted from all private regards; + which are never to be permitted to come in competition with the common + good. + </p> + <p> + Every judicious eye will see, that the author of these sheets wrote with + strong passions, but with stronger prepossessions and prejudices in favour + of a party. These, it may be imagined, the editor, in some measure, may + have adopted, and published this work as a kind of support of that party, + or some surviving remnant thereof. + </p> + <p> + It is but just to undeceive the reader, and inform him from what kind of + hand he has received this work. A man may regard a good piece of painting, + while he despises the subject; if the subject be ever so despicable, the + masterly strokes of the painter may demand our admiration, while he, in + other respects, is entitled to no portion of our regard. + </p> + <p> + In poetry, we carry our admiration still farther; and like the poet, while + we actually contemn the man. Historians share the like fate; hence some, + who have no regard to propriety or truth, are yet admired for diction, + style, manner, and the like. + </p> + <p> + The editor considers this work in another light. He long knew the author, + and was no stranger to his politics, connections, tendencies, passions, + and the whole economy of his life. He has long been hardily singular in + condemning this great man's conduct amid the admiring multitude, nor ever + could have thought of making an interest in a man, <i>whose principles and + manners he could by no rule of reason or honour approve, however he might + have admired his parts and wit</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Such was judged the disposition of the man, whose history of the most + interesting period of time in the annals of Britain are now, herein, + offered to the reader. He may well ask from what motives? The answer is + easily, simply given</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>The causes assigned for delaying the publication of this history were + principally these:</i>[2] <i>That the manuscript fell into the hands of + men, who, whatever they might have been by the generality deemed, were by + the Dean believed to be of his party, though they did not, after his + death, judge it prudent to avow his principles, more than to deny them in + his lifetime. These men, having got their beavers, tobacco-boxes, and + other trifling remembrances of former friendship, by the Dean's will, did + not choose publicly to avow principles, that had marred their friend's + promotion, and might probably put a stop to theirs. Therefore, they gave + the inquisitive world to understand, that there was something too strong + against many great men, as well as the succeeding system of public affairs + in general, in the Dean's</i> History of the Four Last Years of the + Queen's Reign, <i>to admit of a publication, in our times; and, with this + poor insinuation, excused themselves, and satisfied the weakly + well-affected, in suppressing the manifestation of displeasing truths, of + however great importance to society</i>. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: The causes for the delay in the publication of the "History" + are given at length by the present editor in the Introduction. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + <i>This manuscript has now fallen into the hands of a man, who never could + associate with, or even approve, any of the parties or factions, that have + differently distracted, it might be said disgraced, these kingdoms; + because he has as yet known none, whose motives or rules of action were + truth and the public good alone; of one, who judges, that perjured + magistrates of all denominations, and their most exalted minions, may be + exposed, deprived, or cut off, by the fundamental laws of his country; and + who, upon these principles, from his heart approves and glories in the + virtues of his predecessors, who revived the true spirit of the British + polity, in laying aside a priest-ridden, an hen-pecked, tyrannical tool, + who had overturned the political constitution of his country, and in + reinstituting the dissolved body politic, by a revolution supported by the + laws of nature and the realm, as the only means of preserving the natural + and legal, the civil and religious liberties of the members of the + commonwealth</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Truth, in this man's estimation, can hurt no good cause. And falsehood + and fraud, in religion and politics, are ever to be detected, to be + exploded</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Insinuations, that this History contained something injurious to the + present establishment, and therefore necessary to be suppressed, serve + better the purposes of mistaken or insidious malcontents than the real + publication can. And, if any thing were by this, or any other, History to + be shown essentially erroneous in our politics, who, that calls himself a + Briton, can be deemed such an impious slave, as to conceal the destructive + evil? The editor of this work disdains and abhors the servile thought, and + wishes to live no longer than he dares to think, speak, write, and, in all + things, to act worthy of a Briton</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>From this regard to truth and to his country, the editor of this + History was glad of an opportunity of rescuing such a writing from those + who meant to suppress it. The common cause, in his estimation, required + and demanded it should be done; and the sooner it is published, he judged, + the better: for, if the conduct of the Queen and her ministers does not + deserve the obloquy that has been long industriously cast upon it, what is + more just than to vindicate it? What more reasonable than that this should + be done, while living witnesses may yet be called, to prove or disprove + the several allegations and assertions; since, in a few years more, such + witnesses may be as much wanting as to prevent a canonization, which is + therefore prudently procrastinated for above an age? Let us then coolly + hear what is to be said on this side the question, and judge like Britons.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>The editor would not be thought to justify the author of this History, + in all points, or even to attempt to acquit him of unbecoming prejudices + and partiality. Without being deeply versed in history or politics, he can + see his author, in many instances, blinded with passions that disgrace the + historian; and blending, with phrases worthy of a Caesar or a Cicero, + expressions not to be justified by truth, reason, or common sense, yet + think him a most powerful orator, and a great historian.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>No unprejudiced person will blame the Dean for doing all that is + consistent with truth and decency to vindicate the government of the + Queen, and to exculpate the conduct of her ministers and her last general; + all good men would rejoice at such a vindication. But, if he meant no more + than this, his work would ill deserve the title of an History. That he + generally tells truths, and founds his most material assertions upon fact, + will, I think be found very evident. But there is room to suspect, that, + while he tells no more than the truth, he does not tell the whole truth. + However, he makes it very clear, that the Queen's allies, especially our + worthy friends the Dutch, were much to blame for the now generally + condemned conduct of the Queen, with regard to the prosecution of the war + and the bringing about the peace</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>The authors drawings of characters are confessedly partial: for he + tells us openly, he means not to give characters entire, but such parts of + each man's particular passions, acquirements, and habits, as he was most + likely to transfer into his political schemes. What writing, what + sentence, what character, can stand this torture?—What extreme + perversion may not, let me say, does not, this produce? Yet thus does he + choose to treat all men, that were not favourers of the latest measures of + the Queen, when the best that has been said for her, shows no more than + that she was blindfolded and held in leading-strings by her ministers</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>He does not spare a man, confessed by all the world to have discharged + the duties of his function like a soldier, like an hero. But charges + Prince Eugene with raising and keeping up a most horrible mob, with intent + to assassinate Harley. For all which odious charges he offers not one + individual point of proof</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>He is not content with laying open again the many faults already + publicly proved upon the late Duke of Marlborough, but insinuates a new + crime, by seeming to attempt to acquit him of aspiring at the throne. But + this is done in a manner peculiar to this author</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>On the other hand, he extols the ministers, and minions of the Queen, + in the highest terms; and while he robs their antagonists of every good + quality, generally gives those wisdom and every virtue that can adorn + human nature</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>He is not ashamed to attempt to justify, what all thinking good men + must condemn, the Queen's making twelve peers at once, to serve a + particular turn</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>All these may be ascribed to the strength of his passions, and to the + prejudices, early imbibed, in favour of his indulgent royal mistress and + her favourites and servants.[3] The judicious will look through the + elegant clothing, and dispassionately consider these as mere human errors, + to which no well-informed mind can assent. The editor thinks himself bound + to protest against them</i>. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: That Swift should have a strong partiality to Harley and St. + John, by whom he was respected and trusted to a most uncommon degree, is + natural and obvious; but upon what ground Queen Anne, who disliked his + person, and obstructed his preferment, is here termed his <i>indulgent</i> + mistress, the author of this preface ought to have condescended to + explain. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + <i>He makes a few lapses on the other side, without being as clear as an + impartial historian would choose to appear. He more than hints at the + Queen's displeasure at its being moved in Parliament, that the Prince + Elector should be invited to reside in England, to whose crown he was by + law declared presumptive heir, but is always open upon the Queen's + insisting on the Pretender's being sent out of France.—It is easy to + see how incompatible these things appear. Nothing could tend more to + secure the Hanover succession, and to enlarge its benefits to Britain, + than the bringing over the successor, who should, in every country, be + well instructed in the language, customs, manners, religion, and laws of + his future subjects, before he comes to hold the reins of government. And + our author does not take the proper care to inform us how far the French + thought fit to comply with banishing the Pretender their dominions, since + many still live in doubt, that if he was sent out of France, he was sent + into England</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>But there is one expression of our author too perverse, too grossly + abused, to admit of any apology, of any palliation. It is not to be + supposed, that he was ignorant of any word in the English language. And + least of all can he be supposed ignorant of the meaning of a word, which, + had it been ever so doubtful before, had a certain meaning impressed upon + it by the authority of Parliament, of which no sensible subject can be + ignorant</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Notwithstanding this, where our author speaks of the late King James, + he calls him the</i> abdicated King, <i>and gives the same epithet even to + his family. Though this weak, ill-advised, and ill-fated prince, in every + sense of the word, with Romans and English, and to all intents and + purposes</i>, abdicated, <i>yet can he, in no sense, be called</i> + abdicated; <i>unless the people's asserting their rights, and defending + themselves against a king, who broke his compact with his subjects, and + overturned their government, can be called</i> abdication <i>in them; + which no man in his senses can be hardy enough to support upon any + principle of reason or the laws of England. Let the reader judge which + this is most likely to be, error or design</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>These exceptions the editor thought himself bound to make to some parts + of this work, to keep clear of the disagreeable imputations of being of a + party, of whatsoever denomination, in opposition to truth and the rights + and liberties of the subject.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>These laid aside, the work will be found to have many beauties, many + excellencies. Some have of late affected to depreciate this History, from + an insinuation, made only since the author's death, to wit, that he was + never admitted into the secrets of the administration, but made to believe + he was a confident, only to engage him in the list of the ministerial + writers of that reign</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>The falsehood of this will readily appear upon perusal of the work. + This shows he knew the most secret springs of every movement in the whole + complicated machine. That he states facts, too well known to be contested, + in elegant simplicity, and reasons upon them with the talents of the + greatest historian. And thus makes an History, composed rather of + negotiations than actions, most entertaining, affecting, and interesting, + instead of being, as might be expected, heavy, dull, and disagreeable</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>It is now fit to apologize for some errors, which the judicious must + discover upon a perusal of this work. It is for this, among other reasons, + much to be lamented, that this History was not published under the + author's own inspection. It is next to impossible to copy or print any + work without faults, and most so where the author's eye is wanting</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>It is not to be imagined, that even our author, however accurate, + however great, was yet strictly and perfectly correct in his writings. + Yet, where some seeming inaccuracies in style or expression have been + discovered, the deference due to the author made any alteration too + presumptuous a task for the editor. These are, therefore, left to the + amending hand of every sensible and polite reader; while the editor hopes + it will suffice, that he should point out some of those errors, which are + to be ascribed either to transcribers or the press, and which may be + rectified in the manner following, in reading the work.</i>[4] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: Here follows list of <i>errata</i>. (These errors have been + corrected in the present edition.)] + </p> + <p> + <i>And thus; with these and perhaps some few such like corrections, it is + hoped this work will be found completely correct.</i> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE AUTHOR'S PREFACE.[1] + </h2> + <p> + [Footnote 1: The time when it was written does not appear; but it was + probably many years after the Queen's death. [N.] First published in 1765. + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + Having written the following History at Windsor, in the happy reign of Her + Majesty Queen Anne, of ever glorious, blessed, and immortal memory; I + resolved to publish it, for the satisfaction of my fellow-subjects, in the + year 1713; but, being under a necessity of going to Ireland, to take + possession of the deanery of St. Patrick's, Dublin, I left the original + with the ministers; and having stayed in that kingdom not above a + fortnight, I found, at my return, that my Lord Treasurer Oxford, and the + secretary my Lord Bolingbroke, who were then unhappily upon very ill terms + with each other, could not agree upon publishing it, without some + alterations which I would not submit to. Whereupon I kept it by me until + Her Majesty's death, which happened about a year after. + </p> + <p> + I have ever since preserved the original very safely; too well knowing + what a turn the world would take upon the German family's succeeding to + the crown; which indeed was their undoubted right, having been established + solemnly by the act of an undisputed Parliament, brought into the House of + Commons by Mr. Harley, who was then Speaker. + </p> + <p> + But, as I have said in another discourse,[2] it was very well understood, + some years before Her Majesty's death, how the new King would act, + immediately upon his entrance, in the choice of those (and those alone) + whom he resolved to trust; and consequently what reports would + industriously be raised, as well as spread, to expose the proceedings of + Her Majesty herself, as well as of her servants; who have been ever since + blasted as enemies to the present establishment, by the most ignorant and + malicious among mankind. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: "Memoirs relating to the Change in the Queen's Ministry." See + vol. v. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Therefore, as it was my lot to have been daily conversant with the persons + then in power; never absent in times of business or conversation, until a + few weeks before Her Majesty's death; and a witness of almost every step + they made in the course of their administration; I must have been very + unfortunate not to be better informed than those miserable pamphleteers, + or their patrons, could pretend to. At the same time, I freely confess, it + appeared necessary, as well as natural, upon such a mighty change as the + death of a sovereign, that those who were to be in power upon the + succession, and resolved to act in every part by a direct contrary system + of politics, should load their predecessors with as much infamy as the + most inveterate malice and envy could suggest, or the most stupid + ignorance and credulity in their underlings could swallow. + </p> + <p> + Therefore, as I pretend to write with the utmost impartiality, the + following History of the Four Last Years of her Majesty's Reign, in order + to undeceive prejudiced persons at present, as well as posterity; I am + persuaded in my own mind, as likewise by the advice of my oldest and + wisest friends, that I am doing my duty to God and man, by endeavouring to + set future ages right in their judgment of that happy reign; and, as a + faithful historian, I cannot suffer falsehoods to run on any longer, not + only against all appearance of truth as well as probability, but even + against those happy events, which owe their success to the very measures + then fixed in the general peace. + </p> + <p> + The materials for this History, besides what I have already mentioned, I + mean the confidence reposed in me for those four years, by the chief + persons in power, were extracted out of many hundred letters written by + our ambassadors abroad, and from the answers as well as instructions sent + them by our secretaries of state, or by the first minister the Earl of + Oxford. The former were all originals, and the latter copies entered into + books in the secretaries' office, out of both which I collected all that I + thought convenient; not to mention several Memorials given me by the + ministers at home. Further, I was a constant witness and observer of all + that passed; and entered every particular of any consequence upon paper. + </p> + <p> + I was so far from having any obligation to the crown, that, on the + contrary, Her Majesty issued a proclamation, offering three hundred pounds + to any person who would discover the author of a certain short + treatise,[3] which the Queen well knew to have been written by me. I never + received one shilling from the minister, or any other present, except that + of a few books; nor did I want their assistance to support me. I very + often dined indeed with the treasurer and secretary; but, in those days, + that was not reckoned a bribe, whatever it may have been at any time + since. I absolutely refused to be chaplain to the Lord Treasurer; because + I thought it would ill become me to be in a state of dependence. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: "The Public Spirit of the Whigs." [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I say this, to shew that I had no other bias than my own opinion of + persons and affairs. I preserved several of the opposite party in their + employments, who were persons of wit and learning, particularly Mr. + Addison and Mr. Congreve, neither of whom were ever in any danger from the + treasurer, who much esteemed them both; and, by his lordship's commands, I + brought the latter to dine with him. Mr. Steele might have been safe + enough, if his continually repeated indiscretions, and a zeal mingled with + scurrilities, had not forfeited all title to lenity.[4] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: A full account of the severance of the friendly relations + between Swift and Steele is given in the fifth volume of the present + edition (see pp. 276-282). [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I know very well the numberless prejudices of weak and deceived people, as + well as the malice of those, who, to serve their own interest or ambition, + have cast off all religion, morality, justice, and common decency. + However, although perhaps I may not be believed in the present age, yet I + hope to be so in the next, by all who will bear any regard for the honour + and liberty of England, if either of these shall then subsist or not. + </p> + <p> + I have no interest or inclination to palliate the mistakes, or omissions, + or want of steadiness, or unhappy misunderstandings, among a few of those + who then presided in affairs. + </p> + <p> + Nothing is more common than the virulence of superficial and ill informed + writers, against the conduct of those who are now called prime ministers: + And, since factions appear at present to be at a greater height than in + any former times, although perhaps not so equally poised; it may probably + concern those who are now in their height, if they have any regard for + their own memories in future ages, to be less warm against others, who + humbly differ from them in some state opinions. Old persons remember, at + least by tradition, the horrible prejudices that prevailed against the + first Earl of Clarendon, whose character, as it now stands, might be a + pattern for all ministers; although even Bishop Burnet of Sarum, whose + principles, veracity, and manner of writing, are so little esteemed upon + many accounts, hath been at the pains to vindicate him. + </p> + <p> + Upon that irreparable breach between the treasurer and secretary + Bolingbroke, after my utmost endeavours, for above two years, to reconcile + them, I retired to a friend in Berkshire, where I stayed until Her + Majesty's death;[5] and then immediately returned to my station in Dublin, + where I continued about twelve years without once seeing England. I there + often reviewed the following Memoirs; neither changing nor adding, further + than by correcting the style: And, if I have been guilty of any mistakes, + they must be of small moment; for it was hardly possible I could be wrong + informed, with all the advantages I have already mentioned. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: See vol. v. of the present edition—the notes on pp. + 390, 393-394, 420, 421, and 426. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I shall not be very uneasy under the obloquy that may, perhaps, be cast + upon me by the violent leaders and followers of the present prevailing + party. And yet I cannot find the least inconsistence with conscience or + honour, upon the death of so excellent a princess as her late Majesty, for + a wise and good man to submit, with a true and loyal heart, to her lawful + Protestant successor; whose hereditary title was confirmed by the Queen + and both Houses of Parliament, with the greatest unanimity, after it had + been made an article in the treaty, that every prince in our alliance + should be a guarantee of that succession. Nay, I will venture to go one + step farther; that, if the negotiators of that peace had been chosen out + of the most professed zealots for the interests of the Hanover family, + they could not have bound up the French king, or the Hollanders, more + strictly than the Queen's plenipotentiaries did, in confirming the present + succession; which was in them so much a greater mark of virtue and + loyalty, because they perfectly well knew, that they should never receive + the least mark of favour, when the succession had taken place. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004B" id="link2H_4_0004B"></a> + </p> + <h2> + THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + </h2> + <h3> + BOOK I. + </h3> + <p> + I propose give the public an account of the most important affairs at + home, during the last session of Parliament, as well as of our + negotiations of peace abroad, not only during that period, but some time + before and since. I shall relate the chief matters transacted by both + Houses in that session, and discover the designs carried on by the heads + of a discontented party,[1] not only against the ministry, but, in some + manner, against the crown itself. I likewise shall state the debts of the + nation, show by what mismanagement, and to serve what purposes, they were + at first contracted, by what negligence or corruption they have so + prodigiously grown, and what methods have since been taken to provide not + only for their payment, but to prevent the like mischief for the time to + come. Although, in an age like ours, I can expect very few impartial + readers, yet I shall strictly follow truth, or what reasonably appeared to + me to be such, after the most impartial inquiries I could make, and the + best opportunities of being informed, by those who were the principal + actors or advisers.[2] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: P. Fitzgerald says "faction." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Swift's informants were, of course, Harley and Bolingbroke, + though the latter stated that Swift was given only such information as + served the ministry's purpose in the work they had given him for "The + Examiner" and the party pamphlets written in their defence. It is, + however, quite interesting in this connection, to see how closely Swift's + narrative follows the published political correspondence of Bolingbroke. + [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Neither shall I mingle panegyric or satire with an history intended to + inform posterity, as well as to instruct those of the present age, who may + be ignorant or misled; since facts, truly related, are the best applauses, + or most lasting reproaches. + </p> + <p> + Discourses upon subjects relating to the public usually seem to be + calculated for London only, and some few miles about it; while the authors + suppose their readers to be informed of several particulars, to which + those that live remote are, for the generality, utter strangers. Most + people, who frequent this town, acquire a sort of smattering (such as it + is), which qualifies them for reading a pamphlet, and finding out what is + meant by innuendoes, or hints at facts or persons, and initial letters of + names, wherein gentlemen at a distance, although perhaps of much better + understandings, are wholly in the dark. Wherefore, that these Memoirs may + be rendered more generally intelligible and useful, it will be convenient + to give the reader a short view of the state and disposition of affairs, + when the last session of Parliament began. And because the party-leaders, + who had lost their power and places, were, upon that juncture, employing + all their engines, in an attempt to re-establish themselves, I shall + venture one step further, and represent so much of their characters as may + be supposed to have influenced their politics. + </p> + <p> + On the seventh day of December, one thousand seven hundred and eleven, + began the second session of Parliament. It was now above a year since the + Queen had thought fit to put the great offices of state, and of her own + household, into other hands; however, three of the discontented lords were + still in possession of their places, for the Duke of Marlborough continued + general, the Duke of Somerset master of the horse, and the Earl of + Cholmondeley treasurer of Her Majesty's household;[3] likewise great + numbers of the same party[4] still kept employments of value and + importance, which had not been usual of late years upon any changes of + ministry. The Queen, who judged the temper of her people by this House of + Commons, which a landed interest had freely chosen, found them very + desirous of a secure and honourable peace, and disposed[5] to leave the + management of it to her own wisdom, and that of her own council. She had, + therefore, several months before the session began, sent to inform the + States General of some overtures which had been made her by the enemy; + and, during that summer, Her Majesty took several farther steps in that + great affair, until at length, after many difficulties, a congress at + Utrecht, for a general peace, was agreed upon, the whole proceedings of + which previous negotiations, between our court and that of France, I + shall, in its proper place, very particularly relate. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: See note on p. 385 of vol. v. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: P. Fitzgerald says "the ejected party." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: P. Fitzgerald adds "(as it was their duty)." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The nation was already upon a better foot, with respect to its debts; for + the Earl of Oxford, lord treasurer, had, in the preceeding session, + proposed and effected ways and means, in the House of Commons (where he + was then a member), for providing a parliamentary fund, to clear the heavy + arrear of ten millions (whereof the greatest part lay upon the navy), + without any new burthen (at least after a very few years) to the kingdom; + and, at the same time, he took care to prevent farther incumbrances upon + that article, by finding ready money for naval provisions, which has saved + the public somewhat more than <i>cent. per cent</i>. in that mighty branch + of our expenses. + </p> + <p> + The clergy were altogether in the interests and the measures of the + present ministry, which had appeared so boldly in their defence, during a + prosecution against one of their members,[6] where the whole sacred order + was understood to be concerned. The zeal shown for that most religious + bill, to settle a fund for building fifty new churches in and about the + city of London,[7] was a fresh obligation; and they were farther highly + gratified, by Her Majesty's choosing one of their body to be a great + officer of state.[8] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: Dr. Sacheverell. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: A suggestion originally made by Swift himself. See vol. iii., + p. 45, of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: Dr. Robinson, Lord Bishop of Bristol, to be Lord Privy Seal. + [ORIGINAL NOTE.] Dr. Robinson, who was appointed Bishop of London in 1713, + died in 1723. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + By this time likewise, all disputes about these principles, which used + originally to divide Whig and Tory, were wholly dropped; and those + fantastical words ought in justice to have been so too, provided we could + have found out more convenient names, whereby to distinguish lovers of + peace from lovers of war;[9] or those who would leave Her Majesty some + degree of freedom in the choice of her ministers, from others, who could + not be satisfied with her choosing any, except such as she was most averse + from. But, where a nation is once divided, interest and animosity will + keep open the breach, without being supported by any other principles; or, + at worst, a body of discontented people can change, and take up what + principles they please. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: Swift had already, in his "Some Free Thoughts upon the + Present State of Affairs," attempted to re-define the distinctions of Whig + and Tory. The latter, he urged, was of that party which pronounced for the + principles of loyalty to the Church and the preservation of the Protestant + succession in the House of Hanover. Swift felt that the majority of the + people at large were strong for these principles, and the party that would + openly accept them as its "platform" would, he argued, be the party that + would obtain the people's support. Had Bollngbroke not delayed the + publication of this tract, it might have had great influence in keeping + the Tories in power. See vol. v. of present edition, pp. 380, 393. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + As to the disposition of the opposite party, we all remember, that the + removal of the last ministry was brought about by several degrees; through + which means it happened, that they and their friends were hardly recovered + out of one astonishment, before they fell into another. This scene lasted + for some months, and was followed by a period of rage and despair, natural + to those who reflect that they have lost a secure game, by their own + rashness, folly, and want of common management, when, at the same time, + they knew by experience, that a watchful and dexterous adversary lay ready + to take the advantage. However, some time before the session, the heads of + that party began to recollect themselves, and rally their forces, like an + enemy who hath been beaten out of the field, but finds he is not pursued; + for although the chiefs of this faction were thought to have but little + esteem or friendship for each other, yet they perfectly agreed in one + general end, of distressing, by all possible methods, the new + administration, wherein if they could succeed so far as to put the Queen + under any great necessity, another Parliament must be called, and perhaps + the power[10] devolve again into their own hands. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 10: P. Fitzgerald says "and the power naturally." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The issue and event of that grand confederacy appearing in both Houses, + although under a different form, upon the very first day the Parliament + met, I cannot better begin the relation of affairs, commencing from that + period, than by a thorough detection of the whole intrigue, carried on + with the greatest privacy and application, which must be acknowledged to + have for several days disconcerted some of the ministry, as well as + dispirited their friends; and the consequences thereof, which have in + reality been so very pernicious to the kingdom. + </p> + <p> + But because the principal leaders in this design are the same persons to + whom, since the loss of their power, all the opposition has been owing + which the court received, either in treaties abroad, or the administration + at home; it may not be improper to describe those qualities in each of + them, which few of their admirers will deny, and which appear chiefly to + have influenced them in acting their several parts upon the public stage. + For I do not intend to draw their characters entire, which would be + tedious, and little to the purpose, but shall only single out those + passions, acquirements, and habits, which the owners were most likely to + transfer into their political schemes, and which were most subservient to + the designs they seemed to have in view. + </p> + <p> + The Lord Somers[11] may very deservedly be reputed the head and oracle of + that party; he hath raised himself, by the concurrence of many + circumstances, to the greatest employments of the state, without the least + support from birth or fortune; he hath constantly, and with great + steadiness, cultivated those principles under which he grew. That accident + which first produced him into the world, of pleading for the bishops whom + King James had sent to the Tower, might have proved a piece of merit, as + honourable as it was fortunate, but the old republican spirit, which the + Revolution had restored, began to teach other lessons—That since we + had accepted a new King, from a Calvinistical commonwealth, we must also + admit new maxims in religion and government. But, since the nobility and + gentry would probably adhere to the established Church, and to the rights + of monarchy, as delivered down from their ancestors, it was the practice + of those politicians to introduce such men as were perfectly indifferent + to any or no religion, and who were not likely to inherit much loyalty + from those to whom they owed their birth. Of this number was the person I + am now describing. I have hardly known any man, with talents more proper + to acquire and preserve the favour of a prince; never offending in word or + gesture; in the highest degree courteous and complaisant; wherein he set + an excellent example to his colleagues, which they did not think fit to + follow. But this extreme civility is universal and undistinguished, and in + private conversation, where he observeth it as inviolably as if he were in + the greatest assembly, it is sometimes censured as formal. Two reasons are + assigned for this behaviour: first, from the consciousness of his humble + original,[12] he keepeth all familiarity at the utmost distance, which + otherwise might be apt to intrude; the second, that being sensible how + subject he is to violent passions, he avoideth all incitements to them, by + teaching those he converses with, from his own example, to keep a great + way within the bounds of decency and respect. And it is indeed true, that + no man is more apt to take fire, upon the least appearance of provocation; + which temper he strives to subdue, with the utmost violence upon himself: + so that his breast has been seen to heave, and his eyes to sparkle with + rage, in those very moments when his words, and the cadence of his voice, + were in the humblest and softest manner: perhaps that force upon his + nature may cause that insatiable love of revenge, which his detractors lay + to his charge, who consequently reckon dissimulation among his chief + perfections. Avarice he hath none; and his ambition is gratified, by being + the uncontested head of his party. With an excellent understanding, + adorned by all the polite parts of learning, he hath very little taste for + conversation, to which he prefers the pleasure of reading and thinking; + and in the intervals of his time amuseth himself with an illiterate + chaplain, an humble companion, or a favourite servant. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 11: See note on p. 29 of vol. i. of present edition. Swift's + "Dedication" of "A Tale of a Tub" to Somers strikes a somewhat different + note from that of this "character." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 12: His father, John Somers, was an attorney at law in the town + of Worcester. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + These are some few distinguishing marks in the character of that person, + who now presideth over the discontented party, although he be not + answerable for all their mistakes; and if his precepts had been more + strictly followed, perhaps their power would not have been so easily + shaken. I have been assured, and heard him profess, that he was against + engaging in that foolish prosecution of Dr. Sacheverell, as what he + foresaw was likely to end in their ruin; that he blamed the rough + demeanour of some persons to the Queen, as a great failure in prudence; + and that, when it appeared Her Majesty was firmly resolved upon a treaty + of peace, he advised his friends not to oppose it in its progress, but + find fault with it after it was made; which would be a copy of the like + usage themselves had met with, after the treaty of Ryswick;[13] and the + safest, as well as the most probable, way of disgracing the promoters and + advisers. I have been the larger in representing to the reader some idea + of this extraordinary genius, because, whatever attempt hath hitherto been + made, with any appearance of conduct, or probability of success, to + restore the dominion of that party,[14] was infallibly contrived by him; + and I prophesy the same for the future, as long as his age and infirmities + will leave him capable of business. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 13: See note in vol. v., p. 67, of present edition, [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 14: P. Fitzgerald says "faction." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Marlborough's character[15] hath been so variously drawn, and + is indeed of so mixed a nature in itself, that it is hard to pronounce on + either side, without the suspicion of flattery or detraction. I shall say + nothing of his military accomplishments, which the opposite reports, of + his friends and enemies among the soldiers, have rendered[26] + problematical: but if he be among those who delight in war, it is agreed + to be not for the reasons common with other generals. Those maligners who + deny him personal valour, seem not to consider that this accusation is + charged at a venture; since the person of a wise general is too seldom + exposed, to form any judgment in the matter: and that fear, which is said + to have sometimes[17] disconcerted him before an action, might probably be + more for his army than for himself.[18] He was bred in the height of what + is called the Tory principle; and continued with a strong bias that way, + till the other party had bid higher for him than his friends could afford + to give. His want of literature is in some sort supplied by a good + understanding, a degree of natural elocution, and that knowledge of the + world which is learned in armies and courts. We are not to take the height + of his ambition from his soliciting to be general for life:[19] I am + persuaded his chief motive was the pay and perquisites, by continuing the + war; and that he had <i>then</i> no intentions of settling the crown in + his family, his only son having been dead some years before.[20] He is + noted to be master of great temper, able to govern or very well to + disguise his passions, which are all melted down, or extinguished, in his + love of wealth. That liberality which nature has denied him, with respect + of money, he makes up by a great profusion of promises: but this + perfection, so necessary in courts, is not very successful in camps among + soldiers, who are not refined enough to understand or to relish it.[21] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 15: For further remarks on Marlborough, see Swift's "Conduct of + the Allies," "The Learned Comment on Dr. Hare's Sermon," and "The + Examiner." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 16: P. Fitzgerald adds "altogether." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 17: P. Fitzgerald says "usually." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 18: This reflection on Marlborough's personal courage was one of + the points noted by Erasmus Lewis in his letter to Swift of April 8th, + 1738. The friends who had met to read and pass opinion on this "History" + decided that in any printed form of this work it would be advisable not to + call in question the courage of Marlborough. See Sir W. Scott's edition, + vol. xix., pp. 133-136. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 19: See "Memoirs Relating to that Change," etc., in vol. v., pp. + 372-373 of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 20: See "The Conduct of the Allies," vol. v., p. 103, and also + "A Learned Comment," etc., p. 179 of same volume of present edition. + [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 21: See the Letter to Marcus Crassus in "The Examiner," No. 28 + in vol. ix. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + His wife, the Duchess, may justly challenge her place in this list. It is + to her the Duke is chiefly indebted for his greatness and his fall; for + above twenty years she possessed, without a rival, the favours of the most + indulgent mistress in the world, nor ever missed one single opportunity + that fell in her way of improving it to her own advantage.[22] She hath + preserved a tolerable court reputation, with respect to love and + gallantry;[23] but three Furies reigned in her breast, the most mortal + enemies of all softer passions, which were sordid Avarice, disdainful + Pride, and ungovernable Rage; by the last of these often breaking out in + sallies of the most unpardonable sort, she had long alienated her + sovereign's mind, before it appeared to the world.[24] This lady is not + without some degree of wit, and hath in her time affected the character of + it, by the usual method of arguing against religion, and proving the + doctrines of Christianity to be impossible and absurd. Imagine what such a + spirit, irritated by the loss of power, favour, and employment, is capable + of acting or attempting; and then I have said enough. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 22: See the "Account of the Conduct of the Duchess of + Marlborough, in a Letter from Herself, to Lord ——," 8vo, 1742, + <i>passim</i>. [N.] See also "Memoirs Relating to that Change," etc., in + vol. v. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 23: P. Fitzgerald adds "(to which, however, she hath been + thought not entirely a stranger)." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 24: See note in vol. v., p. 368, of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The next in order to be mentioned is the Earl of Godolphin.[25] It is + said, he was originally intended for a trade, before his friends preferred + him to be a page at court; which some have very unjustly objected as a + reproach. He hath risen gradually in four reigns, and was much more + constant to his second master King James than some others, who had + received much greater obligations; for he attended the abdicated King to + the sea-side, and kept constant correspondence with him till the day of + his death. He always professed a sort of passion for the Queen at St. + Germain's; and his letters were to her in the style of what the French + call <i>double entendre</i>. In a mixture of love and respect, he used + frequently to send her from hence little presents of those things which + are agreeable to ladies, for which he always asked King William's leave, + as if without her privity; because, if she had known that circumstance, it + was to be supposed she would not accept them. Physiognomists would hardly + discover, by consulting the aspect of this lord, that his predominant + passions were love and play; that he could sometimes scratch out a song in + praise of his mistress, with a pencil and card; or that he hath tears at + command, like a woman, to be used either in an intrigue of gallantry or + politics. His alliance with the Marlborough family, and his passion for + the Duchess, were the cords which dragged him into a party, whose + principles he naturally disliked, and whose leaders he personally hated, + as they did him. He became a thorough convert by a perfect trifle; taking + fire at a nickname[26] delivered by Dr. Sacheverell, with great + indiscretion, from the pulpit, which he applied to himself: and this is + one among many instances given by his enemies, that magnanimity is none of + his virtues. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 25: See note in vol. v., p. 68, of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 26: Volpone. [ORIGINAL NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Sunderland[27] is another of that alliance. It seems to have + been this gentleman's fortune, to have learned his divinity from his + uncle,[28] and his politics from his tutor.[29] It may be thought a + blemish in his character, that he hath much fallen from the height of + those republican[30] principles with which he began; for in his father's + lifetime, while he was a Member of the House of Commons, he would often, + among his familiar friends, refuse the title of Lord (as he hath done to + myself), swear he would never be called otherwise than Charles Spencer, + and hoped to see the day when there should not be a peer in England. His + understanding, at the best, is of the middling size; neither hath he much + improved it, either in reality, or, which is very unfortunate, even in the + opinion of the world, by an overgrown library.[31] It is hard to decide, + whether he learned that rough way of treating his sovereign from the lady + he is allied to,[32] or whether it be the result of his own nature. The + sense of the injuries he hath done, renders him (as it is very natural) + implacable towards those to whom he hath given greatest cause to complain; + for which reason he will never forgive either the Queen or the present + treasurer. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 27: See note in vol. v., pp. 377-378 of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 28: John Digby, third earl of Bristol. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 29: Dr. Trimnel, since Bishop of Winton. [ORIGINAL NOTE.] He was + Bishop of Norwich, 1708-1721, and of Winchester from 1721 till his death + in 1723. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 30: P. Fitzgerald says "Whiggish." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 31: The library that made such a sensation in the + bibliographical world when it was sold at auction in the latter part of + the last century. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 32: His lordship married the Duchess of Marlborough's second + daughter. "Account, etc.," p. 286. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Wharton[33] hath filled the province allotted him by his + colleagues, with sufficiency equal to the ablest of them all. He hath + imbibed his father's[34] principles in government; but dropped his + religion, and took up no other in its stead: excepting that circumstance, + he is a firm Presbyterian. He is perfectly skilled in all the arts of + managing at elections, as well as in large baits of pleasure for making + converts of young men of quality, upon their first appearance; in which + public service he contracted such large debts, that his brethren were + forced, out of mere justice, to leave Ireland at his mercy, where he had + only time to set himself right. Although the graver heads of his party + think him too profligate and abandoned, yet they dare not be ashamed of + him; for, beside his talents above mentioned, he is very useful in + Parliament, being a ready speaker, and content to employ his gift upon + such occasions, where those who conceive they have any remainder of + reputation or modesty are ashamed to appear. In short, he is an + uncontestable instance to discover the true nature of faction; since, + being overrun with every quality which produceth contempt and hatred, in + all other commerce of the world, he hath, notwithstanding, been able to + make so considerable a figure. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 33: See also "A Short Character," etc. in vol. v. and "The + Examiner," Nos. 18 and 23, in vol. ix. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 34: The Earl, his father, was a rigid Presbyterian. [ORIGINAL + NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + The Lord Cowper,[35] although his merits are later than the rest, + deserveth a rank in this great council. He was considerable in the station + of a practising lawyer; but, as he was raised to be a chancellor, and a + peer, without passing through any of the intermediate steps, which in late + times hath been the constant practice, and little skilled[36] in the + nature of government, or the true interests of princes, further than the + municipal or common law of England; his abilities, as to foreign affairs, + did not equally appear in the council. Some former passages of his life + were thought to disqualify him for that office, by which he was to be the + guardian of the Queen's conscience;[37] but these difficulties were easily + overruled by the authors of his promotion, who wanted a person that would + be subservient to all their designs; wherein they were not disappointed. + As to his other accomplishments, he was what we usually call a piece of a + scholar, and a good logical reasoner; if this were not too often allayed, + by a fallacious way of managing an argument, which made him apt to deceive + the unwary, and sometimes to deceive himself. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 35: See vol. v., p. 372 of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 36: P. Fitzgerald says "altogether unskilled." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 37: See "The Examiner," Nos. 18 and 23, in vol. ix. of this + edition. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The last to be spoken of in this list is the Earl of Nottingham,[38] a + convert and acquisition to that party since their fall, to which he + contributed his assistance; I mean his words, and probably his wishes; for + he had always lived under the constant visible profession of principles, + directly opposite to those of his new friends. His vehement and frequent + speeches against admitting the Prince of Orange to the throne are yet to + be seen; and although a numerous family gave a specious pretence to his + love of power and money, for taking an employment under that monarch, yet + he was allowed to have always kept a reserve of allegiance to his exiled + master; of which his friends produce several instances, and some while he + was secretary of state to King William. His outward regularity of life, + his appearance of religion, and seeming zeal for the Church, as they are + an effect, so they are the excuse for that stiffness and formality with + which his nature[39] is fraught. His adust complexion disposeth him to + rigour[40] and severity, which his admirers palliate with the name of + zeal. No man had ever a sincerer countenance, or more truly representing + his mind and manners. He hath some knowledge in the law, very amply + sufficient to defend his property at least.[41] A facility of utterance, + descended to him from his father,[42] and improved by a few sprinklings of + literature, hath brought himself, and some few admirers, into an opinion + of his eloquence. He is every way inferior to his brother Guernsey,[43] + but chiefly in those talents which he most values and pretends to; over + whom, nevertheless, he preserveth an ascendant.[44] His great ambition was + to be the head of those who were called the Church party; and, indeed, his + grave solemn deportment and countenance, seconded by abundance of + professions for their service, had given many of them an opinion of his + veracity,[45] which he interpreted as their sense of his judgment and + wisdom;[46] and this mistake lasted till the time of his defection, of + which it was partly the cause; but then it plainly appeared, that he had + not credit to bring over one single proselyte, to keep himself in + countenance. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 38: See notes in vol. v., pp. 246-248 of present edition. + [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 39: P. Fitzgerald says "that stiffness, pride, and formality + with which his intractable nature." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 40: P. Fitzgerald says "to cruelty." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 41 P. Fitzgerald says "some smattering in the law, which makes + it not very safe or easy to deal with him, where property is concerned." + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 42: P. Fitzgerald adds "grafted upon a wrong understanding." + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 43: Heneage Finch was created Lord Guernsey in 1703, and Earl of + Aylesford in 1714. He died in 1719. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 44: P. Fitzgerald adds "I suppose by the right of + primogeniture." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 45: P. Fitzgerald says "of his honesty." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 46: He acquired, from his solemnity of deportment, the nickname + of <i>Diego</i> and from his gravity, that of <i>Dismal</i>. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + These lineaments, however imperfectly drawn, may help the reader's + imagination to conceive what sort of persons those were, who had the + boldness to encounter the Queen and ministry, at the head of a great + majority of the landed interest; and this upon a point where the quiet of + Her Majesty's reign, the security, or at least the freedom, of her person, + the lives of her most faithful friends, and the settling of the nation by + a peace, were, in the consequences, deeply concerned.[47] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 47: It was these "lineaments, imperfectly drawn," that Erasmus + Lewis specially emphasized for omission, in his letter to Swift already + referred to. "Now I have mentioned characters," wrote Lewis, "I must tell + you that they [the friends who had met to read the 'History' in + manuscript] were clearly of opinion, that if those you have drawn should + be published as they now stand, nothing could save the author's printer + and publishers from some grievous punishment. As we have no traces of + liberty now left but the freedom of the press, it is the most earnest + desire of your friends that you would strike out all that you have said on + that subject" (Sir W. Scott's edit., vol. xix., pp. 133-136). [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + During the dominion of the late men in power, addresses had been procured + from both Houses to the Queen, representing their opinion, that no peace + could be secure for Britain, while Spain or the West Indies remained in + the possession of the Bourbon family. But Her Majesty having, for reasons + which have been often told to the world, and which will not soon be + forgotten, called a new Parliament, and chose a new set of servants, began + to view things and persons in another light. She considered the + necessities of her people, the distant prospect of a peace upon such an + improbable condition, which was never mentioned or understood in the grand + alliance; the unequal burthen she bore in the war, by the practices of the + allies upon the corruption of some whom she most trusted, or perhaps by + the practices of these upon the allies; and, lastly, by the changes which + death had brought about in the Austrian and Bourbon families. Upon all + which motives she was prevailed upon to receive some overtures from + France, in behalf of herself and the whole confederacy. The several steps + of this negotiation, from its first rise to the time I am now writing, + shall be related in another part of this History. Let it suffice for the + present to say, that such proposals were received from France as were + thought sufficient by our court whereupon to appoint time and place for a + general treaty; and soon after the opening of the session, the Bishop[48] + of Bristol, lord privy seal, was dispatched to Utrecht, where he and the + Earl of Strafford were appointed plenipotentiaries for the Queen of Great + Britain. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 48: Dr. Robinson, afterwards Bishop of London. [ORIGINAL NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + The managers of the discontented party, who, during the whole summer, had + observed the motions of the court running fast towards a peace, began to + gather up all their forces, in order to oppose Her Majesty's designs, when + the Parliament should meet. Their only strength was in the House of Lords, + where the Queen had a very crazy majority, made up by those whose hearts + were in the other interest; but whose fears, expectations, or immediate + dependence, had hitherto kept them within bounds. There were two lords + upon whose abilities and influence, of a very different nature, the + managers built their strongest hopes. The first was the Duke of Somerset, + master of the horse. This duke, as well as his duchess, was in a good + degree of favour with the Queen, upon the score of some civilities and + respects Her Majesty had received from them, while she was princess.[49] + For some years after the Revolution, he never appeared at court, but was + looked upon as a favourer of the abdicated family; and it was the late + Earl of Rochester who first presented him to King William. However, since + the time he came into employment, which was towards the close of the last + reign, he hath been a constant zealous member of the other party; but + never failed in either attendance or respect towards the Queen's person, + or, at most, only threatened sometimes, that he would serve no longer, + while such or such men were employed; which, as things went then, was not + reckoned any offence at all against duty or good behaviour. He had been + much caressed and flattered by the Lords of the Junto,[50] who sometimes + went so far as to give him hopes of the crown, in reversion to his family, + upon failure of the house of Hanover. All this worked so far upon his + imagination, that he affected to appear the head of their party, to which + his talents were no way proportioned; for they soon grew weary of his + indigested schemes, and his imperious manner of obtruding them: they began + to drop him at their meetings, or contradicted him, with little ceremony, + when he happened to be there, which his haughty nature[51] was not able to + brook. Thus a mortal quarrel was kindled between him and the whole + assembly of party leaders; so that, upon the Queen's first intentions of + changing her ministry, soon after the trial of Dr. Sacheverell, he + appointed several meetings with Mr. Harley alone, in the most private + manner, in places and at times least liable to suspicion. He employed all + his credit with the Queen to drive on the removal of my Lord Godolphin, + and the rest; and, in the council, treated the small remainder, who + continued some time longer in their places, with all possible marks of + hatred or disdain. But when the question came for dissolving the + Parliament, he stopped short: he had already satiated his resentments, + which were not against things, but persons: he furiously opposed that + counsel, and promised to undertake for the Parliament himself. When the + Queen had declared her pleasure for the dissolution, he flew off in + greater rage than ever; opposed the court in all elections, where he had + influence or power; and made very humble[52] advances to reconcile himself + with the discarded lords, especially the Earl of Godolphin, who is + reported to have treated him at Newmarket in a most contemptuous manner. + But the sincerity of his repentance, which appeared manifestly in the + first session of the new Parliament, and the use he might be of by his own + remaining credit, or rather that of his duchess, with the Queen, at length + begat a reconcilement. He still kept his employment, and place in the + cabinet council; but had never appeared there, from an avowed dislike of + all persons and proceedings. It happened about the end of summer, one + thousand seven hundred and eleven, at Windsor, when the cabinet council + was summoned, this duke, whether by directions from his teachers, or the + instability of his nature, took a fancy to resume his place, and a chair + was brought accordingly; upon which Mr. Secretary St. John refused to + assist, and gave his reasons, that he would never sit in council with a + man who had so often betrayed them, and was openly engaged with a faction + which endeavoured to obstruct all Her Majesty's measures. Thus the council + was put off to next day, and the duke made no farther attempts to be + there.[53] But, upon this incident, he declared open war against the + ministry; and, from that time to the session, employed himself in + spiriting up several depending lords to adhere to their friends, when an + occasion should offer. The arguments he made use of, were, that those in + power designed to make an ignominious and insecure peace, without + consulting the allies; that this could be no otherwise prevented than by + an address from the Lords, to signify their opinion, that no peace could + be honourable or secure, while Spain or the West Indies remained in any of + the Bourbon family:[54] upon which several farther resolutions and + inquiries would naturally follow; that the differences between the two + Houses, upon this point, must either be made up by the Commons agreeing + with the Lords, or must end in a dissolution, which would be followed by a + return of the old ministry, who, by the force of money and management, + could easily get another Parliament to their wishes. He farther assured + them boldly, that the Queen herself was at the bottom of this design, and + had empowered him to desire their votes against the peace, as a point that + would be for her service; and therefore they need not be in pain upon + account of their pensions, or any farther marks of favour they expected. + Thus, by reviving the old art of using Her Majesty's authority against her + person, he prevailed over some, who were not otherwise in a station of + life to oppose the crown; and his proselytes may pretend to some share of + pity, since he offered for an argument his own example, who kept his place + and favour, after all he had done to deserve the loss of both. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 49: In 1692, on a difference which the princess had with King + William and his Queen, occasioned by her warm attachment to the Duchess of + Marlborough, she quitted The Cockpit, and accepted the Duke of Somerset's + offer of Sion House for a temporary residence. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 50: A cant name given to five lords of that party. [ORIGINAL + NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 51: P. Fitzgerald says "the pride of his nature." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 52: P. Fitzgerald says "the meanest." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 53: "I had almost forgot to tell you," writes Lewis to Swift in + the same letter, "you have mistaken the case of the D—— of S——, + which, in truth, was this, that his grace appearing at court, in the + chamber next to the council chamber, it was apprehended he would come into + the cabinet council, and therefore the intended meeting was put off; + whereas one would judge, by your manner of stating it, that the council + had met, and adjourned abruptly upon his taking his place there." Sir W. + Scott's edit. vol. xix., pp. 133-136. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 54: It was Nottingham who moved this argument in the form of an + amendment to the address on 7th December, 1711. See <i>infra</i>, and also + vol. v., p. 444 of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The other lord, in whom the discontented managers placed much of their + hopes, was the Earl of Nottingham, already mentioned; than whom no man + ever appeared to hate them more, or to be more pleased at their fall, + partly from his avowed principles, but chiefly from the hopes he had of + sharing in their spoils. But it fell out, that he was no way acceptable to + the Queen or her new servants: these apprehended no little trouble and + impediment to the public business, from his restless, talkative, + overweening manner, if once he was suffered to have any part in affairs; + and he stood very ill with the court, having made a motion in the House of + Lords, and in Her Majesty's presence, that the Electoral Prince of Hanover + might be invited to reside in England, although he had before declared to + the Queen how much he was against that proposal, when it was first offered + by the other party. However, some very considerable employments had been + given to his nearest relations, and he had one or two offers for himself, + which he thought fit to refuse, as not equal to his merits and character. + Upon the Earl of Rochester's decease, he conceived that the crown would + hardly overlook him for president of the council, and deeply resented that + disappointment. But the Duke of Newcastle, lord privy seal, dying some + time after, he found that office was first designed for the Earl of + Jersey, and, upon this lord's sudden death, was actually disposed of to + the Bishop of Bristol by which he plainly saw, that the Queen was + determined against giving him any opportunity of directing in affairs, or + displaying his eloquence in the cabinet council. He had now shaken off all + remains of patience or temper, and, from the contemplation of his own + disappointments, fell, as it is natural, to find fault with the public + management, and to assure his neighbours in the country, that the nation + was in imminent danger of being ruined. The discontented[55] lords were + soon apprised of this great change, and the Duke of Roxburgh,[56] the + earl's son-in-law, was dispatched to Burleigh on the Hill, to cultivate + his present dispositions, and offer him whatever terms he pleased to + insist on. The Earl immediately agreed to fall in with any measures for + distressing or destroying the ministry but, in order to preserve his + reputation with the Church party, and perhaps bring them over to his + interests, he proposed, that a bill should be brought into the House of + Lords for preventing occasional conformity, and be unanimously agreed to + by all the peers of the low-church[57] principle, which would convince the + world of their good intentions to the established religion,[58] and that + their oppositions to the court wholly proceeded from their care of the + nation, and concern for its honour and safety.[59] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 55: P. Fitzgerald says "factious." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 56: John Ker, Earl of Roxburgh, was created Earl of Kelso, + Marquess of Cessford and Beaumont, and Duke of Roxburgh in 1707. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 57: P. Fitzgerald says "Whig." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 58: P. Fitzgerald says "established Church." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 59: Nottingham succeeded in carrying the bill against Occasional + Conformity on December 15th, 1711. See Swift's "Letter to a Whig Lord," in + vol. v. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + These preparations were public enough, and the ministers had sufficient + time to arm themselves; but they seem to have acted, in this juncture, + like men who trusted to the goodness of their cause, and the general + inclinations of the kingdom, rather than to those arts which our + corruptions have too often made necessary. Calculations were indeed taken, + by which it was computed, that there would be a majority of ten upon the + side of the court. I remember to have told my Lord Harcourt and Mr. Prior, + that a majority of ten was only a majority of five, because if their + adversaries could bring off five, the number would be equal: and so it + happened to prove; for the mistake lay in counting upon the bare promises + of those who were wholly in the interest of the old ministry, and were + only kept in awe by the fear of offending the crown, and losing their + subsistence, wherein the Duke of Somerset had given them full + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + With these dispositions of both parties, and fears and hopes of the event, + the Parliament met upon the seventh of December, one thousand seven + hundred and eleven. The Queen's speech (excepting what related to + supplies) was chiefly taken up in telling both Houses what progress she + had made towards a general peace, and her hopes of bringing it to a speedy + conclusion. As soon as Her Majesty was withdrawn, the House of Lords, in a + committee, resolved upon an address of thanks; to which the Earl of + Nottingham proposed an addition of the following clause. + </p> + <p> + "And we do beg leave to represent it to Your Majesty, as the humble + opinion and advice of this House, that no peace can be safe or honourable + to Great Britain and Europe, if Spain and the West Indies are to be + allotted to any branch of the house of Bourbon." + </p> + <p> + He was seconded by the Earl of Scarborough; and, after a debate of several + hours, the question for the clause was carried, as I remember, by not + above two voices.[60] The next day the House agreed with the committee. + The depending lords, having taken fresh courage from their principals, and + some who professed themselves very humble servants to the present + ministry, and enemies to the former, went along with the stream, + pretending not to see the consequences that must visibly follow. The + address was presented on the eleventh, to which Her Majesty's answer was + short and dry. She distinguished their thanks from the rest of the piece; + and, in return to Lord Nottingham's clause, said, She should be sorry that + any body could think she would not do her utmost to recover Spain and the + West Indies from the house of Bourbon. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 60: The previous question in favour of the Earl of Nottingham's + amendment was carried by a single vote, the main question by a majority of + no less than eight! [S.] But Bishop Burnet says "by three voices" ("Hist. + Own Time," ii. 584), and Coxe says "by a majority of 64 to 52." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + Upon the fifteenth of December the Earl of Nottingham likewise brought in + the bill to prevent occasional conformity (although under a disguised + title), which met with no opposition; but was swallowed by those very + lords, who always appeared with the utmost violence against the least + advantage to the established Church. + </p> + <p> + But in the House of Commons there appeared a very different spirit; for + when one Mr. Robert Walpole offered a clause of the same nature with that + of the Earl of Nottingham, it was rejected with contempt by a very great + majority. Their address was in the most dutiful manner, approving of what + Her Majesty had done towards a peace, and trusting entirely to her wisdom + in the future management of it. This address was presented to the Queen a + day before that of the Lords, and received an answer distinguishedly + gracious. But the other party[61] was no ways discouraged by either + answer, which they looked upon as only matter of course, and the sense of + the ministry, contrary to that of the Queen. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 61: P. Fitzgerald says "faction." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The Parliament sat as long as the approaching festival would allow; and + upon the twenty-second, the land-tax and occasional bills having received + the royal assent, the House of Commons adjourned to the fourteenth of + January following: but the adjournment of the Lords was only to the + second, the prevailing party there being in haste to pursue the + consequences of the Earl of Nottingham's clause, which they hoped would + end in the ruin of the treasurer, and overthrow the ministry; and + therefore took the advantage of this interval, that they might not be + disturbed by the Commons. + </p> + <p> + When this address against any peace without Spain, &c. was carried in + the House of Lords, it is not easy to describe the effects it had upon + most men's passions. The partisans of the old ministry triumphed loudly, + and without any reserve, as if the game were their own. The Earl of + Wharton was observed in the House to smile, and put his hands to his neck + when any of the ministry was speaking, by which he would have it + understood that some heads were in danger. Parker, the chief justice, + began already with great zeal and officiousness to prosecute authors and + printers of weekly and other papers, writ in defence of the + administration: in short, joy and vengeance sat visible in every + countenance of that party.[62] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 62: See "Journal to Stella," December 13th (vol. ii., p. 299 of + present edition). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + On the other side, all well-wishers to the Queen, the Church, or the + peace, were equally dejected; and the treasurer stood the foremost mark + both of his enemies' fury, and the censure of his friends: among the + latter, some imputed this fatal miscarriage to his procrastinating nature; + others, to his unmeasurable public thrift: both parties agreed, that a + first minister, with very moderate skill in affairs, might easily have + governed the event: and some began to doubt, whether the great fame of his + abilities, acquired in other stations, were what he justly deserved: all + this he knew well enough, and heard it with great phlegm; neither did it + make any alteration in his countenance or humour. He told Monsieur Buys, + the Dutch envoy, two days before the Parliament sat, that he was sorry for + what was like to pass, because the States would be the first sufferers, + which he desired the envoy to remember: and to his nearest friends, who + appeared in pain about the public or themselves, he only said that all + would be well, and desired them not to be frighted.[63] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 63: See Swift's account of an interview with the lord treasurer + in his "Journal to Stella," December 8th (<i>ibid.,</i> p. 296). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + It was, I conceive, upon these motives, that the treasurer advised Her + Majesty to create twelve new lords,[64] and thereby disable the sting of + faction for the rest of her lifetime: this promotion was so ordered, that + a third part were of those on whom, or their posterity, the peerage would + naturally devolve; and the rest were such, whose merit, birth, and + fortune, could admit of no exception. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 64: See note, vol. ii., p. 308, and note, vol. v., p. 446. + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The adverse party, being thus driven down by open force, had nothing left + but to complain, which they loudly did; that it was a pernicious[65] + example set for ill princes to follow, who, by the same rule, might make + at any time an hundred as well as twelve, and by these means become + masters of the House of Lords whenever they pleased, which would be + dangerous to our liberties. To this it was answered, that ill princes + seldom trouble themselves to look for precedents; that men of great + estates will not be less fond of preserving their liberties when they are + created peers; that in such a government as this, where the Prince holds + the balance between two great powers, the nobility and people, it is the + very nature of his office to remove from one scale into the other, or + sometimes put his own weight in the lightest, so as to bring both to an + equilibrium; and lastly, that the other party had been above twenty years + corrupting the nobility with republican principles, which nothing but the + royal prerogative could hinder from overspreading us. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 65: P. Fitzgerald says "dangerous." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The conformity bill above mentioned was prepared by the Earl of Nottingham + before the Parliament met, and brought in at the same time with the clause + against peace, according to the bargain made between him and his new + friends: this he hoped would not only save his credit with the Church + party, but bring them over to his politics, since they must needs be + convinced, that instead of changing his own principles, he had prevailed + on the greatest enemies to the established religion to be the first movers + in a law for the perpetual settlement of it. Here it was worth observing, + with what resignation the Junto Lords (as they were then called) were + submitted to by their adherents and followers; for it is well known, that + the chief among the dissenting teachers in town were consulted upon this + affair, and such arguments used, as had power to convince them, that + nothing could be of greater advantage to their cause than the passing this + bill. I did, indeed, see a letter at that time from one of them to a + great[66] man, complaining, that they were betrayed and undone by their + pretended friends; but they were in general very well satisfied upon + promises that this law should soon be repealed, and others more in their + favour enacted, as soon as their friends should be re-established. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 66: It was to the Treasurer himself. [ORIGINAL NOTE.] Scott says + that it was written by Mr. Shower on December 20th, and that the writer + complained that the Dissenters had "been shamefully abandoned, sold, and + sacrificed, by their professed friends." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + But nothing seemed more extraordinary than the event of this refined + management, by which the Earl of Nottingham was so far from bringing over + proselytes (wherein his abilities fell very short even of the Duke of + Somerset's); or preserving the reputation of a firm churchman, that very + few people did so much as imagine he had any such design; only when he + brought in the bill, they conceived it was some wonderful deep reach of + politics, which they could not comprehend: however, they liked the thing, + and without troubling themselves about the persons or motives from whence + it rose, it had a very speedy passage through both Houses. It must be + confessed, that some attempt of this nature was much more necessary to the + leaders of that party, than is generally thought. The desire of power and + revenge was common to them all; but several among them were also conscious + that they stood in need of protection, whose safety was therefore + concerned in the design of ruining the ministry, as well as their + ambition. The Duke of Marlborough foresaw those examinations, which were + afterwards made into some parts of his management, and was apprehensive of + a great deal more; that the Parliament would perhaps enquire into the + particulars of the negotiation at The Hague in one thousand seven hundred + and nine; for what ends, and by whose advice the propositions of peace + from France were rejected: besides, he dreaded lest that mysterious policy + might be laid open to the world, of desiring the Queen to constitute him + general for life, which was a very tender point, and would admit of much + proof. It is true, indeed, that whilst the Duke's affair was under the + consideration of the House of Commons, one of his creatures[67] (whether + by direction or otherwise) assured the Speaker, with a very serious + countenance, that the world was mistaken in censuring his lord upon this + article; for it was the Queen who pressed the Duke to accept that + commission; and upon his humble refusal conceived her first displeasure + against him. How such a defence would have passed, if it had been offered + in form, is easier to be conceived, than how any person in his wits could + have the confidence to affirm it; which last it would indeed be hard to + believe, if there were any room left for doubt. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 67: Craggs, father to the secretary. [ORIGINAL NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Godolphin wanted protection, notwithstanding the act of + general pardon, which had been procured by his credit, and was principally + calculated for his own security. He knew that his long neglect of + compelling the accomptants to pass their accompts, might be punished as a + breach of trust. He had run the kingdom into immense debts, by taking up + stores for the navy upon a vast discount, without parliamentary security; + for which he could be able to plead neither law nor necessity: and he had + given way, at least, to some proceedings, not very justifiable, in + relation to remittances of money, whereby the public had suffered + considerable losses. The Barrier Treaty sat heavy upon the Lord + Townshend's spirits, because if it should be laid before the House of + Commons, whoever negotiated that affair, might be subject to the most + severe animadversions: and the Earl of Wharton's administration in Ireland + was looked upon as a sufficient ground to impeach him, at least, for high + crimes and misdemeanours. + </p> + <p> + The managers in Holland were sufficiently apprised of all this; and + Monsieur Buys, their minister here, took care to cultivate that good + correspondence between his masters and their English friends, which became + two confederates, pursuing the same end. + </p> + <p> + This man[68] had been formerly employed in England from that republic, and + understood a little of our language. His proficiency in learning has been + such, as to furnish now and then a Latin quotation, of which he is as + liberal as his stock will admit. His knowledge in government reaches no + farther than that of his own country, by which he forms and cultivates + matters of state for the rest of the world. His reasonings upon politics + are with great profusion at all meetings; and he leaves the company with + entire satisfaction that he hath fully convinced them. He is well provided + with that inferior sort of cunning, which is the growth of his country, of + a standard with the genius of the people, and capable of being transferred + into every condition of life among them, from the boor to the burgomaster. + He came into England with instructions, authorizing him to accommodate all + differences between Her Majesty and the States; but having first advised + with the confederate lords, he assured the ministry he had powers to hear + their proposals, but none to conclude: and having represented to his + masters what had been told him by the adverse party, he prevailed with + them to revoke his powers. He found the interest of those who withstood + the court, would exactly fall in with the designs of the States, which + were to carry on the war as they could, at our expense, and to see + themselves at the head of a treaty of peace, whenever they were disposed + to apply to France, or to receive overtures from thence.[69] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 68: P. Fitzgerald says "gentleman." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 69: Erasmus Lewis, in the letter already cited, refers to Buys, + and gives the opinion of the gentlemen who had read the "History," on this + matter, as follows: "They think the transactions with Mr. Buys might have + been represented in a more advantageous light, and more to the honour of + that administration; and, undoubtedly they would have been so by your pen, + had you been master of all the facts." And yet the facts as related by + Swift in this and the last book of this "History" are substantially the + facts as disclosed in Bolingbroke's Political Correspondence. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Emperor, upon many powerful reasons, was utterly averse from all + counsels which aimed at putting an end to the war, without delivering him + the whole dominion of Spain; nay, the Elector of Hanover himself, although + presumptive heir to the crown of England, and obliged by all sorts of ties + to cultivate Her Majesty's friendship, was so far deceived by + misrepresentations from hence, that he seemed to suffer Monsieur Bothmar, + his envoy here, to print and publish a Memorial in English, directly + disapproving all Her Majesty's proceedings; which Memorial, as appeareth + by the style and manner of it, was all drawn up, or at least digested, by + some party pen on this side of the water.[70] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 70: See Swift's "Some Free Thoughts upon the Present State of + Affairs," and the note on p. 410 of vol. v. of present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Cautious writers, in order to avoid offence or danger, and to preserve the + respect even[71] due to foreign princes, do usually charge the wrong steps + in a court altogether upon the persons employed; but I should have taken a + securer method, and have been wholly silent in this point, if I had not + then conceived some hope, that his Electoral Highness might possibly have + been a stranger[72] to the Memorial of his resident: for, first, the + manner of delivering it to the secretary of state was out of all form, and + almost as extraordinary as the thing itself. Monsieur Bothmar having + obtained an hour of Mr. Secretary St. John, talked much to him upon the + subject of which that Memorial consists; and upon going away, desired he + might leave a paper with the secretary, which he said contained the + substance of what he had been discoursing. This paper Mr. St. John laid + aside, among others of little consequence; and a few days[73] saw a + Memorial in print,[74] which he found upon comparing to be the same with + what Bothmar had left. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 71: Edition of 1775 has "ever due." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 72: P. Fitzgerald says "If I had not very good reason to believe + that his Electoral Highness was altogether a stranger." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 73: Edition of 1775 has "a few days after." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 74: This was published as a broadside, with the title: "The + Elector of Hanover's Memorial to the Queen of Great-Britain, relating to + the Peace with France." It was dated 28th of Nov/9th of Dec., 1711. + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + During this short recess of Parliament, and upon the fifth day of January, + Prince Eugene, of Savoy, landed in England. Before he left his ship he + asked a person who came to meet him, whether the new lords were made, and + what was their number? He was attended through the streets with a mighty + rabble of people to St. James's, where Mr. Secretary St. John introduced + him to the Queen, who received him with great civility. His arrival had + been long expected, and the project of his journey had as long been formed + here by the party leaders, in concert with Monsieur Buys, and Monsieur + Bothmar, the Dutch and Hanover envoys. This prince brought over + credentials from the Emperor, with offers to continue the war upon a new + foot, very advantageous to Britain; part of which, by Her Majesty's + commands, Mr. St. John soon after produced to the House of Commons; where + they were rejected, not without some indignation, by a great majority. The + Emperor's proposals, as far as they related to Spain, were communicated to + the House in the words following. + </p> + <p> + "His Imperial Majesty judges, that forty thousand men will be sufficient + for this service, and that the whole expense of the war in Spain, may + amount to four millions of crowns, towards which His Imperial Majesty + offers to make up the troops, which he has in that country, to thirty + thousand men, and to take one million of crowns upon himself". + </p> + <p> + On the other side the House of Commons voted a third part of those four + millions as a sufficient quota for Her Majesty toward that service, for it + was supposed the Emperor ought to bear the greatest proportion in a point + that so nearly concerned him, or at least, that Britain contributing one + third, the other two might be paid by his Imperial Majesty and the States, + as they could settle it between them. + </p> + <p> + The design of Prince Eugene's journey, was to raise a spirit in the + Parliament and people for continuing the war, for nothing was thought + impossible to a prince of such high reputation in arms, in great favour + with the Emperor, and empowered to make such proposals from his master, as + the ministry durst not reject. It appeared by an intercepted letter from + Count Gallas, (formerly the Emperor's envoy here) that the prince was + wholly left to his liberty of making what offers he pleased in the + Emperor's name, for if the Parliament could once be brought to raise + funds, and the war go on, the ministry here must be under a necessity of + applying and expending those funds, and the Emperor could afterwards find + twenty reasons and excuses, as he had hitherto done, for not furnishing + his quota; therefore Prince Eugene, for some time, kept himself within + generals, until being pressed to explain himself upon that particular of + the war in Spain, which the house of Austria pretended to have most at + heart, he made the offer above mentioned, as a most extraordinary effort, + and so it was, considering how little they had ever done before, towards + recovering that monarchy to themselves; but shameful as these proposals + were, few believed the Emperor would observe them, or, indeed, that he + ever intended to spare so many men, as would make up an army of thirty + thousand men, to be employed in Spain. + </p> + <p> + Prince Eugene's visit to his friends in England continued longer than was + expected; he was every day entertained magnificently by persons of quality + of both parties; he went frequently to the treasurer, and sometimes + affected to do it in private; he visited the other ministers and great + officers of the court, but on all occasions publicly owned the character + and appellation of a Whig; and in secret, held continual meetings with the + Duke of Marlborough, and the other discontented lords, where M. Bothmar + usually assisted. It is the great ambition of this prince to be + perpetually engaged in war, without considering the cause or consequence; + and to see himself at the head of an army, where only he can make any + considerable figure. He is not without a natural tincture of that cruelty, + sometimes charged upon the Italians; and being nursed in arms, hath so far + extinguished pity and remorse, that he will at any time sacrifice a + thousand men's lives, to a caprice of glory or revenge. He had conceived + an incurable hatred for the treasurer, as the person who principally + opposed this insatiable passion for war; said he had hopes of others, but + that the treasurer was <i>un méchant diable</i>, not to be moved; + therefore, since it was impossible for him or his friends to compass their + designs, while that minister continued at the head of affairs, he proposed + an expedient, often practised by those of his country, that the treasurer + (to use his own expression) should be taken off, <i>à la négligence</i>; + that this might easily be done, and pass for an effect of chance, if it + were preceded by encouraging some proper people to commit small riots in + the night: and in several parts of the town, a crew of obscure ruffians + were accordingly employed about that time, who probably exceeded their + commission; and mixing themselves with those disorderly people that often + infest the streets at midnight, acted inhuman outrages on many persons, + whom they cut and mangled in the face and arms, and other parts of the + body, without any provocation; but an effectual stop was soon put to these + enormities, which probably prevented the execution of the main design.[75] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 75: Erasmus Lewis, Lord Oxford, and the others who read the MS., + advised the elimination of this insinuation against Prince Eugene. They + thought there was truth in it, but "a matter of so high a nature," as + Lewis expressed it to Swift, "ought not to be asserted without exhibiting + the proofs." The paragraph following the one in the text, containing the + imputation, seems as if it had been written after Swift had received + Lewis's strictures. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I am very sensible, that such an imputation ought not to be charged upon + any person whatsoever, upon slight grounds or doubtful surmises; and that + those who think I am able to produce no better, will judge this passage to + be fitter for a libel than a history; but as the account was given by more + than one person who was at the meeting, so it was confirmed past all + contradiction by several intercepted letters and papers: and it is most + certain, that the rage of the defeated party, upon their frequent + disappointments, was so far inflamed, as to make them capable of some + counsels yet more violent and desperate than this, which, however, by the + vigilance of those near the person of Her Majesty, were happily prevented. + </p> + <p> + On the thirtieth day of December, one thousand seven hundred and eleven, + the Duke of Marlborough was removed from all his employments: the Duke of + Ormonde succeeding him as general, both here and in Flanders. This + proceeding of the court (as far as it related to the Duke of Marlborough) + was much censured both at home and abroad, and by some who did not wish + ill to the present situation of affairs. There were few examples of a + commander being disgraced, after an uninterrupted course of success for + many years against a formidable enemy, and this before a period was put to + the war: those who had least esteem for his valour and conduct, thought it + not prudent to remove a general, whose troops were perpetually victorious, + while he was at their head; because this had infused into his soldiers an + opinion that they should always conquer, and into the enemy that they + should always be beaten; than which, nothing is to be held of greater + moment, either in the progress of a war, or upon the day of battle; and I + have good grounds to affirm, that these reasons had sufficient weight with + the Queen and ministry to have kept the Duke of Marlborough in his post, + if a way could have been found out to have done it with any assurance of + safety to the nation. It is the misfortune of princes, that the effects of + their displeasure make usually much more noise than the causes: thus, the + sound of the Duke's fall was heard farther than many of the reasons which + made it necessary; whereof, though some were visible enough, yet others + lay more in the dark. Upon the Duke's last return from Flanders, he had + fixed his arrival to town (whether by accident or otherwise) upon the + seventeenth of November, called Queen Elizabeth's day, when great numbers + of his creatures and admirers had thought fit to revive an old ceremony + among the rabble, of burning the Pope in effigy; for the performance of + which, with more solemnity, they had made extraordinary preparations.[76] + From the several circumstances of the expense of this intended pageantry, + and of the persons who promoted it, the court, apprehensive of a design to + inflame the common people, thought fit to order, that the several figures + should be seized as popish trinkets; and guards were ordered to patrol, + for preventing any tumultuous assemblies. Whether this frolic were only + intended for an affront to the court, or whether it had a deeper meaning, + I must leave undetermined. The Duke, in his own nature, is not much turned + to be popular; and in his flourishing times, whenever he came back to + England upon the close of a campaign, he rather affected to avoid any + concourse of the <i>mobile</i>, if they had been disposed to attend him; + therefore, so very contrary a proceeding at this juncture, made it + suspected as if he had a design to have placed himself at their head. + "France," "Popery," "The Pretender," "Peace without Spain," were the words + to be given about at this mock parade; and if what was confidently + asserted be true, that a report was to have been spread at the same time + of the Queen's death, no man can tell what might have been the event. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 76: See Swift's "Journal to Stella," Letter xxxv. (vol. ii., pp. + 283-84), and "A True Relation of the Intended Riot," printed in Scott's + edition, vol. v., pp. 399-413. [W.S.J.] + </p> + <p> + "The burning of a Pope in effigy," notes Scott—in his reprint of + what Swift called "the Grub Street account of the tumult"—"upon the + 17th November, the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth's coronation, was a + favourite pastime with the mob of London, and often employed by their + superiors as a means of working upon their passions and prejudices." A + full account of this ceremony is given in his edition of Dryden's Works, + 1808, vol. vi., p. 222. An account of the attempt "to revive an old + ceremony," referred to by Swift, was published also in "The Post Boy" for + November 20th, 1711. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + But this attempt, to whatever purposes intended, proving wholly abortive + by the vigilance of those in power, the Duke's arrival was without any + noise or consequence; and upon consulting with his friends, he soon fell + in with their new scheme for preventing the peace. It was believed by many + persons, that the ministers might, with little difficulty, have brought + him over, if they had pleased to make a trial; for as he would probably + have accepted any terms to continue in a station of such prodigious[77] + profit, so there was sufficient room to work upon his fears, of which he + is seldom unprovided[78] (I mean only in his political capacity) and his + infirmity very much increased by his unmeasurable possessions, which have + rendered him, <i>ipsique[79] onerique timentem;</i> but reason, as well as + the event, proved this to be a mistake: for the ministers being determined + to bring the war to as speedy an issue as the honour and safety of their + country would permit, could not possibly recompense the Duke for the + mighty incomes he held by the continuance of it. Then the other party had + calculated their numbers; and by the accession of the Earl of Nottingham, + whose example they hoped would have many followers, and the successful + solicitations of the Duke of Somerset, found they were sure of a majority + in the House of Lords: so that in this view of circumstances, the Duke of + Marlborough thought he acted with security, as well as advantage: he + therefore boldly fell, with his whole weight, into the design of ruining + the ministry, at the expense of his duty to his sovereign, and the welfare + of his country, after the mighty obligations he had received from both. + WHIG and TORY were now no longer the dispute, but THE QUEEN or THE DUKE OF + MARLBOROUGH: He was at the head of all the cabals and consults with + Bothmar, Buys, and the discontented lords. He forgot that government of + his passion, for which his admirers used to celebrate him, fell into all + the impotencies of anger and violence upon every party debate: so that the + Queen found herself under a necessity, either on the one side to sacrifice + those friends, who had ventured their lives in rescuing her out of the + power of some, whose former treatment she had little reason to be fond of, + to put an end[80] to the progress she had made towards a peace, and + dissolve her Parliament; or, on the other side, by removing one person + from so great a trust, to get clear of all her difficulties at once: Her + Majesty therefore determined upon the latter, as the shorter and safer + course; and during the recess at Christmas, sent the Duke a letter, to + tell him she had no farther occasion for his service.[81] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 77: P. Fitzgerald says "immense." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 78: P. Fitzgerald adds "being in his nature the most timorous + person alive." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 79: P. Fitzgerald says "sibique." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 80: P. Fitzgerald says "to complete." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 81: See the Duchess of Marlborough's narrative of this + transaction in the "Account of her Conduct," etc., pp. 264-269, where his + Grace's letter to the Queen, on his dismission from her service, is + printed. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + There hath not perhaps in the present age been a clearer instance to shew + the instability of greatness which is not founded upon virtue; and it may + be an instruction to princes, who are well in the hearts of their people, + that the overgrown power of any particular person, although supported by + exorbitant wealth, can by a little resolution be reduced in a moment, + without any dangerous consequences. This lord, who was, beyond all + comparison, the greatest subject in Christendom, found his power, credit, + and influence, crumble away on a sudden; and, except a few friends or + followers, by inclination, the rest dropped off in course. From directing + in some manner the affairs of Europe, he descended to be a member of a + faction, and with little distinction even there: that virtue of subduing + his resentments, for which he was so famed when he had little or no + occasion to exert it, having now wholly forsaken him when he stood most in + need of its assistance; and upon trial was found unable to bear a reverse + of fortune, giving way to rage, impatience, envy, and discontent. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST + </h2> + <h3> + YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + </h3> + <h3> + BOOK II. + </h3> + <p> + The House of Lords met upon the second day of January, according to their + adjournment; but before they could proceed to business, the twelve + new-created peers were, in the usual form, admitted to their seats in that + assembly, who, by their numbers, turned the balance on the side of the + court, and voted an adjournment to the same day with the Commons. Upon the + fourteenth of January the two Houses met; but the Queen, who intended to + be there in person, sent a message to inform them, that she was prevented + by a sudden return of the gout, and to desire they would adjourn for three + days longer, when Her Majesty hoped she should be able to speak to them. + However, her indisposition still continuing, Mr. Secretary St. John + brought another message to the House of Commons from the Queen, containing + the substance of what she intended to have spoken; "That she could now + tell them, her plenipotentiaries were arrived at Utrecht; had begun, in + pursuance of her instructions, to concert the most proper ways of + procuring a just satisfaction to all powers in alliance with her, + according to their several treaties, and particularly with relation to + Spain and the West Indies; that she promised to communicate to them the + conditions of peace, before the same should be concluded; that the world + would now see how groundless those reports were, and without the least + colour, that a separate peace had been treated; that her ministers were + directed to propose, that a day might be fixed for the finishing, as was + done for the commencement of this treaty; and that, in the mean time, all + preparations were hastening for an early campaign," etc. + </p> + <p> + Her Majesty's endeavours towards this great work having been in such a + forwardness at the time that her message was sent, I shall here, as in the + most proper place, relate the several steps by which the intercourse + between the courts of France and Britain was begun and carried on. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis de Torcy,[1] sent by the Most Christian King to The Hague, had + there, in the year one thousand seven hundred and nine, made very + advantageous offers to the allies, in his master's name; which our + ministers, as well as those of the States, thought fit to refuse, and + advanced other proposals in their stead, but of such a nature as no prince + could digest, who did not lie at the immediate mercy of his enemies. It + was demanded, among other things, "That the French King should employ his + own troops, in conjunction with those of the allies, to drive his grandson + out of Spain." The proposers knew very well, that the enemy would never + consent to this; and if it were possible they could at first have any such + hopes, Mons. de Torcy assured them to the contrary, in a manner which + might well be believed; for then the British and Dutch plenipotentiaries + were drawing up their demands. They desired that minister to assist them + in the style and expression; which he very readily did, and made use of + the strongest words he could find to please them. He then insisted to know + their last resolution, whether these were the lowest terms the allies + would accept; and having received a determinate answer in the affirmative, + he spoke to this effect: + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: Jean Baptiste Colbert (1665-1746), Marquis de Torcy, was + nephew of the celebrated Colbert. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + "That he thanked them heartily for giving him the happiest day he had ever + seen in his life: that, in perfect obedience to his master, he had made + concessions, in his own opinion, highly derogatory to the King's honour + and interest: that he had not concealed the difficulties of his court, or + the discontents of his country, by a long and unsuccessful war, which + could only justify the large offers he had been empowered to make: that + the conditions of peace, now delivered into his hands by the allies, would + raise a new spirit in the nation, and remove the greatest difficulty the + court lay under, putting it in his master's power to convince all his + subjects how earnestly His Majesty desired to ease them from the burthen + of the war; but that his enemies would not accept of any terms, which + could consist either with their safety or his honour." Mons. Torcy assured + the pensionary, in the strongest manner, and bid him count upon it, that + the King his master would never sign those articles. + </p> + <p> + It soon appeared, that the Marquis de Torcy's predictions were true; for + upon delivering to his master the last resolutions of the allies, that + Prince took care to publish them all over his kingdom, as an appeal to his + subjects against the unreasonableness and injustice of his enemies: which + proceeding effectually answered the utmost he intended by it; for the + French nation, extremely jealous of their monarch's glory, made universal + offers of their lives and fortunes, rather than submit to such ignominious + terms; and the clergy, in particular, promised to give the King their + consecrated plate, towards continuing the war. Thus that mighty kingdom, + generally thought to be wholly exhausted of its wealth, yet, when driven + to a necessity by the imprudence of the allies, or by the corruption of + particular men, who influenced their councils, recovered strength enough + to support itself for three following campaigns: and in the last, by the + fatal blindness or obstinacy of the Dutch (venturing to act without the + assistance of Britain, which they had shamefully abandoned), was an + overmatch for the whole confederate army.[2] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Alluding to the defeat at Denain (July 24th, 1712). [S.]] + </p> + <p> + Those who, in order to defend the proceedings of the allies, have given an + account of this negotiation, do wholly omit the circumstance I have now + related, and express the zeal of the British and Dutch ministers for a + peace, by informing us how frequently they sent after Mons. de Torcy, and + Mons. Rouille, for a farther conference. But in the mean time, Mr. Horatio + Walpole, secretary to the Queen's plenipotentiaries, was dispatched over + hither, to have those abortive articles signed and ratified by Her Majesty + at a venture, which was accordingly done. A piece of management altogether + absurd, and without example; contrived only to deceive our people into a + belief that a peace was intended, and to shew what great things the + ministry designed to do. + </p> + <p> + But this hope expiring, upon the news that France had refused to sign + those articles, all was solved by recourse to the old topic of the French + perfidiousness. We loaded them plentifully with ignominious appellations; + "they were a nation never to be trusted." The Parliament cheerfully + continued their supplies, and the war went on. The winter following began + the second and last session of the preceding Parliament, noted for the + trial of Dr. Sacheverell, and the occasions thereby given to the people to + discover and exert their dispositions, very opposite to the designs of + those who were then in power. In the summer of one thousand seven hundred + and ten, ensued a gradual change of the ministry; and in the beginning of + that winter the present Parliament was called. + </p> + <p> + The King of France, whose real interests made him sincerely desirous of + any tolerable peace, found it impossible to treat upon equal conditions + with either of the two maritime powers engaged against him, because of the + prevalency of factions in both, who acted in concert to their mutual + private advantage, although directly against the general dispositions of + the people in either, as well as against their several maxims of + government. But upon the great turn of affairs and councils here in + England, the new Parliament and ministers acting from other motives, and + upon other principles, that Prince hoped an opportunity might arise of + resuming his endeavours towards a peace. + </p> + <p> + There was at this time in England a French ecclesiastic, called the Abbé + Gaultier,[3] who had resided several years in London, under the protection + of some foreign ministers, in whose families he used, upon occasion, to + exercise his function of a priest. After the battle of Blenheim, this + gentleman went down to Nottingham, where several French prisoners of + quality were kept, to whom he rendered those offices of civility suitable + to persons in their condition, which, upon their return to France, they + reported to his advantage. Among the rest, the Chevalier de Croissy told + his brother, the Marquis de Torcy, that whenever the French court would + have a mind to make overtures of peace with England, Mons. Gaultier might + be very usefully employed in handing them to the ministers here. This was + no farther thought on at present. In the mean time the war went on, and + the conferences at The Hague and Gertruydenberg miscarried, by the allies + insisting upon such demands as they neither expected, nor perhaps desired, + should be granted. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: See note prefixed to "A New Journey to Paris" in vol. v. of + present edition. Gaultier, although a priest, was nothing more than a + superior spy in the pay of the French Court. He had been chaplain to + Tallard and the disgraced Count Gallas, and was a sort of <i>protégé</i> + of the Earl of Jersey; but his character does not bear very close + scrutiny. The Duke of Berwick could not have had any high opinion either + of the man or his abilities, since in the "Mémoires de Berwick" (vol. ii., + p. 122, edit. 1780) he is thus referred to: "Sa naissance étoit toute des + plus ordinaires, et ses facultés à l'avenant, c'est à dire, très pauvre." + St. John called Gaultier his "Mercury," and De Torcy styled him "the Angel + of Peace" (Torcy's "Memoires," vol. ii., p. 148, edition of 1828). [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Some time in July, one thousand seven hundred and ten, Mons. Gaultier + received a letter from the Marquis de Torcy, signifying, that a report + being spread of Her Majesty's intentions to change her ministry, to take + Mr. Harley into her councils, and to dissolve her Parliament, the Most + Christian King thought it might be now a favourable conjuncture to offer + new proposals of a treaty: Mons. Gaultier was therefore directed to apply + himself, in the Marquis's name, either to the Duke of Shrewsbury, the Earl + of Jersey, or Mr. Harley, and inform the French court how such a + proposition would be relished. Gaultier chose to deliver his message to + the second of those, who had been ambassador from the late king to France; + but the Earl excused himself from entering into particulars with a + stranger, and a private person, who had no authority for what he said, + more than a letter from Mons. de Torcy. Gaultier offered to procure + another from that minister to the Earl himself; and did so, in a month + after: but obtained no answer till December following, when the Queen had + made all necessary changes, and summoned a free Parliament to her wishes. + About the beginning of January, the abbé (after having procured his + dismission from Count Gallas, the emperor's envoy, at that time his + protector) was sent to Paris, to inform Mons. Torcy, that Her Majesty + would be willing his master should resume the treaty with Holland, + provided the demands of England might be previously granted. Gaultier came + back, after a short stay, with a return to his message, that the Dutch had + used the Most Christian King and his ministers in such a manner, both at + The Hague and Gertruydenberg, as made that Prince resolve not to expose + himself any more to the like treatment; that he therefore chose to address + himself to England, and was ready to make whatever offers Her Majesty + could reasonably expect, for the advantage of her own kingdoms, and the + satisfaction of her allies. + </p> + <p> + After this message had been duly considered by the Queen and her + ministers, Mons. Gaultier was dispatched a second time to France, about + the beginning of March, one thousand seven hundred and ten-eleven, with an + answer to the following purpose: "That since France had their particular + reasons for not beginning again to treat with Holland, England was willing + to remove that difficulty, and proposed it should be done in this manner: + That France should send over hither the propositions for a treaty, which + should be transmitted by England to Holland, to be jointly treated on that + side of the water; but it was to be understood, that the same proposition + formerly offered to Holland, was to be made to England, or one not less + advantageous to the allies; for although England would enter most + sincerely into such a treaty, and shew, in the course of it, the clearness + of their intentions; yet they could not, with honour, entertain a less + beneficial proposal than what was offered to the States." + </p> + <p> + That Prince, as well as his minister, Mons. de Torcy, either felt, or + affected, so much resentment of the usage the latter had met at The Hague + and Gertruydenberg, that they appeared fully determined against making any + application to the States, where the same persons continued still in + power, of whose treatment they so heavily complained.[4] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: There can be little doubt that De Torcy's resentment against + the Dutch, as expressed in the first of the propositions above cited, was + an affected one, since it is well known that the Dutch were, at the very + time these propositions were sent to England, and even for some time + previously, engaged in separate overtures with the French Court. Indeed, + according to Prior ("History of his Own Time"), they had been so engaged + ever since the breaking up of the Gertruydenberg Conference; and when + Prior arrived in France in August, 1711, he was shown three letters + written as from the Pensionary, but probably by Petecum, promising Louis + every advantage if the Conference so unhappily broken off at + Gertruydenberg were renewed. "The negotiations must be secret and + separate," reported Prior, "His Most Christian Majesty need only name his + own terms." Swift knew of the existence of at least one of these letters, + because he was very anxious to obtain it "to get some particulars for my + History," as he notes in his "Journal," "one letter of Petecum's showing + the roguery of the Dutch." See also "Portland Manuscripts," vol. v., p. 34 + <i>et seq</i>. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + They seemed altogether to distrust the inclination of that republic + towards a peace; but at the same time shewed a mighty complaisance to the + English nation, and a desire to have Her Majesty at the head of a treaty. + This appears by the first overture in form sent from that kingdom, and + signed by Mons. de Torcy, on the twenty-second of April, N.S. one thousand + seven hundred and eleven, to the following effect: + </p> + <p> + "That as it could not be doubted but the King was in a condition of + continuing the war with honour, so it could not be looked on as a mark of + weakness in His Majesty to break the silence he had kept since the + conferences at Gertruydenberg; and that, before the opening of the + campaign, he now gives farther proof of the desire he always had to + procure the repose of Europe. But after what he hath found, by experience, + of the sentiments of those persons who now govern the republic of Holland, + and of their industry in rendering all negotiations without effect, His + Majesty will, for the public good, offer to the English nation those + propositions, which he thinks fit to make for terminating the war, and for + settling the tranquillity of Europe upon a solid foundation. It is with + this view that he offers to enter into a treaty of peace, founded on the + following conditions. + </p> + <p> + "First, The English nation shall have real securities for carrying on + their trade in Spain, the Indies, and ports of the Mediterranean. + </p> + <p> + "Secondly, The King will consent to form a sufficient barrier in the Low + Countries, for the security of the republic of Holland; and this barrier + shall be such as England shall agree upon and approve; His Majesty + promising, at the same time, an entire liberty and security to the trade + of the Dutch. + </p> + <p> + "Thirdly, All reasonable methods shall be thought on, with sincerity and + truth, for giving satisfaction to the allies of England and Holland. + </p> + <p> + "Fourthly, Whereas the affairs of the King of Spain are in so good a + condition as to furnish new expedients for putting an end to the disputes + about that monarchy, and for settling it to the satisfaction of the + several parties concerned, all sincere endeavours shall be used for + surmounting the difficulties arisen upon this occasion; and the trade and + interest of all parties engaged in the present war shall be secured. + </p> + <p> + "Fifthly, The conferences, in order to treat of a peace upon these + conditions, shall be immediately opened; and the plenipotentiaries, whom + the King shall name to assist thereat, shall treat with those of England + and Holland, either alone, or in conjunction with those of their allies, + as England shall choose. + </p> + <p> + "Sixthly, His Majesty proposes the towns of Aix la Chapelle or Liège, for + the place where the plenipotentiaries shall assemble, leaving the choice + likewise to England of either of the said towns, wherein to treat a + general peace." + </p> + <p> + These overtures, although expressing much confidence in the ministry here, + great deference to the Queen, and displeasure against the Dutch, were + immediately transmitted by Her Majesty's command to her ambassador in + Holland, with orders, that they should be communicated to the pensionary. + The Abbé Gaultier was desired to signify this proceeding to the Marquis de + Torcy; at the same time to let that minister understand, that some of the + above articles ought to be explained. The Lord Raby, now Earl of Stafford, + was directed to tell the Pensionary, that Her Majesty being resolved, in + making peace as in making war, to act in perfect concert with the States, + would not lose a moment in transmitting to him a paper of this importance: + that the Queen earnestly desired, that the secret might be kept among as + few as possible; and that she hoped the Pensionary would advise upon this + occasion with no person whatsoever, except such, as by the constitution of + that government, are unavoidably necessary: that the terms of the several + propositions were indeed too general; but, however, they contained an + offer to treat: and that, although there appeared an air of complaisance + to England through the whole paper, and the contrary to Holland, yet this + could have no ill consequences, as long as the Queen and the States took + care to understand each other, and to act with as little reserve as became + two powers, so nearly allied in interest; which rule, on the part of + Britain, should be inviolably observed. It was signified likewise to the + Pensionary, that the Duke of Marlborough had no communication of this + affair from England, and that it was supposed he would have none from The + Hague. + </p> + <p> + After these proposals had been considered in Holland, the ambassador was + directed to send back the opinion of the Dutch ministers upon them. The + court here was, indeed, apprehensive, that the Pensionary would be alarmed + at the whole frame of Monsieur de Torcy's paper, and particularly at these + expressions, "That the English shall have real securities for their trade, + &c." and "that the barrier for the States-General shall be such as + England shall agree upon and approve." It was natural to think, that the + fear which the Dutch would conceive of our obtaining advantageous terms + for Britain, might put them upon trying underhand for themselves, and + endeavouring to overreach us in the management of the peace, as they had + hitherto done in that of the war: the ambassador was therefore cautioned + to be very watchful in discovering any workings, which might tend that + way. + </p> + <p> + When the Lord Raby was first sent to The Hague, the Duke of Marlborough, + and Lord Townshend, had, for very obvious reasons, used their utmost + endeavours to involve him in as many difficulties as they could; upon + which, and other accounts, needless to mention, it was thought proper, + that his Grace, then in Flanders, should not be let into the secret of + this affair. + </p> + <p> + The proposal of Aix or Liège for a place of treaty, was only a farther + mark of their old discontent against Holland, to shew they would not name + any town which belonged to the States. + </p> + <p> + The Pensionary having consulted those who had been formerly employed in + the negotiations of peace, and enjoined them the utmost secrecy, to avoid + the jealousy of the foreign ministers there, desired the ambassador to + return Her Majesty thanks, for the obliging manner of communicating the + French overtures, for the confidence she placed in the States, and for her + promise of making no step towards a peace, but in concert with them, + assuring her of the like on their part: that although the States + endeavoured to hide it from the enemy, they were as weary of the war as + we, and very heartily desirous of a good and lasting peace, as well as + ready to join in any method, by which Her Majesty should think proper to + obtain it: that the States looked upon these propositions as very dark and + general; and they observed how the enemy would create jealousies between + the Queen, their republic, and the other allies; but they were satisfied + it would have no effect, and relied entirely on the justness and prudence + of Her Majesty, who they doubted not, would make the French explain + themselves more particularly in the several points of their proposals, and + send a plan of the particular conditions whereupon they would make a + peace: after which, the States would be ready, either to join with Her + Majesty, or to make their objections, and were prepared to bring with them + all the facility imaginable, towards promoting so good a work. + </p> + <p> + This is the sum of the verbal answer made by the Pensionary, upon + communicating to him the French proposals; and I have chosen to set it + down, rather than transcribe the other given to the ambassador some days + after, which was more in form, and to the same purpose, but shorter, and + in my opinion not so well discovering the true disposition of the Dutch + ministers. + </p> + <p> + For after the Queen had transmitted the French overtures to Holland, and + the States found Her Majesty was bent in earnest upon the thoughts of a + peace, they began to cast about how to get the negotiation into their own + hands. They knew that whatever power received the first proposals, would + be wise enough to stipulate something for themselves, as they had done in + their own case, both at The Hague and Gertruydenberg, where they carved as + they pleased, without any regard to the interests of their nearest allies. + For this reason, while they endeavoured to amuse the British court with + expostulations upon the several preliminaries sent from France, Monsieur + Petecum, a forward meddling agent of Holstein, who had resided some years + in Holland, negotiated with Heinsius, the Grand Pensionary, as well as + with Vanderdussen and Buys, about restoring the conferences between France + and that republic, broke off in Gertruydenberg. Pursuant to which, about + the end of May, N.S. one thousand seven hundred and eleven, Petecum wrote + to the Marquis de Torcy, with the privity of the Pensionary, and probably + of the other two. The substance of his letter was to inform the Marquis, + that things might easily be disposed, so as to settle a correspondence + between that crown and the republic, in order to renew the treaty of + peace. That this could be done with the greater secrecy, because Monsieur + Heinsius, by virtue of his oath as Pensionary, might keep any affair + private as long as he thought necessary, and was not obliged to + communicate it, until he believed things were ripe; and as long as he + concealed it from his masters, he was not bound to discover it, either to + the ministers of the Emperor, or those of her British Majesty. That since + England thought it proper for King Charles to continue the whole campaign + in Catalonia, (though he should be chosen emperor) in order to support the + war in Spain, it was necessary for France to treat in the most secret + manner with the States, who were not now so violently, as formerly, + against having Philip on the Spanish throne, upon certain conditions for + securing their trade, but were jealous of England's design to fortify some + trading towns in Spain for themselves. That Heinsius, extremely desired to + get out of the war for some reasons, which he (Petecum) was not permitted + to tell; and that Vanderdussen and Buys were impatient to have the + negotiations with France once more set on foot, which, if Monsieur Torcy + thought fit to consent to, Petecum engaged that the States would determine + to settle the preliminaries, in the midway between Paris and The Hague, + with whatever ministers the Most Christian King should please to employ. + But Monsieur Torcy refused this overture, and in his answer to Monsieur + Petecum, assigned for the reason the treatment his master's former + proposals had met with at The Hague and Gertruydenberg, from the ministers + of Holland. Britain and Holland seemed pretty well agreed, that those + proposals were too loose and imperfect to be a foundation for entering + upon a general treaty; and Monsieur Gaultier was desired to signify to the + French court, that it was expected they should explain themselves more + particularly on the several articles. + </p> + <p> + But in the mean time the Queen was firmly resolved, that the interests of + her own kingdoms should not be neglected at this juncture, as they had + formerly twice been, while the Dutch were principal managers of a + negotiation with France. Her Majesty had given frequent and early notice + to the States, of the general disposition of her people towards a peace, + of her own inability to continue the war upon the old foot, under the + disadvantage of unequal quotas, and the universal backwardness of her + allies. She had likewise informed them of several advances made to her on + the side of France, which she had refused to hearken to, till she had + consulted with those, her good friends and confederates, and heard their + opinion on that subject: but the Dutch, who apprehended nothing more than + to see Britain at the head of a treaty, were backward and sullen, disliked + all proposals by the Queen's intervention, and said it was a piece of + artifice of France to divide the allies; besides, they knew the ministry + was young, and the opposite faction had given them assurances, that the + people of England would never endure a peace without Spain, nor the men in + power dare to attempt it, after the resolutions of one House of Parliament + to the contrary. But, in the midst of this unwillingness to receive any + overtures from France by the Queen's hands, the Dutch ministers were + actually engaged in a correspondence with that court, where they urged our + inability to begin a treaty, by reason of those factions which themselves + had inflamed, and were ready to commence a negotiation upon much easier + terms than what they supposed we demanded. For not to mention the Duke of + Lorraine's interposition in behalf of Holland, which France absolutely + refused to accept; the letters sent from the Dutch to that court, were + shewn some months after to a British minister there,[5] which gave much + weight to Monsieur de Torcy's insinuations; that he knew where to meet + with more compliance, if the necessity of affairs should force him to it, + by our refusal. And the violence of the States against our entertaining of + that correspondence, was only because they knew theirs would never be + accepted, at least till ours were thrown off. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: Matthew Prior. See note, <i>ante</i>, p. 55. [T.S.]] The + Queen, sensible of all this, resolved to provide for her own kingdoms; and + having therefore prepared such demands for her principal allies, as might + be a ground for proceeding to a general treaty, without pretending to + adjust their several interests, she resolved to stipulate in a particular + manner the advantage of Britain: the following preliminary demands were + accordingly drawn up, in order to be transmitted to France. + </p> + <p> + "Great Britain will not enter into any negotiation of peace, otherwise + than upon these conditions, obtained beforehand. + </p> + <p> + "That the union of the two crowns of France and Spain shall be prevented: + that satisfaction shall be given to all the allies, and trade settled and + maintained. + </p> + <p> + "If France be disposed to treat upon this view, it is not to be doubted + that the following propositions will be found reasonable. + </p> + <p> + "A barrier shall be formed in the Low Countries for the States-General; + and their trade shall be secured. + </p> + <p> + "A barrier likewise shall be formed for the Empire. + </p> + <p> + "The pretensions of all the allies, founded upon former treaties, shall be + regulated and determined to their general satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "In order to make a more equal balance of power in Italy, the dominions + and territories, which in the beginning of the present war belonged to the + Duke of Savoy, and are now in the possession of France, shall be restored + to his Royal Highness; and such other places in Italy shall be yielded to + him, as will be found necessary and agreeable to the sense of former + treaties made with this prince. + </p> + <p> + "As to Great Britain in particular, the succession to the crown of the + kingdoms, according to the present establishment, shall be acknowledged. + </p> + <p> + "A new treaty of commerce between Great Britain and France shall be made, + after the most just and reasonable manner. + </p> + <p> + "Dunkirk shall be demolished. + </p> + <p> + "Gibraltar and Port-Mahon shall remain in the hands of the present + possessors. + </p> + <p> + "The English shall have the Assiento in the same manner the French now + enjoy it; and such places in the Spanish West Indies shall be assigned to + those concerned in this traffic, for the refreshment and sale of their + negroes, as shall be found necessary and convenient. + </p> + <p> + "All advantages, rights, and privileges already granted, and which may + hereafter be granted by Spain to the subjects of France, or to any other + nation whatsoever, shall be equally granted to the subjects of Great + Britain. + </p> + <p> + "And for better securing the British trade in the Spanish West Indies, + certain places to be named in the treaty of peace, shall be put into + possession of the English. + </p> + <p> + "Newfoundland, with the Bay and Straits of Hudson, shall be entirely + restored to the English; and Great Britain and France shall severally keep + and possess all those countries and territories in North America, which + each of the said nations shall be in possession of at the time when the + ratification of this treaty shall be published in those parts of the + world. + </p> + <p> + "These demands, and all other proceedings between Great Britain and + France, shall be kept inviolably secret, until they are published by the + mutual consent of both parties." + </p> + <p> + The last article was not only intended for avoiding, if possible, the + jealousy of the Dutch, but to prevent the clamours of the abettors here at + home, who, under the pretended fears of our doing injustice to the Dutch, + by acting without the privity of that republic, in order to make a + separate peace, would be ready to drive on the worst designs against the + Queen and ministry, in order to recover the power they had lost. + </p> + <p> + In June, one thousand seven hundred and eleven, Mr. Prior, a person of + great distinction, not only on account of his wit, but for his abilities + in the management of affairs, and who had been formerly employed at the + French court, was dispatched thither by Her Majesty with the foregoing + demands. This gentleman was received at Versailles with great civility. + The King declared, that no proceeding, in order to a general treaty, would + be so agreeable to him as by the intervention of England; and that His + Majesty, being desirous to contribute with all his power towards the + repose of Europe, did answer to the demands which had been made, + </p> + <p> + "That he would consent freely and sincerely to all just and reasonable + methods, for hindering the crowns of France and Spain from being ever + united under the same prince; His Majesty being persuaded, that such an + excess of power would be as contrary to the general good and repose of + Europe, as it was opposite to the will of the late Catholic King Charles + the Second. He said his intention was, that all parties in the present war + should find their reasonable satisfaction in the intended treaty of peace; + and that trade should be settled and maintained for the future, to the + advantage of those nations which formerly possessed it. + </p> + <p> + "That as the King will exactly observe the conditions of peace, whenever + it shall be concluded, and as the object he proposeth to himself, is to + secure the frontiers of his own kingdom, without giving any sort of + disturbance to his neighbours, he promiseth to agree, that by the future + treaty of peace, the Dutch shall be put into possession of all such + fortified places as shall be specified in the said treaty to serve for a + barrier to that republic, against all attempts on the side of France. He + engages likewise to give all necessary securities, for removing the + jealousies raised among the German princes of His Majesty's designs. + </p> + <p> + "That when the conferences, in order to a general treaty, shall be formed, + all the pretensions of the several princes and states engaged in the + present war, shall be fairly and amicably discussed; nor shall any thing + be omitted, which may regulate and determine them to the satisfaction of + all parties. + </p> + <p> + "That, pursuant to the demands made by England, His Majesty promiseth to + restore to the Duke of Savoy these demesnes and territories, which + belonged to that prince at the beginning of this war, and which His + Majesty is now in possession of; and the King consents further, that such + other places in Italy shall be yielded to the Duke of Savoy, as shall be + found necessary, according to the sense of those treaties made between the + said Duke and his allies. + </p> + <p> + "That the King's sentiments of the present government of Great Britain, + the open declaration he had made in Holland of his resolution to treat of + peace, by applications to the English; the assurances he had given of + engaging the King of Spain to leave Gibraltar in their hands (all which + are convincing proofs of his perfect esteem for a nation still in war with + him); leave no room to doubt of His Majesty's inclination to give England + all securities and advantages for their trade, which they can reasonably + demand. But as His Majesty cannot persuade himself, that a government, so + clear-sighted as ours, will insist upon conditions which must absolutely + destroy the trade of France and Spain, as well as that of all other + nations of Europe, he thinks the demands made by Great Britain may require + a more particular discussion. + </p> + <p> + "That, upon this foundation, the King thought the best way of advancing + and perfecting a negotiation, the beginning of which he had seen with so + much satisfaction, would be to send into England a person instructed in + his intention, and authorized by him to agree upon securities for settling + the trade of the subjects of England; and those particular advantages to + be stipulated in their favour, without destroying the trade of the French + and Spaniards, or of other nations in Christendom. + </p> + <p> + "That therefore His Majesty had charged the person chosen for this + commission, to answer the other articles of the memorial given him by Mr. + Prior, the secret of which should be exactly observed." + </p> + <p> + Mons. de Torcy had, for some years past, used all his endeavours to + incline his master towards a peace, pursuant to the maxim of his uncle + Colbert, "That a long war was not for the interest of France." It was for + this reason the King made choice of him in the conferences at The Hague; + the bad success whereof, although it filled him with resentments against + the Dutch, did not alter his opinion: but he was violently opposed by a + party both in the court and kingdom, who pretended to fear he would + sacrifice the glory of the prince and country by too large concessions; or + perhaps would rather wish that the first offers should have been still + made to the Dutch, as a people more likely to be less solicitous about the + interest of Britain, than Her Majesty would certainly be for theirs: and + the particular design of Mr. Prior was to find out, whether that minister + had credit enough with his prince, and a support from others in power, + sufficient to overrule the faction against peace. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Prior's journey[6] could not be kept a secret, as the court here at + first seemed to intend it. He was discovered at his return by an officer + of the port at Dover, where he landed, after six weeks absence; upon which + the Dutch Gazettes and English newspapers were full of speculations. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: See Swift's "A New Journey to Paris" (vol. v. of this + edition, pp. 187-205). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + At the same time with Mr. Prior there arrived from France Mons. Mesnager, + knight of the order of St. Michael, and one of the council of trade to the + Most Christian King. His commission was, in general, empowering him to + treat with the minister of any prince engaged in the war against his + master. In his first conferences with the Queen's ministers, he pretended + orders to insist, that Her Majesty should enter upon particular + engagements in several articles, which did not depend upon her, but + concerned only the interest of the allies reciprocally with those of the + Most Christian King; whereas the negotiation had begun upon this + principle, that France should consent to adjust the interests of Great + Britain in the first place, whereby Her Majesty would be afterwards + enabled, by her good offices on all sides, to facilitate the general + peace. The Queen resolved never to depart from this principle; but was + absolutely determined to remit the particular interests of the allies to + general conferences, where she would do the utmost in her power to procure + the repose of Europe, and the satisfaction of all parties. It was plain, + France could run no hazard by this proceeding, because the preliminary + articles would have no force before a general peace was signed: therefore + it was not doubted but Mons. Mesnager would have orders to waive this new + pretension, and go on in treating upon that foot which was at first + proposed. In short, the ministers required a positive and speedy answer to + the articles in question, since they contained only such advantages and + securities as Her Majesty thought she had a right to require from any + prince whatsoever, to whom the dominions of Spain should happen to fall. + </p> + <p> + The particular demands of Britain were formed into eight articles; to + which Mons. Mesnager, having transmitted them to his court and received + new powers from thence, had orders to give his master's consent, by way of + answers to the several points, to be obligatory only after a general + peace. These demands, together with the answers of the French King, were + drawn up and signed by Mons. Mesnager, and Her Majesty's two principal + secretaries of state; whereof I shall here present an extract to the + reader. + </p> + <p> + In the preamble the Most Christian King sets forth, "That being + particularly informed by the last memorial which the British ministers + delivered to Mons. Mesnager, of the dispositions of this crown to + facilitate a general peace, to the satisfaction of the several parties + concerned; and His Majesty finding, in effect, as the said memorial + declares, that he runs no hazard by engaging himself in the manner there + expressed, since the preliminary articles will be of no force, until the + signing of the general peace; and being sincerely desirous to advance, to + the utmost of his power, the repose of Europe, especially by a way so + agreeable as the interposition of a Princess, whom so many ties of blood + ought to unite to him, and whose sentiments for the public tranquillity + cannot be doubted; His Majesty, moved by these considerations, hath + ordered Mons. Mesnager, knight, &c. to give the following answers, in + writing, to the articles contained in the memorial transmitted to him, + intituled, 'Preliminary Demands for Great Britain in particular.'" + </p> + <p> + The articles were these that follow. + </p> + <p> + "First, The succession to the crown to be acknowledged, according to the + present establishment. + </p> + <p> + "Secondly, A new treaty of commerce between Great Britain and France to be + made, after the most just and reasonable manner. + </p> + <p> + "Thirdly, Dunkirk to be demolished. + </p> + <p> + "Fourthly, Gibraltar and Port-Mahon to continue in the hands of those who + now possess them. + </p> + <p> + "Fifthly, The Assiento (or liberty of selling negroes to the Spanish West + Indies) to be granted to the English, in as full a manner as the French + possess it at present; and such places in the said West Indies to be + assigned to the persons concerned in this trade, for the refreshment and + sale of their negroes, as shall be found necessary and convenient. + </p> + <p> + "Sixthly, Whatever advantages, privileges, and rights are already, or may + hereafter be, granted by Spain to the subjects of France, or any other + nation, shall be equally granted to the subjects of Great Britain. + </p> + <p> + "Seventhly, For better protecting their trade in the Spanish West Indies, + the English shall be put into possession of such places as shall be named + in the treaty of peace. + </p> + <p> + "Or, as an equivalent for this article, that the Assiento be granted to + Britain for the term of thirty years. + </p> + <p> + "That the isle of St. Christopher's be likewise secured to the English. + </p> + <p> + "That the advantages and exemption from duties, promised by Monsieur + Mesnager, which he affirms will amount to fifteen <i>per cent</i>. upon + all goods of the growth and manufacture of Great Britain, be effectually + allowed. + </p> + <p> + "That whereas, on the side of the river of Plate, the English are not in + possession of any colony, a certain extent of territory be allowed them on + the said river, for refreshing and keeping their negroes, till they are + sold to the Spaniards; subject, nevertheless, to the inspection of an + officer appointed by Spain. + </p> + <p> + "Eighthly, Newfoundland and the Bay and Straits of Hudson, shall be + entirely restored to the English; and Great Britain and France shall + respectively keep whatever dominions in North America each of them shall + be in possession of, when the ratification of this treaty shall be + published in those parts of the world." + </p> + <p> + The six first articles were allowed without any difficulty, except that + about Dunkirk, where France was to have an equivalent, to be settled in a + general treaty. + </p> + <p> + Difficulty arising upon the seventh article, the proposed equivalent was + allowed instead thereof. + </p> + <p> + The last article was referred to the general treaty of peace, only the + French insisted to have the power of fishing for cod, and drying them on + the island of Newfoundland. + </p> + <p> + These articles were to be looked upon as conditions, which the Most + Christian King consented to allow; and whenever a general peace should be + signed, they were to be digested into the usual form of a treaty, to the + satisfaction of both crowns. + </p> + <p> + The Queen having thus provided for the security and advantage of her + kingdoms, whenever a peace should be made, and upon terms no way + interfering with the interest of her allies; the next thing in order, was + to procure from France such preliminary articles, as might be a ground + upon which to commence a general treaty. These were adjusted, and signed + the same day with the former; and having been delivered to the several + ministers residing here from the powers in alliance with England, were + quickly made public. But the various constructions and censures which + passed upon them, have made it necessary to give the reader the following + transcript: + </p> + <p> + "The King being willing to contribute all that is in his power, to the + re-establishing of the general peace. His Majesty declares, + </p> + <p> + "I. That he will acknowledge the Queen of Great Britain in that quality, + as also the succession of that crown, according to the settlement, + </p> + <p> + "II. That he will freely, and <i>bonâ fide</i>, consent to the taking all + just and reasonable measures, for hindering that the crowns of France and + Spain may ever be united on the head of the same prince; His Majesty being + persuaded, that this excess of power would be contrary to the good and + quiet of Europe. + </p> + <p> + "III. The King's intention is, that all the parties engaged in the present + war, without excepting any of them, may find their reasonable satisfaction + in the treaty of peace, which shall be made: That commerce may be + re-established and maintained for the future, to the advantage of Great + Britain, of Holland, and of the other nations, who have been accustomed to + exercise commerce. + </p> + <p> + "IV. As the King will likewise maintain exactly the observance of the + peace, when it shall be concluded, and the object, the King proposes to + himself, being to secure the frontiers of his kingdom, without disturbing + in any manner whatever the neighbouring states, he promises to agree, by + the treaty which shall be made, that the Dutch shall be put in possession + of the fortified places, which shall be mentioned, in the Netherlands, to + serve hereafter for a barrier; which may secure the quiet of the republic + of Holland against any enterprise from the part of France. + </p> + <p> + "V. The King consents likewise, that a secure and convenient barrier + should be formed for the empire, and for the house of Austria. + </p> + <p> + "VI. Notwithstanding Dunkirk cost the King very great sums, as well to + purchase it, as to fortify it; and that it is further necessary to be at + very considerable expense for razing the works. His Majesty is willing + however to engage to cause them to be demolished, immediately after the + conclusion of the peace, on condition, that, for the fortifications of + that place, a proper equivalent, that may content him, be given him: And, + as England cannot furnish that equivalent, the discussion of it shall be + referred to the conferences to be held for the negotiation of the peace. + </p> + <p> + "VII. When the conferences for the negotiation of the peace shall be + formed, all the pretensions of the princes and states, engaged in the + present war, shall be therein discussed <i>bonâ fide</i>, and amicably: + And nothing shall be omitted to regulate and terminate them, to the + satisfaction of all the parties. + </p> + <h3> + "MESNAGER." + </h3> + <p> + These overtures are founded upon the eighth article of the Grand Alliance, + made in one thousand seven hundred and one; wherein are contained the + conditions, without which a peace is not to be made; and whoever compares + both, will find the preliminaries to reach every point proposed in that + article, which those who censured them at home, if they spoke their + thoughts, did not understand: for nothing can be plainer, than what the + public hath often been told, that the recovery of Spain from the house of + Bourbon was a thing never imagined, when the war began, but a just and + reasonable satisfaction to the Emperor. Much less ought such a condition + to be held necessary at present, not only because it is allowed on all + hands to be impracticable, but likewise because, by the changes in the + Austrian and Bourbon families, it would not be safe: neither did those, + who were loudest in blaming the French preliminaries, know any thing of + the advantages privately stipulated for Britain, whose interests, they + assured us, were all made a sacrifice to the corruption or folly of the + managers; and therefore, because the opposers of peace have been better + informed by what they have since heard and seen, they have changed their + battery, and accused the ministers for betraying the Dutch. + </p> + <p> + The Lord Raby, Her Majesty's ambassador at The Hague, having made a short + journey to England, where he was created Earl of Strafford, went back to + Holland about the beginning of October, one thousand seven hundred and + eleven, with the above preliminaries, in order to communicate them to the + Pensionary, and other ministers of the States. The Earl was instructed to + let them know, "That the Queen had, according to their desire, returned an + answer to the first propositions signed by Mons. Torcy, signifying, that + the French offers were thought, both by Her Majesty and the States, + neither so particular nor so full as they ought to be; and insisting to + have a distinct project formed, of such a peace as the Most Christian King + would be willing to conclude: that this affair having been for some time + transacted by papers, and thereby subject to delays, Mons. Mesnager was at + length sent over by France, and had signed those preliminaries now + communicated to them: that the several articles did not, indeed, contain + such particular concessions as France must and will make in the course of + a treaty; but that, however, Her Majesty thought them a sufficient + foundation whereon to open the general conferences. + </p> + <p> + "That Her Majesty was unwilling to be charged with determining the several + interests of her allies, and therefore contented herself with such general + offers as might include all the particular demands, proper to be made + during the treaty; where the confederates must resolve to adhere firmly + together, in order to obtain from the enemy the utmost that could be hoped + for, in the present circumstances of affairs; which rule, Her Majesty + assured the States, she would, on her part, firmly observe." + </p> + <p> + If the ministers of Holland should express any uneasiness, that Her + Majesty may have settled the interests of her own kingdoms, in a future + peace, by any private agreement, the ambassador was ordered to say, "That + the Queen had hitherto refused to have the treaty carried on in her own + kingdom, and would continue to do so, unless they (the Dutch) constrained + her to take another measure: That by these means the States, and the rest + of the allies, would have the opportunity of treating and adjusting their + different pretensions; which Her Majesty would promote with all the zeal + she had shewn for the common good, and the particular advantage of that + republic (as they must do her the justice to confess), in the whole course + of her reign: That the Queen had made no stipulation for herself, which + might clash with the interests of Holland; and that the articles to be + inserted in a future treaty, for the benefit of Britain, were, for the + most part, such as contained advantages, which must either be continued to + the enemy, or be obtained by Her Majesty; but, however, that no concession + should tempt her to hearken to a peace, unless her good friends and allies + the States General had all reasonable satisfaction, as to their trade and + barrier, as well as in all other respects." + </p> + <p> + After these assurances given in the Queen's name, the Earl was to + insinuate, "That Her Majesty should have just reason to be offended, and + to think the proceeding between her and the States very unequal, if they + should pretend to have any further uneasiness upon this head: That being + determined to accept no advantages to herself, repugnant to their + interests, nor any peace, without their reasonable satisfaction, the + figure she had made during the whole course of the war, and the part she + had acted, superior to any of the allies, who were more concerned in + danger and interest, might justly entitle her to settle the concerns of + Great Britain, before she would consent to a general negotiation." + </p> + <p> + If the States should object the engagements the Queen was under, by + treaties, of making no peace but in concert with them, or the particular + obligations of the Barrier Treaty, the ambassador was to answer, "That, as + to the former, Her Majesty had not in any sort acted contrary thereto; + That she was so far from making a peace without their consent, as to + declare her firm resolution not to make it without their satisfaction; and + that what had passed between France and her, amounted to no more than an + introduction to a general treaty." As to the latter, the Earl had orders + to represent very earnestly, "How much it was even for the interest of + Holland itself, rather to compound the advantage of the Barrier Treaty, + than to insist upon the whole, which the house of Austria, and several + other allies, would never consent to: That nothing could be more odious to + the people of England than many parts of this treaty; which would have + raised universal indignation, if the utmost care had not been taken to + quiet the minds of those who were acquainted with the terms of that + guaranty, and to conceal them from those who were not: That it was + absolutely necessary to maintain a good harmony between both nations, + without which it would be impossible at any time to form a strength for + reducing an exorbitant power, or preserving the balance of Europe: from + whence it followed, that it could not be the true interest of either + country to insist upon any conditions, which might give just apprehension + to the other. + </p> + <p> + "That France had proposed Utrecht, Nimeguen, Aix, or Liège, wherein to + hold the general treaty; and Her Majesty was ready to send her + plenipotentiaries, to whichever of those towns the States should approve." + </p> + <p> + If the imperial ministers, or those of the other allies, should object + against the preliminaries as no sufficient ground for opening the + conferences, and insist that France should consent to such articles as + were signed on the part of the allies in the year one thousand seven + hundred and nine, the Earl of Strafford was in answer directed to + insinuate, "That the French might have probably been brought to explain + themselves more particularly, had they not perceived the uneasiness, + impatience, and jealousy among the allies, during our transactions with + that court." However, he should declare to them, in the Queen's name, + "That if they were determined to accept of peace upon no terms inferior to + what was formerly demanded, Her Majesty was ready to concur with them; but + would no longer bear those disproportions of expense, yearly increased + upon her, nor the deficiency of the confederates in every part of the war: + That it was therefore incumbent upon them to furnish, for the future, such + quotas of ships and forces as they were now wanting in, and to increase + their expense, while Her Majesty reduced hers to a reasonable and just + proportion." + </p> + <p> + That if the ministers of Vienna and Holland should urge their inability + upon this head, the Queen insisted, "They ought to comply with her in war + or in peace; Her Majesty desiring nothing, as to the first, but what they + ought to perform, and what is absolutely necessary: and as to the latter, + that she had done, and would continue to do, the utmost in her power + towards obtaining such a peace as might be to the satisfaction of all her + allies." + </p> + <p> + Some days after the Earl of Stafford's departure to Holland, Mons. Buys, + pensionary of Amsterdam, arrived here from thence with instructions from + his masters, to treat upon the subject of the French preliminaries, and + the methods for carrying on the war. In his first conference with a + committee of council, he objected against all the articles, as too general + and uncertain; and against some of them, as prejudicial. He said, "The + French promising that trade should be re-established and maintained for + the future, was meant in order to deprive the Dutch of their tariff of one + thousand six hundred and sixty-four; for the plenipotentiaries of that + crown would certainly expound the word <i>rétablir</i>, to signify no more + than restoring the trade of the States to the condition it was in + immediately before the commencement of the present war." He said, "That in + the article of Dunkirk, the destruction of the harbour was not mentioned; + and that the fortifications were only to be razed upon condition of an + equivalent, which might occasion a difference between Her Majesty and the + States, since Holland would think it hard to have a town less in their + barrier for the demolition of Dunkirk; and England would complain to have + this thorn continue in their side, for the sake of giving one town more to + the Dutch." + </p> + <p> + Lastly, he objected, "That where the French promised effectual methods + should be taken to prevent the union of France and Spain under the same + king, they offered nothing at all for the cession of Spain, which was the + most important point of the war. + </p> + <p> + "For these reasons, Mons. Buys hoped Her Majesty would alter her measures, + and demand specific articles, upon which the allies might debate whether + they would consent to a negotiation or no." + </p> + <p> + The Queen, who looked upon all these difficulties, raised about the method + of treating, as endeavours to wrest the negotiation out of her hands, + commanded the lords of the committee to let Mons. Buys know, "That the + experience she formerly had of proceeding by particular preliminaries + towards a general treaty, gave her no encouragement to repeat the same + method any more: That such a preliminary treaty must be negotiated either + by some particular allies, or by all. The first, Her Majesty could never + suffer, since she would neither take upon her to settle the interests of + others, nor submit that others should settle those of her own kingdoms. As + to the second, it was liable to Mons. Buys's objection, because the + ministers of France would have as fair an opportunity of sowing division + among the allies, when they were all assembled upon a preliminary treaty, + as when the conferences were open for a negotiation of peace: That this + method could therefore have no other effect than to delay the treaty, + without any advantage: That Her Majesty was heartily disposed, both then + and during the negotiation, to insist on every thing necessary for + securing the barrier and commerce of the States; and therefore hoped the + conferences might be opened, without farther difficulties. + </p> + <p> + "That Her Majesty did not only consent, but desire to have a plan settled + for carrying on the war, as soon as the negotiation of peace should begin; + but expected to have the burthen more equally laid, and more agreeable to + treaties; and would join with the States in pressing the allies to perform + their parts, as she had endeavoured to animate them by her example." + </p> + <p> + Mons. Buys seemed to know little of his masters' mind, and pretended he + had no power to conclude upon any thing.[1] Her Majesty's minister + proposed to him an alliance between the two nations, to subsist after a + peace. To this he hearkened very readily, and offered to take the matter + <i>ad referendum</i>, having authority to do no more. His intention was, + that he might appear to negotiate, in order to gain time to pick out, if + possible, the whole secret of the transactions between Britain and France; + to disclose nothing himself, nor bind his masters to any conditions; to + seek delays till the Parliament met, and then observe what turn it took, + and what would be the issue of those frequent cabals between himself and + some other foreign ministers, in conjunction with the chief leaders of the + discontented faction. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: Buys's mission seemed to have been to act on behalf of the + States General for the purpose of preventing England obtaining any + commercial advantage which the States did not share, and for causing + delays. He certainly had no powers to treat definitely, and Swift's remark + is emphasized by the statement in the Bolingbroke Correspondence (vol. ii. + p. 25) about him, he could "only speak as Monsieur Buys." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Dutch hoped, that the clamours raised against the proceedings of the + Queen's ministers towards a peace, would make the Parliament disapprove + what had been done; whereby the States would be at the head of the + negotiation, which the Queen did not think fit to have any more in their + hands, where it had miscarried twice already; although Prince Eugene + himself owned, "that France was then disposed to conclude a peace upon + such conditions, as it was not worth the life of a grenadier to refuse + them." As to insisting upon specific preliminaries, Her Majesty thought + her own method much better, for each ally, in the course of the + negotiation, to advance and manage his own pretensions, wherein she would + support and assist them, rather than for two ministers of one ally to + treat solely with the enemy, and report what they pleased to the rest, as + was practised by the Dutch at Gertruydenberg. + </p> + <p> + One part of Mons. Buys's instructions was to desire the Queen not to be so + far amused by a treaty of peace, as to neglect her preparation for war + against the next campaign. Her Majesty, who was firmly resolved against + submitting any longer to that unequal burthen of expense she had hitherto + lain under, commanded Mr. Secretary St. John to debate the matter with + that minister, who said he had no power to treat; only insisted, that his + masters had fully done their part, and that nothing but exhortations could + be used to prevail on the other allies to act with greater vigour. + </p> + <p> + On the other side, the Queen refused to concert any plan for the + prosecution of the war, till the States would join with her in agreeing to + open the conferences of peace; which therefore, by Mons. Buys's + application to them, was accordingly done, by a resolution taken in + Holland upon the twenty first of November, one thousand seven hundred and + eleven, NS. + </p> + <p> + About this time the Count de Gallas[7] was forbid the court, by order from + the Queen, who sent him word, that she looked upon him no longer as a + public minister. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: The Austrian ambassador [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + This gentleman thought fit to act a very dishonourable part here in + England, altogether inconsistent with the character he bore of envoy from + the late and present emperors, two princes under the strictest ties of + gratitude to the Queen, especially the latter, who had then the title of + King of Spain. Count Gallas, about the end of August, one thousand seven + hundred and eleven, with the utmost privacy, dispatched an Italian, one of + his clerks, to Frankfort, where the Earl of Peterborough was then + expected. This man was instructed to pass for a Spaniard, and insinuate + himself into the Earl's service, which he accordingly did, and gave + constant information to the last emperor's secretary at Frankfort of all + he could gather up in his lordship's family, as well as copies of several + letters he had transcribed. It was likewise discovered that Gallas had, in + his dispatches to the present emperor, then in Spain, represented the + Queen and her ministers as not to be confided in, that when Her Majesty + had dismissed the Earl of Sunderland, she promised to proceed no farther + in the change of her servants, yet soon after turned them all out, and + thereby ruined the public credit, as well as abandoned Spain, that the + present ministers wanted the abilities and good dispositions of the + former, were persons of ill designs, and enemies to the common cause, and + he (Gallas) could not trust them. In his letters to Count Zinzendorf[8] he + said, "That Mr. Secretary St John complained of the house of Austria's + backwardness, only to make the King of Spain odious to England, and the + people here desirous of a peace, although it were ever so bad one," to + prevent which, Count Gallas drew up a memorial which he intended to give + the Queen, and transmitted a draught of it to Zinzendorf for his advice + and approbation. This memorial, among other great promises to encourage + the continuance of the war, proposed the detaching a good body of troops + from Hungary to serve in Italy or Spain, as the Queen should think fit. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: The Austrian envoy at The Hague, characterized by Mr Walter + Sichel as "a martyr to etiquette, and devoured by zeal for the Holy Roman + Empire" ("Bolingbroke and his Times," p 392) [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Zinzendorf thought this too bold a step, without consulting the Emperor: + to which Gallas replied, that his design was only to engage the Queen to + go on with the war; that Zinzendorf knew how earnestly the English and + Dutch had pressed to have these troops from Hungary, and therefore they + ought to be promised, in order to quiet those two nations, after which + several ways might be found to elude that promise; and, in the mean time, + the great point would be gained of bringing the English to declare for + continuing the war: that the Emperor might afterwards excuse himself, by + the apprehension of a war in Hungary, or of that between the Turks and + Muscovites: that if these excuses should be at an end, a detachment of one + or two regiments might be sent, and the rest deferred, by pretending want + of money; by which the Queen would probably be brought to maintain some + part of those troops, and perhaps the whole body. He added, that this way + of management was very common among the allies; and gave for an example, + the forces which the Dutch had promised for the service of Spain, but were + never sent; with several other instances of the same kind, which he said + might be produced. + </p> + <p> + Her Majesty, who had long suspected that Count Gallas was engaged in these + and the like practices, having at last received authentic proofs of this + whole intrigue, from original letters, and the voluntary confession of + those who were principally concerned in carrying it on, thought it + necessary to show her resentment, by refusing the count any more access to + her person or her court. + </p> + <p> + Although the Queen, as it hath been already observed, was resolved to open + the conferences upon the general preliminaries, yet she thought it would + very much forward the peace to know what were the utmost concessions which + France would make to the several allies, but especially to the States + General and the Duke of Savoy: therefore, while Her Majesty was pressing + the former to agree to a general treaty, the Abbé Gaultier was sent to + France with a memorial, to desire that the Most Christian King would + explain himself upon those preliminaries, particularly with relation to + Savoy and Holland, whose satisfaction the Queen had most at heart, as well + from her friendship to both these powers, as because, if she might engage + to them that their just pretensions would be allowed, few difficulties + would remain, of any moment, to retard the general peace. + </p> + <p> + The French answer to this memorial contained several schemes and proposals + for the satisfaction of each ally, coming up very near to what Her Majesty + and her ministers thought reasonable. The greatest difficulties seemed to + be about the Elector of Bavaria, for whose interests France appeared to be + as much concerned, as the Queen was for those of the Duke of Savoy: + however, those were judged not very hard to be surmounted. + </p> + <p> + The States having at length agreed to a general treaty, the following + particulars were concerted between Her Majesty and that republic: + </p> + <p> + "That the congress should be held at Utrecht. + </p> + <p> + "That the opening of the congress should be upon the twelfth of January, + N.S. one thousand seven hundred and eleven-twelve. + </p> + <p> + "That, for avoiding all inconveniences of ceremony, the ministers of the + Queen and States, during the treaty, should only have the characters of + plenipotentiaries, and not take that of ambassadors, till the day on which + the peace should be signed. + </p> + <p> + "Lastly, The Queen and States insisted, that the ministers of the Duke of + Anjou, and the late Electors of Bavaria and Cologne, should not appear at + the congress, until the points relating to their masters were adjusted; + and were firmly resolved not to send their passports for the ministers of + France, till the Most Christian King declared, that the absence of the + forementioned ministers should not delay the progress of the negotiation." + </p> + <p> + Pursuant to the three former articles, Her Majesty wrote circular letters + to all the allies engaged with her in the present war: and France had + notice, that as soon as the King declared his compliance with the last + article, the blank passports should be filled up with the names of the + Maréchal d'Uxelles,[9] the Abbé de Polignac, and Mons. Mesnager, who were + appointed plenipotentiaries for that crown. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: In his "Letter to Sir William Windham," Bolingbroke thus + refers to M. d'Uxelles: "The minister who had the principal direction of + foreign affairs I lived in friendship with, and I must own to his honour, + that he never encouraged a design which he knew that his court had no + intention of supporting" (p. 141). This was written of the time when + Bolingbroke was in Paris, an adherent of the Pretender. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + From what I have hitherto deduced, the reader sees the plan which the + Queen thought the most effectual for advancing a peace. As the conferences + were to begin upon the general preliminaries, the Queen was to be + empowered by France to offer separately to the allies what might be + reasonable for each to accept; and her own interests being previously + settled, she was to act as a general mediator: a figure that became her + best, from the part she had in the war, and more useful to the great end + at which she aimed, of giving a safe and honourable peace to Europe. + </p> + <p> + Besides, it was absolutely necessary, for the interests of Britain, that + the Queen should be at the head of the negotiation, without which Her + Majesty could find no expedient to redress the injuries her kingdoms were + sure to suffer by the Barrier Treaty. In order to settle this point with + the States, the ministers here had a conference with Mons. Buys, a few + days before the Parliament met. He was told, how necessary it was, by + previous concert between the Emperor, the Queen, and the States, to + prevent any difference which might arise in the course of the treaty at + Utrecht: That, under pretence of a barrier for the States General, as + their security against France, infinite prejudice might arise to the trade + of Britain in the Spanish Netherlands; for, by the fifteenth article of + the Barrier Treaty, in consequence of what was stipulated by that of + Minister, the Queen was brought to engage that commerce shall not be + rendered more easy, in point of duties, by the sea-ports of Flanders, than + it is by the river Scheldt, and by the canals on the side of the Seven + Provinces, which, as things now stood, was very unjust; for, while the + towns in Flanders were in the hands of France or Spain, the Dutch and we + traded to them upon equal foot; but now, since by the Barrier Treaty those + towns were to be possessed by the States, that republic might lay what + duties they pleased upon British goods, after passing by Ostend, and make + their own custom-free, which would utterly ruin our whole trade with + Flanders. + </p> + <p> + Upon this, the lords told Mons. Buys very frankly, "That if the States + expected the Queen should support their barrier, as well as their demands + from France and the house of Austria upon that head, they ought to agree, + that the subjects of Britain should trade as freely to all the countries + and places, which, by virtue of any former or future treaty, were to + become the barrier of the States, as they did in the time of the late King + Charles the Second of Spain; or as the subjects of the States General + themselves shall do: and that it was hoped, their High Mightinesses would + never scruple to rectify a mistake so injurious to that nation, without + whose blood and treasure they would have had no barrier at all." Mons. + Buys had nothing to answer against these objections, but said, he had + already wrote to his masters for further instructions. + </p> + <p> + Greater difficulties occurred about settling what should be the barrier to + the States after a peace: the envoy insisting to have all the towns that + were named in the Treaty of Barrier and Succession; and the Queen's + ministers excepting those towns, which, if they continued in the hands of + the Dutch, would render the trade of Britain to Flanders precarious. At + length it was agreed in general, that the States ought to have what is + really essential to the security of their barrier against France; and that + some amicable expedient should be found, for removing the fears both of + Britain and Holland upon this point. + </p> + <p> + But at the same time Mons. Buys was told, "That although the Queen would + certainly insist to obtain all those points from France, in behalf of her + allies the States, yet she hoped his masters were too reasonable to break + off the treaty, rather than not obtain the very utmost of their demands, + which could not be settled here, unless he were fully instructed to speak + and conclude upon that subject: That Her Majesty thought the best way of + securing the common interest, and preventing the division of the allies, + by the artifices of France, in the course of a long negotiation, would be + to concert between the Queen's ministers and those of the States, with a + due regard to the other confederates, such a plan as might amount to a + safe and honourable peace." After which the Abbé Polignac, who of the + French plenipotentiaries was most in the secret of his court, might be + told, "That it was in vain to amuse each other any longer; that on such + terms the peace would be immediately concluded; and that the conferences + must cease, if those conditions were not, without delay, and with + expedition, granted." + </p> + <p> + A treaty between Her Majesty and the States, to subsist after a peace, was + now signed, Mons. Buys having received full powers to that purpose. His + masters were desirous to have a private article added, <i>sub spe rati</i>, + concerning those terms of peace; without the granting of which, we should + stipulate not to agree with the enemy. But neither the character of Buys, + nor the manner in which he was empowered to treat, would allow the Queen + to enter into such an engagement. The congress likewise approaching, there + was not time to settle a point of so great importance. Neither, lastly, + would Her Majesty be tied down by Holland, without previous satisfaction + upon several articles in the Barrier Treaty, so inconsistent with her + engagements to other powers in the alliance, and so injurious to her own + kingdoms. + </p> + <p> + The lord privy seal, and the Earl of Stafford, having, about the time the + Parliament met, been appointed Her Majesty's plenipotentiaries for + treating a general peace, I shall here break off the account of any + further progress made in that great affair, until I resume it in the last + book of this History. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST + </h2> + <h3> + YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + </h3> + <h3> + BOOK III. + </h3> + <p> + The House of Commons seemed resolved, from the beginning of the session, + to inquire strictly not only into all abuses relating to the accounts of + the army, but likewise into the several treaties between us and our + allies, upon what articles and conditions they were first agreed to, and + how these had been since observed. In the first week of their sitting, + they sent an address to the Queen, to desire that the treaty, whereby Her + Majesty was obliged to furnish forty thousand men, to act in conjunction + with the forces of her allies in the Low Countries, might be laid before + the House. To which the secretary of state brought an answer, "That search + had been made, but no footsteps could be found of any treaty or convention + for that purpose." It was this unaccountable neglect in the former + ministry, which first gave a pretence to the allies for lessening their + quotas, so much to the disadvantage of Her Majesty, her kingdoms, and the + common cause, in the course of the war. It had been stipulated by the + Grand Alliance, between the Emperor, Britain, and the States, that those + three powers should assist each other with their whole force, and that the + several proportions should be specified in a particular convention. But if + any such convention were made, it was never ratified; only the parties + agreed, by common consent, to take each a certain share of the burthen + upon themselves, which the late King William communicated to the House of + Commons by his secretary of state; and which afterwards the other two + powers, observing the mighty zeal in our ministry for prolonging the war, + eluded as they pleased. + </p> + <p> + The commissioners for stating the public accounts of the kingdom, had, in + executing their office the preceding summer, discovered several practices + relating to the affairs of the army, which they drew up in a report, and + delivered to the House. + </p> + <p> + The Commons began their examination of the report with a member of their + own, Mr. Robert Walpole, already mentioned; who, during his being + secretary at war, had received five hundred guineas, and taken a note for + five hundred pounds more, on account of two contracts for forage of the + queen's troops quartered in Scotland. He endeavoured to excuse the first + contract; but had nothing to say about the second. The first appeared so + plain and so scandalous to the Commons, that they voted the author of it + guilty of a high breach of trust, and notorious corruption, committed him + prisoner to the Tower, where he continued to the end of the session, and + expelled him the House.[1] He was a person much caressed by the opposers + of the Queen and ministry, having been first drawn into their party by his + indifference to any principles, and afterwards kept steady by the loss of + his place. His bold, forward countenance, altogether a stranger to that + infirmity which makes men bashful, joined to a readiness of speaking in + public, hath justly entitled him, among those of his faction, to be a sort + of leader of the second form. The reader must excuse me for being so + particular about one, who is otherwise altogether obscure.[2] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: See "Part Hist," vi. 1071. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Walpole was not too obscure, however, to be then the object + of Bolingbroke's attack; and in 1726, when Bolingbroke had again attacked + Walpole, this time in a letter, the latter replied: "Whatever + contradictions these gentlemen may have observed in my character; there is + one which I'll venture to assure you, you will never discover, which is my + ever being alarmed at an opposition from one in the impotence of disgrace, + who could never terrify me in the zenith of his prosperity." "An Answer to + the Occasional Writer." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Another part of the report concerned the Duke of Marlborough, who had + received large sums of money, by way of gratuity, from those who were the + undertakers for providing the army with bread.[3] This the Duke excused, + in a letter to the commissioners, from the like practice of other + generals: but that excuse appeared to be of little weight, and the + mischievous consequences of such a corruption were visible enough; since + the money given by these undertakers were but bribes for connivance at + their indirect dealings with the army. And as frauds, that begin at the + top, are apt to spread through all the subordinate ranks of those who have + any share in the management, and to increase as they circulate: so, in + this case, for every thousand pounds given to the general, the soldiers at + least suffered fourfold. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: See "The Examiner," Nos. 17 and 28, in vol. ix. of this + edition. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + Another article of this report, relating to the Duke, was yet of more + importance. The greatest part of Her Majesty's forces in Flanders were + mercenary troops, hired from several princes of Europe. It was found that + the Queen's general subtracted two and a half <i>per cent</i>, out of the + pay of those troops, for his own use, which amounted to a great annual + sum. The Duke of Marlborough, in his letter already mentioned, + endeavouring to extenuate the matter, told the commissioners, "That this + deduction was a free gift from the foreign troops, which he had negotiated + with them by the late King's orders, and had obtained the Queen's warrant + for reserving and receiving it: That it was intended for secret service, + the ten thousand pounds a year given by Parliament not proving sufficient, + and had all been laid out that way." The commissioners observed, in + answer, "That the warrant was kept dormant for nine years, as indeed no + entry of it appeared in the secretary of state's books, and the deduction + of it concealed all that time from the knowledge of Parliament: That, if + it had been a free gift from the foreign troops, it would not have been + stipulated by agreement, as the Duke's letter confessed, and as his + warrant declared, which latter affirmed this stoppage to be intended for + defraying extraordinary contingent expenses of the troops, and therefore + should not have been applied to secret services." They submitted to the + House, whether the warrant itself were legal, or duly countersigned. The + commissioners added, "That no receipt was ever given for this deducted + money, nor was it mentioned in any receipts from the foreign troops, which + were always taken in full. And lastly, That the whole sum, on computation, + amounted to near three hundred thousand pounds." + </p> + <p> + The House, after a long debate, resolved, "That the taking several sums + from the contractors for bread by the Duke of Marlborough, was + unwarrantable and illegal; and that the two and a half <i>per cent</i>, + deducted from the foreign troops, was public money, and ought to be + accounted for:" which resolutions were laid before the Queen by the whole + House, and Her Majesty promised to do her part in redressing what was + complained of. The Duke and his friends had, about the beginning of the + war, by their credit with the Queen, procured a warrant from Her Majesty + for this perquisite of two and a half <i>per cent</i>. The warrant was + directed to the Duke of Marlborough, and countersigned by Sir Charles + Hedges, then secretary of state; by virtue of which the paymaster-general + of the army was to pay the said deducted money to the general, and take a + receipt in full from the foreign troops. + </p> + <p> + It was observed, as very commendable and becoming the dignity of such an + assembly, that this debate was managed with great temper, and with few + personal reflections upon the Duke of Marlborough. They seemed only + desirous to come at the truth, without which they could not answer the + trust reposed in them by those whom they represented, and left the rest to + Her Majesty's prudence. The attorney-general was ordered to commence an + action against the Duke for the subtracted money, which would have + amounted to a great sum, enough to ruin any private person, except + himself. This process is still depending, although very moderately + pursued, either by the Queen's indulgence to one whom she had formerly so + much trusted, or perhaps to be revived or slackened, according to the + future demeanour of the defendant.[4] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: Marlborough's defence of himself may be found in the + "Parliamentary History," vol. vi., 1079. Writing to the Earl of Strafford, + under date January 27, 1711, Bolingbroke speaking of this debate on + Marlborough says: "What passed on Thursday in the House of Commons, will, + I hope, show people abroad, as well as at home, that no merit, no + grandeur, no riches can excuse, or save any one, who sets himself up in + opposition to the Queen;" and, he might have added, to Mrs. Masham. It is + to be questioned if Marlborough would have had to undergo the ordeal of + this debate had it not been for the animosity against him on the part of + this lady and her royal mistress, so deftly aroused by Harley. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Some time after, Mr. Cardonnell,[5] a Member of Parliament, and secretary + to the general in Flanders, was expelled the House, for the offence of + receiving yearly bribes from those who had contracted to furnish bread for + the army; and met with no further punishment for a practice, voted to be + unwarrantable and corrupt. + </p> + <p> + These were all the censures of any moment which the Commons, under so + great a weight of business, thought fit to make, upon the reports of their + commissioners for inspecting the public accounts. But having promised, in + the beginning of this History, to examine the state of the nation, with + respect to its debts; by what negligence or corruption they first began, + and in process of time made such a prodigious increase; and, lastly, what + courses have been taken, under the present administration, to find out + funds for answering so many unprovided incumbrances, as well as put a stop + to new ones; I shall endeavour to satisfy the reader upon this important + article. + </p> + <p> + By all I have yet read of the history of our own country, it appears to + me, that the national debts, secured upon parliamentary funds of interest, + were things unknown in England before the last Revolution under the Prince + of Orange. It is true, that in the grand rebellion the king's enemies + borrowed money of particular persons, upon what they called the public + faith; but this was only for short periods, and the sums no more than what + they could pay at once, as they constantly did. Some of our kings have + been very profuse in peace and war, and are blamed in history for their + oppressions of the people by severe taxes, and for borrowing money which + they never paid:[6] but national debts was a style, which, I doubt, would + hardly then be understood. When the Prince of Orange was raised to the + throne, and a general war began in these parts of Europe, the King and his + counsellors thought it would be ill policy to commence his reign with + heavy taxes upon the people, who had lived long in ease and plenty, and + might be apt to think their deliverance too dearly bought: wherefore one + of the first actions of the new government was to take off the tax upon + chimneys, as a burthen very ungrateful to the commonalty. But money being + wanted to support the war (which even the convention-parliament, that put + the crown upon his head, were very unwilling he should engage in), the + present Bishop of Salisbury[7] is said to have found out that expedient + (which he had learned in Holland) of raising money upon the security of + taxes, that were only sufficient to pay a large interest. The motives + which prevailed on people to fall in with this project were many, and + plausible; for supposing, as the ministers industriously gave out, that + the war could not last above one or two campaigns at most, it might be + carried on with very moderate taxes; and the debts accruing would, in + process of time, be easily cleared after a peace. Then the bait of large + interest would draw in a great number of those whose money, by the dangers + and difficulties of trade, lay dead upon their hands; and whoever were + lenders to the government, would, by surest principle, be obliged to + support it. Besides, the men of estates could not be persuaded, without + time and difficulty, to have those taxes laid on their lands, which custom + hath since made so familiar; and it was the business of such as were then + in power to cultivate a moneyed interest; because the gentry of the + kingdom did not very much relish those new notions in government, to which + the King, who had imbibed his politics in his own country, was thought to + give too much way. Neither perhaps did that Prince think national + incumbrances to be any evil at all, since the flourishing republic, where + he was born, is thought to owe more than ever it will be able or willing + to pay. And I remember, when I mentioned to Mons. Buys the many millions + we owed, he would advance it as a maxim, that it was for the interest of + the public to be in debt: which perhaps may be true in a commonwealth so + crazily instituted, where the governors cannot have too many pledges of + their subjects' fidelity, and where a great majority must inevitably be + undone by any revolution, however brought about: but to prescribe the same + rules to a monarchy, whose wealth ariseth from the rents and improvements + of lands, as well as trade and manufactures, is the mark of a confined and + cramped understanding. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: Adam Cardonnell, Esq., secretary to the Duke of Marlborough, + shared in his disgrace. See "The Examiner," No. 28. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: P. Fitzgerald says "which they have not been able or willing + to pay." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: Dr. Gilbert Burnet. [ORIGINAL NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + I was moved to speak thus, because I am very well satisfied, that the + pernicious counsels of borrowing money upon public funds of interest, as + well as some other state lessons, were taken indigested from the like + practices among the Dutch, without allowing in the least for any + difference in government, religion, law, custom, extent of country, or + manners and dispositions of the people. + </p> + <p> + But when this expedient of anticipations and mortgages was first put in + practice, artful men, in office and credit, began to consider what uses it + might be applied to; and soon found it was likely to prove the most + fruitful seminary, not only to establish a faction they intended to set up + for their own support, but likewise to raise vast wealth for themselves in + particular, who were to be the managers and directors in it. It was + manifest, that nothing could promote these two designs so much, as + burthening the nation with debts, and giving encouragement to lenders: + for, as to the first, it was not to be doubted, that moneyed men would be + always firm to the party of those who advised the borrowing upon such good + security, and with such exorbitant premiums and interest; and every new + sum that was lent, took away as much power from the landed men, as it + added to theirs: so that the deeper the kingdom was engaged, it was still + the better for them. Thus a new estate and property sprung up in the hands + of mortgagees, to whom every house and foot of land in England paid a + rent-charge, free of all taxes and defalcations, and purchased at less + than half value. So that the gentlemen of estates were, in effect, but + tenants to these new landlords; many of whom were able, in time, to force + the election of boroughs out of the hands of those who had been the old + proprietors and inhabitants. This was arrived at such a height, that a + very few years more of war and funds would have clearly cast the balance + on the moneyed side. + </p> + <p> + As to the second, this project of borrowing upon funds, was of mighty + advantage to those who were in the management of it, as well as to their + friends and dependants; for, funds proving often deficient, the government + was obliged to strike tallies for making up the rest, which tallies were + sometimes (to speak in the merchants' phrase) at above forty <i>per cent</i>, + discount. At this price those who were in the secret bought them up, and + then took care to have that deficiency supplied in the next session of + Parliament, by which they doubled their principal in a few months; and, + for the encouragement of lenders, every new project of lotteries or + annuities proposed some farther advantage, either as to interest or + premium. + </p> + <p> + In the year one thousand six hundred and ninety-seven, a general mortgage + was made of certain revenues and taxes already settled, which amounted to + near a million a year. This mortgage was to continue till one thousand + seven hundred and six, to be a fund for the payment of about five millions + one hundred thousand pounds. In the first Parliament of the Queen, the + said mortgage was continued till one thousand seven hundred and ten, to + supply a deficiency of two millions three hundred thousand pounds, and + interest of above a million; and in the intermediate years a great part of + that fund was branched out into annuities for ninety-nine years; so that + the late ministry raised all their money to one thousand seven hundred and + ten, only by continuing funds which were already granted to their hands. + This deceived the people in general, who were satisfied to continue the + payments they had been accustomed to, and made the administration seem + easy, since the war went on without any new taxes raised, except the very + last year they were in power; not considering what a mighty fund was + exhausted, and must be perpetuated, although extremely injurious to trade, + and to the true interest of the nation. + </p> + <p> + This great fund of the general mortgage was not only loaded, year after + year, by mighty sums borrowed upon it, but with the interests due upon + those sums; for which the treasury was forced to strike tallies, payable + out of that fund, after all the money already borrowed upon it, there + being no other provision of interest for three or four years: till at last + the fund was so overloaded, that it could neither pay principal nor + interest, and tallies were struck for both, which occasioned their great + discount. + </p> + <p> + But to avoid mistakes upon a subject, where I am not very well versed + either in the style or matter, I will transcribe an account sent me by a + person[8] who is thoroughly instructed in these affairs. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: Sir John Blunt. [ORIGINAL NOTE.] He was one of the first + projectors of the South Sea Company, and died in January, 1733. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + "In the year one thousand seven hundred and seven, the sum of eight + hundred twenty-two thousand three hundred and eighty one pounds, fifteen + shillings and sixpence, was raised, by continuing part of the general + mortgage from one thousand seven hundred and ten to one thousand seven + hundred and twelve; but with no provision of interest till August the + first, one thousand seven hundred and ten, otherwise than by striking + tallies for it on that fund, payable after all the other money borrowed. + </p> + <p> + "In one thousand seven hundred and eight, the same funds were continued + from one thousand seven hundred and twelve to one thousand seven hundred + and fourteen, to raise seven hundred twenty-nine thousand sixty-seven + pounds fifteen shillings and sixpence; but no provision for interest till + August the first, one thousand seven hundred and twelve, otherwise than as + before, by striking tallies for it on the same fund, payable after all the + rest of the money borrowed. And the discount of tallies then beginning to + rise, great part of that money remains still unraised; and there is + nothing to pay interest for the money lent, till August the first, one + thousand seven hundred and twelve. But the late lord treasurer struck + tallies for the full sum directed by the act to be borrowed, great part of + which have been delivered in payment to the navy and victualling offices, + and some are still in the hands of the government. + </p> + <p> + "In one thousand seven hundred and nine, part of the same fund was + continued from August the first, one thousand seven hundred and fourteen, + to August the first, one thousand seven hundred and sixteen, to raise six + hundred and forty-five thousand pounds; and no provision for interest till + August the first, one thousand seven hundred and fourteen (which was about + five years), but by borrowing money on the same fund, payable after the + sums before lent; so that little of that money was lent But the tallies + were struck for what was unlent, some of which were given out for the + payment of the navy and victualling, and some still remain in the hands of + the government. + </p> + <p> + "In one thousand seven hundred and ten, the sums which were before given + from one thousand seven hundred and fourteen, to one thousand seven + hundred and sixteen, were continued from thence to one thousand seven + hundred and twenty, to raise one million two hundred and ninety-six + thousand five hundred and fifty-two pounds nine shillings and elevenpence + three farthings; and no immediate provision for interest till August the + first, one thousand seven hundred and sixteen; only, after the duty of one + shilling <i>per</i> bushel on salt should be cleared from the money it was + then charged with, and which was not so cleared till Midsummer one + thousand seven hundred and twelve last, then that fund was to be applied + to pay the interest till August the first, one thousand seven hundred and + sixteen, which interest amounted to about seventy-seven thousand seven + hundred and ninety-three pounds <i>per annum</i>: and the said salt fund + produceth but about fifty-five thousand pounds <i>per annum</i>; so that + no money was borrowed upon the general mortgage in one thousand seven + hundred and ten, except one hundred and fifty thousand pounds lent by the + Swiss cantons; but tallies were struck for the whole sum. These all + remained in the late treasurer's hands at the time of his removal, yet the + money was expended, which occasioned those great demands upon the + commissioners of the treasury who succeeded him, and were forced to pawn + those tallies to the bank, or to remitters, rather than sell them at + twenty or twenty-five <i>per cent</i>. discount, as the price then was. + About two hundred thousand pounds of them they paid to clothiers of the + army, and others; and all the rest, being above ninety thousand pounds, + have been subscribed into the South Sea Company for the use of the + public." + </p> + <p> + When the Earl of Godolphin was removed from his employment, he left a debt + upon the navy of —— millions,[9] all contracted under his + administration,[10] which had no Parliament-security, and was daily + increased. Neither could I ever learn, whether that lord had the smallest + prospect of clearing this incumbrance, or whether there were policy, + negligence, or despair at the bottom of this unaccountable management. But + the consequences were visible and ruinous; for by this means navy-bills + grew to be forty <i>per cent</i>. discount, and upwards; and almost every + kind of stores, bought by the navy and victualling offices, cost the + government double rates, and sometimes more: so that the public hath + directly lost several millions upon this one article, without any sort of + necessity, that I could ever hear assigned by the ablest vindicators of + that party. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: "Of millions" in original. "Of —— millions" in + 1775. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 10: See "The Examiner," No. 45, and note in vol. ix. of this + edition, p. 295. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + In this oppressed and entangled state was the kingdom, with relation to + its debts, when the Queen removed the Earl of Godolphin from his office, + and put it into commission, of which the present treasurer was one. This + person had been chosen speaker successively to three Parliaments, was + afterwards secretary of state, and always in great esteem with the Queen + for his wisdom and fidelity. The late ministry, about two years before + their fall, had prevailed with Her Majesty, much against her inclination, + to dismiss him from her service; for which they cannot be justly blamed, + since he had endeavoured the same thing against them, and very narrowly + failed; which makes it the more extraordinary that he should succeed in a + second attempt against those very adversaries, who had such fair warning + by the first. He is firm and steady in his resolutions, not easily + diverted from them after he hath once possessed himself of an opinion that + they are right, nor very communicative where he can act by himself, being + taught by experience, that a secret is seldom safe in more than one + breast. That which occurs to other men after mature deliberation, offers + to him as his first thoughts; so that he decides immediately what is best + to be done, and therefore is seldom at a loss upon sudden exigencies. He + thinks it a more easy and safe rule in politics to watch incidents as they + come, and then turn them to the advantage of what he pursues, than pretend + to foresee them at a great distance. Fear, cruelty, avarice, and pride, + are wholly strangers to his nature; but he is not without ambition. There + is one thing peculiar in his temper, which I altogether disapprove, and do + not remember to have heard or met with in any other man's character: I + mean, an easiness and indifference under any imputation, although he be + never so innocent, and although the strongest probabilities and appearance + are against him; so that I have known him often suspected by his nearest + friends, for some months, in points of the highest importance, to a + degree, that they were ready to break with him, and only undeceived by + time and accident. His detractors, who charge him with cunning, are but + ill acquainted with his character; for, in the sense they take the word, + and as it is usually understood, I know no man to whom that mean talent + could be with less justice applied, as the conduct of affairs, while he + hath been at the helm, doth clearly demonstrate, very contrary to the + nature and principles of cunning, which is always employed in serving + little turns, proposing little ends, and supplying daily exigencies by + little shifts and expedients. But to rescue a prince out of the hands of + insolent subjects, bent upon such designs as must probably end in the ruin + of the government; to find out means for paying such exorbitant debts as + this nation hath been involved in, and reduce it to a better management; + to make a potent enemy offer advantageous terms of peace, and deliver up + the most important fortress of his kingdom, as a security;[11] and this + against all the opposition, mutually raised and inflamed by parties and + allies; such performances can only be called cunning by those whose want + of understanding, or of candour, puts them upon finding ill names for + great qualities of the mind, which themselves do neither possess, nor can + form any just conception of. However, it must be allowed, that an + obstinate love of secrecy in this minister seems, at distance, to have + some resemblance of cunning; for he is not only very retentive of secrets, + but appears to be so too, which I number amongst his defects. He hath been + blamed by his friends for refusing to discover his intentions, even in + those points where the wisest man may have need of advice and assistance, + and some have censured him, upon that account, as if he were jealous of + power but he hath been heard to answer, "That he seldom did otherwise, + without cause to repent" + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 11: This is surely a piece of Swift's partiality for Oxford; + since it practically deprives Bolingbroke of whatever credit was his for + the Peace of Utrecht, and that was not a little; certainly more than may + be given to Oxford. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + However, so undistinguished a caution cannot, in my opinion, be justified, + by which the owner loseth many advantages, and whereof all men, who + deserved to be confided in, may with some reason complain. His love of + procrastination (wherein doubtless nature hath her share) may probably be + increased by the same means, but this is an imputation laid upon many + other great ministers, who, like men under too heavy a load, let fall that + which is of the least consequence, and go back to fetch it when their + shoulders are free, for time is often gained, as well as lost, by delay, + which at worst is a fault on the securer side.[12] Neither probably is + this minister answerable for half the clamour raised against him upon that + article: his endeavours are wholly turned upon the general welfare of his + country, but perhaps with too little regard to that of particular persons, + which renders him less amiable, than he would otherwise have been from the + goodness of his humour, and agreeable conversation in a private capacity, + and with few dependers. Yet some allowance may perhaps be given to this + failing, which is one of the greatest he hath, since he cannot be more + careless of other men's fortunes than he is of his own. He is master of a + very great and faithful memory, which is of mighty use in the management + of public affairs; and I believe there are few examples to be produced in + any age, of a person who hath passed through so many employments in the + state, endowed with a great share, both of divine and human learning. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 12: Unfortunately, procrastination too often ended for Harley in + very unpleasant results, and it is not too much to say, this failing was + the indirect cause of his downfall. Swift's character of Oxford, as given + in this "History," should be compared with that given of him in "An + Enquiry into the Behaviour of the Queen's Last Ministry" (vol v, pp + 431-434, of present edition). Dr William King, to whom Swift had written + in 1736, for certain dates and official extracts to be included in this + "History," wrote to Swift (December 7th, 1736), referring to this very + matter of Oxford's character. As the letter applies to some other portions + of this "History," it will be better if it be given here. + </p> + <p> + "London, December 7th, 1736 + </p> + <h3> + SIR, + </h3> + <p> + I arrived here yesterday [King had been on a visit to Paris], and I am now + ready to obey your commands. I hope you are come to a positive resolution + concerning the History. You need not hesitate about the dates, or the + references which are to be made to any public papers, for I can supply + them without the least trouble. As well as I remember, there is but one of + those public pieces which you determined should be inserted at length; I + mean Sir Thomas Hanmer's Representation; this I have now by me. If you + incline to publish the two tracts as an Appendix to the History, you will + be pleased to see if the character given of the Earl of Oxford in the + pamphlet of 1715 agrees with the character given of the same person in the + History. Perhaps on a review, you may think proper to leave one of them + quite out. You have (I think) barely mentioned the attempt of Guiscard, + and the quarrel between Rechteren and Mesnager. But as these are facts + which are probably now forgot or unknown, it would not be amiss if they + were related at large in the notes, which may be done from the Gazettes, + or any other newspapers of those times," etc. See Sir W. Scott's edit, vol + xix, pp 20-21 [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I am persuaded that foreigners, as well as those at home, who live too + remote from the scene of business to be rightly informed, will not be + displeased with this account of a person, who in the space of two years, + hath been so highly instrumental in changing the face of affairs in + Europe, and hath deserved so well of his own Prince and country.[13] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 13: See also Swift's "Enquiry" (vol. v., pp. 425-476). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + In that perplexed condition of the public debts, which I have already + described, this minister was brought into the treasury and exchequer, and + had the chief direction of affairs. His first regulation was that of + exchequer bills, which, to the great discouragement of public credit, and + scandal to the crown, were three <i>per cent.</i> less in value than the + sums specified in them. The present treasurer, being then chancellor of + the exchequer, procured an Act of Parliament, by which the Bank of England + should be obliged, in consideration of forty-five thousand pounds, to + accept and circulate those bills without any discount. He then proceeded + to stop the depredations of those who dealt in remittances of money to the + army, who, by unheard of exactions in that kind of traffic, had amassed + prodigious wealth at the public cost, to which the Earl of Godolphin had + given too much way,[14] <i>possibly by neglect; for I think he cannot be + accused of corruption</i>. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 14: Added in the author's own handwriting. [ORIGINAL NOTE.] P. + Fitzgerald gives the addition as "either through ignorance, connivance, or + neglect." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + But the new treasurer's chief concern was to restore the credit of the + nation, by finding some settlement for unprovided debts, amounting in the + whole to ten millions, which hung on the public as a load equally heavy + and disgraceful, without any prospect of being removed, and which former + ministers never had the care or courage to inspect. He resolved to go at + once to the bottom of this evil; and having computed and summed up the + debt of the navy, and victualling, ordnance, and transport of the army, + and transport debentures made out for the service of the last war, of the + general mortgage tallies for the year one thousand seven hundred and ten, + and some other deficiencies, he then found out a fund of interest + sufficient to answer all this, which, being applied to other uses, could + not raise present money for the war, but in a very few years would clear + the debt it was engaged for. The intermediate accruing interest was to be + paid by the treasurer of the navy; and, as a farther advantage to the + creditors, they should be erected into a company for trading to the South + Seas, and for encouragement of fishery. When all this was fully prepared + and digested, he made a motion in the House of Commons (who deferred + extremely to his judgment and abilities) for paying the debts of the navy, + and other unprovided deficiencies, without entering into particulars, + which was immediately voted. But a sudden stop was put to this affair by + an unforeseen accident. The chancellor of the exchequer (which was then + his title) being stabbed with a penknife, the following day, at the + Cockpit, in the midst of a dozen lords of the council, by the Sieur de + Guiscard, a French papist; the circumstances of which fact being not + within the compass of this History, I shall only observe, that after two + months' confinement, and frequent danger of his life, he returned to his + seat in Parliament.[15] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 15: See the particular account in "The Examiner." [ORIGINAL + NOTE.] The reference is to Nos. 33, 41, and 42 of that paper (see vol. ix, + of this edition). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The overtures made by this minister, of paying so vast a debt, under the + pressures of a long war, and the difficulty of finding supplies for + continuing it, was, during the time of his illness, ridiculed by his + enemies as an impracticable and visionary project: and when, upon his + return to the House, he had explained his proposal, the very proprietors + of the debt were, many of them, prevailed on to oppose it; although the + obtaining this trade, either through Old Spain, or directly to the Spanish + West Indies, had been one principal end we aimed at by this war. However, + the bill passed; and, as an immediate consequence, the naval bills rose to + about twenty <i>per cent</i>., nor ever fell within ten of their discount. + Another good effect of this work appeared by the parliamentary lotteries, + which have been since erected. The last of that kind, under the former + ministry, was eleven weeks in filling; whereas the first, under the + present, was filled in a very few hours, although it cost the government + less; and the others, which followed, were full before the Acts concerning + them could pass. And to prevent incumbrances of this kind from growing for + the future, he took care, by the utmost parsimony, or by suspending + payments, where they seemed less to press, that all stores for the navy + should be bought with ready money; by which <i>cent. per cent.</i> hath + been saved in that mighty article of our expense, as will appear from an + account taken at the victualling office on the 9th of August, one thousand + seven hundred and twelve. And the payment of the interest was less a + burthen upon the navy, by the stores being bought at so cheap a rate. + </p> + <p> + It might look invidious to enter into farther particulars upon this head, + but of smaller moment. What I have above related, may serve to shew in how + ill a condition the kingdom stood, with relation to its debts, by the + corruption as well as negligence of former management; and what prudent, + effectual measures have since been taken to provide for old incumbrances, + and hinder the running into new. This may be sufficient for the + information of the reader, perhaps already tired with a subject so little + entertaining as that of accounts: I shall therefore now return to relate + some of the principal matters that passed in Parliament, during this + session. + </p> + <p> + Upon the eighteenth of January the House of Lords sent down a bill to the + Commons, for fixing the precedence of the Hanover family, which probably + had been forgot in the Acts for settling the succession of the crown. That + of Henry VIII. which gives the rank to princes of the blood, carries it no + farther than to nephews, nieces, and grandchildren of the crown, by virtue + of which the Princess Sophia is a princess of the blood, as niece to King + Charles I of England, and precedes accordingly, but this privilege doth + not descend to her son the Elector, or the electoral prince. To supply + which defect, and pay a compliment to the presumptive heirs of the crown, + this bill, as appeareth by the preamble, was recommended by Her Majesty to + the House of Lords, which the Commons, to shew their zeal for every thing + that might be thought to concern the interest or honour of that + illustrious family, ordered to be read thrice, passed <i>nemine + contradicente</i> and returned to the Lords, without any amendment, on the + very day it was sent down. + </p> + <p> + But the House seemed to have nothing more at heart than a strict inquiry + into the state of the nation, with respect to foreign alliances. Some + discourses had been published in print, about the beginning of the + session, boldly complaining of certain articles in the Barrier Treaty, + concluded about three years since by the Lord Viscount Townshend, between + Great Britain and the States General, and shewing, in many particulars, + the unequal conduct of these powers in our alliance, in furnishing their + quotas and supplies. It was asserted by the same writers, "That these + hardships, put upon England, had been countenanced and encouraged by a + party here at home, in order to preserve their power, which could be no + otherwise maintained than by continuing the war, as well as by Her + Majesty's general abroad, upon account of his own peculiar interest and + grandeur." These loud accusations spreading themselves throughout the + kingdom, delivered in facts directly charged, and thought, whether true or + not, to be but weakly confuted, had sufficiently prepared the minds of the + people, and, by putting arguments into every body's mouth, had filled the + town and country with controversies, both in writing and discourse. The + point appeared to be of great consequence, whether the war continued or + not for, in the former case, it was necessary that the allies should be + brought to a more equal regulation, and that the States in particular, for + whom Her Majesty had done such great things, should explain and correct + those articles in the Barrier Treaty which were prejudicial to Britain, + and, in either case, it was fit the people should have at least the + satisfaction of knowing by whose counsels, and for what designs, they had + been so hardly treated. + </p> + <p> + In order to this great inquiry, the Barrier Treaty, with all other + treaties and agreements entered into between Her Majesty and her allies, + during the present war, for the raising and augmenting the proportions for + the service thereof, were, by the Queen's directions, laid before the + House. + </p> + <p> + Several resolutions were drawn up, and reported at different times, upon + the deficiencies of the allies in furnishing their quotas, upon certain + articles in the Barrier Treaty, and upon the state of the war; by all + which it appeared, that whatever had been charged by public discourses in + print against the late ministry, and the conduct of the allies, was much + less than the truth. Upon these resolutions (by one of which the Lord + Viscount Townshend, who negotiated and signed the Barrier Treaty, was + declared an enemy to the Queen and kingdom), and upon some farther + directions to the committee, a Representation was formed; and soon after + the Commons in a body presented it to the Queen, the endeavours of the + adverse party not prevailing to have it re-committed. + </p> + <p> + This Representation (supposed to be the work of Sir Thomas Hanmer's[16] + pen) is written with much energy and spirit, and will be a very useful + authentic record, for the assistance of those who at any time shall + undertake to write the history of the present times. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 16: But to which the Dean himself contributed a large share. + [S.] Swift writes in his "Journal," under date February 21st: "I left them + at 7, being engaged to go to Sir Tho. Hanmer, who desired I would see him + at that hour. His business was, that I would help him to draw up the + representation, which I consented to do" (vol. ii., p. 340). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + I did intend, for brevity sake, to have given the reader only an abstract + of it; but, upon trial, found myself unequal to such a task, without + injuring so excellent a piece. And although I think historical relations + are but ill patched up with long transcripts already printed, which, upon + that account, I have hitherto avoided; yet this being the sum of all + debates and resolutions of the House of Commons in that great affair of + the war, I conceived it could not well be omitted.[1] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 17: This "Representation" was printed by S. Keble by order of + the Speaker, and is also to be found in the "Journals of the House of + Commons," vol. xvii., pp. 119-123. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <h3> + "MOST GRACIOUS SOVEREIGN, + </h3> + <p> + "We your Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Commons of Great + Britain in Parliament assembled, having nothing so much at heart, as to + enable your Majesty to bring this long and expensive war to an honourable + and happy conclusion, have taken it into our most serious consideration, + how the necessary supplies to be provided by us may be best applied, and + the common cause may in the most effectual manner be carried on, by the + united force of the whole confederacy; we have thought ourselves obliged, + in duty to your Majesty, and in discharge of the trust reposed in us, to + inquire into the true state of the war, in all its parts; we have examined + what stipulations have been entered into between your Majesty and your + allies; and how far such engagements have on each side been made good. We + have considered the different interests which the confederates have in the + success of this war, and the different shares they have contributed to its + support: we have with our utmost care and diligence endeavoured to + discover the nature, extent, and charge of it, to the end, that by + comparing the weight thereof with our own strength, we might adapt the one + to the other in such measure, as neither to continue your Majesty's + subjects under a heavier burden, than in reason and justice they ought to + bear; nor deceive your Majesty, your allies, and ourselves, by undertaking + more than the nation in its present circumstances is able to perform. + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty has been graciously pleased, upon our humble applications, + to order such materials to be laid before us, as have furnished us with + the necessary information upon the particulars we have inquired into; and + when we shall have laid before your Majesty our observations, and humble + advice upon this subject, we promise to ourselves this happy fruit from + it, that if your Majesty's generous and good purposes, for the procuring a + safe and lasting peace, should, through the obstinacy of the enemy, or by + any other means, be unhappily defeated, a true knowledge and understanding + of the past conduct of the war will be the best foundation for a more + frugal and equal management of it for the time to come. + </p> + <p> + "In order to take the more perfect view of what we proposed, and that we + might be able to set the whole before your Majesty in a true light, we + have thought it necessary to go back to the beginning of the war, and beg + leave to observe the motives and reasons, upon which his late Majesty King + William engaged first in it. The treaty of the Grand Alliance, explains + those reasons to be for the supporting the pretensions of his Imperial + Majesty, then actually engaged in a war with the French King, who had + usurped the entire Spanish monarchy for his grandson the Duke of Anjou; + and for the assisting the States General, who, by the loss of their + barrier against France, were then in the same, or a more dangerous + condition, than if they were actually invaded. As these were the just and + necessary motives for undertaking this war, so the ends proposed to be + obtained by it, were equally wise and honourable; for as they are set + forth in the eighth article of the same treaty, they appear to have been + <i>the procuring an equitable and reasonable satisfaction to his Imperial + Majesty, and sufficient securities for the dominions, provinces, + navigation, and commerce of the King of Great Britain, and the States + General, and the making effectual provision, that the two kingdoms of + France and Spain should never be united under the same government;</i> and + particularly, that the French should never get into the possession of the + Spanish West Indies, or be permitted to sail thither, upon the account of + traffic, under any pretence whatsoever; and lastly, the securing to the + subjects of the King of Great Britain, and the States General, all the + same privileges, and rights of commerce, throughout the whole dominions of + Spain, as they enjoyed before the death of Charles the Second King of + Spain, by virtue of any treaty, agreement, or custom, or any other way + whatsoever. For the obtaining these ends, the three confederated powers + engaged to assist one another with their whole force, according to such + proportions as should be specified in a particular convention, afterwards + to be made for that purpose: we do not find that any such convention was + ever ratified; but it appears, that there was an agreement concluded, + which, by common consent, was understood to be binding upon each party + respectively, and according to which the proportions of Great Britain were + from the beginning regulated and founded. The terms of that agreement + were, That for the service at land, his Imperial Majesty should furnish + ninety thousand men, the King of Great Britain forty thousand, and the + States General one hundred and two thousand, of which there were forty-two + thousand intended to supply their garrisons, and sixty thousand to act + against the common enemy in the field; and with regard to the operations + of the war at sea, they were agreed to be performed jointly by Great + Britain and the States General, the quota of ships to be furnished for + that service being five-eighths on the part of Great Britain, and + three-eighths on the part of the States General. + </p> + <p> + "Upon this foot, the war began in the year one thousand seven hundred and + two, at which time the whole yearly expense of it to England amounted to + three millions, seven hundred and six thousand four hundred ninety-four + pounds; a very great charge, as it was then thought by your Majesty's + subjects, after the short interval of ease they had enjoyed from the + burden of the former war, but yet a very moderate proportion, in + comparison with the load which hath since been laid upon them: for it + appears, by estimates given in to your Commons, that the sums necessary to + carry on the service for this present year, in the same manner as it was + performed the last year, amount to more than six millions nine hundred and + sixty thousand pounds, besides interest for the public debts, and the + deficiencies accruing the last year, which two articles require one + million one hundred and forty-three thousand pounds more: so that the + whole demands upon your Commons are arisen to more than eight millions for + the present annual supply. We know your Majesty's tender regard for the + welfare of your people, will make it uneasy to you to hear of so great a + pressure as this upon them; and as we are assured, it will fully convince + your Majesty of the necessity of our present inquiry; so we beg leave to + represent to you, from what causes, and by what steps, this immense charge + appears to have grown upon us. + </p> + <p> + "The service at sea, as it has been very large and extensive in itself, so + it has been carried on, through the whole course of the war, in a manner + highly disadvantageous to your Majesty and your kingdom: for the necessity + of affairs requiring that great fleets should be fitted out every year, as + well for the maintaining a superiority in the Mediterranean, as for + opposing any force which the enemy might prepare, either at Dunkirk, or in + the ports of West France, your Majesty's example and readiness in fitting + out your proportion of ships, for all parts of that service, have been so + far from prevailing with the States General to keep pace with you, that + they have been deficient every year to a great degree, in proportion to + what your Majesty hath furnished; sometimes no less than two-thirds, and + generally more than half of their quota: from hence your Majesty has been + obliged, for the preventing disappointments in the most pressing services, + to supply those deficiencies by additional reinforcements of your own + ships; nor hath the single increase of such a charge been the only ill + consequence that attended it; for by this means the debt of the navy hath + been enhanced, so that the discounts arising upon the credit of it have + affected all other parts of the service. From the same cause, your + Majesty's ships of war have been forced in greater numbers to continue in + remote seas, and at unseasonable times of the year, to the great damage + and decay of the British navy. This also hath been the occasion that your + Majesty hath been straitened in your convoys for trade; your coasts have + been exposed, for want of a sufficient number of cruisers to guard them; + and you have been disabled from annoying the enemy, in their most + beneficial commerce with the West Indies, from whence they received those + vast supplies of treasure, without which they could not have supported the + expenses of this war. + </p> + <p> + "That part of the war which hath been carried on in Flanders, was at first + immediately necessary to the security of the States General, and hath + since brought them great acquisitions, both of revenue and dominion; yet + even there the original proportions have been departed from, and, during + the course of the war, have been sinking by degrees on the part of + Holland; so that in this last year, we find the number in which they fell + short of their three-fifths, to your Majesty's two-fifths, have been + twenty thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven men: we are not unmindful, + that in the year one thousand seven hundred and three, a treaty was made + between the two nations, for a joint augmentation of twenty thousand men, + wherein the proportions were varied, and England consented to take half + upon itself. But it having been annexed as an express condition to the + grant of the said augmentation in Parliament, that the States General + should prohibit all trade and commerce with France, and that condition + having not been performed by them, the Commons think it reasonable, that + the first rule of three to two ought to have taken place again, as well in + that as in other subsequent augmentations, more especially when they + consider, that the revenues of those rich provinces which have been + conquered, would, if they were duly applied, maintain a great number of + new additional forces against the common enemy; notwithstanding which, the + States General have raised none upon that account, but make use of those + fresh supplies of money, only to ease themselves in the charge of their + first established quota. + </p> + <p> + "As in the progress of the war in Flanders, a disproportion was soon + created to the prejudice of England; so the very beginning of the war in + Portugal, brought an unequal share of burden upon us; for although the + Emperor and the States General were equally parties with your Majesty in + the treaty with the King of Portugal, yet the Emperor neither furnishing + his third part of the troops and subsidies stipulated for, nor the Dutch + consenting to take an equal share of his Imperial Majesty's defect upon + themselves, your Majesty hath been obliged to furnish two-thirds of the + entire expense created by that service. Nor has the inequality stopped + there; for ever since the year one thousand seven hundred and six, when + the English and Dutch forces marched out of Portugal into Castile, the + States General have entirely abandoned the war in Portugal, and left your + Majesty to prosecute it singly at your own charge, which you have + accordingly done, by replacing a greater number of troops there, than even + at first you took upon you to provide. At the same time your Majesty's + generous endeavours for the support and defence of the King of Portugal, + have been but ill seconded by that Prince himself; for notwithstanding + that by his treaty he had obliged himself to furnish twelve thousand foot, + and three thousand horse, upon his own account, besides eleven thousand + foot, and two thousand horse more, in consideration of a subsidy paid him; + yet, according to the best information your Commons can procure, it + appears, that he hath scarce at any time furnished thirteen thousand men + in the whole. + </p> + <p> + "In Spain the war hath been yet more unequal, and burdensome to your + Majesty, than in any other branch of it; for being commenced without any + treaty whatsoever, the allies have almost wholly declined taking any part + of it upon themselves. A small body of English and Dutch troops were sent + thither in the year one thousand seven hundred and five, not as being + thought sufficient to support a regular war, or to make the conquest of so + large a country; but with a view only of assisting the Spaniards to set + King Charles upon the throne; occasioned by the great assurances which + were given of their inclinations to the House of Austria: but this + expectation failing, England was insensibly drawn into an established war, + under all the disadvantages of the distance of the place, and the feeble + efforts of the other allies. The account we have to lay before your + Majesty, upon this head, is, that although the undertaking was entered + upon at the particular and earnest request of the imperial court, and for + a cause of no less importance and concern to them, than the reducing the + Spanish monarchy to the House of Austria; yet neither the late emperors, + nor his present Imperial Majesty, have ever had any forces there on their + own account, till the last year; and then, only one regiment of foot, + consisting of two thousand men. Though the States General have contributed + something more to this service, yet their share also hath been + inconsiderable; for in the space of four years, from one thousand seven + hundred and five, to one thousand seven hundred and eight, both inclusive, + all the forces they have sent into that country have not exceeded twelve + thousand two hundred men; and from the year one thousand seven hundred and + eight to this time, they have not sent any forces or recruits whatsoever. + To your Majesty's care and charge the recovery of that kingdom hath been + in a manner wholly left, as if none else were interested or concerned in + it. And the forces which your Majesty hath sent into Spain, in the space + of seven years, from one thousand seven hundred and five to one thousand + seven hundred and eleven, both inclusive, have amounted to no less than + fifty-seven thousand nine hundred seventy-three men; besides thirteen + battalions and eighteen squadrons, for which your Majesty hath paid a + subsidy to the Emperor. + </p> + <p> + "How great the established expense of such a number of men hath been, your + Majesty very well knows, and your Commons very sensibly feel; but the + weight will be found much greater, when it is considered how many heavy + articles of unusual and extraordinary charge have attended this remote and + difficult service, all which have been entirely defrayed by your Majesty, + except that one of transporting the few forces, which were sent by the + States General, and the victualling of them during their transportation + only. The accounts delivered to your Commons shew, that the charge of your + Majesty's ships and vessels, employed in the service of the war in Spain + and Portugal, reckoned after the rate of four pounds a man <i>per</i> + month, from the time they sailed from hence, till they returned, were + lost, or put upon other services, hath amounted to six millions five + hundred and forty thousand nine hundred and sixty-six pounds fourteen + shillings: the charge of transports on the part of Great Britain, for + carrying on the war in Spain and Portugal, from the beginning of it till + this time, hath amounted to one million three hundred thirty-six thousand + seven hundred and nineteen pounds, nineteen shillings, and elevenpence; + that of victualling land forces for the same service, to five hundred + eighty-three thousand seven hundred and seventy pounds, eight shillings, + and sixpence; and that of contingencies, and other extraordinaries for the + same service, to one million eight hundred and forty thousand three + hundred and fifty-three pounds. + </p> + <p> + "We should take notice to your Majesty of several sums paid upon account + of contingencies, and extraordinaries in Flanders, making together the sum + of one million one hundred and seven thousand and ninety-six pounds: but + we are not able to make any comparison of them, with what the States + General have expended upon the same head, having no such state of their + extraordinary charge before us. There remains therefore but one particular + more for your Majesty's observation, which arises from the subsidies paid + to foreign princes. These, at the beginning of the war, were borne in + equal proportion by your Majesty, and the States General; but in this + instance also, the balance hath been cast in prejudice of your Majesty: + for it appears, that your Majesty hath since advanced more than your equal + proportion, three millions one hundred and fifty-five thousand crowns[18], + besides extraordinaries paid in Italy, and not included in any of the + foregoing articles, which arise to five hundred thirty-nine thousand five + hundred and fifty-three pounds. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 18: In the "Journals of the House of Commons," vol. xvii., p. + 48, is an exact state of all the subsidies and extra expenses, from 1702 + to 1711. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + "We have laid these several particulars before your Majesty in the + shortest manner we have been able; and by an estimate grounded on the + preceding facts, it does appear, that over and above the quotas on the + part of Great Britain, answering to those contributed by your allies, more + than nineteen millions have been expended by your Majesty, during the + course of this war, by way of surplusage, or exceeding in balance, of + which none of the confederates have furnished any thing whatsoever. + </p> + <p> + "It is with very great concern, that we find so much occasion given us, to + represent how ill an use hath been made of your Majesty's and your + subjects' zeal for the common cause; that the interest of that cause hath + not been proportionably promoted by it, but others only have been eased at + your Majesty's and your subjects' costs, and have been connived at, in + laying their part of the burden upon this kingdom, although they have upon + all accounts been equally, and in most respects, much more nearly + concerned than Britain in the issue of the war. We are persuaded your + Majesty will think it pardonable in us, with some resentment to complain + of the little regard, which some of those, whom your Majesty of late years + intrusted, have shewn to the interests of their country, in giving way, at + least, to such unreasonable impositions upon it, if not in some measure + contriving them. The course of which impositions hath been so singular and + extraordinary, that the more the wealth of this nation hath been + exhausted, and the more your Majesty's arms have been attended with + success, the heavier hath been the burden laid upon us; whilst on the + other hand, the more vigorous your Majesty's efforts have been, and the + greater the advantages which have redounded thence to your allies, the + more those allies have abated in their share of the expense. + </p> + <p> + "At the first entrance into this war, the Commons were induced to exert + themselves in the extraordinary manner they did, and to grant such large + supplies, as had been unknown to former ages, in hopes thereby to prevent + the mischiefs of a lingering war, and to bring that, in which they were + necessarily engaged, to a speedy conclusion; but they have been very + unhappy in the event, whilst they have so much reason to suspect, that + what was intended to shorten the war, hath proved the very cause of its + long continuance; for those, to whom the profits of it have accrued, have + been disposed not easily to forgo them. And your Majesty will from thence + discern <i>the true reason, why so many have delighted in a war, which + brought in so rich an harvest yearly from Great Britain</i>. + </p> + <p> + "We are as far from desiring, as we know your Majesty will be from + concluding any peace, but upon safe and honourable terms; and we are far + from intending to excuse ourselves from raising all necessary and possible + supplies, for an effectual prosecution of the war, till such a peace can + be obtained: all that your faithful Commons aim at, all that they wish, is + an equal concurrence from the other powers, engaged in alliance with your + Majesty; and a just application of what hath been already gained from the + enemy, towards promoting the common cause. Several large countries and + territories have been restored to the house of Austria, such as the + kingdom of Naples, the duchy of Milan, and other places in Italy; others + have been conquered, and added to their dominions, as the two electorates + of Bavaria and Cologne, the duchy of Mantua, and the bishopric of Liège; + these having been reduced in great measure by our blood and treasure, may, + we humbly conceive, with great reason, be claimed to come in aid towards + carrying on the war in Spain. And therefore we make it our earnest request + to your Majesty, that you will give instructions to your ministers, to + insist with the Emperor, that the revenues of those several places, + excepting only such a portion thereof as is necessary for their defence, + be actually so applied: and as to the other parts of the war, to which + your Majesty hath obliged yourself by particular treaties to contribute, + we humbly beseech your Majesty, that you will be pleased to take effectual + care, that your allies do perform their parts stipulated by those + treaties; and that your Majesty will, for the future, no otherwise furnish + troops, or pay subsidies, than in proportion to what your allies shall + actually furnish and pay. When this justice is done to your Majesty, and + to your people, there is nothing which your Commons will not cheerfully + grant, towards supporting your Majesty in the cause in which you are + engaged. And whatever farther shall appear to be necessary for carrying on + the war, either at sea or land, we will effectually enable your Majesty to + bear your reasonable share of any such expense, and will spare no supplies + which your subjects are able, with their utmost efforts to afford. + </p> + <p> + "After having enquired into, and considered the state of the war, in which + the part your Majesty has borne, appears to have been, not only superior + to that of any one ally, but even equal to that of the whole confederacy; + your Commons naturally inclined to hope, that they should find care had + been taken of securing some particular advantages to Britain, in the terms + of a future peace; such as might afford a prospect of making the nation + amends, in time, for that immense treasure which has been expended, and + those heavy debts which have been contracted, in the course of so long and + burdensome a war. This reasonable expectation could no way have been + better answered, than by some provision made for the further security, and + the greater improvement of the commerce of Great Britain; but we find + ourselves so very far disappointed in these hopes, that in a treaty not + long since concluded between your Majesty and the States General, under + colour of a mutual guarantee, given for two points of the greatest + importance to both nations, the Succession, and the Barrier; it appears, + the interest of Great Britain hath been not only neglected, but + sacrificed; and that several articles in the said treaty, are destructive + to the trade and welfare of this kingdom, and therefore highly + dishonourable to your Majesty. + </p> + <p> + "Your Commons observe, in the first place, that several towns and places + are, by virtue of this treaty, to be put into the hands of the States + General, particularly Nieuport, Dendermonde, and the castle of Ghent, + which can in no sense be looked upon as part of a barrier against France, + but being the keys of the Netherlands towards Britain, must make the trade + of your Majesty's subjects in those parts precarious, and whenever the + States think fit, totally exclude them from it. The pretended necessity of + putting these places into the hands of the States General, in order to + secure to them a communication with their barrier, must appear vain and + groundless; for the sovereignty of the Low Countries being not to remain + to an enemy, but to a friend and an ally, that communication must be + always secure and uninterrupted; besides that, in case of a rupture, or + any attack, the States have full liberty allowed them to take possession + of all the Spanish Netherlands, and therefore needed no particular + stipulation for the towns above mentioned. + </p> + <p> + "Having taken notice of this concession made to the States General, for + seizing upon the whole ten provinces; we cannot but observe to your + Majesty, that in the manner this article is framed, it is another + dangerous circumstance which attends this treaty; for had such a provision + been confined to the case of an apparent attack from France only, the + avowed design of this treaty had been fulfilled, and your Majesty's + instructions to your ambassador had been pursued: but this necessary + restriction hath been omitted, and the same liberty is granted to the + States, to take possession of all the Netherlands, whenever they shall + think themselves attacked by any other neighbouring nation, as when they + shall be in danger from France; so that if it should at any time happen + (which your Commons are very unwilling to suppose) that they should + quarrel, even with your Majesty, the riches, strength, and advantageous + situation of these countries, may be made use of against yourself, without + whose generous and powerful assistance they had never been conquered. + </p> + <p> + "To return to those ill consequences which relate to the trade of your + kingdoms, we beg leave to observe to your Majesty, that though this treaty + revives, and renders your Majesty a party to the fourteenth and fifteenth + articles of the Treaty of Munster,[19] by virtue of which, the impositions + upon all goods and merchandises brought into the Spanish Low Countries by + the sea, are to equal those laid on goods and merchandises imported by the + Scheldt, and the canals of Sass and Swyn, and other mouths of the sea + adjoining; yet no care is taken to preserve that equality upon the + exportation of those goods out of the Spanish provinces, into those + countries and places, which, by virtue of this treaty, are to be in the + possession of the States; the consequence of which must in time be, and + your Commons are informed, that in some instances it has already proved to + be the case, that the impositions upon goods carried into those countries + and places, by the subjects of the States General, will be taken off, + while those upon the goods imported by your Majesty's subjects remain: by + which means, Great Britain will entirely lose this most beneficial branch + of trade, which it has in all ages been possessed of, even from the time + when those countries were governed by the house of Burgundy, one of the + most ancient, as well as the most useful allies to the crown of England. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 19: Concluded June 30th, 1643. See note in vol. v., p. 150, of + present edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + "With regard to the other dominions and territories of Spain, your + Majesty's subjects have always been distinguished in their commerce with + them, and both by ancient treaties, and an uninterrupted custom, have + enjoyed greater privileges and immunities of trade, than either the + Hollanders, or any other nation whatsoever. And that wise and excellent + treaty of the Grand Alliance, provides effectually for the security and + continuance of these valuable privileges to Britain, in such a manner, as + that each nation might be left, at the end of war, upon the same foot as + it stood at the commencement of it: but this treaty we now complain of, + instead of confirming your subjects' rights, surrenders and destroys them; + for although by the sixteenth and seventeenth articles of the Treaty of + Munster, made between his Catholic Majesty and the States General, all + advantages of trade are stipulated for, and granted to the Hollanders, + equal to what the English enjoyed; yet the crown of England not being a + party to that treaty, the subjects of England have never submitted to + those articles of it, nor even the Spaniards themselves ever observed + them; but this treaty revives those articles in prejudice of Great + Britain, and makes your Majesty a party to them, and even a guarantee to + the States General, for privileges against your own people. + </p> + <p> + "In how deliberate and extraordinary a manner your Majesty's ambassador + consented to deprive your subjects of their ancient rights, and your + Majesty of the power of procuring to them any new advantage, most + evidently appears from his own letters, which, by your Majesty's + directions, have been laid before your Commons:[20] for when matters of + advantage to your Majesty, and to your kingdom, had been offered, as + proper to be made parts of this treaty, they were refused to be admitted + by the States General, upon this reason and principle, that nothing + foreign to the guaranties of the Succession, and of the Barrier, should be + mingled with them; notwithstanding which, the States General had no sooner + received notice of a treaty of commerce concluded between your Majesty and + the present Emperor, but they departed from the rule proposed before, and + insisted upon the article, of which your Commons now complain; which + article your Majesty's ambassador allowed of, although equally foreign to + the Succession, or the Barrier; and although he had for that reason + departed from other articles, which would have been for the service of his + own country. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 20: Printed in the "Journals," vol. xvii., pp. 87-89. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + "We have forborne to trouble your Majesty with general observations upon + this treaty, as it relates to and affects the empire, and other parts of + Europe. The mischiefs which arise from it to Great Britain, are what only + we have presumed humbly to represent to you, as they are very evident, and + very great: and as it appears, that the Lord Viscount Townshend had not + any orders, or authority, for concluding several of those articles, which + are most prejudicial to your Majesty's subjects; we have thought we could + do no less than declare your said ambassador, who negotiated and signed, + and all others who advised the ratifying of this treaty, enemies to your + Majesty and to your kingdom. + </p> + <p> + "Upon these faithful informations, and advices from your Commons, we + assure ourselves your Majesty, in your great goodness to your people, will + rescue them from those evils, which the private counsels of ill-designing + men have exposed them to; and that in your great wisdom you will find some + means for the explaining, and amending, the several articles of this + treaty, so as that they may consist with the interest of Great Britain, + and with real and lasting friendship between your Majesty and the States + General."[21] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 21: This Representation was presented to Her Majesty March 4th, + 171-1/2 and answered March 5th. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + Between the Representation and the first debates upon the subject of it, + several weeks had passed; during which time the Parliament had other + matters likewise before them, that deserve to be mentioned. For on the + ninth of February was repealed the Act for Naturalizing Foreign + Protestants, which had been passed under the last ministry, and, as many + people thought, to very ill purposes. By this Act any foreigner, who would + take the oaths to the government, and profess himself a Protestant, of + whatever denomination, was immediately naturalized, and had all the + privileges of an English born subject, at the expense of a shilling.[22] + Most Protestants abroad differ from us in the points of church government; + so that all the acquisitions by this Act would increase the number of + Dissenters; and therefore the proposal, that such foreigners should be + obliged to conform to the established worship, was rejected. But because + several persons were fond of this project, as a thing that would be of + mighty advantage to the kingdom, I shall say a few words upon it. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 22: See "The Examiner," Nos. 26 and 45, in vol. ix. of this + edition. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The maxim, "That people are the riches of a nation," hath been crudely + understood by many writers and reasoners upon that subject. There are + several ways by which people are brought into a country. Sometimes a + nation is invaded and subdued; and the conquerors seize the lands, and + make the natives their under-tenants or servants. Colonies have been + always planted where the natives were driven out or destroyed, or the land + uncultivated and waste. In those countries where the lord of the soil is + master of the labour and liberty of his tenants, or of slaves bought by + his money, men's riches are reckoned by the number of their vassals. And + sometimes, in governments newly instituted, where there are not people to + till the ground, many laws have been made to encourage and allure numbers + from the neighbouring countries. And, in all these cases, the new comers + have either lands allotted them, or are slaves to the proprietors. But to + invite helpless families, by thousands, into a kingdom inhabited like + ours, without lands to give them, and where the laws will not allow that + they should be part of the property as servants, is a wrong application of + the maxim, and the same thing, in great, as infants dropped at the doors, + which are only a burthen and charge to the parish. The true way of + multiplying mankind to public advantage, in such a country as England, is + to invite from abroad only able handicraftsmen and artificers, or such who + bring over a sufficient share of property to secure them from want; to + enact and enforce sumptuary laws against luxury, and all excesses in + clothing, furniture, and the like; to encourage matrimony, and reward, as + the Romans did, those who have a certain number of children. Whether + bringing over the Palatines were a mere consequence of this law for a + general naturalization; or whether, as many surmised, it had some other + meaning, it appeared manifestly, by the issue, that the public was a loser + by every individual among them; and that a kingdom can no more be the + richer by such an importation, than a man can be fatter by a wen, which is + unsightly and troublesome, at best, and intercepts that nourishment, which + would otherwise diffuse itself through the whole body. + </p> + <p> + About a fortnight after, the Commons sent up a bill for securing the + freedom of Parliaments, by limiting the number of Members in that House + who should be allowed to possess employments under the crown.[23] Bills to + the same effect, promoted by both parties, had, after making the like + progress, been rejected in former Parliaments; the court and ministry, who + will ever be against such a law, having usually a greater influence in the + House of Lords, and so it happened now. Although that influence were less, + I am apt to think that such a law would be too thorough a reformation in + one point, while we have so many corruptions in the rest; and perhaps the + regulations, already made on that article, are sufficient, by which + several employments incapacitate a man from being chosen a Member, and all + of them bring it to a new election.[24] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 23: This self-denying ordinance easily passed through the House + of Commons, where probably men were ashamed of opposing it; and in such a + temper were the Peers, in whose House the ministry proposed to make the + stand, that it was very likely to have passed there also. But an amendment + was ingeniously thrown in, to suspend the operation of the proposed Act + until after the Queen's death; so that it was evaded for the present, and + never again revived. [S.] The Bill was rejected February 29th, 171-1/2. + [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 24: P. Fitzgerald adds, "Neither do I believe any man who truly + understands and loves our constitution will imagine that the prerogative + hath not been sufficiently humbled within twenty years past." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + For my own part, when I consider the temper of particular persons, and by + what maxims they have acted (almost without exception) in their private + capacities, I cannot conceive how such a bill should obtain a majority, + unless every man expected to be one of the fifty, which, I think, was the + limitation intended. + </p> + <p> + About the same time, likewise, the House of Commons advanced one + considerable step towards securing us against farther impositions from our + allies, resolving that the additional forces should be continued; but with + a condition, that the Dutch should make good their proportion of + three-fifths to two-fifths, which those confederates had so long, and in + so great degree, neglected. The Duke of Marlborough's deduction of two and + a half <i>per cent.</i>, from the pay of the foreign troops, was also + applied for carrying on the war.[25] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 25: In the "Journals of the House of Commons," vol. xvii., pp. + 15-18, the Report of the Commissioners is printed, in which is included + the Duke's justification of his conduct. See above, p. 85. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + Lastly, within this period is to be included the Act passed to prevent the + disturbing those of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland[26] in the + exercise of their religious worship, and in the use of the liturgy of the + Church of England.[27] It is known enough, that the most considerable of + the nobility and gentry there, as well as great numbers of the people, + dread the tyrannical discipline of those synods and presbyteries; and at + the same time have the utmost contempt for the abilities and tenets of + their teachers. It was besides thought an inequality, beyond all + appearance of reason or justice, that Dissenters of every denomination + here, who are the meanest and most illiterate part amongst us, should + possess a toleration by law, under colour of which they might, upon + occasion, be bold enough to insult the religion established, while those + of the Episcopal Church in Scotland[28] groaned under a real persecution. + The only specious objection against this bill was, that it set the + religion by law, in both parts of the island, upon a different foot, + directly contrary to the Union; because, by an Act passed this very + session against occasional conformity, our Dissenters were shut out from + all employments. A petition from Carstares, and other Scotch professors, + against this bill, was offered to the House, but not accepted; and a + motion made by the other party, to receive a clause that should restrain + all persons, who have any office in Scotland,[28] from going to episcopal + meetings, passed in the negative. It is manifest, that the promoters of + this clause were not moved by any regard for Scotland,[28] which is by no + means their favourite at present; only they hoped, that, if it were made + part of a law, it might occasion such a choice of representatives in both + Houses, from Scotland,[28] as would be a considerable strength to their + faction here. But the proposition was in itself extremely absurd, that so + many lords, and other persons of distinction, who have great employments, + pensions, posts in the army, and other places of profit, many of whom are + in frequent or constant attendance at the court, and utterly dislike their + national way of worship, should be deprived of their liberty of conscience + at home; not to mention those who are sent thither from hence to take care + of the revenue, and other affairs, who would ill digest the changing of + their religion for that of Scotland.[28] + </p> + <p> + With a farther view of favour towards the episcopal clergy of + Scotland,[28] three Members of that country were directed to bring in a + bill for restoring the patrons to their ancient rights of presenting + ministers to the vacant churches there, which the kirk, during the height + of their power, had obtained for themselves[29] And, to conclude this + subject at once, the Queen, at the close of the session, commanded Mr + Secretary St John to acquaint the House, "That, pursuant to their address, + the profits arising from the bishops' estates in Scotland, which remained + in the crown, should be applied to the support of such of the episcopal + clergy there, as would take the oaths to Her Majesty."[30] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 26: P. Fitzgerald says "North Britain." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 27: The "Act to prevent," etc. (10 Ann. c. 10) was ordered + January 21st, and received the Royal Assent March 3rd, 171-1/2, [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 28: P. Fitzgerald says "North Britain." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 29: The Scotch Patronage Bill was ordered March 13th, [1711], + passed April 7th, and received the Royal Assent May 22nd, 1712 (10 Ann c + 21). It did not refer to the Episcopal Church. [W.S.J.] + </p> + <p> + The Church of Scotland viewed the bills for restoring to the gentry the + right of patronage, and for tolerating the exercise of the Episcopal + persuasion, with great jealousy. The Reverend Mr William Carstares, who + had been secretary to King William, and was Principal of the College of + Edinburgh, was deputed to go to London at the head of a commission of the + church, to oppose the bills while in dependence. His biographer has justly + remarked, that these enactments considered at the time as fatal to the + interests of Presbytery in Scotland, have, upon experience, proved her + best security. + </p> + <p> + "Upon the one hand, the Act of Toleration, by taking the weapon of offence + out of the hands of the Presbyterians, removed the chief grounds of those + resentments which the friends of prelacy entertained against them, and in + a few years almost annihilated Episcopacy in Scotland Upon the other hand, + the Act restoring Patronages, by restoring the nobility and gentlemen of + property to then wonted influence in the settlement of the clergy, + reconciled numbers of them to the established church, who had conceived + the most violent prejudices against that mode of election, and against the + Presbyterian clergy, who were settled upon it. It is likewise an + incontestable fact, that, from the date of these two Acts, the Church of + Scotland has enjoyed a state of tranquillity to which she was an utter + stranger before." (Life of Carstares, prefixed to Carstares's "State + Papers," 1774, p 85) [S]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 30: This message was reported to the House of Commons June 19th, + 1712. [W.S.J]] + </p> + <p> + Nothing could more amply justify the proceedings of the Queen and her + ministers, for two years past, than that famous Representation above at + large recited, the unbiassed wisdom of the nation, after the strictest + inquiry, confirming those facts upon which Her Majesty's counsels were + grounded and many persons, who were before inclined to believe that the + allies and the late ministry had been too much loaded by the malice, + misrepresentations, or ignorance of writers, were now fully convinced of + their mistake by so great an authority. Upon this occasion I cannot + forbear doing justice to Mr. St. John,[31] who had been secretary of war, + for several years, under the former administration, where he had the + advantage of observing how affairs were managed both at home and abroad. + He was one of those who shared in the present treasurer's fortune, + resigning his employment at the same time; and upon that minister's being + again taken into favour, this gentleman was some time after made secretary + of state. There he began afresh, by the opportunities of his station, to + look into past miscarriages; and, by the force of an extraordinary genius, + and application to public affairs, joined with an invincible eloquence, + laid open the scene of miscarriages and corruptions through the whole + course of the war, in so evident a manner, that the House of Commons + seemed principally directed in their resolutions, upon this inquiry, by + his information and advice. In a short time after the Representation was + published, there appeared a memorial in the Dutch "Gazette," as by order + of the States, reflecting very much upon the said Representation, as well + as the resolutions on which it was founded, pretending to deny some of the + facts, and to extenuate others. This memorial, translated into English, a + common writer of news had the boldness to insert in one of his papers. A + complaint being made thereof to the House of Commons, they voted the + pretended memorial to be a false, scandalous, malicious libel, and ordered + the printer to be taken into custody.[32] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 31: See his character in Swift's "Enquiry," vol. v., pp. + 430-431, of this edition. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 32: The memorial appeared in the "Daily Courant" of 7th and 8th + April, for which Samuel Buckley, the writer and printer, was ordered by + the House of Commons to be taken into custody on April 11th. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + It was the misfortune of the ministers, that while they were baited by + their professed adversaries of the discontented faction, acting in + confederacy with emissaries of foreign powers, to break the measures Her + Majesty had taken towards a peace, they met at the same time with frequent + difficulties from those who agreed and engaged with them to pursue the + same general end; but sometimes disapproved the methods as too slack and + remiss, or, in appearance, now and then perhaps a little dubious. In the + first session of this Parliament, a considerable number of gentlemen, all + members of the House of Commons, began to meet by themselves, and consult + what course they ought to steer in this new world. They intended to revive + a new country party in Parliament, which might, as in former times, oppose + the court in any proceedings they disliked. The whole body was of such who + profess what is commonly called high-church principles, upon which account + they were irreconcilable enemies to the late ministry and all its + adherents. On the other side, considering the temper of the new men in + power, that they were persons who had formerly moved between the two + extremes, those gentlemen, who were impatient for an entire change, and to + see all their adversaries laid at once as low as the dust, began to be + apprehensive that the work would be done by halves. But the juncture of + affairs at that time, both at home and abroad, would by no means admit of + the least precipitation, although the Queen and her first minister had + been disposed to it, which certainly they were not. Neither did the court + seem at all uneasy at this league, formed in appearance against it, but + composed of honest gentlemen who wished well to their country, in which + both were entirely agreed, although they might differ about the means; or + if such a society should begin to grow resty, nothing was easier than to + divide them, and render all their endeavours ineffectual.[33] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 33: See Swift's "Advice to Members of the October Club," vol. + v., pp. 207-225. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + But in the course of that first session, many of this society became + gradually reconciled to the new ministry, whom they found to be greater + objects of the common enemy's hatred than themselves; and the attempt of + Guiscard, as it gained farther time for deferring the disposal of + employments, so it much endeared that person to the kingdom, who was so + near falling a sacrifice to the safety of his country. Upon the last + session of which I am now writing, this October Club (as it was called) + renewed their usual meetings, but were now very much altered from their + original institution, and seemed to have wholly dropped the design, as of + no further use. They saw a point carried in the House of Lords against the + court, that would end in the ruin of the kingdom; and they observed the + enemy's whole artillery directly levelled at the treasurer's head. In + short, the majority of the club had so good an understanding with the + great men at court, that two of the latter,[34] to shew to the world how + fair a correspondence there was between the court and country party, + consented to be at one of their dinners; but this intercourse had an event + very different from what was expected: for immediately the more zealous + members of that society broke off from the rest, and composed a new one, + made up of gentlemen, who seemed to expect little of the court; and + perhaps, with a mixture of others who thought themselves disappointed, or + too long delayed.[35] Many of these were observed to retain an incurable + jealousy of the treasurer, and to interpret all delays, which they could + not comprehend, as a reserve of favour in this minister to the persons and + principles of the abandoned party. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 34: Mr. St. John and Mr. Bromley. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 35: This was called the March Club, but did not long subsist. It + seems probable that it included those <i>Tories</i> whose principles went + the length of Jacobitism. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + Upon an occasion offered about this time, some persons, out of distrust to + the treasurer, endeavoured to obtain a point, which could not have been + carried without putting all into confusion. A Bill was brought into the + House of Commons, appointing commissioners to examine into the value of + all lands, and other interests granted by the crown since the thirteenth + day of February, one thousand six hundred and eighty-eight, and upon what + considerations such grants had been made. The united country interest in + the House was extremely set upon passing this Bill. They had conceived an + opinion from former precedents, that the court would certainly oppose all + steps towards a resumption of grants; and those who were apprehensive that + the treasurer inclined the same way, proposed the Bill should be tacked to + another, for raising a fund by duties upon soap and paper, which hath been + always imputed, whether justly or no, as a favourite expedient of those + called the Tory party. At the same time it was very well known, that the + House of Lords had made a fixed and unanimous resolution against giving + their concurrence to the passing such united bills: so that the + consequences of this project must have been to bring the ministry under + difficulties, to stop the necessary supplies, and endanger the good + correspondence between both Houses; notwithstanding all which the majority + carried it for a tack; and the committee was instructed accordingly to + make the two Bills into one, whereby the worst that could happen would + have followed, if the treasurer had not convinced the warm leaders in this + affair, by undeniable reasons, that the means they were using would + certainly disappoint the end; that neither himself, nor any other of the + Queen's servants, were at all against this enquiry; and he promised his + utmost credit to help forward the bill in the House of Lords. He prevailed + at last to have it sent up single; but their lordships gave it another + kind of reception. Those who were of the side opposite to the court, + withstood it to a man, as in a party case: among the rest, some very + personally concerned, and others by friends and relations, which they + supposed a sufficient excuse to be absent, or dissent. Even those, whose + grants were antecedent to this intended inspection, began to be alarmed as + men, whose neighbours' houses are on fire. A shew of zeal for the late + king's honour, occasioned many reflections upon the date of this enquiry, + which was to commence with his reign: and the Earl of Nottingham, who had + now flung away the mask which he had lately pulled off, like one who had + no other view but that of vengeance against the Queen and her friends, + acted consistently enough with his design, by voting as a lord against the + Bill, after he had directed his son in the House of Commons to vote for + the tack. + </p> + <p> + Thus miscarried this popular Bill for appointing commissioners to examine + into royal grants; but whether those chiefly concerned did rightly consult + their own interest, hath been made a question, which perhaps time will + resolve. It was agreed that the Queen, by her own authority, might have + issued out a commission for such an enquiry, and every body believed, that + the intention of the Parliament was only to tax the grants with about + three years' purchase, and at the same time establish the proprietors in + possession of the remainder for ever; so that, upon the whole, the + grantees would have been great gainers by such an Act, since the titles of + those lands, as they stood then, were hardly of half value with others + either for sale or settlement. Besides, the examples of the Irish + forfeitures might have taught these precarious owners, that when the House + of Commons hath once engaged in a pursuit, which they think is right, + although it be stopped or suspended for a while, they will be sure to + renew it upon every opportunity that offers, and seldom fail of success: + for instance, if the resumption should happen to be made part of a supply, + which can be easily done without the objection of a tack, the grantees + might possibly then have much harder conditions given them; and I do not + see how they could prevent it. Whether the resuming of royal grants be + consistent with good policy or justice, would be too long a disquisition: + besides, the profusion of kings is not like to be a grievance for the + future, because there have been laws since made to provide against that + evil, or, indeed, rather because the crown has nothing left to give away. + But the objection made against the date of the intended enquiry was + invidious and trifling; for King James II. made very few grants: he was a + better manager, and squandering was none of his faults; whereas the late + king, who came over here a perfect stranger to our laws, and to our + people, regardless of posterity, wherein he was not likely to survive, + thought he could no way better strengthen a new title, than by purchasing + friends at the expense of every thing which was in his power to part with. + </p> + <p> + The reasonableness of uniting to a money bill one of a different nature, + which is usually called <i>tacking</i> hath been likewise much debated, + and will admit of argument enough. In ancient times, when a Parliament was + held, the Commons first proposed their grievances to be redressed, and + then gave their aids; so that it was a perfect bargain between the king + and the subject. This fully answered the ends of tacking. Aids were then + demanded upon occasions which would hardly pass at present; such, for + instance, as those for making the king's son a knight, marrying his eldest + daughter, and some others of the like sort. Most of the money went into + the king's coffers for his private use; neither was he accountable for any + part of it. Hence arose the form of the king's thanking his subjects for + their benevolence, when any subsidies, tenths, or fifteenths were given + him: but the supplies now granted are of another nature, and cannot be + properly called a particular benefit to the crown, because they are all + appropriated to their several uses: so that when the House of Commons tack + to a money bill what is foreign and hard to be digested, if it be not + passed, they put themselves and their country in as great difficulties as + the prince. On the other side, there have been several regulations made, + through the course of time, in parliamentary proceedings; among which it + is grown a rule, that a Bill once rejected shall not be brought up again + the same session; whereby the Commons seem to have lost the advantage of + purchasing a redress of their grievances, by granting supplies, which, + upon some emergencies, hath put them upon this expedient of tacking: so + that there is more to be said on each side of the case, than is convenient + for me to trouble the reader or myself in deducing. + </p> + <p> + Among the matters of importance during this session, we may justly number + the proceedings of the House of Commons with relation to the press, since + Her Majesty's message to the House, of January the seventeenth, concludes + with a paragraph, representing the great licences taken in publishing + false and scandalous libels, such as are a reproach to any government; and + recommending to them to find a remedy equal to the mischief. The meaning + of these words in the message, seems to be confined to these weekly and + daily papers and pamphlets, reflecting upon the persons and the management + of the ministry. But the House of Commons, in their address, which answers + this message, makes an addition of the blasphemies against God and + religion; and it is certain, that nothing would be more for the honour of + the legislature, than some effectual law for putting a stop to this + universal mischief: but as the person,[36] who advised the Queen in that + part of her message, had only then in his thoughts the redressing of the + political and factious libels, I think he ought to have taken care, by his + great credit in the House, to have proposed some ways by which that evil + might be removed; the law for taxing single papers having produced a quite + contrary effect, as was then foreseen by many persons, and hath since been + found true by experience, For the adverse party, full of rage and leisure + since their fall, and unanimous in defence of their cause, employ a set of + writers by subscription, who are well versed in all the topics of + defamation, and have a style and genius levelled to the generality of + readers; while those who would draw their pens on the side of their prince + and country, are discouraged by this tax, which exceeds the intrinsic + value both of the materials and the work; a thing, if I be not mistaken, + without example. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 36: Mr. Secretary St. John, now Lord Viscount Bolingbroke. + [ORIGINAL NOTE.]] + </p> + <p> + It must be acknowledged, that the bad practices of printers have been + such, as to deserve the severest animadversions of the public; and it is + to be wished, the party quarrels of the pen were always managed with + decency and truth: but in the mean time, to open the mouths of our enemies + and shut our own, is a turn of politics that wants a little to be + explained. Perhaps the ministry now in possession, because they are in + possession, may despise such trifles as this; and it is not to be denied, + that acting as they do upon a national interest, they may seem to stand in + less need of such supports, or may safely fling them down as no longer + necessary. But if the leaders of the other party had proceeded by this + maxim, their power would have been none at all, or of very short duration: + and had not some active pens fallen in to improve the good dispositions of + the people, upon the late change, and continued since to overthrow the + falsehood, plentifully, and sometimes not unplausibly, scattered by the + adversaries, I am very much in doubt, whether those at the helm would now + have reason to be pleased with their success. A particular person may, + with more safety, despise the opinion of the vulgar, because it does a + wise man no real harm or good, but the administration a great deal; and + whatever side has the sole management of the pen, will soon find hands + enough to write down their enemies as low as they please. If the people + had no other idea of those whom Her Majesty trusts in her greatest + affairs, than what is conveyed by the passions of such as would compass + sea and land for their destruction, what could they expect, but to be torn + in pieces by the rage of the multitude? How necessary therefore was it, + that the world should, from time to time, be undeceived by true + representations of persons and facts, which have kept the kingdom steady + to its interest, against all the attacks of a cunning and virulent + faction. + </p> + <p> + However, the mischiefs of the press were too exorbitant to be cured, by + such a remedy as a tax upon the smaller papers; and a Bill for a much more + effectual regulation of it was brought into the House of Commons, but so + late in the session, that there was no time to pass it: for there hath + hitherto always appeared, an unwillingness to cramp overmuch the liberty + of the press, whether from the inconveniencies apprehended from doing too + much, or too little; or whether the benefit proposed by each party to + themselves, from the service of their writers, towards recovering or + preserving of power, be thought to outweigh the disadvantages. However it + came about, this affair was put off from one week to another, and the Bill + not brought into the House till the eighth of June. It was committed three + days, and then heard of no more. In this Bill there was a clause inserted, + (whether industriously with design to overthrow it) that the author's + name, and place of abode, should be set to every printed book, pamphlet, + or paper; which I believe no man, who hath the least regard to learning, + would give his consent to: for, besides the objection to this clause from + the practice of pious men, who, in publishing excellent writings for the + service of religion, have chosen, out of an humble Christian spirit, to + conceal their names; it is certain, that all persons of true genius or + knowledge have an invincible modesty and suspicion of themselves, upon + their first sending their thoughts into the world; and that those who are + dull or superficial, void of all-taste and judgment, have dispositions + directly contrary: so that if this clause had made part of a law, there + would have been an end, in all likelihood, of any valuable production for + the future, either in wit or learning: and that insufferable race of + stupid people, who are now every day loading the press, would then reign + alone, in time destroy our very first principles of reason, and introduce + barbarity amongst us, which is already kept out with so much difficulty by + so few hands. + </p> + <p> + Having given an account of the several steps made towards a peace, from + the first overtures begun by France, to the commencement of the second + session, I shall in the Fourth Book relate the particulars of this great + negotiation, from the period last mentioned to the present time; and + because there happened some passages in both Houses, occasioned by the + treaty, I shall take notice of them under that head. There only remains to + be mentioned one affair of another nature, which the Lords and Commons + took into their cognizance, after a very different manner, wherewith I + shall close this part of my subject. + </p> + <p> + The sect of Quakers amongst us, whose system of religion, first founded + upon enthusiasm, hath been many years growing into a craft, held it an + unlawful action to take an oath to a magistrate. This doctrine was taught + them by the author of their sect, from a literal application of the text, + "Swear not at all;" but being a body of people, wholly turned to trade and + commerce of all kinds, they found themselves on many occasions deprived of + the benefit of the law, as well as of voting at elections, by a foolish + scruple, which their obstinacy would not suffer them to get over. To + prevent this inconvenience, these people had credit enough in the late + reign to have an Act passed, that their solemn affirmation and declaration + should be accepted, instead of an oath in the usual form. The great + concern in those times, was to lay all religion upon a level; in order to + which, this maxim was advanced, "That no man ought to be denied the + liberty of serving his country upon account of a different belief in + speculative opinions," under which term some people were apt to include + every doctrine of Christianity: however, this Act, in favour of the + Quakers, was only temporary, in order to keep them in constant dependence, + and expired of course after a certain term, if it were not continued. + Those people had, therefore, very early in the session, offered a petition + to the House of Commons for a continuance of the Act, which was not + suffered to be brought up; upon this they applied themselves to the Lords, + who passed a Bill accordingly, and sent it down to the Commons, where it + was not so much as allowed a first reading. + </p> + <p> + And indeed it is not easy to conceive upon what motives the legislature of + so great a kingdom could descend so low, as to be ministerial and + subservient to the caprices of the most absurd heresy that ever appeared + in the world; and this in a point, where those deluding or deluded people + stand singular from all the rest of mankind who live under civil + government: but the designs of an aspiring party, at that time were not + otherwise to be compassed, than by undertaking any thing that would humble + and mortify the Church; and I am fully convinced, that if a sect of + sceptic philosophers (who profess to doubt of every thing) had been then + among us, and mingled their tenets with some corruptions of Christianity, + they might have obtained the same privilege; and that a law would have + been enacted, whereby the solemn doubt of the people called sceptics, + should have been accepted instead of an oath in the usual form; so absurd + are all maxims formed upon the inconsistent principles of faction, when + once they are brought to be examined by the standard of truth and reason. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE HISTORY OF THE FOUR LAST + </h2> + <h3> + YEARS OF THE QUEEN. + </h3> + <h3> + BOOK IV. + </h3> + <p> + We left the plenipotentiaries of the allies, and those of the enemy, + preparing to assemble at Utrecht on the first of January, N.S., in order + to form a congress for negotiating a general peace; wherein although the + Dutch had made a mighty merit of their compliance with the Queen, yet they + set all their instruments at work to inflame both Houses against Her + Majesty's measures. Mons. Bothmar, the Hanover envoy, took care to print + and disperse his Memorial, of which I have formerly spoken: Hoffman, the + Emperor's resident, was soliciting for a yacht and convoys to bring over + Prince Eugene at this juncture, fortified, as it was given out, with great + proposals from the Imperial court: the Earl of Nottingham became a + convert, for reasons already mentioned: money was distributed where + occasion required; and the Dukes of Somerset and Marlborough, together + with the Earl of Godolphin, had put themselves at the head of the junto, + and their adherents, in order to attack the court. + </p> + <p> + Some days after the vote passed the House of Lords for admitting into the + address the Earl of Nottingham's clause, against any peace without Spain; + Mons. Buys, the Dutch envoy, who had been deep in all the consultations + with the discontented party for carrying that point, was desired to meet + with the lord privy seal, the Earl of Dartmouth, and Mr. Secretary St. + John, in order to sign a treaty between the Queen and the States, to + subsist after a peace. There the envoy took occasion to expostulate upon + the advantages stipulated for Britain with France; said "It was his + opinion, that those ministers ought, in respect of the friendship between + both nations, to acquaint him what these advantages were; and that he + looked upon his country to be entitled, by treaty, to share them equally + with us: That there was now another reason why we should be more disposed + to comply with him upon this head; for since the late resolution of the + House of Lords, he took it for granted, it would be a dangerous step in us + to give Spain to a prince of the house of Bourbon; and therefore, that we + should do well to induce the States, by such a concession, to help us out + of this difficulty." + </p> + <p> + Mr. St. John made answer, "That there was not a man in the Queen's council + capable of so base a thought: That if Buys had any thing to complain of, + which was injurious to Holland, or justly tending to hurt the good + correspondence between us and the States, he was confident Her Majesty + would at all times be ready to give it up; but that the ministers scorned + to screen themselves at the expense of their country: That the resolution + Buys mentioned, was chiefly owing to foreign ministers intermeddling in + our affairs, and would perhaps have an effect the projectors did not + foresee: That, if the peace became impracticable, the House of Commons + would certainly put the war upon another foot, and reduce the public + expense within such a compass as our treaties required in the strictest + sense, and as our present condition would admit, leaving the partisans for + war to supply the rest." + </p> + <p> + Although the secretary believed this answer would put an end to such + infamous proposals, it fell out otherwise; for shortly after, Mons. Buys + applied himself to the treasurer, promising to undertake, "That his + masters should give up the article of Spain, provided they might share + with us in the Assiento for negroes." To which the treasurer's answer was + short, "That he would rather lose his head than consent to such an offer." + </p> + <p> + It is manifest, by this proceeding, that whatever schemes were forming + here at home, in this juncture, by the enemies to the peace, the Dutch + only designed to fall in with it as far as it would answer their own + account; and, by a strain of the lower politics, wherein they must be + allowed to excel every country in Christendom, lay upon the watch for a + good bargain, by taking advantage of the distress they themselves had + brought upon their nearest neighbour and ally. + </p> + <p> + But the Queen highly resented this indignity from a republic, upon whom + she had conferred so many obligations. She could not endure that the Dutch + should employ their instruments to act in confederacy with a cabal of + factious people, who were prepared to sacrifice the safety of their prince + and country to the recovery of that power they had so long possessed and + abused. Her Majesty knew very well, that whatever were the mistaken or + affected opinion of some people at home, upon the article of Spain, it was + a point the States had long given up, who had very openly told our + ministry, "That the war in that country was only our concern, and what + their republic had nothing to do with." It is true, the party-leaders were + equally convinced, that the recovery of Spain was impracticable; but many + things may be excused in a professed adversary, fallen under disgrace, + which are highly criminal in an ally, upon whom we are that very instant + conferring new favours. Her Majesty therefore thought it high time to + exert herself, and at length put a stop to foreign influence upon British + counsels; so that, after the Earl of Nottingham's clause against any + peace, without Spain, was carried in the House of Lords, directions were + immediately sent to the Earl of Strafford at The Hague, to inform the + Dutch, "That it was obtained by a trick, and would consequently turn to + the disappointment and confusion of the contrivers and the actors." He was + likewise instructed to be very dry and reserved to the pensionary and + Dutch ministers; to let them know, "The Queen thought herself ill treated; + and that they would soon hear what effects those measures would have upon + a mild and good temper, wrought up to resentment by repeated provocations: + That the States might have the war continued, if they pleased; but that + the Queen would not be forced to carry it on after their manner, nor would + suffer them to make her peace, or to settle the interests of her + kingdoms." + </p> + <p> + To others in Holland, who appeared to be more moderate, the Earl was + directed to say, "That the States were upon a wrong scent: That their + minister here mistook every thing that we had promised: That we would + perform all they could reasonably ask from us, in relation to their + barrier and their trade; and that Mons. Buys dealt very unfairly, if he + had not told them as much. But that Britain proceeded, in some respects, + upon a new scheme of politics; would no longer struggle for + impossibilities, nor be amused by words: That our people came more and + more to their senses; and that the single dispute now was, whether the + Dutch would join with a faction, against the Queen, or with the nation, + for her?" + </p> + <p> + The court likewise resolved to discourage Prince Eugene from his journey + to England, which he was about this time undertaking, and of which I have + spoken before. He was told, "That the Queen wanted no exhortations to + carry on the war; but the project of it should be agreed abroad, upon + which Her Majesty's resolutions might soon be signified: but until she saw + what the Emperor and allies were ready to do, she would neither promise + nor engage for any thing." At the same time Mr. St. John told Hoffman, the + Emperor's resident here, "That if the Prince had a mind to divert himself + in London, the ministers would do their part to entertain him, and be sure + to trouble him with no manner of business." + </p> + <p> + This coldness retarded the Prince's journey for some days; but did not + prevent it, although he had a second message by the Queen's order, with + this farther addition, "That his name had lately been made use of, on many + occasions, to create a ferment, and stir up sedition; and that Her Majesty + judged it would be neither safe for him, nor convenient for her, that he + should come over at this time." But all would not do: it was enough that + the Queen did not absolutely forbid him, and the party-confederates, both + foreign and domestic, thought his presence would be highly necessary for + their service. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of December, the lord privy seal[1] set out for Holland. + He was ordered to stop at The Hague, and, in conjunction with the Earl of + Stafford, to declare to the States, in Her Majesty's name, "Her + resolutions to conclude no peace, wherein the allies in general, and each + confederate in particular, might not find their ample security, and their + reasonable satisfaction: That she was ready to insist upon their barrier, + and advantages in their trade, in the manner the States themselves should + desire; and to concert with them such a plan of treaty, as both powers + might be under mutual engagements never to recede from: That nothing could + be of greater importance, than for the ministers of Great Britain and + Holland to enter the congress under the strictest ties of confidence, and + entirely to concur throughout the course of these negotiations: To which + purpose, it was Her Majesty's pleasure, that their lordships should adjust + with the Dutch ministers, the best manner and method for opening and + carrying on the conferences, and declare themselves instructed to + communicate freely their thoughts and measures to the plenipotentiaries of + the States, who, they hoped, had received the same instructions." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: Dr. Robinson had already had diplomatic experience as + political agent at the Court of Stockholm, when Marlborough had found him + of great service. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Lastly, the two lords were to signify to the pensionary, and the other + ministers, "That Her Majesty's preparations for the next campaign were + carried on with all the dispatch and vigour, which the present + circumstances would allow; and to insist, that the same might be done by + the States; and that both powers should join in pressing the Emperor, and + other allies, to make greater efforts than they had hitherto done; without + which the war must languish, and the terms of peace become every day more + disadvantageous." + </p> + <p> + The two British plenipotentiaries went to Utrecht with very large + instructions, and, after the usual manner, were to make much higher + demands from France (at least in behalf of the allies) than they could + have any hope to obtain. The sum of what they had in charge, besides + matter of form, was, to concert with the ministers of the several powers + engaged against France, "That all differences arising among them should be + accommodated between themselves, without suffering the French to + interfere: That whatever were proposed to France by a minister of the + alliance, should be backed by the whole confederacy: That a time might be + fixed for the conclusion, as there had been for the commencement, of the + treaty." Spain was to be demanded out of the hands of the Bourbon family, + as the most effectual means for preventing the union of that kingdom with + France; and whatever conditions the allies could agree upon for hindering + that union, their lordships were peremptorily to insist on. + </p> + <p> + As to the interests of each ally in particular, the plenipotentiaries of + Britain were to demand "Strasbourg, the fort of Kehl, with its + dependencies, and the town of Brisach, with its territory, for the + Emperor: That France should possess Alsatia, according to the Treaty of + Westphalia, with the right of the prefecture only over the ten imperial + cities in that country: That the fortifications of the said ten cities be + put into the condition they were in at the time of the said treaty, except + Landau, which was to be demanded for the Emperor and empire, with liberty + of demolishing the fortifications: That the French King should at a + certain time, and at his own expense, demolish the fortresses of Huningen, + New Brisach, and Fort Lewis, never to be rebuilt. + </p> + <p> + "That the town and fortress of Rhinfels should be demanded for the + landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, until that matter be otherwise settled. + </p> + <p> + "That the clause relating to religion, in the fourth article of the Treaty + of Ryswyck, and contrary to that of Westphalia, should be annulled, and + the state of religion in Germany restored to the tenor of the Treaty of + Westphalia. + </p> + <p> + "That France should acknowledge the King of Prussia, and give him no + disturbance in Neufchatel and Vallengin. + </p> + <p> + "That the principality of Orange, and other estates belonging to the late + King William, should be restored, as law should direct. + </p> + <p> + "That the Duke of Hanover should be acknowledged elector. + </p> + <p> + "That the King of Portugal should enjoy all the advantages stipulated + between him and the allies. + </p> + <p> + "That the States should have for their barrier Furnes, Fort Knokke, Menin, + Ypres, Lille, Tournay, Condé, Valenciennes, Maubeuge, Douay, Bethune, + Aire,[2] St. Venant, and Bouchain, with their cannon, &c. That the + French King should restore all the places belonging to Spain, now or + during this war in his possession, in the Netherlands: That such part of + them as should be thought fit, might be allowed likewise for a barrier to + the States: That France should grant the tariff of one thousand six + hundred and sixty-four to the States, and exemption of fifty pence <i>per</i> + tun upon Dutch goods trading to that kingdom. But that these articles in + favour of the States should not be concluded, till the Barrier Treaty were + explained to the Queen's satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 2 "Bethune Avie" in original: a manifest misprint. "Aire" is + the name of a place near Bethune, which has since been connected with it + by a canal. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + "That the Duke of Savoy should be put in possession of all taken from him + in this war, and enjoy the places yielded to him by the Emperor, and other + allies: That France should likewise yield to him Exilles, Fenestrelle, + Chaumont, the valley of Pragelas, and the land lying between Piedmont and + Mount Genu. + </p> + <p> + "That the article about demolishing of Dunkirk should be explained." + </p> + <p> + As to Britain, the plenipotentiaries were to insist, "That Nieuport, + Dendermonde, Ghent, and all places which appear to be a barrier rather + against England than France, should either not be given to the Dutch, or + at least in such a manner, as not to hinder the Queen's subjects free + passage to and from the Low Countries. + </p> + <p> + "That the seventh article of the Barrier Treaty, which empowers the + States, in case of an attack, to put troops at discretion in all the + places of the Low Countries, should be so explained as to be understood + only of an attack from France. + </p> + <p> + "That Britain should trade to the Low Countries with the same privileges + as the States themselves. + </p> + <p> + "That the Most Christian King should acknowledge the succession of + Hanover, and immediately oblige the Pretender to leave France; and that + the said King should promise, for himself and his heirs, never to + acknowledge any person for King or Queen of England, otherwise than + according to the settlements now in force. + </p> + <p> + "That a treaty of commerce should be commenced, as soon as possible, + between France and Britain; and in the mean time, the necessary points + relating to it be settled. + </p> + <p> + "That the Isle of St. Christopher's should be surrendered to the Queen, + Hudson's Bay restored, Placentia and the whole island of Newfoundland + yielded to Britain by the Most Christian King; who was likewise to quit + all claim to Nova Scotia and Annapolis Royal. + </p> + <p> + "That Gibraltar and Minorca should be annexed to the British crown. + </p> + <p> + "That the Assiento should be granted to Britain for thirty years, with the + same advantage as to France; with an extent of ground on the river of + Plata, for keeping and refreshing the negroes. + </p> + <p> + "That Spain should grant to the subjects of Britain as large privileges as + to any other nation whatsoever; as likewise an exemption of duties, + amounting to an advantage of at least fifteen <i>per cent</i>. + </p> + <p> + "That satisfaction should be demanded for what should appear to be justly + due to Her Majesty, from the Emperor and the States. + </p> + <p> + "Lastly, That the plenipotentiaries should consult with those of the + Protestant allies, the most effectual methods for restoring the + Protestants of France to their religious and civil liberties, and for the + immediate release of those who are now in the galleys." + </p> + <p> + What part of these demands were to be insisted on, and what were to be + given up, will appear by the sequel of this negotiation. But there was no + difficulty of moment enough to retard the peace, except a method for + preventing the union of France and Spain under one prince, and the + settling the barrier for Holland; which last, as claimed by the States, + could, in prudence and safety, be no more allowed by us than by France. + </p> + <p> + The States General having appointed Mons. Buys to be one of their + plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, that minister left England a few days after + the lord privy seal. In his last conference with the lords of the council, + he absolutely declared, "That his masters had done their utmost, both by + sea and land: That it was unreasonable to expect more: That they had + exceeded their proportion, even beyond Britain; and that as to the + Emperor, and other allies, he knew no expedient left for making them act + with more vigour, than to pursue them with pathetical exhortations." + </p> + <p> + This minister was sent over hither, instructed and empowered by halves. + The ferment raised by the united endeavours of our party leaders, among + whom he was a constant fellow-labourer to the utmost of his skill, had + wholly confounded him; and thinking to take the advantage of negotiating + well for Holland at the expense of Britain, he acted but ill for his own + country, and worse for the common cause. However, the Queen's ministers + and he parted with the greatest civility; and Her Majesty's present was + double the value of what is usual to the character he bore.[3] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: Compare this passage with one in Bolingbroke's + "Correspondence" (vol. ii., pp. 108-109): "He [Buys] came over instructed + and empowered by halves. The ferment which had been created by the joint + efforts of the faction here, and of that in Holland, confounded him; and + thinking to take this advantage of negotiating well for Holland at the + expense of Britain, he has negotiated ill for both and ill for the common + cause. We parted in terms of the greatest civility, and Her Majesty's + present to him was a thousand pounds, which is double the value of what is + ever given here to an envoy-extraordinary." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + As the Queen was determined to alter her measures in making war, so she + thought nothing would so much convince the States of the necessity of a + peace, as to have them frequently put in mind of this resolution, which + her ambassador Strafford, then at The Hague, was accordingly directed to + do: and if they should object, of what ill consequence it would be for the + enemy to know Her Majesty designed to lessen her expenses, he might + answer, "That the ministers here were sorry for it; but the Dutch could + only blame themselves, for forcing into such a necessity a princess, to + whose friendship they owed the preservation and grandeur of their + republic, and choosing to lean on a broken faction, rather than place + their confidence in the Queen." + </p> + <p> + It was Her Majesty's earnest desire, that there should be a perfect + agreement at this treaty between the ministers of all the allies, than + which nothing could be more effectual to make France comply with their + just demands: above all, she directed her plenipotentiaries to enter into + the strictest confidence with those of Holland; and that, after the States + had consented to explain the Barrier Treaty to her reasonable + satisfaction, both powers should form between them a plan of general + peace, from which they would not recede, and such as might secure the + quiet of Europe, as well as the particular interests of each confederate. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch were accordingly pressed, before the congress opened, to come to + some temperament upon that famous treaty; because the ministers here + expected it would be soon laid before the House of Commons, by which the + resentment of the nation would probably appear against those who had been + actors and advisers in it: but Mons. Buys, who usually spoke for his + colleagues, was full of opposition, began to expostulate upon the + advantages Britain had stipulated with France; and to insist, that his + masters ought to share equally in them all, but especially the Assiento + contract: so that no progress was made in fixing a previous good + correspondence between Britain and the States, which Her Majesty had so + earnestly recommended. + </p> + <p> + Certain regulations having been agreed upon, for avoiding of ceremony and + other inconveniencies, the conferences began at Utrecht, upon the + twenty-ninth of January, N.S. one thousand seven hundred and + eleven-twelve, at ten in the morning. The ministers of the allies going + into the town-house at one door, and those of France, at the same instant, + at another, they all took their seats without distinction; and the Bishop + of Bristol, lord privy seal, first plenipotentiary of Britain, opened the + assembly with a short speech, directed to the ministers of France, in + words to the following effect: + </p> + <h3> + "MESSIEURS, + </h3> + <p> + "We are here to meet to-day, in the name of God, to enter upon a treaty of + general peace, between the high allies and the King your master. We bring + sincere intentions, and express orders from our superiors, to concur, on + their part, with whatever may advance and perfect so salutary and + Christian a work. On the other side, we hope you have the same + disposition; and that your orders will be so full, as to be able, without + loss of time, to answer the expectation of the high allies, by explaining + yourselves clearly and roundly upon the points we shall have to settle in + these conferences; and that you will perform this in so plain and specific + a manner, as every prince and state in the confederacy may find a just and + reasonable satisfaction." + </p> + <p> + The French began, by promising to explain the overtures which Mons. + Mesnager had delivered to the Queen some months before, and to give in a + specific project of what their master would yield, provided the allies + would each give a specific answer, by making their several demands; which + method, after many difficulties, and affected delays in the Dutch, was at + length agreed to. + </p> + <p> + But the States, who had, with the utmost discontent, seen Her Majesty at + the head of this negotiation, where they intended to have placed + themselves, began to discover their ill-humour upon every occasion; they + raised endless difficulties about settling the Barrier Treaty, as the + Queen desired; and in one of the first general conferences, they would not + suffer the British secretary to take the minutes, but nominated some Dutch + professor for that office, which the Queen refused, and resented their + behaviour as an useless cavil, intended only to shew their want of + respect. The British plenipotentiaries had great reason to suspect, that + the Dutch were, at this time, privately endeavouring to engage in some + separate measures with France, by the intervention of one Molo, a busy + factious agent at Amsterdam, who had been often employed in such + intrigues: that this was the cause which made them so litigious and slow + in all their steps, in hopes to break the congress, and find better terms + for their trade and barrier, from the French, than we ever could think fit + to allow them. The Dutch ministers did also apply themselves with + industry, to cultivate the imperial plenipotentiary's favour, in order to + secure all advantages of commerce with Spain and the West Indies, in case + those dominions could be procured for the Emperor: for this reason they + avoided settling any general plan of peace, in concert with the + plenipotentiaries of Britain, which Her Majesty desired; and Mons. Buys + plainly told their lordships, that it was a point, which neither he nor + his colleagues could consent to, before the States were admitted equal + sharers with Britain in the trade of Spain. + </p> + <p> + The court having notice of this untractable temper in the Dutch, gave + direct orders to the plenipotentiaries of Britain, for pressing those of + the States to adjust the gross in equalities of the Barrier Treaty, since + nothing was more usual or agreeable to reason than for princes, who find + themselves aggrieved by prejudicial contracts, to expect they should be + modified and explained. And since it now appeared by votes in the House of + Commons, that the sense of the nation agreed with what Her Majesty + desired, if the Dutch ministers would not be brought to any moderate terms + upon this demand, their lordships were directed to improve and amend the + particular concessions made to Britain by France, and form them into a + treaty, for the Queen was determined never to allow the States any share + in the Assiento, Gibraltar, and Port Mahon, nor could think it reasonable, + that they should be upon an equal foot with her in the trade of Spain, to + the conquest whereof they had contributed so little. + </p> + <p> + Nor was the conduct of the imperial minister at this time less perplexing + than that of the States, both those powers appearing fully bent, either + upon breaking off the negotiation, or, upon forcing from the Queen those + advantages she expected by it for her own kingdoms. Her Majesty therefore + thought fit, about the beginning of March, to send Mr. Thomas Harley, a + near relation of the treasurer's, to Utrecht, fully informed of her mind, + which he was directed to communicate to the plenipotentiaries of Britain. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harley stopped in his way to Utrecht at The Hague, and there told the + pensionary, "That nothing had happened lately in England but what was long + ago foretold him, as well as the other ministers of the allies. That the + proceedings of the House of Commons, particularly about the Barrier + Treaty, must chiefly be ascribed to the manner in which the Queen and the + nation had been treated by Mons. Bothmar, Count Gallas, Buys, and other + foreign ministers. That if the States would yet enter into a strict union + with the Queen, give her satisfaction in the said treaty, and join in + concert with her plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, a safe and advantageous + peace might be obtained for the whole alliance; otherwise Her Majesty must + save her own country, and join with such of her allies as would join with + her. + </p> + <p> + "As to the war, that the conduct of the allies, and their opposition to + the Queen, by private intrigues carried on among her own subjects, as well + as by open remonstrances, had made the House of Commons take that matter + out of the hands of the ministers. + </p> + <p> + "Lastly, that in case the present treaty were broken off by the Dutch + refusing to comply, Her Majesty thought it reasonable to insist, that some + cautionary places be put into her hands as pledges, that no other + negotiation should be entered into by the States General, without her + participation." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harley's instructions to the Queen's plenipotentiaries were, "That + they should press those of France, to open themselves as far as possible, + in concerting such a plan of a general peace, as might give reasonable + satisfaction to all the confederates, and such as her Parliament would + approve: That the people of England believed France would consent to such + a plan; wherein if they found themselves deceived, they would be as eager + for prosecuting the war as ever." + </p> + <p> + Their lordships were to declare openly to the Dutch, "That no extremity + should make Her Majesty depart from insisting to have the Assiento for her + own subjects, and to keep Gibraltar and Port Mahon; but if the States + would agree with her upon these three heads, she would be content to + reduce the trade of Spain and the West Indies, to the condition it was in + under the late Catholic King Charles II." + </p> + <p> + The French were farther to be pressed, "That the Pretender should be + immediately sent out of that kingdom; and that the most effectual method + should be taken, for preventing the union of France and Spain under one + prince." + </p> + <p> + About this time Her Majesty's ministers, and those of the allies at + Utrecht, delivered in the several <i>postulata</i> or demands of their + masters to the French plenipotentiaries, which having been since made + public, and all of them, except those of Britain, very much varying in the + course of the negotiation, the reader would be but ill entertained with a + transcript of them here. + </p> + <p> + Upon intelligence of the last dauphin's death, the father, son, and + grandson, all of that title,[4] dying within the compass of a year, Mons. + Gaultier went to France with letters to the Marquis de Torcy, to propose + Her Majesty's expedient for preventing the union of that kingdom with + Spain; which, as it was the most important article to be settled, in order + to secure peace for Europe, so it was a point that required to be speedily + adjusted under the present circumstances and situation of the Bourbon + family, there being only left a child of two years old to stand between + the Duke of Anjou and his succeeding to the crown of France. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: These princes were the grandfather, the father, and the + brother, of Louis XV., who was then Duke of Anjou, and supposed to be at + the point of death. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + Her Majesty likewise pressed France by the same dispatches, to send full + instructions to their plenipotentiaries, empowering them to offer to the + allies such a plan of peace, as might give reasonable satisfaction to all + her allies. + </p> + <p> + The Queen's proposal for preventing an union between France and Spain was, + "that Philip should formally renounce the kingdom of France for himself + and his posterity; and that this renunciation should be confirmed by the + Cortes or states of Spain, who, without question, would heartily concur + against such an union, by which their country must become a province to + France." In like manner, the French princes of the blood were severally to + renounce all title to Spain. + </p> + <p> + The French raised many difficulties upon several particulars of this + expedient; but the Queen persisted to refuse any plan of peace before this + weighty point were settled in the manner she proposed, which was + afterwards submitted to, as in proper place we shall observe. In the mean + time, the negotiation at Utrecht proceeded with a very slow pace; the + Dutch interposing all obstructions they could contrive, refusing to come + to any reasonable temper upon the Barrier Treaty, or to offer a plan, in + concert with the Queen, for a general peace. Nothing less would satisfy + them, than the partaking in those advantages we had stipulated for + ourselves, and which did no ways interfere with their trade or security. + They still expected some turn in England; their friends on this side had + ventured to assure them, that the Queen could not live many months, which, + indeed, from the bad state of Her Majesty's health, was reasonable to + expect. The British plenipotentiaries daily discovered new endeavours of + Holland to treat privately with France; and, lastly, those among the + States, who desired the war should continue, strove to gain time, until + the campaign should open; and by resolving to enter into action with the + first opportunity, render all things desperate, and break up the congress. + </p> + <p> + This scheme did exactly fall in with Prince Eugene's dispositions, whom + the States had chosen for their general, and of whose conduct, in this + conjuncture, the Queen had too much reason to be jealous; but Her Majesty, + who was resolved to do her utmost towards putting a good and speedy end to + this war, having placed the Duke of Ormonde at the head of her forces in + Flanders, whither he was now arrived, directed him to keep all the troops + in British pay, whether subjects or foreigners, immediately under his own + command; and to be cautious, for a while, in engaging in any action of + importance, unless upon a very apparent advantage. At the same time the + Queen determined to make one thorough trial of the disposition of the + States, by allowing them the utmost concessions that could any way suit + either with her safety or honour. She therefore directed her ministers at + Utrecht, to tell the Dutch, "That, in order to shew how desirous she was + to live in perfect amity with that republic, she would resign up the + fifteen <i>per cent.</i>, advantage upon English goods sent to the Spanish + dominions, which the French King had offered her by a power from his + grandson,[5] and be content to reduce that trade to the state in which it + was under the late King of Spain. She would accept of any tolerable + softening of these words in the seventh article of the Barrier Treaty, + where it is said, 'The States shall have power, in case of an apparent + attack, to put as many troops as they please into all the places of the + Netherlands,' without specifying an attack from the side of France, as + ought to have been done; otherwise, the Queen might justly think they were + preparing themselves for a rupture with Britain. Her Majesty likewise + consented, that the States should keep Nieuport, Dendermonde, and the + Castle of Ghent, as an addition to their barrier, although she were + sensible how injurious those concessions would be to the trade of her + subjects; and would waive the demand of Ostend being delivered into her + hands, which she might with justice insist on. In return for all this, + that the Queen only desired the ministers of the States would enter into a + close correspondence with hers, and settle between them some plan of a + general peace, which might give reasonable content to all her allies, and + which Her Majesty would endeavour to bring France to consent to. She + desired the trade of her kingdoms to the Netherlands, and to the towns of + their barrier, might be upon as good a foot as it was before the war + began: That the Dutch would not insist to have share in the Assiento, to + which they had not the least pretensions, and that they would no longer + encourage the intrigues of a faction against her government. Her Majesty + assured them in plain terms, that her own future measures, and the conduct + of her plenipotentiaries, should be wholly governed by their behaviour in + these points; and that her offers were only conditional, in case of their + compliance with what she desired." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: Philip V., King of Spain. [W. S, J.]] + </p> + <p> + But all these proofs of the Queen's kindness and sincerity could not + avail. The Dutch ministers pleaded, they had no power to concert the plan + of general peace with those of Britain: however, they assured the latter, + that the Assiento was the only difficulty which stuck with their masters. + Whereupon, at their desire, a contract for that traffic was twice read to + them; after which they appeared very well satisfied, and said they would + go to The Hague for further instructions. Thither they went, and, after a + week's absence, returned the same answer, "That they had no power to + settle a scheme of peace; but could only discourse of it, when the + difficulties of the Barrier Treaty were over." And Mons. Buys took a + journey to Amsterdam, on purpose to stir up that city, where he was + pensionary, against yielding the Assiento to Britain; but was unsuccessful + in his negotiation; the point being yielded up there, and in most other + towns in Holland. + </p> + <p> + It will have an odd sound in history, and appear hardly credible, that in + several petty republics of single towns, which make up the States General, + it should be formally debated, whether the Queen of Great Britain, who + preserved the commonwealth at the charge of so many millions, should be + suffered to enjoy, after a peace, the liberty granted her by Spain of + selling African slaves in the Spanish dominions of America! But there was + a prevailing faction at The Hague, violently bent against any peace, where + the Queen must act that part which they had intended for themselves. These + politicians, who held constant correspondence with their old dejected + friends in England, were daily fed with the vain hopes of the Queen's + death, or the party's restoration. They likewise endeavoured to spin out + the time, till Prince Eugene's activity had pushed on some great event, + which might govern or perplex the conditions of peace. Therefore the Dutch + plenipotentiaries, who proceeded by the instructions of those mistaken + patriots, acted in every point with a spirit of litigiousness, than which + nothing could give greater advantage to the enemy; a strict union between + the allies, but especially Britain and Holland, being doubtless the only + means for procuring safe and honourable terms from France. + </p> + <p> + But neither was this the worst; for the Queen received undoubted + intelligence from Utrecht, that the Dutch were again attempting a separate + correspondence with France. And by letters, intercepted here, from Vienna, + it was found, that the imperial court, whose ministers were in the utmost + confidence with those of Holland, expressed the most furious rage against + Her Majesty, for the steps she had taken to advance a peace. + </p> + <p> + This unjustifiable treatment, the Queen could not digest from an ally, + upon whom she had conferred so many signal obligations, whom she had used + with so much indulgence and sincerity during the whole course of the + negotiation, and had so often invited to go along with her in every motion + towards a peace. She apprehended likewise, that the negotiation might be + taken out of her hands, if France could be secure of easier conditions in + Holland, or might think that Britain wanted power to influence the whole + confederacy. She resolved therefore, on this occasion, to exert herself + with vigour, steadiness, and dispatch; and, in the beginning of May, sent + her commands to the Earl of Strafford to repair immediately to England, in + order to consult with her ministers what was proper to be done. + </p> + <p> + The proposal above mentioned, for preventing the union of France and + Spain, met with many difficulties; Mons. de Torcy raising objections + against several parts of it. But the Queen refused to proceed any farther + with France, until this weighty point were fully settled to her + satisfaction; after which, she promised to grant a suspension of arms, + provided the town and citadel of Dunkirk might be delivered as a pledge + into her hands: and proposed that Ypres might be surrendered to the Dutch, + if they would consent to come into the suspension. France absolutely + refused the latter; and the States General having acted in perpetual + contradiction to Her Majesty, she pressed that matter no farther; because + she doubted they would not agree to a cessation of arms. However, she + resolved to put a speedy end, or at least intermission, to her own share + in the war: and the French having declared themselves ready to agree to + her expedients, for preventing the union of the two crowns, and consented + to the delivery of Dunkirk; positive orders were sent to the Duke of + Ormonde to avoid engaging in any battle or siege, until he had further + instructions; but he was directed to conceal his orders, and to find the + best excuses he could, if any pressing occasion should offer. + </p> + <p> + The reasons for this unusual proceeding, which made a mighty noise, were + of sufficient weight to justify it; for, pursuant to the agreement made + between us and France, a courier was then dispatched from Fontainebleau to + Madrid, with the offer of an alternative to Philip, either of resigning + Spain immediately to the Duke of Savoy, upon the hopes of succeeding to + France, and some present advantage, which, not having been accepted, is + needless to dilate on; or of adhering to Spain, and renouncing all future + claim to France for himself and his posterity. + </p> + <p> + Until it could be known which part Philip would accept, the Queen would + not take possession of Dunkirk, nor suffer an armistice to be declared. + But, however, since the Most Christian King had agreed that his grandson + should be forced, in case of a refusal, to make his choice immediately, + Her Majesty could not endure to think, that perhaps some thousands of + lives of her own subjects and allies might be sacrificed, without + necessity, if an occasion should be found or sought for fighting a battle; + which, she very well knew, Prince Eugene would eagerly attempt, and put + all into confusion, to gratify his own ambition, the enmity of his new + masters the Dutch, and the rage of his court. + </p> + <p> + But the Duke of Ormonde, who, with every other quality that can accomplish + or adorn a great man, inherits all the valour and loyalty of his + ancestors, found it very difficult to acquit himself of his commission;[6] + for Prince Eugene, and all the field deputies of the States, had begun + already to talk either of attacking the enemy, or besieging Quesnoy, the + confederate army being now all joined by the troops they expected; and + accordingly, about three days after the Duke had received those orders + from court, it was proposed to his grace, at a meeting with the prince and + deputies, that the French army should be attacked, their camp having been + viewed, and a great opportunity offering to do it with success; for the + Marechal de Villars, who had notice sent him by Mons. de Torcy of what was + passing, and had signified the same by a trumpet to the Duke, shewed less + vigilance than was usual to that general, taking no precautions to secure + his camp, or observe the motions of the allies, probably on purpose to + provoke them, the Duke said, "That the Earl of Strafford's sudden + departure for England, made him believe there was something of consequence + now transacting, which would be known in four or five days; and therefore + desired they would defer this or any other undertaking, until he could + receive fresh letters from England." Whereupon the prince and deputies + immediately told the Duke, "That they looked for such an answer as he had + given them: That they had suspected our measures for some time, and their + suspicions were confirmed by the express his grace had so lately received, + as well as by the negligence of Mons. Villars". They appeared extremely + dissatisfied; and the deputies told the Duke, that they would immediately + send an account of his answer to their masters, which they accordingly + did; and soon after, by order from the States, wrote him an expostulating + letter, in a style less respectful than became them; desiring him, among + other things, to explain himself, whether he had positive orders not to + fight the French; and afterwards told him, "They were sure he had such + orders, otherwise he could not answer what he had done." But the Duke + still waived the question, saying, "he would be glad to have letters from + England, before he entered upon action, and that he expected them daily." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: For an estimate of Ormonde's character see Swift's "Enquiry + into the Behaviour of the Queen's Last Ministry," vol. v. of present + edition (pp. 428-430). Ormonde had done very little to deserve succeeding + such a soldier as Marlborough. Indeed, his name was associated with the + disgraceful expedition to Cadiz, in which he was in command of the English + troops. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Upon this incident, the ministers and generals of the allies immediately + took the alarm, venting their fury in violent expressions against the + Queen, and those she employed in her councils: said, they were betrayed by + Britain, and assumed the countenance of those who think they have received + an injury, and are disposed to return it. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Ormonde's army consisted of eighteen thousand of Her Majesty's + subjects, and about thirty thousand hired from other princes, either + wholly by the Queen, or jointly by her and the States. The Duke + immediately informed the court of the dispositions he found among the + foreign generals upon this occasion; and that, upon an exigency, he could + only depend on the British troops adhering to him; those of Hanover having + already determined to desert to the Dutch, and tempted the Danes to do the + like, and that he had reason to suppose the same of the rest. + </p> + <p> + Upon the news arriving at Utrecht, that the Duke of Ormonde had refused to + engage in any action against the enemy, the Dutch ministers there went + immediately to make their complaints to the lord privy seal; aggravating + the strangeness of this proceeding, together with the consequence of it, + in the loss of a most favourable opportunity for ruining the French army, + and the discontent it must needs create in the whole body of the + confederates. Adding, how hard it was that they should be kept in the + dark, and have no communication of what was done in a point which so + nearly concerned them. They concluded, that the Duke must needs have acted + by orders; and desired his lordship to write both to court, and to his + grace, what they had now said. + </p> + <p> + The bishop answered, "That he knew nothing of this fact, but what they had + told him; and therefore was not prepared with a reply to their + representations: only, in general, he could venture to say, that this case + appeared very like the conduct of their field-deputies upon former + occasions: That if such orders were given, they were certainly built upon + very justifiable foundations, and would soon be so explained as to + convince the States, and all the world, that the common interest would be + better provided for another way, than by a battle or siege: That the want + of communication which they complained of, could not make the States so + uneasy as their declining to receive it had made the Queen, who had used + her utmost endeavours to persuade them to concur with her in concerting + every step towards a general peace, and settling such a plan as both sides + might approve and adhere to; but, to this day, the States had not thought + fit to accept those offers, or to authorize any of their ministers to + treat with Her Majesty's plenipotentiaries upon that affair, although they + had been pressed to it ever since the negotiation began: That his + lordship, to shew that he did not speak his private sense alone, took this + opportunity to execute the orders he had received the evening before, by + declaring to them, that all Her Majesty's offers for adjusting the + differences between her and the States were founded upon this express + condition, That they should come immediately into the Queen's measures, + and act openly and sincerely with her; and that, from their conduct, so + directly contrary, she now looked upon herself to be under no obligation + to them." + </p> + <p> + Mons. Buys and his colleagues were stunned with this declaration, made to + them at a time when they pretended to think the right of complaining to be + on their side, and had come to the bishop upon that errand. But after + their surprise was abated, and Buys's long reasonings at an end, they + began to think how matters might be retrieved; and were of opinion, that + the States should immediately dispatch a minister to England, unless his + lordship were empowered to treat with them; which, without new commands, + he said he was not. They afterwards desired to know of the bishop, what + the meaning was of the last words in his declaration, "That Her Majesty + looked upon herself to be under no obligation to them." He told them his + opinion, "That as the Queen was bound by treaty to concert with the States + the conditions of a peace, so, upon their declining the concert so + frequently offered, she was acquitted of that obligation: but that he + verily believed, whatever measures Her Majesty should take, she would + always have a friendly regard to the interest of their commonwealth; and + that as their unkindness had been very unexpected and disagreeable to Her + Majesty, so their compliance would be equally pleasing." + </p> + <p> + I have been the more circumstantial in relating this affair, because it + furnished abundance of discourse, and gave rise to many wild conjectures + and misrepresentations, as well here as in Holland, especially that part + which concerned the Duke of Ormonde;[7] for the angry faction in the House + of Commons, upon the first intelligence, that the Duke had declined to act + offensively against France, in concurrence with the allies, moved for an + address, wherein the Queen should be informed of "the deep concern of her + Commons for the dangerous consequences to the common cause, which must + arise from this proceeding of her general; and to beseech her, that speedy + instructions might be given to the Duke to prosecute the war with vigour, + in order to quiet the minds of her people, &c." But a great majority + was against this motion, and a resolution drawn up and presented to the + Queen by the whole House of a quite contrary tenor, "That they had an + entire confidence in Her Majesty's most gracious promise, to communicate + to her Parliament the terms of the peace, before the same should be + concluded; and that they would support Her Majesty, in obtaining an + honourable and safe peace, against all such persons, either at home or + abroad, who have endeavoured, or shall endeavour, to obstruct the same." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: This determination on the part of England to cease + hostilities at this juncture has been most severely criticized. The matter + formed, afterwards, the chief article in the impeachment of Bolingbroke, + and an important article in the impeachment of Oxford. According to the + "Report of the Committee of Secrecy," and the Earl of Oxford's answer to + this charge in his impeachment, it seems as if St. John had instructed + Ormonde so to act, without in any way consulting the council, and + apparently purposely concealing the fact from his colleagues. Mr. Walter + Sichel, however, in a note on p. 380 of his "Bolingbroke and his Times," + clearly traces the order to the desire of the Queen herself, and in his + text lays on the Queen the blame that was visited on the heads of her + ministers. See also note on p. 156. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The courier sent with the alternative to Spain was now returned, with an + account that Philip had chosen to renounce France for himself and his + posterity, whereof the Queen having received notice, Her Majesty, upon the + sixth of June, in a long speech to both Houses of Parliament, laid before + them the terms of a general peace, stipulated between her and France. This + speech, being the plan whereby both France and the allies have been + obliged to proceed in the subsequent course of the treaty, I shall desire + the reader's leave to insert it at length, although I believe it hath been + already in most hands.[7] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: This speech was printed by John Baskett, 1712. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <h3> + "MY LORDS AND GENTLEMEN, + </h3> + <p> + "The making peace and war is the undoubted prerogative of the crown; yet + such is the just confidence I place in you, that at the opening of this + session, I acquainted you that a negotiation for a general peace was + begun; and afterwards, by messages, I promised to communicate to you the + terms of peace, before the same should be concluded. + </p> + <p> + "In pursuance of that promise, I now come to let you know upon what terms + a general peace may be made. + </p> + <p> + "I need not mention the difficulties which arise from the very nature of + this affair; and it is but too apparent, that these difficulties have been + increased by other obstructions, artfully contrived to hinder this great + and good work. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, however, has moved me from steadily pursuing, in the first + place, the true interests of my own kingdoms, and I have not omitted any + thing, which might procure to all our allies what is due to them by + treaties, and what is necessary for their security. + </p> + <p> + "The assuring of the Protestant succession, as by law established in the + House of Hanover, to these kingdoms; being what I have nearest at heart, + particular care is taken not only to have that acknowledged in the + strongest terms, but to have an additional security, by the removal of + that person out of the dominions of France, who has pretended to disturb + this settlement. + </p> + <p> + "The apprehension that Spain and the West Indies might be united to + France, was the chief inducement to begin this war; and the effectual + preventing of such an union, was the principle I laid down at the + commencement of this treaty. Former examples, and the late negotiations, + sufficiently shew how difficult it is to find means to accomplish this + work. I would not content myself with such as are speculative, or depend + on treaties only: I insisted on what was solid, and to have at hand the + power of executing what should be agreed. + </p> + <p> + "I can therefore now tell you, that France at last is brought to offer, + that the Duke of Anjou shall, for himself and his descendants, renounce + for ever all claim to the crown of France; and that this important article + may be exposed to no hazard, the performance is to accompany the promise. + </p> + <p> + "At the same time the succession to the crown of France is to be declared, + after the death of the present dauphin and his sons, to be in the Duke of + Berry and his sons, in the Duke of Orleans and his sons, and so on to the + rest of the House of Bourbon. + </p> + <p> + "As to Spain and the Indies, the succession to those dominions, after the + Duke of Anjou and his children, is to descend to such prince as shall be + agreed upon at the treaty, for ever excluding the rest of the House of + Bourbon. + </p> + <p> + "For confirming the renunciations and settlements before mentioned, it is + further offered, that they should be ratified in the most strong and + solemn manner, both in France and Spain; and that those kingdoms, as well + as all the other powers engaged in the present war, shall be guarantees to + the same. + </p> + <p> + "The nature of this proposal is such, that it executes itself: the + interest of Spain is to support it; and in France, the persons to whom + that succession is to belong, will be ready and powerful enough to + vindicate their own right. + </p> + <p> + "France and Spain are now more effectually divided than ever. And thus, by + the blessing of God, will a real balance of power be fixed in Europe, and + remain liable to as few accidents as human affairs can be exempted from. + </p> + <p> + "A treaty of commerce between these kingdoms and France has been entered + upon; but the excessive duties laid on some goods, and the prohibitions of + others, make it impossible to finish this work so soon as were to be + desired. Care is however taken to establish a method of settling this + matter; and in the mean time provision is made, that the same privileges + and advantages, as shall be granted to any other nation by France, shall + be granted in like manner to us. + </p> + <p> + "The division of the Island of St. Christopher, between us and the French, + having been the cause of great inconveniency and damage to my subjects, I + have demanded to have an absolute cession made to me of that whole island, + and France agrees to this demand. + </p> + <p> + "Our interest is so deeply concerned in the trade of North America, that I + have used my utmost endeavours to adjust that article in the most + beneficial manner. France consents to restore to us the whole Bay and + Straits of Hudson, to deliver up the Island of Newfoundland, with + Placentia; and to make an absolute cession of Annapolis, with the rest of + Nova Scotia, or Acadie. + </p> + <p> + "The safety of our home trade will be better provided for, by the + demolition of Dunkirk. + </p> + <p> + "Our Mediterranean trade, and the British interest and influence in those + parts, will be secured by the possession of Gibraltar and Port Mahon, with + the whole island of Minorca, which are offered to remain in my hands. + </p> + <p> + "The trade to Spain and to the West Indies may in general be settled, as + it was in the time of the late King of Spain, Charles the Second; and a + particular provision be made, that all advantages, rights, or privileges, + which have been granted, or which may hereafter be granted, by Spain to + any other nation, shall be in like manner granted to the subjects of Great + Britain. + </p> + <p> + "But the part which we have borne in the prosecution of this war, + entitling us to some distinction in the terms of peace, I have insisted, + and obtained, that the Assiento, or contract for furnishing the Spanish + West Indies with negroes, shall be made with us for the term of thirty + years, in the same manner as it has been enjoyed by the French for ten + years past. + </p> + <p> + "I have not taken upon me to determine the interests of our confederates; + these must be adjusted in the congress at Utrecht, where my best + endeavours shall be employed, as they have hitherto constantly been, to + procure to every one of them all just and reasonable satisfaction. In the + mean time, I think it proper to acquaint you, that France offers to make + the Rhine the barrier of the empire; to yield Brissac, the fort of Kehl, + and Landau, and to raze all the fortresses, both on the other side of the + Rhine, and in that river. + </p> + <p> + "As to the Protestant interest in Germany, there will be on the part of + France no objection to the resettling thereof, on the foot of the treaty + of Westphalia. + </p> + <p> + "The Spanish Low Countries may go to his Imperial Majesty: the kingdoms of + Naples and Sardinia, the duchy of Milan, and the places belonging to Spain + on the coast of Tuscany, may likewise be yielded by the treaty of peace to + the Emperor. + </p> + <p> + "As to the kingdom of Sicily, though there remains no dispute concerning + the cession of it by the Duke of Anjou, yet the disposition thereof is not + yet determined. + </p> + <p> + "The interests of the States General, with respect to commerce, are agreed + to, as they have been demanded by their own ministers, with the exception + only of some very few species of merchandise; and the entire barrier, as + demanded by the States in one thousand seven hundred and nine from France, + except two or three places at most. + </p> + <p> + "As to these exceptions, several expedients are proposed; and I make no + doubt but this barrier may be so settled, as to render that republic + perfectly secure against any enterprise on the part of France; which is + the foundation of all my engagements upon this head with the States. + </p> + <p> + "The demands of Portugal depending on the disposition of Spain, and that + article having been long in dispute, it has not been yet possible to make + any considerable progress therein; but my plenipotentiaries will now have + an opportunity to assist that king in his pretensions. + </p> + <p> + "Those of the King of Prussia are such as, I hope, will admit of little + difficulty on the part of France; and my utmost endeavours shall not be + wanting to procure all I am able to so good an ally. + </p> + <p> + "The difference between the barrier demanded for the Duke of Savoy in one + thousand seven hundred and nine, and the offers now made by France, is + very inconsiderable: but that prince having so signally distinguished + himself in the service of the common cause, I am endeavouring to procure + for him still farther advantages. + </p> + <p> + "France has consented, that the Elector Palatine shall continue his + present rank among the electors, and remain in possession of the Upper + Palatinate. + </p> + <p> + "The electoral dignity is likewise acknowledged in the House of Hanover, + according to the article inserted at that prince's desire in my demands. + </p> + <p> + "And as to the rest of the allies, I make no doubt of being able to secure + their several interests. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + "MY LORDS AND GENTLEMEN, + </h3> + <p> + "I have now communicated to you, not only the terms of peace, which may, + by the future treaty, be obtained for my own subjects; but likewise the + proposals of France, for satisfying our allies. + </p> + <p> + "The former are such as I have reason to expect, to make my people some + amends for that great and unequal burden which they have lain under, + through the whole course of this war; and I am willing to hope, that none + of our confederates, and especially those to whom so great accessions of + dominion and power are to accrue by this peace, will envy Britain her + share in the glory and advantage of it. + </p> + <p> + "The latter are not yet so perfectly adjusted, as a little more time might + have rendered them; but the season of the year making it necessary to put + an end to this session, I resolved no longer to defer communicating these + matters to you. + </p> + <p> + "I can make no doubt but you are all fully persuaded, that nothing will be + neglected on my part, in the progress of this negotiation, to bring the + peace to an happy and speedy issue; and I depend on your entire confidence + in me, and your cheerful concurrence with me." + </p> + <p> + The discontented party in the House of Commons, finding the torrent + against them not to be stemmed, suspended their opposition; by which means + an address was voted, <i>nemine contradicente</i>, to acknowledge Her + Majesty's condescension, to express their satisfaction in what she had + already done, and to desire she would please to proceed with the present + negotiations for obtaining a speedy peace. + </p> + <p> + During these transactions at home, the Duke of Ormonde[8] was in a very + uneasy situation at the army, employed in practising those arts which + perhaps are fitter for a subtle negotiator than a great commander.[9] But + as he had always proved his obedience, where courage or conduct could be + of use; so the duty he professed to his prince, made him submit to + continue in a state of inactivity at the head of his troops, however + contrary to his nature, if it were for Her Majesty's service. He had sent + early notice to the ministers, that he could not depend upon the foreign + forces in the Queen's pay, and he now found some attempts were already + begun to seduce them. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: James Butler, Duke of Ormonde, succeeded his grandfather in + that title in July, 1688, was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1703, and + again in 1710. He succeeded the Duke of Marlborough as captain general, + and had the first regiment of Guards. Bishop Burnet says, "he had the same + allowances that had been lately voted criminal in the Duke of + Marlborough." ("History," vol. ii., p. 602). [N.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: Bolingbroke had written a letter to Ormonde (dated May 10th, + 1712) in which he informed the commander-in-chief that it was the "Queen's + positive command to your Grace, that you avoid engaging in any siege or + hazarding a battle till you have farther orders from Her Majesty." How to + do this with dignity was not an easy matter. The continuation of this + letter from Bolingbroke suggested the spirit, though it left to Ormonde + the details of his procedure in so delicate a situation: "I am, at the + same time, directed to let your Grace know that the Queen would have you + disguise the receipt of this order; and her Majesty thinks that you cannot + want pretences for conducting yourself so as to answer her ends, without + owning that which might at present have an ill effect if it was publicly + known." (Bolingbroke, "Correspondence," ii. 320). This is what Swift means + by being: "employed in practicing those arts which perhaps are fitter for + a subtle negotiator than a great commander." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + While the courier was expected from Madrid, the Duke had orders to inform + the Maréchal de Villars of the true state of this affair; and that his + grace would have decisive orders in three or four days. In the mean time, + he desired the marechal would not oblige him to come to any action, either + to defend himself, or to join with Prince Eugene's army; which he must + necessarily do, if the prince were attacked. + </p> + <p> + When the courier was arrived with the account, that Philip had chosen to + accept of Spain, Her Majesty had proposed to France a suspension of arms + for two months (to be prolonged to three or four), between the armies now + in Flanders, upon the following conditions: + </p> + <p> + "That, during the suspension, endeavours should be used for concluding a + general peace; or, at least, the article for preventing the union of + France and Spain, should be punctually executed by Philip's renouncing + France, for himself and his posterity; and the princes of Bourbon, in like + manner, renouncing Spain: and that the town, citadel, and forts of + Dunkirk, should be immediately delivered into the Queen's hands." Her + Majesty at the same time endeavoured to get Cambray for the Dutch, + provided they would come into the suspension. But this was absolutely + rejected by France; which that court would never have ventured to do, if + those allies could have been prevailed on to have acted with sincerity and + openness in concert with Her Majesty, as her plenipotentiaries had always + desired. However, the Queen promised, that, if the States would yield to a + suspension of arms, they should have some valuable pledge put into their + possession. + </p> + <p> + But now fresh intelligence daily arrived, both from Utrecht and the army, + of attempts to make the troops in Her Majesty's pay desert her service; + and a design even of seizing the British forces, was whispered about, and + with reason suspected. + </p> + <p> + When the Queen's speech was published in Holland, the lord privy seal told + the Dutch ministers at Utrecht, "That what Her Majesty had laid before her + Parliament could not, according to the rules of treaty, be looked on as + the utmost of what France would yield in the course of a negotiation; but + only the utmost of what that crown would propose, in order to form the + plan of a peace: That these conditions would certainly have been better, + if the States had thought fit to have gone hand in hand with Her Majesty, + as she had so frequently exhorted them to do: That nothing but the want of + harmony among the allies had spirited the French to stand out so long: + That the Queen would do them all the good offices in her power, if they + thought fit to comply; and did not doubt of getting them reasonable + satisfaction, both in relation to their barrier and their trade." But this + reasoning made no impression: the Dutch ministers said, the Queen's speech + had deprived them of the fruits of the war. They were in pain, lest Lille + and Tournay might be two of the towns to be excepted out of their barrier. + The rest of the allies grew angry, by the example of the Dutch. The + populace in Holland began to be inflamed: they publicly talked, that + Britain had betrayed them. Sermons were preached in several towns of their + provinces, whether by direction or connivance, filled with the highest + instances of disrespect to Her Britannic Majesty, whom they charged as a + papist, and an enemy to their country. The lord privy seal himself + believed something extraordinary was in agitation, and that his own person + was in danger from the fury of the people. + </p> + <p> + It is certain, that the States appeared but a few days before very much + disposed to comply with the measures the Queen had taken, and would have + consented to a general armistice, if Count Zinzendorf, one of the + plenipotentiaries for the Emperor, had not, by direct orders from his + court, employed himself in sowing jealousies between Britain and the + States; and at the same time made prodigious offers to the latter, as well + as to the ministers of Prussia, the Palatinate, and Hanover, for + continuing the war. That those three electors, who contributed nothing, + except bodies of men in return of pay and subsidies, should readily accept + the proposals of the Emperor, is easy to be accounted for. What appears + hardly credible is, that a grave republic, usually cautious enough in + making their bargains, should venture to reject the thoughts of a peace + upon the promises of the House of Austria, the little validity whereof + they had so long experienced; and especially when they counted upon losing + the support of Britain, their most powerful ally; but the false hopes + given them by their friends in England of some new change in their favour, + or an imagination of bringing France to better terms by the appearance of + resolution, added to the weakness or corruption of some, who administered + their affairs, were the true causes which first created, and afterwards + inflamed, this untractable temper among them. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch ministers were wholly disconcerted and surprised, when the lord + privy seal told them, "That a suspension of arms in the Netherlands would + be necessary; and that the Duke of Ormonde intended very soon to declare + it after he had taken possession of Dunkirk." But his lordship endeavoured + to convince them, that this incident ought rather to be a motive for + hastening the States into a compliance with Her Majesty. He likewise + communicated to the ministers of the allies the offers made by France, as + delivered in the speech from the throne, which Her Majesty thought to be + satisfactory, and hoped their masters would concur with her in bringing + the peace to a speedy conclusion, wherein each, in particular, might be + assured of her best offices for advancing their just pretensions. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time the Duke of Ormonde was directed to send a body of troops + to take possession of Dunkirk, as soon as he should have notice from the + Maréchal de Villars, that the commandant of the town had received orders + from his court to deliver it; but the Duke foresaw many difficulties in + the executing of this commission. He could trust such an enterprise to no + forces, except those of Her Majesty's own subjects. He considered the + temper of the States in this conjuncture, and was loth to divide a small + body of men, upon whose faithfulness alone he could depend. He thought it + not prudent to expose them to march through the enemy's country, with whom + there was yet neither peace nor truce; and he had sufficient reasons to + apprehend, that the Dutch would either not permit such a detachment to + pass through their towns (as themselves had more than hinted to him) or + would seize them as they passed: besides, the Duke had very fairly + signified to Maréchal de Villars, that he expected to be deserted by all + the foreign troops in Her Majesty's pay, as soon as the armistice should + be declared; at which the maréchal appearing extremely disappointed, said, + "The King his master reckoned, that all the troops under his grace's + command should yield to the cessation; and wondered how it should come to + pass, that those who might be paid for lying still, would rather choose, + after a ten years' war, to enter into the service of new masters, under + whom they must fight on for nothing." In short, the opinion of Mons. + Villars was, that this difficulty cancelled the promise of surrendering + Dunkirk; which therefore he opposed as much as possible, in the letters he + writ to his court. + </p> + <p> + Upon the Duke of Ormonde's representing those difficulties, the Queen + altered her measures, and ordered forces to be sent from England to take + possession of Dunkirk. The Duke was likewise commanded to tell the foreign + generals in Her Majesty's service, how highly she would resent their + desertion; after which, their masters must give up all thoughts of any + arrears, either of pay or subsidy. The lord privy seal spoke the same + language at Utrecht, to the several ministers of the allies; as Mr. + Secretary St. John did to those who resided here; adding, "That the + proceeding of the foreign troops would be looked upon as a declaration for + or against Her Majesty: and that, in case they desert her service, she + would look on herself as justified, before God and man, to continue her + negotiation at Utrecht, or any other place, whether the allies concur or + not." And particularly the Dutch were assured, "That if their masters + seduced the forces hired by the Queen, they must take the whole pay, + arrears, and subsidies on themselves."[10] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 10: Compare this language of Bishop Robinson with the letter + Bolingbroke had previously written to Thomas Harley (letter of May 17, + 1712): "On the report which my Lord Strafford, who arrived here the day + before yesterday, has made by word of mouth, as well as upon the contents + of the latter dispatches from Utrecht, her Majesty is fully determined to + let all negotiations sleep in Holland; since they have neither sense, nor + gratitude, nor spirit enough to make a suitable return to the offers + lately sent by the Queen, and communicated by the plenipotentiaries, her + Majesty will look on herself as under no obligation towards them, but + proceed to make the peace either with or without them." + </p> + <p> + When the States-General addressed a complaint to the Queen of the manner + in which England was deserting them, Bolingbroke had their letter formally + condemned by a resolution of the House of Commons. He was determined to + bring this peace about, and the Dutch might "kick and flounce like wild + beasts caught in a toil; yet the cords are too strong for them to break." + (Report from the Committee of Secrecy.) [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Strafford, preparing about this time to return to Utrecht, + with instructions proper to the present situation of affairs, went first + to the army, and there informed the Duke of Ormonde of Her Majesty's + intentions. He also acquainted the States deputies with the Queen's + uneasiness, lest, by the measures they were taking, they should drive her + to extremities, which she desired so much to avoid. He farther represented + to them, in the plainest terms, the provocations Her Majesty had received, + and the grounds and reasons for her present conduct. He likewise declared + to the commanders in chief of the foreign troops, in the Queen's pay, and + in the joint pay of Britain and the States, with how much surprise Her + Majesty had heard, "That there was the least doubt of their obeying the + orders of the Duke of Ormonde; which if they refused, Her Majesty would + esteem it not only as an indignity and affront, but as a declaration + against her; and, in such a case, they must look on themselves as no + farther entitled either to any arrear, or future pay or subsidies." + </p> + <p> + Six regiments, under the command of Mr. Hill,[11] were now preparing to + embark, in order to take possession of Dunkirk; and the Duke of Ormonde, + upon the first intelligence sent him, that the French were ready to + deliver the town, was to declare he could act no longer against France. + The Queen gave notice immediately of her proceedings to the States. She + let them plainly know, "That their perpetual caballing with her factious + subjects, against her authority, had forced her into such measures, as + otherwise she would not have engaged in. However, Her Majesty was willing + yet to forget all that had passed, and to unite with them in the strictest + ties of amity, which she hoped they would now do; since they could not but + be convinced, by the late dutiful addresses of both Houses, how far their + High Mightinesses had been deluded, and drawn in as instruments to serve + the turn, and gratify the passions, of a disaffected party: That their + opposition, and want of concert with Her Majesty's ministers, which she + had so often invited them to, had encouraged France to except towns out of + their barrier, which otherwise might have been yielded: That, however, she + had not precluded them, or any other ally, from demanding more; and even + her own terms were but conditional, upon supposition of a general peace to + ensue: That Her Majesty resolved to act upon the plan laid down in her + speech;" and she repeated the promise of her best offices to promote the + interest of the States, if they would deal sincerely with her. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 11: John Hill, brother to Mrs. Masham. It is not difficult to + guess at the reason for this appointment. Here was a chance for Jack Hill + to achieve some glory and wipe away the disgrace of the ill-starred Quebec + expedition. As there was also no danger attached to the enterprise, all + the more likely that he would succeed. Hill sailed with Admiral Sir John + Leake and took peaceable possession of the town and forts. For this he was + appointed Governor of Dunkirk, and while there he sent Swift a gold + snuff-box as a present, "the finest that ever you saw," as Swift wrote to + Stella: See also vol. v., p. 80, of this edition. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Some days before the Duke of Ormonde had notice, that orders were given + for the surrender of Dunkirk, Prince Eugene of Savoy sent for the generals + of the allies, and asked them severally, whether, in case the armies + separated, they would march with him, or stay with the Duke? All of them, + except two, who commanded but small bodies, agreed to join with the + prince; who thereupon, about three days after, sent the Duke word, that he + intended to march the following day (as it was supposed) to besiege + Landrecies. The Duke returned an answer, "That he was surprised at the + prince's message, there having been not the least previous concert with + him, nor any mention in the message, which way, or upon what design, the + march was intended: therefore, that the Duke could not resolve to march + with him; much less could the prince expect assistance from the Queen's + army, in any design undertaken after this manner." The Duke told this + beforehand, that he (the prince) might take his measures accordingly, and + not attribute to Her Majesty's general any misfortune that might happen. + </p> + <p> + On the sixteenth of July, N.S. the several generals of the allies joined + Prince Eugene's army, and began their march, after taking leave of the + Duke and the Earl of Strafford, whose expostulations could not prevail on + them to stay; although the latter assured them, that the Queen had made + neither peace nor truce with France, and that her forces would now be left + exposed to the enemy. + </p> + <p> + The next day after this famous desertion, the Duke of Ormonde received a + letter from Mons. de Villars, with an account, that the town and citadel + of Dunkirk should be delivered to Mr. Hill. Whereupon a cessation of arms + was declared, by sound of trumpet, at the head of the British army; which + now consisted only of about eighteen thousand men, all of Her Majesty's + subjects, except the Holsteiners, and Count Wallis's dragoons.[12] With + this small body of men the general began his march; and, pursuant to + orders from court, retired towards the sea, in the manner he thought most + convenient for the Queen's service. When he came as far as Flines, he was + told by some of his officers, that the commandants of Bouchain, Douay, + Lille, and Tournay, had refused them passage through those towns, or even + liberty of entrance, and said it was by order of their masters.[13] The + Duke immediately recollected, that when the deputies first heard of his + resolution to withdraw his troops, they told him, they hoped he did not + intend to march through any of their towns. This made him conclude, that + the orders must be general, and that his army would certainly meet with + the same treatment which his officers had done. He had likewise, before + the armies separated, received information of some designs that concerned + the safety, or at least the freedom of his own person, and (which he much + more valued) that of those few British troops entrusted to his care. No + general was ever more truly or deservedly beloved by his soldiers, who, to + a man, were prepared to sacrifice their lives in his service; and whose + resentments were raised to the utmost, by the ingratitude, as they termed + it, of their deserters. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 12: Barner, who commanded the troops of Holstein, being two + battalions and eight squadrons, and Walef or Waless, who commanded the + dragoons of Liège, both followed Ormonde. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 13: At Bouchain, the British officers were told at the gates, + that the commandant had positive orders to let no Englishman into the + town; and at Douay, where the English had large stores and magazines, the + same thing happened with considerable aggravation. Indeed, it was with + difficulty and precaution that the commandant of the latter town would + permit the body of an English colonel to be interred there. The same + difficulties occurred at Tournay, Oudenarde, and Lille; and the Duke of + Ormonde having sent an officer express to England on the 17th, he was + stopped and interrupted at Haspre, misguided at Courtray, and refused + admission at Bruges. (See "The Conduct of his Grace the Duke of Ormonde, + in the Campagne of 1712," 1715, pp. 46-50.) [S.]] + </p> + <p> + Upon these provocations, he laid aside all thoughts of returning to + Dunkirk, and began to consider how he might perform, in so difficult a + conjuncture, something important to the Queen, and at the same time find a + secure retreat for his forces. He formed his plan without communicating it + to any person whatsoever; and the disposition of the army being to march + towards Warneton, in the way to Dunkirk, he gave sudden orders to + Lieutenant-General Cadogan to change his route, according to the military + phrase, and move towards Orchies, a town leading directly to Ghent. + </p> + <p> + When Prince Eugene and the States deputies received news of the Duke's + motions, they were alarmed to the utmost degree, and sent Count Nassau, of + Woudenbourg, to the general's camp near Orchies, to excuse what had been + done, and to assure his grace, that those commandants, who had refused + passage to his officers, had acted wholly without orders. Count Hompesch, + one of the Dutch generals, came likewise to the Duke with the same story; + but all this made little impression on the general, who held on his march, + and on the twenty-third of July, N.S., entered Ghent, where he was + received with great submission by the inhabitants, and took possession of + the town, as he likewise did of Bruges, a few days after. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Ormonde thought, that considering the present disposition of + the States towards Britain, it might be necessary for the Queen to have + some pledge from that republic in her hands, as well as from France, by + which means Her Majesty would be empowered to act the part that best + became her, of being mediator at least; and that while Ghent was in the + Queen's hands, no provisions could pass the Scheldt or the Lys without her + permission, by which he had it in his power to starve their army. The + possession of these towns might likewise teach the Dutch and Imperialists, + to preserve a degree of decency and civility to Her Majesty, which both of + them were upon some occasions too apt to forget: and besides, there was + already in the town of Ghent, a battalion of British troops and a + detachment of five hundred men in the citadel, together with a great + quantity of ammunition stores for the service of the war, which would + certainly have been seized or embezzled; so that no service could be more + seasonable or useful in the present juncture than this, which the Queen + highly approved, and left the Duke a discretionary power to act as he + thought fit on any future emergency. + </p> + <p> + I have a little interrupted the order of time, in relating the Duke of + Ormonde's proceedings, who, after having placed a garrison at Bruges, and + sent a supply of men and ammunition to Dunkirk, retired to Ghent, where he + continued some months, till he had leave to return to England. + </p> + <p> + Upon the arrival of Colonel Disney[14] at court, with an account that Mr. + Hill had taken possession of Dunkirk, an universal joy spread over the + kingdom, this event being looked on as the certain forerunner of a peace: + besides, the French faith was in so ill a reputation among us, that many + persons, otherwise sanguine enough, could never bring themselves to + believe, that the town would be delivered, till certain intelligence came + that it was actually in our hands. Neither were the ministers themselves + altogether at ease, or free from suspicion, whatever countenance they + made; for they knew very well, that the French King had many plausible + reasons to elude his promise, if he found cause to repent it. One + condition of surrendering Dunkirk, being a general armistice of all the + troops in the British pay, which Her Majesty was not able to perform; and + upon this failure, the Maréchal de Villars (as we have before related) + endeavoured to dissuade his court from accepting the conditions: and in + the very interval, while those difficulties were adjusting, the Maréchal + d'Uxelles, one of the French plenipotentiaries at Utrecht (whose + inclinations, as well as those of his colleague Mons. Mesnager, led him to + favour the States more than Britain) assured the lord privy seal, that the + Dutch were then pressing to enter into separate measures with his master: + and his lordship, in a visit to the Abbé de Polignac, observing a person + to withdraw as he entered the abbé's chamber, was told by this minister, + that the person he saw was one Molo, of Amsterdam, mentioned before, a + famous agent for the States with France, who had been entertaining him + (the abbé) upon the same subject, but that he had refused to treat with + Molo, without the privity of England. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 14: Colonel Disney or Desnée, called "Duke" Disney, was one of + the members of the Brothers Club, a boon companion of Bolingbroke, and, as + Swift says, "not an old man, but an old rake." From various sources we + gather that he was a high liver, and not very nice in his ways of high + living. In spite, however, of his undoubted profligacy, he must have been + a man of good nature and a kindly heart, since he received affectionate + record from Gay, Pope, and Swift. Mr. Walter Sichel quotes from "an + unfinished sketch of a larger poem," by Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, in + which Disney's worst characteristics are held up to ridicule. + ("Bolingbroke and his Times," pp. 288-290). Swift often refers to him in + his "Journal." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harley, whom we mentioned above to have been sent early in the spring + to Utrecht, continued longer in Holland than was at first expected; but + having received Her Majesty's farther instructions, was about this time + arrived at Hanover. It was the misfortune of his Electoral Highness, to be + very ill served by Mons. Bothmar, his envoy here, who assisted at all the + factious meetings of the discontented party, and deceived his master by a + false representation of the kingdom, drawn from the opinion of those to + whom he confined his conversation. There was likewise at the Elector's + court a little Frenchman, without any merit or consequence, called + Robethon,[15] who, by the assistance and encouragement of the last + ministry, had insinuated himself into some degree of that prince's favour, + which he used in giving his master the worst impressions he was able, of + those whom the Queen employed in her service; insinuating, that the + present ministers were not in the interest of his Highness's family; that + their views were towards the Pretender; that they were making an unsecure + and dishonourable peace; that the weight of the nation was against them; + and that it was impossible for them to preserve much longer their credit + or power. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 15: One of the Elector's privy councillors. See note, vol. v., + p. 468. "As little a fellow as Robethon is," wrote Bolingbroke to Thomas + Harley, "I have reason to believe that most of the ill impressions which + have been given at that court have chiefly come from him; and as I know + him to be mercenary, I doubt not but he has found his account in this his + management." (Bol., "Correspondence," vol. ii., p. 385). [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl Rivers had, in the foregoing year, been sent to Hanover, in order + to undeceive the Elector, and remove whatever prejudices might be infused + into his Highness against Her Majesty's proceedings; but it should seem + that he had no very great success in his negotiation: for soon after his + return to England, Mons. Bothmar's "Memorial" appeared in the manner I + have already related, which discovered the sentiments of his electoral + Highness (if they were truly represented in that "Memorial") to differ not + a little from those of the Queen. Mr. Harley was therefore directed to + take the first opportunity of speaking to the Elector in private, to + assure him, "That although Her Majesty had thought herself justly provoked + by the conduct of his minister, yet such was her affection for his + Highness, and concern for the interests of his family, that instead of + showing the least mark of resentment, she had chosen to send him (Mr. + Harley) fully instructed to open her designs, and shew his Highness the + real interest of Britain in the present conjuncture." Mr. Harley was to + give the Elector a true account of what had passed in England, during the + first part of this session of Parliament; to expose to his Highness the + weakness of those with whom his minister had consulted, and under whose + directions he had acted; to convince him how much lower that faction must + become, when a peace should be concluded, and when the natural strength of + the kingdom, disencumbered from the burthen of the war, should be at + liberty to exert itself; to shew him how his interest in the succession + was sacrificed to that of a party: that his Highness had been hitherto a + friend to both sides, but that the measures taken by his ministers, had + tended only to set him at the head of one in opposition to the other: to + explain to the Elector, how fully the safety of Europe was provided for by + the plan of peace in Her Majesty's speech; and how little reason those + would appear to have, who complained the loudest of this plan, if it were + compared either with our engagements to them when we began the war, or + with their performances in the course of it. + </p> + <p> + Upon this occasion Mr, Harley was to observe to the Elector, "That it + should rather be wondered at, how the Queen had brought France to offer so + much, than yet to offer no more; because, as soon as ever it appeared, + that Her Majesty would be at the head of this treaty, and that the + interests of Britain were to be provided for, such endeavours were used to + break off the negotiation, as are hardly to be paralleled; and the + disunion thereby created among the allies, had given more opportunities to + the enemy, of being slow in their concessions, than any other measures + might possibly have done: That this want of concert among the allies, + could not in any sort be imputed to the Queen, who had all along invited + them to it with the greatest earnestness, as the surest means to bring + France to reason: That she had always, in a particular manner, pressed the + States General to come into the strictest union with her, and opened to + them her intentions with the greatest freedom; but finding, that instead + of concurring with Her Majesty, they were daily carrying on intrigues to + break off the negotiation, and thereby deprive her of the advantages she + might justly expect from the ensuing peace, having no other way left, she + was forced to act with France as she did, by herself: That, however, the + Queen had not taken upon herself to determine the interests of the allies, + who were at liberty of insisting on farther pretensions, wherein Her + Majesty would not be wanting to support them as far as she was able, and + improve the concessions already made by France; in which case, a good + understanding and harmony among the confederates, would yet be of the + greatest use for making the enemy more tractable and easy." + </p> + <p> + I have been more particular in reciting the substance of Mr. Harley's + instructions, because it will serve as a recapitulation of what I have + already said upon this subject, and seems to set Her Majesty's intentions, + and proceedings at this time, in the clearest light. + </p> + <p> + After the cessation of arms declared by the Duke of Ormonde, upon the + delivery of Dunkirk, the British plenipotentiaries very earnestly pressed + those of Holland to come into a general armistice; for if the whole + confederacy acted in conjunction, this would certainly be the best means + for bringing the common enemy to reasonable terms of peace: but the + States, deluded by the boundless promises of Count Zinzendorf, and the + undertaking talent of Prince Eugene, who dreaded the conclusion of the + war, as the period of his glory, would not hear of a cessation. The loss + of eighteen thousand Britons was not a diminution of weight in the balance + of such an ally as the Emperor, and such a general as the Prince. Besides, + they looked upon themselves to be still superior to France in the field; + and although their computation was certainly right in point of number, + yet, in my opinion, the conclusion drawn from it, was grounded upon a + great mistake. I have been assured by several persons of our own country, + and some foreigners of the first rank, both for skill and station in arms, + that in most victories obtained in the present war, the British troops + were ever employed in the post of danger and honour, and usually began the + attack (being allowed to be naturally more fearless than the people of any + other country), by which they were not only an example of courage to the + rest, but must be acknowledged, without partiality, to have governed the + fortune of the day; since it is known enough, how small a part of an army + is generally engaged in any battle. It may likewise be added, that nothing + is of greater moment in war than opinion. The French, by their frequent + losses, which they chiefly attributed to the courage of our men, believed + that a British general, at the head of British troops, was not to be + overcome; and the Maréchal de Villars was quickly sensible of the + advantage he had got; for, in a very few days after the desertion of the + allies, happened the Earl of Albemarle's disgrace at Denain, by a feint of + the Maréchal's, and a manifest failure somewhere or other, both of courage + and conduct on the side of the confederates. The blame of which was + equally shared between Prince Eugene and the Earl; although it is certain, + the Duke of Ormonde gave the latter timely warning of his danger, + observing he was neither intrenched as he ought, nor provided with bridges + sufficient for the situation he was in, and at such a distance from the + main army.[16] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 16: It is alleged by the continuator of Rapin, that the surprise + and defeat of the confederated troops under the Earl of Albemarle, at + Denain, was, in a great measure, owing to the Duke of Ormonde having, in + spite of all remonstrance, reclaimed and carried off certain pontoons + which had been lent to the allies. For Prince Eugene having received + intelligence of the design against Albemarle, marched to his succour; but + the bridge having broken under the quantity of the baggage which had been + transported across the Scheldt, he could only remain the spectator of + their misfortune. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Marquis de Torcy had likewise the same sentiments, of what mighty + consequence those few British battalions were to the confederate army; + since he advised his master to deliver up Dunkirk, although the Queen + could not perform the condition understood, which was a cessation of arms + of all the foreign forces in her pay. + </p> + <p> + It must be owned, that Mons. de Torcy made great merit of this confidence + that his master placed in the Queen; and observing Her Majesty's + displeasure against the Dutch, on account of their late proceedings, + endeavoured to inflame it with aggravations enough; insinuating, "That, + since the States had acted so ungratefully, the Queen should let her + forces join with those of France, in order to compel the confederates to a + peace." But although this overture were very tenderly hinted from the + French court, Her Majesty heard it with the utmost abhorrence; and ordered + her secretary, Mr. St. John (created about this time Viscount + Bolingbroke),[17] to tell Mons. de Torcy, "That no provocations whatever + should tempt her to distress her allies; but she would endeavour to bring + them to reason by fair means, or leave them to their own conduct: That if + the former should be found impracticable, she would then make her own + peace, and content herself with doing the office of a mediator between + both parties: but if the States should at any time come to a better mind, + and suffer their ministers to act in conjunction with hers, she would + assert their just interests to the utmost, and make no farther progress in + any treaty with France, until those allies received all reasonable + satisfaction, both as to their barrier and their trade." The British + plenipotentiaries were directed to give the same assurances to the Dutch + ministers at Utrecht, and withal to let them know, "That the Queen was + determined, by their late conduct, to make peace either with or without + them; but would much rather choose the former." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 17: Bolingbroke had understood that he would not lose rank on + his promotion, from which he concluded that the earldom of Bolingbroke, + extinct in his family, would be revived in his favour. His indignation, + however, was very keen when he was created only a Viscount. He wrote to + Strafford at Utrecht, that his promotion had been a mortification to him. + "In the House of Commons," he said, "I may say that I was at the head of + business. ... There was, therefore, nothing to flatter my ambition in + removing me from thence, but giving me the title which had been many years + in my family, and which reverted to the Crown about a year ago, by the + death of the last of the elder house. ... I own to you that I felt more + indignation than ever in my life I had done." (Letter to the Earl of + Strafford, July 23, 1712). [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + There was, however, one advantage which Her Majesty resolved to make by + this defection of her foreigners. She had been led, by the mistaken + politics of some years past, to involve herself in several guaranties with + the princes of the north, which were, in some sort, contradictory to one + another; but this conduct of theirs wholly annulled all such engagements, + and left her at liberty to interpose in the affairs of those parts of + Europe, in such a manner as would best serve the interests of her own + kingdoms, as well as that of the Protestant religion, and settle a due + balance of power in the north. + </p> + <p> + The grand article for preventing the union of France and Spain, was to be + executed during a cessation of arms. But many difficulties arising about + that, and some other points of great importance to the common cause, which + could not easily be adjusted either between the French and British + plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, or by correspondence between Mons. de Torcy + and the ministry here; the Queen took the resolution of sending the Lord + Viscount Bolingbroke immediately to France, fully instructed in all her + intentions, and authorized to negotiate every thing necessary for settling + the treaty of peace in such a course, as might bring it to a happy and + speedy conclusion. He was empowered to agree to a general suspension of + arms, by sea and land, between Great Britain, France and Spain, to + continue for four months, or until the conclusion of the peace; provided + France and Spain would previously give positive assurances to make good + the terms demanded by Her Majesty for the Duke of Savoy, and would + likewise adjust and determine the forms of the several renunciations to be + made by both those crowns, in order to prevent their being ever united. + The Lord Bolingbroke was likewise authorized to settle some differences + relating to the Elector of Bavaria, for whose interests France was as much + concerned as Her Majesty was for those of the Duke of Savoy; to explain + all doubtful articles which particularly related to the advantages of + Britain; to know the real <i>ultimatum</i>, as it is termed, of France + upon the general plan of peace; and lastly, to cut off all hopes from that + court of ever bringing the Queen to force her allies to a disadvantageous + peace; Her Majesty resolving to impose no scheme at all upon them, or to + debar them from the liberty of endeavouring to obtain the best conditions + they could. + </p> + <p> + The Lord Bolingbroke went to France in the beginning of August,[18] was + received at court with particular marks of distinction and respect; and in + a very few days, by his usual address and ability, performed every part of + his commission, extremely to the Queen's content and his own honour. He + returned to England before the end of the month; but Mr. Prior, who went + along with him, was left behind, to adjust whatever differences might + remain or arise between the two crowns.[19] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 18: "Lord Bolingbroke and Prior set out for France last + Saturday. My lord's business is to hasten the peace before the Dutch are + too much mauled, and hinder France from carrying the jest of beating them + too far." ("Journal to Stella," August 7th, 1712. See vol. ii., p. 381 of + present edition). The result of Bolingbroke's visit was the signing, on + August 19th, of an agreement for the suspension of arms for four months. + Torcy's reception of Bolingbroke was so managed that the <i>bon vivant</i> + peer had as pleasant a time as he could well have wished. How much + influence that had on Bolingbroke we can only speculate; but it is certain + that he would have made a separate peace with France, after his return, + had Oxford been willing. See Torcy's "Mémoires" (vol. ii., p. 202). + "Bolingbroke avoit conseillé à la Reine sa maîtresse de préférer une paix + particulière à la suspension d'armes, et d'assurer au plus tôt à ses + sujets la jouissance de toutes les conditions dont le Roi étoit convenu en + faveur de l'Angleterre." [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 19: There is a long letter from Lord Bolingbroke to Mr. Prior, + on the subject of this negotiation, printed in Scott's edition of Swift, + vol. xv., pp. 524-529. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + In the mean time the general conferences at Utrecht, which for several + weeks had been let fall, since the delivery of Dunkirk, were now resumed. + But the Dutch still declaring against a suspension of arms, and refusing + to accept the Queen's speech as a plan to negotiate upon, there was no + progress made for some time in the great work of the peace. Whereupon the + British plenipotentiaries told those of the States, "That if the Queen's + endeavours could not procure more than the contents of her speech, or if + the French should ever fall short of what was there offered, the Dutch + could blame none but themselves, who, by their conduct, had rendered + things difficult, that would otherwise have been easy." However, Her + Majesty thought it prudent to keep the States still in hopes of her good + offices, to prevent them from taking the desperate course of leaving + themselves wholly at the mercy of France; which was an expedient they + formerly practised, and which a party among them was now inclined to + advise. + </p> + <p> + Whilst the congress at Utrecht remained in this inactive state, the Queen + proceeded to perfect that important article for preventing the union of + France and Spain. It was proposed and accepted, that Philip should + renounce France, for himself and his posterity; and that the Most + Christian King, and all the princes of his blood, should, in the like + manner, renounce Spain. + </p> + <p> + It must be confessed, that this project of renunciation lay under a great + disrepute, by the former practices of this very King, Lewis XIV. pursuant + to an absurd notion among many in that kingdom, of a divine right, annexed + to proximity of blood, not to be controlled by any human law. + </p> + <p> + But it is plain, the French themselves had recourse to this method, after + all their infractions of it, since the Pyrenean treaty; for the first + dauphin, in whom the original claim was vested, renounced, for himself and + his eldest son, which opened the way to Philip Duke of Anjou; who would + however hardly have succeeded, if it had not been for the will made in his + favour by the last King, Charles II. + </p> + <p> + It is indeed hard to reflect, with any patience, upon the unaccountable + stupidity of the princes of Europe for some centuries past, who left a + probability to France of succeeding in a few ages to all their dominions; + whilst, at the same time, no alliance with that kingdom could be of + advantage to any prince, by reason of the salique law. Should not common + prudence have taught every sovereign in Christendom to enact a salique + law, with respect to France; for want of which, it is almost a miracle, + that the Bourbon family hath not possessed the universal monarchy by right + of inheritance? When the French assert a proximity of blood gives a divine + right, as some of their ministers, who ought to be more wise or honest, + have lately advanced in this very case, to the title of Spain; do they + not, by allowing a French succession, make their own kings usurpers? Or, + if the salique law be divine, is it not of universal obligation, and + consequently of force, to exclude France from inheriting by daughters? Or, + lastly, if that law be of human institution, may it not be enacted in any + state, with whatever extent or limitation the legislature shall think fit? + For the notion of an unchangeable human law is an absurdity in government, + to be believed only by ignorance, and supported by power. From hence it + follows, that the children of the late Queen of France, although she had + renounced, were as legally excluded from succeeding to Spain, as if the + salique law had been fundamental in that kingdom; since that exclusion was + established by every power in Spain, which could possibly give a sanction + to any law there; and therefore the Duke of Anjou's title is wholly + founded upon the bequest of his predecessor (which hath great authority in + that monarchy, as it formerly had in ours), upon the confirmation of the + Cortes, and the general consent of the people. + </p> + <p> + It is certain, the faith of princes is so frequently subservient to their + ambition, that renunciations have little validity, otherwise than from the + powers and parties whose interest it is to support them. But this + renunciation, which the Queen hath exacted from the French King and his + grandson, I take to be armed with all the essential circumstances that can + fortify such an act. For as it is necessary, for the security of every + prince in Europe, that those two great kingdoms should never be united; so + the chief among them will readily consent to be guarantees for preventing + such a misfortune. + </p> + <p> + Besides, this proposal (according to Her Majesty's expression in her + speech) is of such a nature, that it executes itself; because the + Spaniards, who dread such an union, for every reason that can have weight + among men, took care that their king should not only renounce, in the most + solemn manner; but likewise, that the act should be framed in the + strongest terms themselves could invent, or we could furnish them with. As + to France, upon supposal of the young dauphin's dying in a few years, that + kingdom will not be in a condition to engage in a long war against a + powerful alliance, fortified with the addition of the Spaniards, and the + party of the Duke of Berry, or whoever else shall be next claimer: and the + longer the present dauphin lives, the weaker must Philip's interest be in + France; because the princes, who are to succeed by this renunciation, will + have most power and credit in the kingdom. + </p> + <p> + The mischiefs occasioned by the want of a good understanding between the + allies, especially Britain and Holland, were raised every day; the French + taking the advantage, and raising difficulties, not only upon the general + plan of peace, but likewise upon the explanation of several articles in + the projected treaty between them and Her Majesty: They insisted to have + Lille, as the equivalent for Dunkirk; and demanded Tournay, Maubeuge, and + Condé, for the two or three towns mentioned in the Queen's speech; which + the British plenipotentiaries were so far from allowing, that they refused + to confer with those of France upon that foot; although, at the same time, + the former had fresh apprehensions that the Dutch, in a fit of despair, + would accept whatever terms the enemy pleased to offer, and, by + precipitating their own peace, prevent Her Majesty from obtaining any + advantages, both for her allies and herself. + </p> + <p> + It is most certain, that the repeated losses suffered by the States, in + little more than two months after they had withdrawn themselves from the + Queen's assistance, did wholly disconcert their counsels;[20] and their + prudence (as it is usual) began to forsake them with their good fortune. + They were so weak as to be still deluded by their friends in England, who + continued to give them hopes of some mighty and immediate resource from + hence; for when the Duke of Ormonde had been about a month in Ghent, he + received a letter from the Maréchal de Villars, to inform him, that the + Dutch generals, taken at Denain, had told the maréchal publicly, of a + sudden revolution expected in Britain; that particularly the Earl of + Albemarle and Mons. Hompesch discoursed very freely of it, and that + nothing was more commonly talked of in Holland. It was then likewise + confidently reported in Ghent, that the Queen was dead; and we all + remember what rumour flew about here at the very same time, as if Her + Majesty's health were in a bad condition. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 20: The Dutch had been defeated at Douay, and the Allies had + suffered reverses by the reduction of Quesnoy and Bouchain. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Whether such vain hopes as these gave spirit to the Dutch; whether their + frequent misfortunes made them angry and sullen; whether they still + expected to overreach us by some private stipulations with France, through + the mediation of the Elector of Bavaria, as that prince afterwards gave + out; or whatever else was the cause, they utterly refused a cessation of + arms; and made not the least return to all the advances and invitations + made by Her Majesty, until the close of the campaign. + </p> + <p> + It was then the States first began to view their affairs in another light; + to consider how little the vast promises of Count Zinzendorf were to be + relied on; to be convinced that France was not disposed to break with Her + Majesty, only to gratify their ill humour, or unreasonable demands; to + discover that their factious correspondents on this side the water had + shamefully misled them; that some of their own principal towns grew + heartily weary of the war, and backward in their loans; and, lastly, that + Prince Eugene, their new general, whether his genius or fortune had left + him, was not for their turn. They, therefore, directed their ministers at + Utrecht to signify to the lord privy seal and the Earl of Strafford, "That + the States were disposed to comply with Her Majesty, and to desire her + good offices with France; particularly, that Tournay and Condé might be + left to them as part of their barrier, without which they could not be + safe: That the Elector of Bavaria might not be suffered to retain any town + in the Netherlands, which would be as bad for Holland as if those places + were in the hands of France: Therefore the States proposed, that + Luxembourg, Namur, Charleroy, and Nieuport, might be delivered to the + Emperor. Lastly, That the French might not insist on excepting the four + species of goods out of the tariff of one thousand six hundred and + sixty-four: That if Her Majesty could prevail with France to satisfy their + masters on these articles, they would be ready to submit in all the rest." + </p> + <p> + When the Queen received an account of this good disposition in the States + General, immediately orders were sent to Mr. Prior, to inform the + ministers of the French court, "That Her Majesty had now some hopes of the + Dutch complying with her measures; and therefore she resolved, as she had + always declared, whenever those allies came to themselves, not to make the + peace without their reasonable satisfaction." The difficulty that most + pressed, was about the disposal of Tournay and Condé. The Dutch insisted + strongly to have both, and the French were extremely unwilling to part + with either. + </p> + <p> + The Queen judged the former would suffice, for completing the barrier of + the States. Mr. Prior was therefore directed to press the Marquis de Torcy + effectually on this head, and to terminate all that minister's objections, + by assuring him of Her Majesty's resolutions to appear openly on the side + of the Dutch, if this demand were refused. It was thought convenient to + act in this resolute manner with France, whose late success, against + Holland, had taught the ministers of the Most Christian King to resume + their old imperious manner of treating with that republic; to which they + were farther encouraged by the ill understanding between Her Majesty and + the allies. + </p> + <p> + This appeared from the result of an idle quarrel that happened, about the + end of August,[21] at Utrecht, between a French and a Dutch + plenipotentiary, Mons. Mesnager and Count Rechteren;[22] wherein the court + of France demanded such abject submissions, and with so much haughtiness, + as plainly shewed they were pleased with any occasion of mortifying the + Dutch. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 21: July. [S]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 22: See note on p. 95. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Besides, the politics of the French ran at this time very opposite to + those of Britain: They thought the ministers here durst not meet the + Parliament without a peace; and that, therefore, Her Majesty would either + force the States to comply with France, by delivering up Tournay, which + was the principal point in dispute, or would finish her own peace with + France and Spain, leaving a fixed time for Holland to refuse or accept the + terms imposed on them. But the Queen, who thought the demand of Tournay by + the States to be very necessary and just, was determined to insist upon + it, and to declare openly against France, rather than suffer her ally to + want a place so useful for their barrier. And Mr. Prior was ordered to + signify this resolution of Her Majesty to Mons. de Torcy, in case that + minister could not be otherwise prevailed on. + </p> + <p> + The British plenipotentiaries did likewise, at the same time, express to + those of Holland Her Majesty's great satisfaction, that the States were at + last disposed to act in confidence with her: "That she wished this + resolution had been sooner taken, since nobody had gained by the delay, + but the French King; that, however, Her Majesty did not question the + procuring a safe and honourable peace, by united counsels, reasonable + demands, and prudent measures; that she would assist them in getting + whatever was necessary to their barrier, and in settling, to their + satisfaction, the exceptions made by France out of the tariff of one + thousand six hundred and sixty-four; that no other difficulties remained + of moment to retard the peace, since the Queen had obtained Sicily for the + Duke of Savoy; and, in the settlement of the Low Countries, would adhere + to what she delivered from the throne: That as to the empire, Her Majesty + heartily wished their barrier as good as could be desired; but that we + were not now in circumstances to expect every thing exactly according to + the scheme of Holland: France had already offered a great part, and the + Queen did not think the remainder worth the continuance of the war." + </p> + <p> + Her Majesty conceived the peace in so much forwardness, that she thought + fit, about this time, to nominate the Duke of Hamilton and the Lord + Lexington for ambassadors in France and Spain, to receive the + renunciations in both courts, and adjust matters of commerce. + </p> + <p> + The duke[23] was preparing for his journey, when he was challenged to a + duel[24] by the Lord Mohun,[25] a person of infamous character. He killed + his adversary upon the spot, though he himself received a wound; and, + weakened by the loss of blood, as he was leaning in the arms of his + second, was most barbarously stabbed in the breast by Lieutenant-General + Macartney,[26] who was second to Lord Mohun. He died a few minutes after + in the field, and the murderer made his escape. I thought so surprising an + event might deserve barely to be related, although it be something foreign + to my subject. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 23: James, Duke of Hamilton, was a gentleman of the bed-chamber + to King Charles II. He succeeded his father in the title, April 18th, + 1694, and was sent the same year envoy extraordinary to France; ... he was + killed, November 15th, 1712. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 24: Swift's account of the duel is exactly agreeable to the + depositions of Colonel Hamilton before a committee of the council. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 25: Charles Lord Mohun was the last offspring of a very noble + and ancient family, of which William de Mohun, who accompanied the Norman + conqueror, was the first founder in England. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 26: General Macartney was tried, at the King's Bench bar, for + the murder, June 13th, 1716; and the jury found him guilty of + man-slaughter. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Strafford, who had come to England in May last,[27] in order + to give Her Majesty an account of the disposition of affairs in Holland, + was now returning with her last instructions, to let the Dutch minister + know, "That some points would probably meet with difficulties not to be + overcome, which once might have been easily obtained: To shew what evil + consequences had already flowed from their delay and irresolution, and to + entreat them to fix on some proposition, reasonable in itself, as well as + possible to be effected: That the Queen would insist upon the cession of + Tournay by France, provided the States would concur in finishing the + peace, without starting new objections, or insisting upon farther points: + That the French demands, in favour of the Elector of Bavaria, appeared to + be such as, the Queen was of opinion, the States ought to agree to; which + were, to leave the Elector in possession of Luxembourg, Namur, and + Charleroy, subject to the terms of their barrier, until he should be + restored to his electorate; and to give him the kingdom of Sardinia, to + efface the stain of his degradation in the electoral college: That the + earl had brought over a project of a new Treaty of Succession and Barrier, + which Her Majesty insisted the States should sign, before the conclusion + of the peace; the former treaty having been disadvantageous to her + subjects, containing in it the seeds of future dissensions, and condemned + by the sense of the nation. Lastly, That Her Majesty, notwithstanding all + provocations, had, for the sake of the Dutch, and in hopes of their + recovery from those false notions which had so long misled them, hitherto + kept the negotiations open: That the offers now made them were her last, + and this the last time she would apply to them: That they must either + agree, or expect the Queen would proceed immediately to conclude her + treaty with France and Spain, in conjunction with such of her allies as + would think fit to adhere to her. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 27: "Come to England in ... last" in original edition. The word + "May" was supplied in the edition of 1775. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + "As to Savoy, that the Queen expected the States would concur with her in + making good the advantages stipulated for that duke, and in prevailing + with the Emperor to consent to an absolute neutrality in Italy, until the + peace should be concluded." + </p> + <p> + The governing party in Holland, however in appearance disposed to finish, + affected new delays, and raised many difficulties about the four species + of goods, which the French had excepted out of the tariff. Count + Zinzendorf, the Emperor's plenipotentiary, did all that was possible to + keep up this humour in the Dutch, in hopes to put them under a necessity + of preparing for the next campaign; and some time after went so far in + this pursuit, that he summoned the several ministers of the empire, and + told them he had letters from his master, with orders to signify to them, + "That his Imperial Majesty resolved to begin the campaign early, with all + his forces united against France; of which he desired they would send + notice to all their courts, that the several princes might be ready to + furnish their contingents and recruits." At the same time Zinzendorf + endeavoured to borrow two millions of florins upon the security of some + imperial cities; but could not succeed either amongst the Jews or at + Amsterdam. + </p> + <p> + When the Earl of Strafford arrived at Utrecht, the lord privy seal and he + communicated to the Dutch ministers the new Treaty for a Succession and + Barrier, as the Queen had ordered it to be prepared here in England, + differing from the former in several points of the greatest moment, + obvious to any who will be at the pains to compare them. This was + strenuously opposed for several weeks by the plenipotentiaries of the + States; but the province of Utrecht, where the congress was held, + immediately sent orders to their representatives at The Hague, to declare + their province thankful to the Queen; that they agreed the peace should be + made on the terms proposed by France, and consented to the new projected + Treaty of Barrier and Succession: and about the close of the year, one + thousand seven hundred and twelve, four of the seven provinces, had + delivered their opinions for putting an end to the war. + </p> + <p> + This unusual precipitation in the States, so different from the whole + tenor of their former conduct, was very much suspected by the British + plenipotentiaries. Their Lordships had received intelligence, that the + Dutch ministers held frequent conferences with those of France, and had + offered to settle their interests with that crown, without the concurrence + of Britain. Count Zinzendorf, and his colleagues, appeared likewise, all + on the sudden, to have the same dispositions, and to be in great haste to + settle their several differences with the States. The reasons for this + proceeding were visible enough; many difficulties were yet undetermined in + the treaty of commerce between Her Majesty and France, for the adjusting + of which, and some other points, the Queen had lately dispatched the Duke + of Shrewsbury to that court. Some of these were of hard digestion, with + which the Most Christian King would not be under a necessity of complying, + when he had no farther occasion for us, and might, upon that account, + afford better terms to the other two powers. Besides, the Emperor and the + States could very well spare Her Majesty the honour of being arbitrator of + a general peace; and the latter hoped by this means, to avoid the new + Treaty of Barrier and Succession, which we were now forcing on them. + </p> + <p> + To prevent the consequences of this evil, there fortunately fell out an + incident, which the two lords at Utrecht knew well how to make use of: the + quarrel between Mons. Mesnager and Count Rechteren (formerly mentioned) + had not yet been made up. The French and Dutch differing in some + circumstances, about the satisfaction to be given by the count for the + affront he had offered, the British plenipotentiaries kept this dispute on + foot for several days; and, in the mean time, pressed the Dutch to finish + the new Treaty of Barrier and Succession between Her Majesty and them, + which, about the middle of January, was concluded fully to the Queen's + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + But while these debates and differences continued at the congress, the + Queen resolved to put a speedy end to her part in the war; she therefore + sent orders to the lord privy seal, and the Earl of Stafford, to prepare + every thing necessary for signing her own treaty with France. This she + hoped might be done against the meeting of her Parliament, now prorogued + to the third of February; in which time, those among the allies, who were + really inclined towards a peace, might settle their several interests by + the assistance and support of Her Majesty's plenipotentiaries; and as for + the rest, who would either refuse to comply, or endeavour to protract the + negotiation, the heads of their respective demands, which France had + yielded by Her Majesty's intervention, and agreeable to the plan laid down + in her speech, should be mentioned in the treaty, and a time limited for + the several powers concerned to receive or reject them. + </p> + <p> + The Pretender was not yet gone out of France, upon some difficulties + alleged by the French, about procuring him a safe conduct to Bar-le-duc, + in the Duke of Lorraine's dominions, where it was then proposed he should + reside. The Queen, altogether bent upon quieting the minds of her + subjects, declared, she would not sign the peace till that person were + removed; although several wise men believed he could be no where less + dangerous to Britain, than in the place where he was. + </p> + <p> + The argument which most prevailed on the States to sign the new Treaty of + Barrier and Succession with Britain, was Her Majesty's promise to procure + Tournay for them from France; after which, no more differences remained + between us and that republic, and consequently they had no farther + temptations to any separate transactions with the French, who thereupon + began to renew their litigious and haughty manner of treating with the + Dutch. The satisfaction they extorted for the affront given by Count + Rechteren to Mons. Mesnager, although somewhat softened by the British + ministers at Utrecht, was yet so rigorous, that Her Majesty could not + forbear signifying her resentment of it to the Most Christian King. Mons. + Mesnager, who seemed to have more the genius of a merchant than a + minister, began, in his conferences with the plenipotentiaries of the + States, to raise new disputes upon points which both we and they had + reckoned upon as wholly settled. The Abbé de Polignac, a most accomplished + person, of great generosity and universal understanding, was gone to + France to receive the cardinal's cap; and the Maréchal d'Uxelles was + wholly guided by his colleague, Mons. Mesnager, who kept up those + brangles, that for a time obstructed the peace; some of which were against + all justice, and others of small importance, both of very little advantage + to his country, and less to the reputation of his master or himself. This + low talent in business, which the Cardinal de Polignac used, in contempt, + to call a "spirit of negotiating," made it impossible for the two lords + plenipotentiaries, with all their abilities and experience, to bring + Mesnager to reason, in several points both with us and the States: his + concessions were few and constrained, serving only to render him more + tenacious of what he refused. In several of the towns, which the States + were to keep, he insisted that France should retain the chatellanies, or + extent of country depending on them, particularly that of Tournay; a + demand the more unjustifiable, because he knew his master had not only + proceeded directly contrary, but had erected a court in his kingdom, where + his own judges extended the territories about those towns he had taken, as + far as he pleased to direct them. Mons. Mesnager showed equal obstinacy in + what his master expected for the Elector of Bavaria, and in refusing the + tariff of one thousand six hundred and sixty-four: so that the Queen's + plenipotentiaries represented these difficulties as what might be of + dangerous consequence, both to the peace in general, and to the States in + particular, if they were not speedily prevented. + </p> + <p> + Upon these considerations Her Majesty thought it her shortest and safest + course to apply directly to France, where she had then so able a minister + as the Duke of Shrewsbury.[28] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 28: Shrewsbury had been appointed the Duke of Hamilton's + successor. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The Marquis de Torcy, secretary to the Most Christian King, was the + minister with whom the Duke was to treat, as having been the first who + moved his master to apply to the Queen for a peace, in opposition to a + violent faction in that kingdom, who were as eagerly bent to continue the + war, as any other could be either here or in Holland. + </p> + <p> + It would be very unlike a historian, to refuse this great minister the + praise he so justly deserveth, of having treated, through the whole course + of so great a negotiation, with the utmost candour and integrity; never + once failing in any promise he made, and tempering a firm zeal to his + master's interest, with a ready compliance to what was reasonable and + just. Mr. Prior, whom I have formerly mentioned, resided likewise now at + Paris, with the character of minister plenipotentiary, and was very + acceptable to that court, upon the score of his wit and humour.[29] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 29: P. Fitzgerald adds, "as well as useful to Her Majesty by his + knowledge and dexterity in the management of affairs." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Shrewsbury was directed to press the French court upon the + points yet unsettled in the treaty of commerce between both crowns; to + make them drop their unreasonable demands for the Elector of Bavaria; to + let them know, that the Queen was resolved not to forsake her allies who + were now ready to come in; that she thought the best way of hastening the + general peace, was to determine her own particular one with France, until + which time she could not conveniently suffer her Parliament to meet. + </p> + <p> + The States were, by this time, so fully convinced of the Queen's sincerity + and affection to their republic, and how much they had been deceived by + the insinuations of the factious party in England, that they wrote a very + humble letter to Her Majesty, to desire her assistance towards settling + those points they had in dispute with France, and professing themselves + ready to acquiesce in whatever explanation Her Majesty would please to + make of the plan proposed in her speech to the Parliament. + </p> + <p> + But the Queen had already prevented their desires; and in the beginning of + February, one thousand seven hundred and twelve-thirteen, directed the + Duke of Shrewsbury to inform the French court, "That since she had + prevailed on her allies, the Dutch, to drop the demand of Condé, and the + other of the four species of goods, which the French had excepted out of + the tariff of one thousand six hundred and sixty-four, she would not sign + without them: That she approved of the Dutch insisting to have the + chatellanies restored, with the towns, and was resolved to stand or fall + with them, until they were satisfied in this point." + </p> + <p> + Her Majesty had some apprehensions, that the French created these + difficulties on purpose to spin out the treaty, until the campaign should + begin. They thought it absolutely necessary, that our Parliament should + meet in a few weeks, which could not well be ventured, until the Queen + were able to tell both Houses, that her own peace was signed: That this + would not only facilitate what remained in difference between Britain and + France, but leave the Dutch entirely at the mercy of the latter. + </p> + <p> + The Queen, weary of these refined mistakes in the French politics, and + fully resolved to be trifled with no longer, sent her determinate orders + to the Duke of Shrewsbury, to let France know, "That Her Majesty had + hitherto prorogued her Parliament, in hopes of accommodating the + difficulties in her own treaties of peace and commerce with that crown, as + well as settling the interests of her several allies; or, at least, that + the differences in the former being removed, the Most Christian King would + have made such offers for the latter, as might justify Her Majesty in + signing her own peace, whether the confederates intended to sign theirs or + no. But several points being yet unfinished between both crowns, and + others between France and the rest of the allies, especially the States, + to which the plenipotentiaries of that court at Utrecht had not thought + fit to give satisfaction; the Queen was now come to a final determination, + both with relation to her own kingdoms, and to the whole alliance: That + the campaign approaching, she would not willingly be surprised in case the + war was to go on: That she had transmitted to the Duke of Shrewsbury her + last resolutions, and never would be prevailed on to reduce her own + demands, or those of her allies, any lower than the scheme now sent over, + as an explanation of the plan laid down in her speech: That Her Majesty + had sent orders to her plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, to assume the + character of ambassadors, and sign the peace immediately with the + ministers of the Most Christian King, as soon as the Duke of Shrewsbury + should have sent them notice that the French had complied: That the Queen + had therefore farther prorogued her Parliament to the third of March, in + hopes to assure them, by that time, of her peace being agreed on; for if + the two Houses should meet, while any uncertainty remained, supplies must + be asked as for a war." + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Shrewsbury[30] executed this important commission with that + speed and success, which could only be expected from an able minister. The + French King immediately yielded to the whole scheme Her Majesty proposed; + whereupon directions were sent to the lord privy seal, and the Earl of + Strafford, to sign a peace between Great Britain and France, without + delay. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 30: Swift writes to Abp. King, October 20th, 1713, that the Duke + of Shrewsbury "is the finest gentleman we have, and of an excellent + understanding and capacity for business" (Scott's edition, xvi. 71). See + also Swift's remarks in "The Examiner," No. 27 (vol. ix, of this edition, + p. 171), and note in vol. v., p. 377. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + Upon the second day of March, the two British plenipotentiaries met those + of the allies in the town-house at Utrecht; where the lord privy seal + addressed himself to them in a short speech, "That the negotiation had now + continued fourteen months with great slowness, which had proved very + injurious to the interests of the allies: That the Queen had stayed thus + long, and stopped the finishing of her own peace, rather than leave her + allies in any uncertainty: That she hoped they would now be all prepared + to put an end to this great work; and therefore had commanded her + plenipotentiaries to tell those of the allies, That she found it necessary + to conclude her own treaty immediately; and it was her opinion, that the + confederates ought to finish theirs at the same time, to which they were + now accordingly invited by Her Majesty's orders." And lastly, his lordship + declared, in the Queen's name, "That whoever could not be ready on the day + prefixed, should have a convenient time allowed them to come in." + </p> + <p> + Although the orders sent by the Queen to her plenipotentiaries were very + precise, yet their lordships did not precipitate the performance of them. + They were directed to appoint as short a day for the signing as they + conveniently could; but, however, the particular day was left to their + discretion. They hoped to bring over the Dutch, and most of the other + allies, to conclude at the same time with the Queen; which, as it would + certainly be more popular to their country, so they conceived it would be + more safe for themselves: besides, upon looking over their commission, a + scruple sprang in their minds, that they could not sign a particular peace + with France; their powers, as they apprehended, authorizing them only to + sign a general one. Their lordships therefore sent to England to desire + new powers,[31] and, in the mean time, employed themselves with great + industry, between the ministers of France and those of the several allies, + to find some expedient for smoothing the way to an agreement among them. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 31: "Lord Bolingbroke, who says he has not sagacity enough to + find the objections that the plenipotentiaries had made to their first + full powers, for their satisfaction, sends them a new commission, and + repeats to them positive orders to sign and conclude with France.... These + difficulties of the plenipotentiaries made my lord treasurer, who never + failed to exert himself when he found it absolutely necessary, think it + high time to interpose his authority;.... and as his lordship never yet + appeared in vain, all further obstructions at Utrecht were after this soon + removed." ("Report from the Committee of Secrecy," 1715, pp. 103, 104.) + [N.]] + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Strafford went for a few days to The Hague, to inform the + States of Her Majesty's express commands to his colleague and himself, for + signing the peace as soon as possible; and to desire they would be ready + at the same time: which the pensionary promised; and that their + plenipotentiaries should be empowered accordingly, to the great + contentment of Mons. Buys, who was now so much altered, either in reality, + or appearance, that he complained to the Earl of Mons. Heinsius's + slowness; and charged all the delays and mismanagements of a twelvemonth + past to that minister's account. + </p> + <p> + While the Earl of Strafford stayed at The Hague, he discovered that an + emissary of the Duke of Marlborough's had been there some days before, + sent by his grace to dissuade the Dutch from signing at the same time with + the ministers of the Queen, which, in England, would at least have the + appearance of a separate peace, and oblige their British friends, who knew + how to turn so short a delay to very good account, as well as gratify the + Emperor; on whom, it was alleged, they ought to rely much more than on Her + Majesty. One of the States likewise told the Earl, "That the same person, + employed by the Duke, was then in conference with the magistrates of + Rotterdam (which town had declared for the continuance of the war), to + assure them, if they would hold off a little, they should see an + unexpected turn in the British Parliament: That the Duke of Marlborough + had a list of the discontented members in both Houses, who were ready to + turn against the court; and, to crown all, that his grace had certain + intelligence of the Queen being in so ill a state of health, as made it + impossible for her to live above six weeks." So restless and indefatigable + is avarice and ambition, when inflamed by a desire of revenge. + </p> + <p> + But representations, which had been so often tried, were now offered too + late. Most of the allies, except the Emperor, were willing to put an end + to the war upon Her Majesty's plan; and the further delay of three weeks + must be chiefly imputed to that litigious manner of treating, peculiar to + the French; whose plenipotentiaries at Utrecht insisted with obstinacy + upon many points, which at Paris Mons. de Torcy had given up. + </p> + <p> + The Emperor expected to keep all he already possessed in Italy; that Port + Longue,[32] on the Tuscan coast, should be delivered to him by France; + and, lastly, that he should not be obliged to renounce Spain. But the + Queen, as well as France, thought that his Imperial Majesty ought to sit + down contented with his partage of Naples and Milan; and to restore those + territories in Italy, which he had taken from the rightful proprietors, + and by the possession of which he was grown dangerous to the Italian + princes, by reviving antiquated claims upon them. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 32: Portolongone, in the island of Elba, opposite the Tuscan + coast. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + This Prince had likewise objected to Her Majesty's expedient of suffering + the Elector of Bavaria to retain Luxembourg, under certain conditions, by + way of security, until his electorate were restored. But the Queen, + supposing that these affected delays were intended only with a view of + continuing the war, resolved to defer the peace no longer on the Emperor's + account. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of March, one thousand seven hundred and twelve-thirteen, a + courier arrived at Utrecht from France, with the plan of a general peace, + as it had been agreed between the Duke of Shrewsbury and Mons. de Torcy; + wherein every particular, relating to the interests and pretensions of the + several allies, was brought so near to what each of them would accept, + that the British plenipotentiaries hoped the peace would be general in ten + or twelve days. The Portuguese and Dutch were already prepared, and others + were daily coming in, by means of their lordships' good offices, who found + Mons. Mesnager and his colleague very stubborn to the last. Another + courier was dispatched to France, upon some disputes about inserting the + titles of Her Majesty and the Most Christian King, and to bring a general + plan for the interests of those allies, who should not be ready against + the time prefixed. The French renunciations were now arrived at Utrecht, + and it was agreed, that those, as well as that of the King of Spain, + should be inserted at length in every treaty, by which means the whole + confederacy would become guaranties of them. + </p> + <p> + The courier, last sent to France, returned to Utrecht on the + twenty-seventh of March, with the concessions of that court upon every + necessary point; so that, all things being ready for putting a period to + this great and difficult work, the lord privy seal and the Earl of + Strafford gave notice to the ministers of the several allies, "That their + lordships had appointed Tuesday the thirty-first instant, wherein to sign + a treaty of peace, and a treaty of commerce, between the Queen of Great + Britain, their mistress, and the Most Christian King; and hoped the said + allies would be prepared, at the same time, to follow their example." + Accordingly their lordships employed the three intervening days, in + smoothing the few difficulties that remained between the French ministers + and those of the several confederate powers. + </p> + <p> + The important day being now come, the Lord Bishop of Bristol and the Earl + of Strafford, having assumed the character of ambassadors + extraordinary,[33] gave a memorial in behalf of the French Protestants to + the Maréchal d'Uxelles and his colleague, who were to transmit it to their + court; and these delivered to the British ambassadors a declaration in + writing, that the Pretender was actually gone out of France. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 33: To avoid the parade of ceremony, they had hitherto been + considered only as <i>plenipotentiaries</i>. [N.]] + </p> + <p> + The conditions of peace to be allowed the Emperor and the empire, as + adjusted between Britain and France, were now likewise delivered to the + Count Zinzendorf. These and some other previous matters of smaller + consequence being finished, the treaties of peace and commerce between Her + Majesty of Britain and the Most Christian King, were signed at the lord + privy seal's house between two and three of the clock in the afternoon. + The ministers of the Duke of Savoy signed about an hour after. Then the + assembly adjourned to the Earl of Stafford's, where they all went to + dinner; and about nine at night the peace was signed by the ministers of + Portugal, by those of Prussia at eleven, and when it was near midnight by + the States. + </p> + <p> + Thus after all the opposition raised by a strong party in France, and by a + virulent faction in Britain; after all the artifices of those who presided + at The Hague, and, for their private interest, endeavoured, in conjunction + with their friends in England, to prolong the war; after the restless + endeavours of the imperial court to render the treaty ineffectual; the + firm steady conduct of the Queen, the wisdom and courage of her ministry, + and the abilities of those whom she employed in her negotiations abroad, + prevailed to have a peace signed in one day by every power concerned, + except that of the Emperor and the empire; for his Imperial Majesty liked + his situation too well to think of a peace, while the drudgery and + expenses of the war lay upon other shoulders, and the advantages were to + redound only to himself. + </p> + <p> + During this whole negotiation, the King of Spain, who was not acknowledged + by any of the confederates, had consequently no minister at Utrecht; but + the differences between Her Majesty and that prince were easily settled by + the Lord Lexington at Madrid, and the Marquis of Monteleon here: so that + upon the Duke d'Ossuna's arrival at the congress, some days after the + peace, he was ready to conclude a treaty between the Queen and his master. + Neither is it probable that the Dutch, or any other ally, except the + Emperor, will encounter any difficulties of moment, to retard their + several treaties with his Catholic Majesty. + </p> + <p> + The treaties of peace and commerce between Britain and France, were + ratified here on the seventh of April; on the twenty-eighth the + ratifications were exchanged; and on the fifth of May the peace was + proclaimed in the usual manner; but with louder acclamations, and more + extraordinary rejoicings of the people, than had ever been remembered on + the like occasion.[34] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 34 The treaty was brought to England by George St. John, + Bolingbroke's young brother, who arrived with it in London on Good Friday, + 3rd April, 1713. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [It need hardly be observed, that this history is left incomplete by the + author. [S.] Sir Walter Scott's note hardly agrees with Swift's own + statement to Stella. Writing under date May 16th, 1713, he says: "I have + just finished my Treatise, and must be ten days correcting it." It is + evident that Swift did not intend to write a "History of the Four Last + Years of Queen Anne's Reign." A better title for this work would be the + title originally given it, namely, "History of the Peace of Utrecht." In + the letter already quoted from Erasmus Lewis, Swift's account of the + negotiations for the peace are thus remarked upon: "That part of it which + relates to the negotiations of peace, whether at London or at Utrecht, + they admire exceedingly, and declare they never yet saw that, or any other + transaction, drawn up with so much perspicuity, or in a style so + entertaining and instructive to the reader in every respect." [T.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + AN ABSTRACT + </h2> + <h3> + OF THE + </h3> + <h3> + HISTORY OF ENGLAND, + </h3> + <h3> + FROM THE INVASION OF IT BY JULIUS CAESAR + </h3> + <h3> + TO THE REIGN OF HENRY THE SECOND. + </h3> + <h3> + NOTE. + </h3> + <p> + The Abstract of the History of England here reprinted calls for little or + no comment. It is but a dry relation of events with no touch in the + recital of any of those qualities which characterize Swift's writings. The + facts were evidently obtained from the old chroniclers. What object Swift + had in writing this Abstract is not known. If the dedication to the Count + de Gyllenborg truly states his intention, it must be confessed that the + "foreigners, and gentlemen of our own country" had not much upon which to + congratulate themselves. Why Swift should have chosen the Count de + Gyllenborg to whom to address the dedication must also remain a matter for + conjecture. The Count had been sent out of the British Isles for + instigating a conspiracy for a Jacobite insurrection in Great Britain. + Swift wrote his dedication three years after the Count's expulsion. + Knowing that the Count's master, Charles XII. of Sweden, had been a party + to the plot, he yet writes in a most amiable tone of friendliness towards + both, with a parenthetical sneer at "his present Britannic Majesty." + Undoubtedly this dedication might easily and fairly be taken as strong + presumptive evidence of a leaning on Swift's part towards the Pretender. + It will, however, be more truly interpreted, if it be considered as an + expression of contempt for the King of England and the ministry in power. + </p> + <p> + The text of the present reprint is that given by Deane Swift from his + edition of his kinsman's works issued in 1765 and 1768 (4to edit, vols. + viii. and xiii.). Deane Swift thought that the narratives of Rufus, Henry + I. and Stephen, would "appear to be such a model of English history, as + will make all men of taste, and especially foreigners, regret that he + pursued his plan no further." + </p> + <h3> + [T.S.] + </h3> + <h3> + TO THE COUNT DE GYLLENBORG.[1] + </h3> + <p> + [Footnote 1: Charles, Count Gyllenborg (1679-1746), was Swedish Ambassador + at London 1710-16. He then joined in a Jacobite plot, was arrested in + January, 1716-7, and expelled the kingdom in August, 1717. He afterwards + filled high offices in his own country. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + Dublin in Ireland, Nov. 2, 1719. + </p> + <h3> + SIR, + </h3> + <p> + It is now about sixteen years since I first entertained the design of + writing a History of England, from the beginning of William Rufus to the + end of Queen Elizabeth; such a History, I mean, as appears to be most + wanted by foreigners, and gentlemen of our own country; not a voluminous + work, nor properly an abridgement, but an exact relation of the most + important affairs and events, without any regard to the rest. My intention + was to inscribe it to the King[2] your late master, for whose great + virtues I had ever the highest veneration, as I shall continue to bear to + his memory. I confess it is with some disdain that I observe great authors + descending to write any dedications at all: and for my own part, when I + looked round on all the princes of Europe, I could think of none who might + deserve that distinction from me, besides the King your master; (for I say + nothing of his present Britannic Majesty, to whose person and character I + am an utter stranger, and like to continue so) neither can I be suspected + of flattery on this point, since it was some years after that I had the + honour of an invitation to his court, before you were employed as his + minister in England, which I heartily repent that I did not accept; + whereby, as you can be my witness, I might have avoided some years' + uneasiness and vexation, during the last four years of our late excellent + Queen, as well as a long melancholy prospect since, in a most obscure + disagreeable country, and among a most profligate and abandoned people. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Charles XII., King of Sweden, who was killed in 1718. [D. + S.]] + </p> + <p> + I was diverted from pursuing this History, partly by the extreme + difficulty, but chiefly by the indignation I conceived at the proceedings + of a faction, which then prevailed; and the papers lay neglected in my + cabinet until you saw me in England; when you know how far I was engaged + in thoughts and business of another kind. Upon Her Majesty's lamented + death, I returned to my station in this kingdom; since which time there is + not a northern curate among you who hath lived more obscure than myself, + or a greater stranger to the commonest transactions of the world. It is + but very lately that I found the following papers, which I had almost + forgotten. I publish them now, for two reasons; first, for an + encouragement to those who have more youth,[3] and leisure, and good + temper than I, towards pursuing the work as far as it was intended by me, + or as much further as they please; the second reason is, to have an + opportunity of declaring the profound respect I have for the memory of + your royal master, and the sincere regard and friendship I bear to + yourself; for I must bring to your mind how proud I was to distinguish you + among all the foreign ministers, with whom I had the honour to be + acquainted. I am a witness of the zeal you shewed not only for the honour + and interest of your master, but for the advantage of the Protestant + religion in Germany, and how knowingly and feelingly you often spoke to me + upon that subject. We all loved you, as possessed of every quality that + could adorn an English gentleman, and esteemed you as a faithful subject + to your prince, and an able negotiator; neither shall any reverse of + fortune have power to lessen you either in my friendship or esteem: and I + must take leave to assure you further, that my affection towards persons + hath not been at all diminished by the frown of power upon them. Those + whom you and I once thought great and good men, continue still so in my + eyes and my heart; only with a * * * * * * + </p> + <p> + <i>Caetera desiderantur</i>. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: The author was then in his fifty-second year. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + AN ABSTRACT OF THE HISTORY OF ENGLAND, FROM THE INVASION OF IT BY JULIUS + CAESAR TO WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR. + </h3> + <h3> + Britons. Heathens. + </h3> + <p> + The most ancient account we have of Britain is, that the island was full + of inhabitants, divided into several petty kingdoms, as most nations of + the world appear to have been at first. The bodies of the Britons were + painted with a sky-coloured blue, either as an ornament or else for terror + to their enemies. In their religion they were heathens, as all the world + was before Christ, except the Jews. + </p> + <h3> + Druids. + </h3> + <p> + Their priests were called Druids: These lived in hollow trees, and + committed not their mysteries to writing, but delivered them down by + tradition, whereby they were in time wholly lost. + </p> + <p> + The Britons had wives in common, so many to a particular tribe or society, + and the children were in common to that society. + </p> + <p> + About fifty years before Christ, Julius Caesar, the first Roman Emperor, + having conquered Gaul or France, invaded Britain rather to increase his + glory than conquests; for having overcome the natives in one or two + battles, he returned. + </p> + <h3> + Claudius. Nero. + </h3> + <p> + The next invasion of Britain by the Romans (then masters of most of the + known world) was in the reign of the Emperor Claudius; but it was not + wholly subdued till that of Nero. It was governed by lieutenants, or + deputies, sent from Rome, as Ireland is now by deputies from England; and + continued thus under the Romans for about 460 years; till that empire + being invaded by the Goths and Vandals, the Romans were forced not only to + recall their own armies, but also to draw from hence the bravest of the + Britons, for their assistance against those barbarians. + </p> + <h3> + Picts. Picts' Wall. + </h3> + <p> + The Roman conquests in this island reached no further northward than to + that part of Scotland where Stirling and Glasgow are seated: The region + beyond was held not worth the conquering: It was inhabited by a barbarous + people, called Caledonians and Picts; who, being a rough fierce nation, + daily infested the British borders. Therefore the Emperor Severus built a + wall, from Stirling to Glasgow, to prevent the invasions of the Picts: It + is commonly called the Picts' Wall. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 455. Saxons. + </h3> + <p> + These Picts and Caledonians, or Scots, encouraged by the departure of the + Romans, do now cruelly infest and invade the Britons by sea and land: The + Britons choose Vortigern for their king, who was forced to invite the + Saxons (a fierce Northern people) to assist him against those barbarians. + The Saxons came over, and beat the Picts in several battles; but, at last, + pick quarrels with the Britons themselves; and, after a long war, drive + them into the mountains of Wales and Cornwall, and establish themselves in + seven kingdoms in Britain, (by them now called England). These seven + kingdoms are usually styled the Saxon Heptarchy. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 460. Arthur. + </h3> + <p> + About this time lived King Arthur (if the whole story be not a fable) who + was so famous for beating the Saxons in several battles. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 600. Austin. + </h3> + <p> + The Britons received Christianity very early, and, as is reported, from + some of the Disciples themselves: So that, when the Romans left Britain, + the Britons were generally Christians. But the Saxons were heathens, till + Pope Gregory the Great sent over hither Austin the monk, by whom Ethelbert + king of the South-Saxons, and his subjects, were converted to + Christianity; and the whole island soon followed the example. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 819. Egbert. + </h3> + <p> + [Footnote 4: The edition of 1765 gives the date as 819, but according to + Dr. Stubbs, Egbert became <i>bretwalda</i> in 828. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + After many various revolutions in this island among the kingdoms of the + Saxons, Egbert, descended from the West-Saxon kings, became sole monarch + of England. + </p> + <h3> + Angles. + </h3> + <p> + The language in Britain was British, (now called Welsh) or Latin; but, + with the Saxons, English came in (although extremely different from what + it is now). The present names of towns, shires, &c. were given by + them; and the whole kingdom was called England from the Angles, who were a + branch of the Saxons. + </p> + <h3> + Danes. + </h3> + <p> + As soon as the Saxons were settled, the Danes began to trouble and invade + them, as they (the Saxons) had before done the Britons. + </p> + <p> + These Danes came out of Germany, Denmark, and Norway, a rough warlike + people, little different from the Saxons to whom they were nigh + neighbours. + </p> + <h3> + Edgar. + </h3> + <p> + After many invasions from the Danes, Edgar King of England sets forth the + first navy. He was entitled King of all Albion, (an old name of this + island) and was the first absolute monarch. + </p> + <p> + He made peace with the Danes, and allowed them to live in his dominions + mixed with the English. + </p> + <p> + In this prince's time there were five kings in Wales, who all did him + homage for their country. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 978. Danes massacred. + </h3> + <p> + These Danes began first to make their invasions here about the year 800, + which they after renewed at several times, and under several leaders, and + were as often repulsed. They used to come with vast numbers of ships, burn + and ravage before them, as the cities of London, Winchester, &c. + Encouraged by success and prey, they often wintered in England, fortifying + themselves in the northern parts, from whence they cruelly infested the + Saxon kings. In process of time they mixed with the English (as was said + before) and lived under the Saxon government: But Ethelred, then King of + England, growing weary of the Danish insolence, a conspiracy is formed, + and the Danes are massacred in one day all over England. + </p> + <h3> + Sweyn. + </h3> + <p> + Four years after, Sweyn, King of Denmark, to revenge the death of his + subjects, invades England; and, after battles fought and much cruelty + exercised, he subdues the whole kingdom, forcing Ethelred to fly into + Normandy. + </p> + <h3> + Canutus. + </h3> + <p> + Sweyn dying, his son Canutus succeeds in the kingdom; but Ethelred + returning with an army, Canutus is forced to withdraw to Denmark for + succour. + </p> + <p> + Ethelred dies, and his son Edmond Ironside succeeds; but, Canutus + returning with fresh forces from Denmark, after several battles, the + kingdom is parted between them both. Edmond dying, his sons are sent + beyond sea by Canutus, who now is sole King of England. + </p> + <h3> + King's evil. + </h3> + <p> + Hardicanute, the last Danish king, dying without issue, Edward, son of + Ethelred, is chosen king. For his great holiness, he was surnamed the + Confessor, and sainted after his death. He was the first of our princes + that attempted to cure the king's evil by touching. He first introduced + what is now called the Common Law. In his time began the mode and humour + among the English gentry, of using the French tongue and fashions, in + compliance with the king, who had been bred up in Normandy. + </p> + <p> + The Danish government in England lasted but twenty-six years, under three + kings. + </p> + <h3> + Harold. + </h3> + <p> + Edward the Confessor married the daughter of Earl Godwin, an English + nobleman of great power, but of Danish extraction; but, wanting issue, he + appointed Edgar Atheling, grandson to his brother, to succeed him, and + Harold, son of Earl Godwin, to be governor of the young prince. But, upon + Edward's death, Harold neglected Edgar Atheling, and usurped the crown for + himself. + </p> + <p> + Edward, while he was in Normandy, met so good reception, that it was said + he made a promise to that duke, that, in case he recovered his kingdom, + and died without issue, he would leave it to him. Edward dying, William + Duke of Normandy sends to Harold to claim the crown; but Harold, now in + possession, resolves to keep it. Upon which Duke William, having prepared + a mighty fleet and army, invades England, lands at Hastings, and sets fire + to his fleet, to cut off all hope from his men of returning. To Harold he + sent his messenger, demanding the kingdom and his subjection: But Harold + returned him this answer, "That, unless he departed his land, he would + make him sensible of his just displeasure." So Harold advanced his forces + into Sussex, within seven miles of his enemy. The Norman Duke, to save the + effusion of blood, sent these offers to Harold; either wholly to resign + the kingdom to him, or to try the quarrel with him in single combat. To + this Harold did not agree. + </p> + <h3> + A.D. 1066. + </h3> + <p> + Then the battle joined. The Normans had gotten the worst, if it had not + been for a stratagem they invented, which got them the day. In this + engagement Harold was killed, and William Duke of Normandy became King of + England, under the name of William the Conqueror. + </p> + <h3> + THE REIGN OF WILLIAM THE SECOND, + </h3> + <h3> + SURNAMED RUFUS. + </h3> + <p> + At the time of the Conqueror's death, his eldest son Robert, upon some + discontent with his father, being absent in France,[5] William, the second + son, made use of this juncture, and without attending his father's + funeral, hastened to England, where, pursuant to the will of the deceased + prince,[6] the nobility, although more inclined to favour Robert, were + prevailed with to admit him King, partly by his promises to abate the + rigour of the late reign, and restore the laws and liberties which had + been then abolished, but chiefly by the credit and solicitations of + Lanfranc; for that prelate had formerly a share in his education, and + always a great affection for his person. At Winchester he took possession + of his father's treasure,[7] in obedience to whose command, as well as to + ingratiate himself with the people, he distributed it among churches and + religious houses, and applied it to the redeeming of prisoners, and other + acts of popularity. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: He was then at Abbeville in Picardy. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: William the Conqueror left Normandy to his son Robert; but + said of England: "So it pleased God, he should be glad that William, his + obedient and best beloved son, should enjoy it after his death." [D. S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: Which was sixty thousand pounds in silver, besides gold, + jewels, and plate.—BROMPTON. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + In the mean time Robert returned to Normandy, took possession of that + duchy, with great applause and content of his people, and, spited at the + indignity done him by his father, and the usurpation of his brother in + consequence thereof, prepared a great fleet and army to invade England; + nor did there want an occasion to promote his interest, if the slowness, + the softness, and credulity of his nature, could have suffered him to make + a right improvement of it. + </p> + <p> + Odo Bishop of Bayeux,[8] of whom frequent mention is made in the preceding + reign,[9] a prelate of incurable ambition, either on account of his age or + character being restored to his liberty and possessions in England, grew + into envy and discontent, upon seeing Lanfranc preferred before him by the + new King in his favour and ministry. He therefore formed a conspiracy with + several nobles of Norman birth to depose the King, and sent an invitation + to Robert to hasten over. Mean time the conspirators, in order to distract + the King's forces, seized on several parts of England at once; Bristol, + Norwich, Leicester, Worcester, Shrewsbury, Bath, and Durham, were secured + by several noblemen: Odo himself seized Rochester, reduced the coasts of + Kent, and sent messages to Robert to make all possible speed. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: Odo was half brother to William the Conqueror. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: Sir W. Temple wrote "An Introduction to the History of + England." As it only extended to the death of William the Conqueror it is + probable that it is what is here referred to. It will be found in vol. ii. + of Sir W. Temple's "Works," edited by Swift. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The King alarmed at these many and sudden defections, thought it his best + course to begin his defence by securing the good will of the people. He + redressed many grievances, eased them of certain oppressive taxes and + tributes, gave liberty to hunt in his forest, with other marks of + indulgence, which however forced from him by the necessity of the time, he + had the skill or fortune so to order as they neither lost their good grace + nor effect; for immediately after he raised great forces both by land and + sea, marched into Kent, where the chief body of his enemies was in arms, + recovered Tunbridge and Pevensey, in the latter of which Odo himself was + taken prisoner, and forced to accompany the King to Rochester. This city + refusing to surrender at the King's summons, Odo undertook to prevail with + the obstinacy of the inhabitants; but being admitted into the town, was + there detained, either by a real or seeming force; however, the King + provoked at their stubbornness and fraud, soon compelled them to yield, + retook his prisoner, and forcing him for ever to abjure England, sent him + into Normandy. + </p> + <p> + By these actions, performed with such great celerity and success, the + preparations of Duke Robert were wholly disappointed, himself, by the + necessity of his affairs, compelled to a treaty with his brother, upon the + terms of a small pension, and a mutual promise of succeeding to each + other's dominions on failure of issue, forced to resign his pretensions, + and return with a shattered fleet to Normandy. + </p> + <p> + About this time died Archbishop Lanfranc; by whose death the King, loosed + from that awe and constraint he was under, soon began to discover those + irregularities of his nature, which till then he had suppressed and + disguised, falling into those acts of oppression and extortion that have + made his name and memory infamous. He kept the see of Canterbury four + years vacant, and converted the revenues to his own use, together with + those of several other bishoprics and abbeys, and disposed all church + preferments to the highest bidder. Nor were his exactions less upon the + laity, from whom he continually extorted exorbitant fines for pretended + transgression of certain penal laws, and entertained informers to observe + men's actions and bring him intelligence. + </p> + <p> + It is here worth observation, that these corrupt proceedings of the prince + have, in the opinion of several learned men, given rise to two customs, + which are a long time grown to have the force of laws. For, first the + successors of this King, continuing the custom of seizing on the accruing + rents in the vacancy of sees and abbeys, it grew in process of time to be + exacted as a right, or acknowledgment to the King as founder; whence the + revenues of vacant bishoprics belong at this day to the crown. The second + custom had an original not unlike. Several persons, to avoid the + persecutions of the King's informers, and other instruments of oppression, + withdrew themselves and their effects to foreign countries; upon which the + King issued a proclamation, forbidding all men to leave the kingdom + without his licence; from whence, in the judgment of the same authors, the + writ <i>ne exeat regno</i> had its beginning. + </p> + <p> + By these and the like arbitrary methods having amassed great treasures, + and finding all things quiet at home, he raised a powerful army to invade + his brother in Normandy; but upon what ground or pretext, the writers of + that age are not very exact; whether it were from a principle frequent + among unjust princes, That old oppressions are best justified by new; or, + whether having a talent for sudden enterprises, and justly apprehending + the resentments of Duke Robert, he thought it the wiser course to prevent + injuries than to revenge them. In this expedition he took several cities + and castles from his brother, and would have proceeded further, if Robert + had not desired and obtained the assistance of Philip King of France, who + came with an army to his relief. King William not thinking it safe or + prudent to proceed further against his enemy supported by so great an + ally, yet loth to lose the fruits of his time and valour, fell upon a + known and old expedient, which no prince ever practised oftener, or with + greater success, and that was, to buy off the French King with a sum of + money. This had its effect; for that prince not able to oppose such + powerful arms, immediately withdrew himself and his forces, leaving the + two brothers to concert the measures of a peace. + </p> + <p> + This was treated and agreed with great advantages on the side of King + William; for he kept all the towns he had taken, obliged his brother to + banish Edgar Atheling out of Normandy, and, for a further security, + brought over with him to England the Duke himself to attend him in his + expedition against Malcolm King of Scotland, who during his absence had + invaded the borders. The King having raised great forces both by sea and + land, went in person to repel the inroads of the Scots: but the enterprise + was without success; for the greatest part of his fleet was destroyed by a + tempest, and his army very much diminished by sickness and famine, which + forced him to a peace of little honour; by which, upon the condition of + homage from that prince, the King of England agreed to deliver him up + those twelve towns (or manors) in England which Malcolm had held under + William the Conqueror; together with a pension of twelve thousand marks. + </p> + <p> + At this time were sown the seeds of another quarrel between him and Duke + Robert, who soliciting the King to perform some covenants of the last + peace, and meeting with a repulse, withdrew in great discontent to + Normandy. + </p> + <p> + King William, in his return from Scotland, fell dangerously sick at + Gloucester, where, moved by the seasonable exhortations of his clergy, or + rather by the fears of dying, he began to discover great marks of + repentance, with many promises of amendment and retribution, particularly + for his injuries to the Church. To give credit to which good resolutions, + he immediately filled several vacant sees, giving that of Canterbury to + Anselm, a foreigner of great fame for piety and learning. But as it is the + disposition of men who derive their vices from their complexions, that + their passions usually beat strong and weak with their pulses, so it fared + with this prince, who upon recovery of his health soon forgot the vows he + had made in his sickness, relapsing with greater violence into the same + irregularities of injustice and oppression, whereof Anselm, the new + archbishop, felt the first effects. This prelate, soon after his + promotion, offered the King a sum of money by way of present; but took + care it should be so small, that none might interpret it to be a + consideration of his late preferment. The King rejected it with scorn; and + as he used but little ceremony in such matters, insisted in plain terms + for more. Anselm would not comply; and the King enraged, sought all + occasions to make him uneasy; until at length the poor archbishop, tired + out with perpetual usurpations (or at least what was then understood to be + such) upon his jurisdiction, privileges, and possessions, desired the King + licence for a journey to Rome; and upon a refusal, went without it. As + soon as he was withdrawn, the King seized on all his revenues, converting + them to his own use, and the archbishop continued an exile until the + succeeding reign. + </p> + <p> + The particulars of this quarrel between the King and archbishop are not, + in my opinion, considerable enough to deserve a place in this brief + collection, being of little use to posterity, and of less entertainment; + neither should I have mentioned it at all, but for the occasion it gives + me of making a general observation, which may afford some light into the + nature and disposition of those ages. Not only this King's father and + himself, but the princes for several successions, of the fairest + character, have been severely taxed for violating the rights of the + clergy, and perhaps not altogether without reason. It is true, this + character hath made the lighter impression, as proceeding altogether from + the party injured, the cotemporary writers being generally churchmen: and + it must be confessed, that the usurpations of the Church and court of Rome + were in those ages risen to such heights, as to be altogether inconsistent + either with the legislature or administration of any independent state; + the inferior clergy, both secular and regular, insisting upon such + immunities as wholly exempted them from the civil power; and the bishops + removing all controversies with the crown by appeal to Rome: for they + reduced the matter to this short issue, That God was to be obeyed rather + than men; and consequently the Bishop of Rome, who is Christ's + representative, rather than an earthly prince. Neither doth it seem + improbable that all Christendom would have been in utter vassalage, both + temporal and spiritual, to the Roman see, if the Reformation had not put a + stop to those exorbitancies, and in a good measure opened the eyes even of + those princes and states who still adhere to the doctrines and discipline + of that church. + </p> + <p> + While the King continued at Gloucester, Malcolm King of Scotland came to + his court, with intentions to settle and confirm the late peace between + them. It happened that a controversy arose about some circumstances + relating to the homage which Malcolm was to pay, in the managing whereof + King William discovered so much haughtiness and disdain, both in words and + gestures, that the Scottish prince, provoked by such unworthy treatment, + returned home with indignation; but soon came back at the head of a + powerful army, and, entering Northumberland with fire and sword, laid all + waste before him. But as all enterprises have in the progress of them a + tincture of those passions by which they were spirited at first, so this + invasion begun upon private revenge, which is a blind ungovernable + passion, was carried on with equal precipitation, and proved to be ruinous + in the event; for Robert Mowbray, Earl of Northumberland, to prevent the + destruction of his own country, where he had great possessions, gathering + what forces he could suddenly raise, and without waiting any directions + from the King, marched against the Scots, who were then set down before + Alnwick Castle: there, by an ambush, Malcolm and his eldest son Edward + were slain, and the army, discouraged by the loss of their princes, + entirely defeated. This disaster was followed in a few days by the death + of Queen Margaret, who, not able to survive her misfortunes, died for + grief. Neither did the miseries of that kingdom end till, after two + usurpations, the surviving son of Malcolm, who had fled to England for + refuge, was restored to his crown by the assistance of King William. + </p> + <p> + About this time the hidden sparks of animosity between the two brothers, + buried but not extinguished in the last peace, began to flame out into new + dissensions. Duke Robert had often sent his complaints to the King for + breach of articles, but without redress, which provoked him to expostulate + in a rougher manner, till at length he charged the King in plain terms + with injustice and perjury, but no men are found to endure reproaches with + less temper than those who most deserve them, the King, at the same time + filled with indignation, and stung with guilt, invaded Normandy a second + time, resolving to reduce his brother to such terms as might stop all + further complaints. He had already taken several strong holds, by force + either of arms or of money, and intending entirely to subdue the duchy, + gave orders to have twenty thousand men immediately raised in England, and + sent over to him. The Duke, to defend himself against these formidable + preparations, had recourse again to his old ally the King of France, who + very readily advanced with an army to his assistance, as an action wherein + he could every way find his own accounts, for, beside the appearance of + glory and justice by protecting the injured, he fought indeed his own + battle, by preserving his neighbouring state in the hands of a peaceful + prince, from so powerful and restless an enemy as the King of England, and + was largely paid for his trouble into the bargain, for King William, + either loth to engage in a long and dangerous war, or hastened back by + intelligence of some troubles from Wales, sent offers to his army, just + ready to embark for Normandy, that upon payment of ten shillings a man + they might have leave to return to their own homes.[10] This bargain was + generally accepted, the money was paid to the King of France, who + immediately withdrew his troops, and King William, now master of the + conditions, forced his brother to a peace upon much harder terms than + before. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 10: See reference to this incident in "The Examiner," No. 21 + (vol. ix of this edition, p. 123) [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + In this passage there are some circumstances which may appear odd and + unaccountable to those who will not give due allowance for the difference + of times and manners: that an absent prince, engaged in an unjust war with + his own brother, and ill-beloved at home, should have so much power and + credit, as by his commission to raise twenty thousand men on a sudden, + only as a recruit to the army he had already with him; that he should have + a fleet prepared ready, and large enough to transport so great a number; + that upon the very point of embarking he should send them so disgraceful + an offer; and that so great a number of common soldiers should be able and + willing to pay such a sum of money, equal to at least twelve time as much + in our times; and that, after being thus deluded and spoiled at once, they + should peaceably disband and retire to their several homes. But all this + will be less difficult to comprehend, when we reflect on the method of + raising and supporting armies, very different from ours, which was then in + use, and so continued for many ages after. All men who had lands <i>in + capite</i> were bound to attend the King in his wars with a proportioned + number of soldiers, who were their tenants on easy rents in consideration + of military service. This was but the work of a few days, and the troops + consisted of such men as were able to maintain their own charges either at + home or abroad: neither was there any reason to apprehend that soldiers + would ever become instruments for introducing slavery, who held so great a + share in the property. + </p> + <p> + The King, upon his return from Normandy, made an unsuccessful expedition + against the Welsh, who upon the advantages of his absence had, according + to their usual custom, made cruel inroads upon the adjoining counties of + Chester, Shrewsbury, and Hereford. Upon the King's approach they fled into + their fastnesses among the mountains, where he pursued them for some time + with great rage and vexation, as well as the loss of great numbers of his + men, to no purpose. From hence he was recalled by a more formidable enemy + nearer home: for Robert Earl of Northumberland, overrating his late + services against the Scots, as much perhaps and as unjustly as they were + undervalued by the King, refused to come to his court, which, in those + days, was looked on as the first usual mark of discontent in a nobleman; + and was often charged by princes as a formal accusation. The earl having + disobeyed the King's summons, and concerted matters with other + accomplices, broke out into open rebellion, with intentions to depose King + William, and set up Stephen Earl of Albemarle, son of a sister to William + the Conqueror: but all was prevented by the celerity of this active + prince; who, knowing that insurrections are best quelled in their + beginnings, marched with incredible speed, and surprised the rebels at + Newcastle, took the castles of Tynemouth and Bamburgh; where the obstinacy + of the defendants provoked him, contrary to his nature, to commit + cruelties upon their persons, by cutting off their hands and ears, and + other the like inhumanities. The earl himself was taken prisoner as he + endeavoured to make his escape; but suffered no other punishment than to + be confined for the rest of his life.[11] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 11: Which was thirty years. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + About this time began the Holy War for recovering of Palestine; which + having not been the enterprise of any one prince or state, but that + wherein most in Christendom had a share, it cannot with justice be + silently passed over in the history of any nation. + </p> + <p> + Pope Urban the Second, in a council at Clermont, made a pathetic + exhortation, shewing with what danger and indignity to Christendom the + Turks and Saracens had, for some ages, not only overrun all Asia and + Africa, where Christianity had long flourished; but had also made + encroachments into Europe, where they had entirely subdued Spain, and some + other parts; that Jerusalem, the holy city, where our Saviour did so many + miracles, and where His sepulchre still remained, to the scandal of the + Christian name, lay groaning under the tyranny of infidels; that the + swords which Christian princes had drawn against each other, ought to be + turned against the common enemy of their name and religion; that this + should be reckoned an ample satisfaction for all their past sins; that + those who died in this expedition should immediately go to Heaven, and the + survivors would be blessed with the sight of our Lord's sepulchre. + </p> + <p> + Moved by these arguments, and the influence of the person who delivered + them, several nobles and prelates immediately took upon them the cross; + and the council dissolving in this high fit of zeal, the clergy, upon + their return home, prevailed so far in their several countries, that in + most parts of Europe some great prince or lord became a votary for the + Holy Land; as Hugh the Great, brother to the King of France; Godfrey Duke + of Lorraine; Reimond Count of Toulouse; Robert Duke of Normandy, and many + others. Neither ought it to be forgotten, that most of these noble and + generous princes, wanting money to maintain the forces they had raised, + pawned their dominions to those very prelates who had first engaged them + in this enterprise: doubtless a notable mark of the force of oratory in + the churchmen of those ages, who were able to inspire that devotion into + others, whereof they seemed so little sensible themselves. + </p> + <p> + But a great share in the honour of promoting this religious war, is + attributed to the zeal and industry of a certain French priest, commonly + called Peter the Hermit; who being at Jerusalem upon pilgrimage some time + before, and entering often into private treaty with the patriarch of that + city, came back fully instructed in all the measures necessary for such a + war: to these was joined the artifice of certain dreams and visions that + might pass for divine admonition: all which, added to the piety of his + exhortations, gave him such credit with the Pope, and several princes of + Christendom, that he became in his own person the leader of a great army + against the infidels, and was very instrumental for engaging many others + in the same design. + </p> + <p> + What a spirit was thus raised in Christendom among all sorts of men, + cannot better be conceived than from the vast numbers of these warlike + pilgrims; who, at the siege of Nice, are said to have consisted of 600,000 + foot, and 100,000 horse: and the success at first was answerable to the + greatness of their numbers, the valour of their leaders, and the universal + opinion of such a cause; for, besides several famous victories in the + field, not to mention the towns of less importance, they took Nice, + Antioch, and at last Jerusalem, where Duke Godfrey was chosen king without + competition. But zeal, with a mixture of enthusiasm, as I take this to + have been, is a composition only fit for sudden enterprises, like a great + ferment in the blood, giving double courage and strength for the time, + until it sink and settle by nature into its old channel: for, in a few + years the piety of these adventurers began to slacken, and give way to + faction and envy, the natural corruptions of all confederacies: however, + to this spirit of devotion there succeeded a spirit of honour, which long + continued the vein and humour of the times; and the Holy Land became + either a school, wherein young princes went to learn the art of war, or a + scene wherein they affected to shew their valour, and gain reputation, + when they were weary of peace at home. + </p> + <p> + The Christians held possession of Jerusalem above eighty years,[12] and + continued their expeditions to the Holy Land almost as many more, with + various events; and after they were entirely driven out of Asia, the popes + have almost in every age endeavoured in vain to promote new crusades + neither does this spirit seem quite extinct among us even to this day; the + usual projects of sanguine men for uniting Christendom against the Turk, + being without doubt a traditional way of talk derived to us from the same + fountain. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 12: They held it eighty-eight years; from July, 1099, to + October, 1187. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Robert, in order to furnish himself out for this war, pawned his duchy to + the King for 10,000 marks of gold;[13] which sum was levied with so many + circumstances of rigour and exaction, towards the Church and laity, as + very much increased the discontents of both against the prince. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 13: Equal to £1,400,000, as money passes now. [D.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + 1099. + </h3> + <p> + I shall record one act of this king's, which being chiefly personal, may + pass rather for a part of his character, than a point of history. + </p> + <p> + As he was hunting one day in the New Forest, a messenger express from + Normandy, brought him intelligence, that Hélie, Count de la Flèche, had + laid close siege to Mans, and expected to carry the town in a few days; + the King leaving his chase, commanded some about him to point whereabout + Mans lay; and so rode straight on without reflection, until he came to the + coast. His attendants advised him to wait until he had made preparations + of men and money; to which he only returned; "They that love me, will + follow me." He entered the ship in a violent storm; which the mariners + beholding with astonishment, at length in great humility gave him warning + of the danger; but the King commanded them instantly to put off to sea, + and not be afraid; for he had never in his life heard of any King that was + drowned. In a few days he drove the enemy from before the city, and took + the count himself prisoner, who raging at his defeat and captivity, + exclaimed,[14] "That this blow was from Fortune; but Valour could make + reprisals, as he should shew, if ever he regained his liberty." This being + told the King, he sent for the count, let him understand that he had heard + of his menaces, then gave him a fine horse, bid him begone immediately, + and defied him to do his worst. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 14: There is so much pleasantry and humour, as well as spirit + and heroism in this story, as we have it recorded by William de + Malmesbury, who represents the menace as thrown out in the King's + presence, that I shall make no apology for setting down his words at + length. "Auctor turbarum Helias capitur; cui ante se adducto rex + ludibundus, 'Habeo te, magister,' inquit. At ille, cujus alta nobilitas + nesciret in tanto etiam periculo sapere; 'Fortuitu,' inquit, 'me cepisti: + sed si possem evadere, novi quid facerem.' Tum Willelmus, prae furore ferè + extra se positus, et obuncans Heliam, 'Tu,'inquit, 'nebulo! tu, quid + faceres? Discede; abi; fuge! Concede tibi ut facias quicquid poteris: et, + per vultum de Luca! nihil, si me viceris, pro hâc veniâ tecum paciscar." + <i>I.e.</i> By the face of St. Luke, if thou shouldst have the fortune to + conquer me, I scorn to compound with thee for my release. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + It would have been an injury to this prince's memory, to let pass an + action, by which he acquired more honour than from any other in his life, + and by which it appeared that he was not without some seeds of + magnanimity, had they been better cultivated, or not overrun by the number + or prevalency of his vices. + </p> + <p> + I have met with nothing else in this King's reign that deserved to be + remembered; for, as to an unsuccessful expedition or two against Wales, + either by himself or his generals; they were very inconsiderable both in + action and event, nor attended with any circumstances that might render a + relation of them of any use to posterity, either for instruction or + example. + </p> + <p> + His death was violent and unexpected, the effect of casualty; although + this perhaps is the only misfortune of life to which the person of a + prince is generally less subject than that of other men. Being at his + beloved exercise of hunting in the New Forest in Hampshire, a large stag + crossed the way before him, the King hot on his game, cried out in haste + to Walter Tyrrel, a knight of his attendants, to shoot; Tyrrel, + immediately let fly his arrow, which glancing against a tree, struck the + King through the heart, who fell dead to the ground without speaking a + word. Upon the surprise of this accident, all his attendants, and + Tyrrel[15] among the rest, fled different ways; until the fright being a + little over, some of them returned, and causing the body to be laid in a + collier's cart, for want of other conveniency, conveyed it in a very + unbecoming contemptuous manner to Winchester, where it was buried the next + day without solemnity, and which is worse, without grief. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 15: Yet Eadmer saith, that Tyrrel told him, he had not been in + the Forest that day. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + I shall conclude the history of this prince's reign, with a description + and character of his body and mind, impartially from the collections I + have made; which method I shall observe likewise in all the succeeding + reigns. + </p> + <p> + He was in stature somewhat below the usual size, and big-bellied, but he + was well and strongly knit. His hair was yellow or sandy; his face red, + which got him the name of Rufus; his forehead flat; his eyes were spotted, + and appeared of different colours; he was apt to stutter in speaking, + especially when he was angry; he was vigorous and active, and very hardy + to endure fatigues, which he owed to a good constitution of health, and + the frequent exercise of hunting; in his dress he affected gaiety and + expense, which having been first introduced by this prince into his court + and kingdom, grew, in succeeding reigns, an intolerable grievance. He also + first brought in among us the luxury and profusion of great tables. There + was in him, as in all other men, a mixture of virtues and vices, and that + in a pretty equal degree, only the misfortune was, that the latter, + although not more numerous, were yet much more prevalent than the former. + For being entirely a man of pleasure, this made him sacrifice all his good + qualities, and gave him too many occasions of producing his ill ones. He + had one very singular virtue for a prince, which was that of being true to + his word and promise: he was of undoubted personal valour, whereof the + writers in those ages produce several instances; nor did he want skill and + conduct in the process of war. But, his peculiar excellency, was that of + great dispatch, which, however usually decried, and allowed to be only a + happy temerity, does often answer all the ends of secrecy and counsel in a + great commander, by surprising and daunting an enemy when he least expects + it; as may appear by the greatest actions and events upon the records of + every nation. + </p> + <p> + He was a man of sound natural sense, as well as of wit and humour, upon + occasion. There were several tenets in the Romish Church he could not + digest; particularly that of the saints' intercession; and living in an + age overrun with superstition, he went so far into the other extreme, as + to be censured for an atheist. The day before his death, a monk relating a + terrible dream, which seemed to forebode him some misfortune, the King + being told the matter, turned it into a jest; said, "The man was a monk, + and dreamt like a monk, for lucre sake;" and therefore commanded Fitzhamon + to give him an hundred shillings, that he might not complain he had dreamt + to no purpose. + </p> + <p> + His vices appear to have been rather derived from the temper of his body, + than any original depravity of his mind; for being of a sanguine + complexion, wholly bent upon his pleasures, and prodigal in his nature, he + became engaged in great expenses. To supply these, the people were + perpetually oppressed with illegal taxes and exactions; but that sort of + avarice which arises from prodigality and vice, as it is always needy, so + it is much more ravenous and violent than the other, which put the King + and his evil instruments (among whom Ralph, Bishop of Durham, is of + special infamy) upon those pernicious methods of gratifying his + extravagances by all manner of oppression; whereof some are already + mentioned, and others are too foul to relate. + </p> + <p> + He is generally taxed by writers for discovering a contempt of religion in + his common discourse and behaviour; which I take to have risen from the + same fountain, being a point of art, and a known expedient, for men who + cannot quit their immoralities, at least to banish all reflections that + may disturb them in the enjoyment, which must be done either by not + thinking of religion at all; or, if it will obtrude, by putting it out of + countenance. + </p> + <p> + Yet there is one instance that might shew him to have some sense of + religion as well as justice. When two monks were outvying each other in + canting[16] the price of an abbey, he observed a third at some distance, + who said never a word; the King demanded why he would not offer; the monk + said, he was poor, and besides, would give nothing if he were ever so + rich; the King replied, "Then you are the fittest person to have it," and + immediately gave it him. But this is, perhaps with reason enough, assigned + more to caprice than conscience; for he was under the power of every + humour and passion that possessed him for the present; which made him + obstinate in his resolves, and unsteady in the prosecution. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 16: An Irish phrase for selling or buying by auction. It is + somewhat remarkable that so severe a critic should have used such a word + in historical composition. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + He had one vice or folly that seemed rooted in his mind, and of all + others, most unbefitting a prince: This was, a proud disdainful manner, + both in his words and gesture; and having already lost the love of his + subjects by his avarice and oppression, this finished the work, by + bringing him into contempt and hatred among his servants; so that few + among the worst of princes have had the luck to be so ill beloved, or so + little lamented. + </p> + <p> + He never married, having an invincible abhorrence for the state, although + not for the sex. + </p> + <p> + He died in the thirteenth year of his reign, the forty-third of his age, + and of Christ 1100, August 2. + </p> + <p> + His works of piety were few, but in buildings he was very expensive, + exceeding any King of England before or since, among which Westminster + Hall, Windsor Castle, the Tower of London, and the whole city of Carlisle, + remain lasting monuments of his magnificence. + </p> + <h3> + THE REIGN OF HENRY THE FIRST. + </h3> + <p> + This prince was the youngest son of William the Conqueror, and bred to + more learning than was usual in that age, or to his rank, which got him + the surname of Beauclerk; the reputation whereof, together with his being + born in England, and born son of a king, although of little weight in + themselves, did very much strengthen his pretensions with the people. + Besides, he had the same advantage of his brother Robert's absence, which + had proved before so successful to Rufus, whose treasures he likewise + seized on immediately at his death, after the same manner, and for the + same end, as Rufus did those of his father the Conqueror. Robert had been + now five years absent in the Holy War, where he acquitted himself with + great glory; and although he was now in Apulia, upon his return homeward, + yet the nobles pretending not to know what was become of him, and others + giving out that he had been elected King of Jerusalem, Henry laid hold of + the occasion, and calling together an assembly of the clergy, nobles, and + people of the realm at London, upon his promises to restore King Edward's + laws, and redress the grievances which had been introduced by his father + and brother, they consented to elect him king. Immediately after his + coronation, he proceeded upon reforming the abuses of the late reign: he + banished dissolute persons from the court, who had long infested it under + the protection and example of Rufus: he restored the people to the use of + lights in the night, which the Conqueror had forbidden, after a certain + hour, by the ringing of a bell. Then he published his charter, and ordered + a copy thereof to be taken for every county in England. This charter was + in substance; The freedom of Mother Church from former oppressions; leave + to the heirs of nobles to succeed in the possession of their lands, + without being obliged to redeem them, only paying to the king a moderate + relief; abolition of fines for licence of marriage to their heiresses; a + promise of not refusing such licence unless the match proposed be with the + king's enemy,[17] &c.; the next of kin to be guardians of the lands of + orphans; punishments for coiners of false money; a confirmation of St. + Edward's laws; and a general amnesty. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 17: <i>i.e.</i> with a traitor or malcontent. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + About the same time he performed two acts of justice, which, by gratifying + the revenge and the love of the people, gained very much upon their + affections to his person: the first was, to imprison Ralph Bishop of + Durham,[18] who having been raised by the late king from a mean and sordid + birth to be his prime confidant and minister, became the chief instrument, + as well as contriver, of all his oppressions: the second was, in recalling + and restoring Archbishop Anselm, who having been forced by the continual + persecutions of the same prince, to leave England, had lived ever since in + banishment, and deprived of all his revenues. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 18: Le Neve says that Ralph Flambard, Bishop of Durham, was + imprisoned in the Tower, September, 1100, but escaped in February of the + following year, and fled to Normandy. ("Fasti," iii. 282-3). [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + The King had not been many months on his throne, when the news came that + Duke Robert, returned from the Holy Land, was received by his subjects + with great marks of joy and honour, and in universal reputation for his + valour and success against the infidels: soon after which, Ralph Bishop of + Durham, either by the negligence or corruption of his keepers, escaped out + of prison, and fled over to the Duke; whom he stirred up to renew and + solicit his pretensions to the crown of England, by writing to several + nobles, who, either through old friendship, or new discontent, or an + opinion of his title, gave him promises of their assistance, as soon as he + should land in England: but the Duke having returned exceeding poor from + the Holy Land, was not yet in a condition for such an undertaking, and + therefore thought fit to defer it to a more seasonable opportunity. + </p> + <p> + As the King had hitherto, with great industry, sought all occasions to + gratify his people, so he continued to do in the choice of a wife. This + was Matilda, daughter of Malcolm the late King of Scots; a lady of great + piety and virtue, who, by the power or persuasion of her friends, was + prevailed with to leave her cloister for a crown, after she had, as some + writers report, already taken the veil. Her mother was sister to Edgar + Atheling, the last heir-male of the Saxon race; of whom frequent mention + hath been made in the two preceding reigns: and thus the Saxon line, to + the great contentment of the English nation, was again restored. + </p> + <p> + Duke Robert, having now with much difficulty and oppression of his + subjects, raised great forces, and gotten ready a fleet to convey them, + resolved once more to assert his title to the crown of England: to which + end he had for some time held a secret correspondence with several nobles, + and lately received fresh invitations. The King, on the other side, who + had received timely intelligence of his brother's preparations, gave + orders to his admirals to watch the sea-ports, and endeavour to hinder the + enemy's landing: but the commanders of several ships, whether Robert had + won them by his bribes, or his promises, instead of offering resistance, + became his guides, and brought his fleet safe into Portsmouth, where he + landed his men, and from thence marched to Winchester, his army hourly + increasing by great numbers of people, who had either an affection for his + person, an opinion of his title, or a hatred to the King. In the mean time + Henry advanced with his forces, to be near the Duke, and observe his + motions; but, like a wise general, forbore offering battle to an invader, + until he might do it with manifest advantage. Besides, he knew very well + that his brother was a person whose policy was much inferior to his + valour, and therefore to be sooner overcome in a treaty than a fight: to + this end, the nobles on both sides began to have frequent interviews; to + make overtures; and at last concert the terms of a peace; but wholly to + the advantage of the King, Robert renouncing his pretensions in + consideration of a small pension, and of succeeding to the crown on + default of male issue in his brother. + </p> + <p> + The defection of nobles and other people to the Duke was so great, that + men generally thought if it had come to a battle, the King would have lost + both the victory and his crown. But Robert, upon his return to Normandy + after this dishonourable peace, grew out of all reputation with the world, + as well as into perfect hatred and contempt among his own subjects, which + in a short time was the cause of his ruin. + </p> + <p> + The King having thus by his prudence got rid of a dangerous and + troublesome rival, and soon after by his valour quelled the insurrections + of the Earls of Shrewsbury and Mortaigne, whom he forced to fly into + Normandy, found himself in full peace at home and abroad, and therefore + thought he might venture a contention with the Church about the right of + investing bishops; upon which subject many other princes at that time had + controversy with their clergy: but, after long struggling in vain, were + all forced to yield at last to the decree of a synod in Rome, and to the + pertinacy of the bishops in the several countries. The form of investing a + bishop, was by delivery of a ring and a pastoral staff; which, at Rome, + was declared unlawful to be performed by any lay hand whatsoever; but the + princes of Christendom pleaded immemorial custom to authorize them: and + King Henry, having given the investiture to certain bishops, commanded + Anselm to consecrate them. This the archbishop refused with great + firmness, pursuant to what he understood to be his duty, and to several + immediate commands of the Pope. Both sides adhering to their own + sentiments, the matter was carried to Rome, where Anselm went in person, + by the King's desire; who, at the same time, sent ambassadors thither to + assert and defend his cause; but the Pope still insisting, Anselm was + forbidden to return to England. The King seized on all his revenues, and + would not restore him, until upon other concessions of the Pope, Henry was + content to yield up his pretensions to the investiture; but, however, kept + the right of electing still in his own hands. + </p> + <p> + Whatever might have been the method of electing bishops, in the more + primitive ages, it seems plain to me that in these times, and somewhat + before, although the election was made <i>per clerum et populum</i>, yet + the king always nominated at first, or approved afterwards, and generally + both, as may be seen by the style in which their elections ran, as well as + by the persons chosen, who were usually Churchmen of the court, or in some + employment near the King. But whether this were a gradual encroachment of + the regal upon the spiritual power, I had rather leave others to dispute. + </p> + <h3> + 1104. 1105. + </h3> + <p> + About this time Duke Robert came to England, upon a visit to the King, + where he was received with much kindness and hospitality; but, at the same + time, the Queen had private directions to manage his easy temper, and work + him to a consent of remitting his pension: this was compassed without much + difficulty; but, upon the Duke's return to Normandy, he was severely + reproved for his weakness by Ralph Bishop of Durham, and the two Earls of + Mortaigne and Shrewsbury. These three having fled from England for + rebellion, and other treasons, lived exiles in Normandy; and, bearing an + inveterate hatred to the King, resolved to stir up the Duke to a + resentment of the injury and fraud of his brother. Robert, who was various + in his nature, and always under the power of the present persuader, easily + yielded to their incitements: reproached the King in bitter terms, by + letters and messages, that he had cozened and circumvented him; demanding + satisfaction, and withal threatening revenge. At the same time, by the + advice of the three nobles already mentioned, he began to arm himself as + formidably as he could, with design to seize upon the King's possessions + in Normandy: but as this resolution was rashly taken up, so it was as + faintly pursued, and ended in his destruction: neither hath any prince + reason to expect better fortune, that engages in a war against a powerful + neighbour upon the counsel or instigation of exiles, who having no further + view than to serve their private interest, or gratify their revenge, are + sure to succeed in one or t'other, if they can embark princes in their + quarrel, whom they fail not to incite by the falsest representations of + their own strength, and the weakness of their enemy: for as the King was + now settled in his throne too firm to be shaken, so Robert had wholly lost + all credit and friendship in England; was sunk in reputation at home; and, + by his unlimited profuseness, reduced so low, that, having pawned most of + his dominions, he had offered Rouen, his capital city, in sale to the + inhabitants. All this was very well known to the King, who, resolving to + make his advantage thereof, pretended to be highly provoked at the + disgraceful speeches and menaces of his brother; which he made the formal + occasion of a quarrel: therefore he first sent over some forces to ravage + his country; and, understanding that the Duke was coldly supported by his + own subjects, many of whom came over to the King's army, he soon followed + in person with more; took several towns; and, placing garrisons therein, + came back to England, designing with the first pretext or opportunity to + return with a more potent army, and wholly subdue the duchy to his + obedience. + </p> + <p> + Robert, now grown sensible of his weakness, became wholly dispirited; and + following his brother into England, in a most dejected manner begged for + peace: but the King, now fully determined upon his ruin, turned away in + disdain, muttering at the same time some threatening words. This indignity + roused up once more the sinking courage of the Duke; who, with bitter + words, detesting the pride and insolence of Henry, withdrew in a rage, and + hasting back to Normandy, made what preparations he could for his own + defence. The King observing his nobles very ready to engage with him in + this expedition; and being assured that those in Normandy would, upon his + approach, revolt from the Duke, soon followed with a mighty army, and the + flower of his kingdom. Upon his arrival he was attended, according to his + expectation, by several Norman lords; and, with this formidable force, sat + down before Tinchebray: the Duke, accompanied by the two exiled earls, + advanced with what strength he had, in hopes to draw the enemy from the + siege of so important a place, although at the hazard of a battle. Both + armies being drawn out in battalia, that of the King's, trusting to their + numbers, began to charge with great fury, but without any order. + </p> + <h3> + 1106. + </h3> + <p> + The Duke, with forces far inferior, received the enemy with much firmness; + and, finding they had spent their first heat, advanced very regularly + against their main body, before they could recover themselves from the + confusion they were in. He attacked them with so much courage, that he + broke their whole body, and they began to fly on every side. The King + believing all was lost, did what he could by threats and gentle words to + stop the flight of his men, but found it impossible: then he commanded two + bodies of horse, which were placed on either wing, to join, and, wheeling + about, to attack the enemy in rear. The Duke, who thought himself so near + a victory, was forced to stop his pursuit; and ordering his men to face + about, began the fight anew; mean time the scattered parts of the main + body, which had so lately fled, began to rally, and pour in upon the + Normans behind, by which Duke Robert's army was almost encompassed; yet + they kept their ground awhile, and made several charges, until at length, + perfectly overborne by numbers, they were utterly defeated. There Duke + Robert, doing all the parts of a great captain, was taken prisoner, + together with the Earl of Mortaigne, and almost his whole army: for being + hemmed in on all sides, few of them could make their escape. Thus, in the + space of forty years; Normandy subdued England, and England Normandy; + which are events perhaps hardly to be paralleled in any other ages or + parts of the world. + </p> + <h3> + 1107. + </h3> + <p> + The King, having stayed a while to settle the state of Normandy, returned + with his brother into England, whom he sent prisoner to Cardiff Castle, + with orders that he should be favourably used, which, for some time, were + duly observed; until being accused of attempting to make his escape + (whether it were real or feigned) he had his eyes put out with a burning + basin, by the King's express commands; in which miserable condition he + lived for six-and-twenty years. + </p> + <p> + It is believed the King would hardly have engaged in this unnatural and + invidious war, with so little pretence or provocation, if the Pope had not + openly approved and sanctified his cause, exhorting him to it as a + meritorious action; which seems to have been but an ill return from the + Vicar of CHRIST to a prince who had performed so many brave exploits for + the service of the Church, to the hazard of his person, and ruin of his + fortune. But the very bigoted monks, who have left us their accounts of + those times, do generally agree in heavily taxing the Roman court for + bribery and corruption. And the King had promised to remit his right of + investing bishops, which he performed immediately after his reduction of + Normandy, and was a matter of much more service to the Pope, than all the + achievements of Duke Robert in the Holy Land, whose merits, as well as + pretensions, were now antiquated and out of date. + </p> + <h3> + 1109. + </h3> + <p> + About this time the Emperor Henry V. sent to desire Maud, the King's + daughter in marriage, who was then a child about eight years old: that + prince had lately been embroiled in a quarrel with the see of Rome, which + began upon the same subject of investing bishops, but was carried to great + extremities: for invading Italy with a mighty army, he took the Pope + prisoner, forced him to yield to whatever terms he thought fit to impose, + and to take an oath of fidelity to him between his hands: however, as soon + as Henry had withdrawn his forces, the Pope assembling a council, revoked + all his concessions, as extorted by compulsion, and raised great troubles + in Germany against the Emperor, who, in order to secure himself, sought + this alliance with the King. + </p> + <p> + About this time likewise died Archbishop Anselm, a prelate of great piety + and learning, whose zeal for the see of Rome, as well as for his own + rights and privileges, should in justice be imputed to the errors of the + time, and not of the man. After his death, the King, following the steps + of his brother, held the see vacant five years, contenting himself with an + excuse, which looked like a jest, That he only waited until he could find + another so good a man as Anselm. + </p> + <p> + In the fourteenth year of this King's reign, the Welsh, after their usual + manner, invaded the Marches with great fury and destruction; but the King, + hoping to put a final end to those perpetual troubles and vexations given + to his kingdom by that unquiet people, went in person against them with a + powerful army; and to prevent their usual stratagem of retreating to their + woods and mountains, and other fastnesses, he ordered the woods to be cut + down, beset all their places of security, and hunting them like wild + beasts, made so terrible a slaughter, that at length observing them to + fling down their arms, and beg for quarter, he commanded his soldiers to + forbear; then receiving their submissions, and placing garrisons where he + thought necessary, he returned, in great triumph and satisfaction, to + London. + </p> + <h3> + 1114. + </h3> + <p> + The Princess Maud being now marriageable, was delivered to the Emperor's + ambassador; and for a portion to the young lady a tax was imposed of three + shillings upon every hide of land in England, which grew afterwards into a + custom,[19] and was in succeeding times confirmed by Acts of Parliament, + under the name of "Reasonable Aid for marrying the King's Daughter," + although levied after a different manner. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 19: This was the first occasion of the feudal tax called scutage + being levied in England. [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + As the institution of Parliaments in England is agreed by several writers + to be owing to this King, so the date of the first hath been assigned by + some to the fifteenth year of his reign; which however is not to be + affirmed with any certainty: for great councils were convoked not only in + the two preceding reigns, but for time immemorial by the Saxon princes, + who first introduced them into this island, from the same original with + the other Gothic forms of government in most parts of Europe. These + councils or assemblies were composed according to the pleasure of the + prince who convened them, generally of nobles and bishops, sometimes were + added some considerable commoners; but they seldom met, except in the + beginning of a reign, or in times of war, until this King came to the + crown; who being a wise and popular prince, called these great assemblies + upon most important affairs of his reign, and ever followed their advice, + which, if it proved successful, the honour and advantage redounded to him, + and if otherwise, he was free from the blame: thus when he chose a wife + for himself, and a husband for his daughter, when he designed his + expedition against Robert, and even for the election of an archbishop to + the see of Canterbury, he proceeded wholly by the advice of such general + assemblies, summoned for the purpose. But the style of these conventions, + as delivered by several authors, is very various; sometimes it is <i>comites, + barones, et cleri</i>;[20] his marriage was agreed on, <i>consilio majorum + natu et magnatum terrae</i>. One author[21] calls it <i>concilium + principum, sacerdotum, et reliqui populi.</i> And for the election of an + archbishop, the Saxon Chronicle says, That he commanded by letters all + bishops, abbots, and thanes to meet him at Gloucester <i>ad procerum + conventum</i>. Lastly, some affirm these assemblies to have been an + imitation of the three estates in Normandy. I am very sensible how much + time and pains have been employed by several learned men to search out the + original of Parliaments in England, wherein I doubt they have little + satisfied others or themselves. I know likewise that to engage in the same + enquiry, would neither suit my abilities nor my subject. It may be + sufficient for my purpose, if I be able to give some little light into + this matter, for the curiosity of those who are less informed. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 20: Brompton. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 21: Polydore Virgil. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The institution of a state or commonwealth out of a mixture of the three + forms of government received in the schools, however it be derided as a + solecism and absurdity by some late writers on politics, hath been very + ancient in the world, and is celebrated by the gravest authors of + antiquity. For although the supreme power cannot properly be said to be + divided, yet it may be so placed in three several hands, as each to be a + check upon the other; or formed into a balance, which is held by him that + has the executive power, with the nobility and people in counterpoise in + each scale. Thus the kingdom of Media is represented by Xenophon before + the reign of Cyrus; so Polybius tells us, the best government is a mixture + of the three forms, <i>regno, optimatium, et populi imperio</i>: the same + was that of Sparta in its primitive institution by Lycurgus, made up of <i>reges, + seniores, et populus</i>; the like may be asserted of Rome, Carthage, and + other states: and the Germans of old fell upon the same model, from whence + the Goths their neighbours, with the rest of those northern people, did + perhaps borrow it. But an assembly of the three estates is not properly of + Gothic institution: for these fierce people, when upon the decline of the + Roman Empire they first invaded Europe, and settled so many kingdoms in + Italy, Spain, and other parts, were all Heathens; and when a body of them + had fixed themselves in a tract of land left desolate by the flight or + destruction of the natives, their military government by time and peace + became civil; the general was king, his great officers were his nobles and + ministers of state, and the common soldiers the body of the people; but + these were freemen, and had smaller portions of land assigned them. The + remaining natives were all slaves; the nobles were a standing council; and + upon affairs of great importance, the freemen were likewise called by + their representatives to give their advice. By which it appears, that the + Gothic frame of government consisted at first but of two states or + assemblies, under the administration of a single person. But after the + conversion of these princes and their people to the Christian faith, the + Church became endowed with great possessions, as well by the bounty of + kings, as the arts and industry of the clergy, winning upon the devotion + of their new converts: and power, by the common maxim, always accompanying + property, the ecclesiastics began soon to grow considerable, to form + themselves into a body, and to call assemblies or synods by their own + authority, or sometimes by the command of their princes, who in an + ignorant age had a mighty veneration for their learning as well as piety. + By such degrees the Church arrived at length, by very justifiable steps, + to have her share in the commonwealth, and became a third estate in most + kingdoms of Europe; but these assemblies, as we have already observed, + were seldom called in England before the reign of this prince, nor even + then were always composed after the same manner: neither does it appear + from the writers who lived nearest to that age, that the people had any + representative at all, beside the barons and other nobles, who did not sit + in those assemblies by virtue of their birth or creation, but of the lands + or baronies they held. So that the present constitution of the English + Parliament hath, by many degrees and alterations, been modelled to the + frame it is now in; which alterations I shall observe in the succeeding + reigns as exactly as I can discover them by a diligent search into the + histories of the several ages, without engaging in the controverted points + of law about this matter, which would rather perplex the reader than + inform him. + </p> + <h3> + 1116. + </h3> + <p> + But to return, Louis the Gross King of France, a valiant and active + prince, in the flower of his age, succeeding to that crown that Robert was + deprived of, Normandy, grew jealous of the neighbourhood and power of King + Henry, and begun early to entertain designs either of subduing that duchy + to himself, or at least of making a considerable party against the King in + favour of William son of Robert, whom for that end he had taken into his + protection. Pursuant to these intentions, he soon found an occasion for a + quarrel: expostulating with Henry, that he had broken his promise by not + doing homage for the Duchy of Normandy, as well as by neglecting to raze + the castle of Gisors,[22] which was built on the French side of the river + Epte, the common boundary between both dominions. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 22: Father Daniel says that for some years past it had been + agreed that Gisors "should be sequestered in the hands of a lord called + Pagan or Payen, who was to receive into it neither English or Norman, nor + French troops; and in case it should fall into the hands of either of the + two kings, it was stipulated, that the walls should be razed within the + space of forty days" ("Hist. of France," i. 369). [W.S.J.] ] + </p> + <p> + But an incident soon offered, which gave King Henry a pretext for + retaliating almost in the same manner: for it happened that upon some + offence taken against his nephew Theobald Count of Blois by the French + King, Louis in great rage sent an army to invade and ravage the earl's + territories. Theobald defended himself for a while with much valour; but + at length in danger to be overpowered, requested aid of his uncle the King + of England, who supported him so effectually with men and money, that he + was able not only to defend his own country, but very much to infest and + annoy his enemy. Thus a war was kindled between the two kings; Louis now + openly asserted the title of William the son of Robert, and entering into + an alliance with the Earls of Flanders and Anjou, began to concert + measures for driving King Henry out of Normandy. + </p> + <p> + The King having timely intelligence of his enemy's designs, began with + great vigour and dispatch to prepare himself for war: he raised, with much + difficulty and discontent of his people, the greatest tax that had ever + been known in England; and passing over into Normandy with a mighty army, + joined his nephew Theobald. The King of France, who had entertained hopes + that he should overrun the duchy before his enemy could arrive, advanced + with great security towards the frontiers of Normandy; but observing an + enemy of equal number and force already prepared to engage him, he + suddenly stopped his march. The two armies faced one another for some + hours, neither side offering battle; the rest of the day was spent in + light skirmishes begun by the French, and repeated for some days following + with various success; but the remainder of the year passed without any + considerable action. + </p> + <h3> + 1119. + </h3> + <p> + At length the violence of the two princes brought it to a battle: for + Louis, to give a reputation to his arms, advanced towards the frontiers of + Normandy, and after a short siege took Gué Nicaise;[23] there the King met + him, and the fight began, which continued with great obstinacy on both + sides for nine hours. The French army was divided into two bodies, and the + English into three; by which means, that part where the King fought in + person, being attacked by a superior number, began to give way; and + William Crispin, a Norman baron, singling out the King of England (whose + subject he had been, but banished for treason) struck him twice in the + head with so much violence, that the blood gushed out of his mouth. The + King inflamed with rage and indignation, dealt such furious blows, that he + struck down several of his enemies, and Crispin among the rest, who was + taken prisoner at his horse's feet. The soldiers encouraged by the valour + of their prince, rallied and fell on with fresh vigour, and the victory + seemed doubtful, when William the son of King Henry, to whom his father + had entrusted the third body of his army, which had not yet engaged, fell + on with this fresh reserve upon the enemy, who was already very much + harassed with the toil of the day: this quickly decided the matter; for + the French, though valiantly fighting, were overcome, with the slaughter + of several thousand men; their King quitted the field, and withdrew to + Andely; but the King of England recovering Gué Nicaise, returned + triumphant to Rouen. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 23: At that time reckoned an important fortress on the river + Epte. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + This important victory was followed by the defection of the Earl of Anjou + to King Henry, and the Earl of Flanders fell in the battle; by which the + King of France was at once deprived of two powerful allies. However, by + the intercession of the former, a peace was soon after made between both + crowns. William the King's son did homage to Louis for the Dukedom of + Normandy; and the other William, following the fortunes of his father, was + left to his pretensions and complaints. + </p> + <p> + It is here observable, that from this time until Wales was subdued to the + English crown, the eldest sons of England were called Dukes of Normandy, + as they are now Princes of Wales. + </p> + <h3> + 1120. + </h3> + <p> + The King having stayed some time in Normandy, for the settlement of his + duchy after the calamities and confusions of a war, returned to England, + to the very great satisfaction of his people and himself. He had enlarged + his dominions by the conquest of Normandy; he had subdued all his + competitors, and forced even the King of France, their great protector, + after a glorious victory, to his own conditions of a peace; he was upon + very good terms with the Pope, who had a great esteem and friendship for + his person, and made him larger concessions than was usual from that see, + and in those ages. At home he was respected by the clergy, reverenced by + the nobles, and beloved by the people; in his family he was blessed with a + son of much hopes, just growing to years of manhood, and his daughter was + an empress; so that he seemed to possess as great a share of happiness as + human life is capable to admit. But the felicity of man depends upon a + conjunction of many circumstances, which are all subject to various + accidents, and every single accident is able to dissolve the whole + contexture; which truth was never verified more than in this prince, who + by one domestic misfortune, not to be prevented or foreseen, found all the + pleasure and content he proposed to himself by his prudence, his industry, + and his valour, wholly disappointed and destroyed: for William the young + prince having embarked at Barfleur some time after his father, the + mariners being all drunk, suffered the ship to run upon a rock, where it + was dashed to pieces: the prince made a shift to get into the boat, and + was making to the shore, until forced back by the cries of his sister, + whom he received into the boat, so many others crowded in at the same + time, that it was immediately overturned. There perished, beside the + prince, a natural son and daughter of the King's, his niece, and many + other persons of quality, together with all their attendants and servants, + to the number of a hundred and forty, beside fifty mariners, but one + person escaping. + </p> + <p> + Although the King survived this cruel misfortune many years, yet he could + never recover his former humour, but grew melancholy and morose; however, + in order to provide better for the peace and settlement of the kingdom + after his death, about five months after the loss of his son, his former + Queen having died three years before, he married Adeliza, a beautiful + young lady of the family of Lorraine,[24] in hopes of issue by her, but + never had any. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 24: She was daughter of Godfrey Duke of Louvain, or the Lower + Lorraine. [D.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + 1124. + </h3> + <p> + The death of the prince gave occasion to some new troubles in Normandy; + for the Earls of Meulant and Evreux, Hugh de Montfort, and other + associates, began to raise insurrections there, which were thought to be + privately fomented by the French King, out of enmity to King Henry, and in + favour of William the son of Robert, to whom the Earl of Anjou had lately + given his daughter in marriage. But William of Tankerville, the King's + lieutenant in Normandy, surprising the enemy's forces by an ambush, + entirely routed them, took both the earls prisoners, and sent one of them + (Meulant) to his master; but the Count d'Evreux made his escape. + </p> + <h3> + 1126. + </h3> + <p> + King Henry having now lost hope of issue by his new Queen, brought with + him, on his return to England, his daughter Maud, who by the Emperor's + death had been lately left a widow and childless; and in a Parliament or + general assembly which he had summoned at Windsor, he caused the crown to + be settled on her and her children, and made all his nobles take a solemn + oath to defend her title. This was performed by none with so much + forwardness as Stephen Earl of Boulogne, who was observed to shew a more + than ordinary zeal in the matter. This young lord was the King's nephew, + being second son of the Earl of Blois by Adela the Conqueror's daughter: + he was in high favour with the King his uncle, who had married him to the + daughter and heiress of the Earl of Boulogne, given him great possessions + in England, and made him indeed too powerful for a subject. + </p> + <p> + The King having thus fixed the succession of the crown in his daughter by + an Act of Settlement and an oath of fealty, looked about to provide her + with a second husband, and at length determined his choice in Geoffrey + Plantagenet Earl of Anjou, the son of Fulk lately deceased. + </p> + <p> + This prince, whose dominions confined on France and Normandy, was usually + courted for an ally by both Kings in their several quarrels; but having + little faith or honour, he never scrupled to change sides as often as he + saw or conceived it for his advantage. After the great victory over the + French, he closed in with King Henry, and gave his daughter to the young + prince William; yet at the same time, by the private encouragement of + Louis, he prevailed on the King of England to be easy in the conditions of + a peace. Upon the unfortunate loss of the prince, and the troubles in + Normandy thereupon, he fell again from the King, gave his other daughter + to William the son of Robert, and struck up with France to take that + prince again into protection. But dying soon after, and leaving his son + Geoffrey to succeed in that earldom, the King was of opinion he could not + anywhere bestow his daughter with more advantage, both for the security + and enlargement of his dominions, than by giving her to this earl; by + which marriage Anjou would become an acquisition to Normandy, and this be + a more equal match to so formidable a neighbour as France. In a short time + the marriage was concluded; and this Earl Geoffrey had the honour to + introduce into the royal family of England the surname of Plantagenet, + borne by so many succeeding Kings, which began with Henry II. who was the + eldest son of this marriage. + </p> + <p> + But the King of France was in great discontent at this match: he easily + foresaw the dismal consequences to himself and his successors from such an + increase of dominion united to the crown of England: he knew what + impressions might be made in future times to the shaking of his throne by + an aspiring and warlike king, if they should happen in a weak reign, or + upon any great discontents in that kingdom. Which conjectures being highly + reasonable (and since often verified by events) he cast about to find some + way of driving the King of England entirely out of France; but having + neither pretext nor stomach in the midst of a peace to begin an open and + formal quarrel, there fell out an accident which gave him plausible + occasion of pursuing his design. + </p> + <p> + Charles the Good Earl of Flanders having been lately murdered by some of + his subjects, upon private revenge, the King of France went in person to + take revenge of the assassins; which he performed with great justice and + honour. But the late earl leaving no heir of his body, and several + competitors appearing to dispute the succession, Louis rejected some + others who seemed to have a fairer title, and adjudged it to William the + son of Robert, the better to secure him to his interests upon any design + he might engage in against the King of England. Not content with this, he + assisted the Earl in person, subdued his rivals, and left him in peaceable + possession of his new dominion. + </p> + <p> + King Henry, on the other side, was very apprehensive of his nephew's + greatness, well knowing to what end it was directed; however, he seemed + not to regard it, contenting himself to give the Earl employment at home + by privately nourishing the discontents of his new subjects, and abetting + underhand another pretender: for William had so entirely lost the hearts + of his people, by his intolerable avarice and exactions, that the + principal towns in Flanders revolted from him, and invited Thierri Earl of + Alsace to be their governor. But the King of France generously resolved to + appear once more in his defence, and took his third expedition into + Flanders for that purpose. He had marched as far as Artois, when he was + suddenly recalled to defend his own dominions from the fury of a powerful + and provoked invader: for Henry King of England, moved with indignation to + see the French King in the midst of a peace so frequently and openly + supporting his most dangerous enemy, thought it the best way to divert + Louis from kindling a fire against him abroad, by forcing him to + extinguish one at home: he therefore entered into the bowels of France, + ravaging and laying waste all before him, and quickly grew so formidable, + that the French King to purchase a peace was forced to promise never more + to assist or favour the Earl of Flanders; however, as it fell out, this + article proved to be wholly needless; for the young Earl soon after gave + battle to Thierri, and put his whole army to the rout; but pursuing his + victory, he received a wound in his wrist, which, by the unskilfulness of + a surgeon, cost him his life.[24] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 24: The lance passed through or under the ball of his thumb into + his wrist. The wound gangrening, he died within five days. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + This one slight inconsiderable accident did, in all probability, put a + stop to very great events; for if that young prince had survived his + victory, it is hardly to be doubted but through the justness of his cause, + the reputation of his valour, and the assistance of the King of France, he + would in a little time have recovered Normandy, and perhaps his father's + liberty, which were the two designs he had in agitation; nor could he well + have missed the crown of England after the King's death, who was now in + his decline, when he had so fair a title, and no competitors in view but a + woman and an infant. + </p> + <h3> + 1129. + </h3> + <p> + Upon the King's return from Normandy, a great council of the clergy was + held at London, for the punishing of priests who lived in concubinage, + which was the great grievance of the Church in those ages, and had been + condemned by several canons. This assembly thinking to take a more + effectual course against that abomination, as it was called, decreed + severe penalties upon those who should be guilty of breaking it, + entreating the King to see the law put in execution; which he very readily + undertook, but performed otherwise than was expected, eluding the force of + the law by an evasion to his own advantage: for exacting fines of the + delinquent priests, he suffered them to keep their concubines without + further disturbance. A very unaccountable step in so wise a body for their + own concernments, as the clergy of those times is looked upon to have + been; and although perhaps the fact be not worth recording, it may serve + as a lesson to all assemblies never to trust the execution of a law in the + hands of those who will find it more to their interests to see it broken + than observed. + </p> + <h3> + 1132. + </h3> + <p> + The Empress Maud was now happily delivered of a son, who was afterwards + King of England by the name of Henry the Second: and the King calling a + Parliament, had the oath of fealty repeated by the nobles and clergy to + her and her issue, which in the compass of three years they all broke or + forgot. + </p> + <h3> + 1134. + </h3> + <p> + I think it may deserve a place in this history to mention the last scene + of Duke Robert's life, who, either through the poorness or greatness of + spirit, having outlived the loss of his honour, his dominions, his + liberty, his eyesight, and his only son, was at last forced to sink under + the load of eighty years, and must be allowed for the greatest example + either of insensibility or contempt of earthly things, that ever appeared + in a sovereign or private person. He was a prince hardly equalled by any + in his time for valour, conduct, and courtesy; but his ruin began from the + easiness of his nature, which whoever knew how to manage, were sure to be + refused nothing they could ask. By such profusion he was reduced to those + unhappy expedients of remitting his rights for a pension, of pawning his + towns, and multiplying taxes, which brought him into hatred and contempt + with his subjects; neither do I think any virtue so little commendable in + a sovereign as that of liberality, where it exceeds what his ordinary + revenues can supply; where it passes those bounds, his subjects must all + be oppressed to shew his bounty to a few flatterers, or he must sell his + towns, or basely renounce his rights, by becoming pensioner to some + powerful prince in the neighbourhood; all which we have lived to see + performed by a late monarch in our own time and country. + </p> + <h3> + 1135. + </h3> + <p> + Since the reduction of Normandy to the King's obedience, he found it + necessary for his affairs to spend in that duchy some part of his time + almost every year, and a little before the death of Robert he made his + last voyage there. It was observable in this prince, that having some + years past very narrowly escaped shipwreck in his passage from Normandy + into England, the sense of his danger had made very deep impressions on + his mind, which he discovered by a great reformation in his life, by + redressing several grievances, and doing many acts of piety; and to shew + the steadiness of his resolutions, he kept them to the last, making a + progress through most parts of Normandy, treating his subjects in all + places with great familiarity and kindness, granting their petitions, + easing their taxes, and, in a word, giving all possible marks of a + religious, wise, and gracious prince. + </p> + <p> + Returning to St. Denys le Ferment from his progress a little indisposed, + he there fell into a fever upon a surfeit of lamprey, which in a few days + ended his life. His body was conveyed to England, and buried at Reading in + the abbey-church himself had founded. + </p> + <p> + It is hard to affirm anything peculiar of this prince's character; those + authors who have attempted it mentioning very little but what was common + to him with thousands of other men; neither have they recorded any of + those personal circumstances or passages, which only can discover such + qualities of the mind as most distinguish one man from another. These + defects may perhaps appear in the stories of many succeeding kings; which + makes me hope I shall not be altogether blamed for sometimes disappointing + the reader in a point wherein I could wish to be the most exact. + </p> + <p> + As to his person, he is described to be of middle stature; his body strong + set and fleshy; his hair black; his eyes large; his countenance amiable, + and very pleasant, especially when he was merry. He was temperate in meat + and drink, and a hater of effeminacy, a vice or folly much complained of + in his time, especially that circumstance of long artificial hair, which + he forbade upon severe penalties. His three principal virtues were + prudence, valour, and eloquence. These were counterbalanced by three great + vices; avarice, cruelty, and lust; of which the first is proved by the + frequency of his taxes; the second by his treatment of Duke Robert; and + the last was notorious. But the proof of his virtues doth not depend on + single instances, manifesting themselves through the whole course of a + long reign, which was hardly attended by any misfortune that prudence, + justice, or valour could prevent. He came to the crown at a ripe age, when + he had passed thirty years, having learned, in his private life, to + struggle with hardships, whereof he had his share, from the capriciousness + and injustice of both his brothers; and by observing their failures, he + had learned to avoid them in himself, being steady and uniform in his + whole conduct, which were qualities they both seemed chiefly to want. This + likewise made him so very tenacious as he was observed to be in his love + and hatred. He was a strict observer of justice, which he seems never to + have violated, but in that particular case, which political casuists are + pleased to dispense with, where the dispute is about a crown. In that + he[25] * * * * * * + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 25: Here the sentence breaks off short, and is left unfinished. + [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Consider him as a private man, he was perhaps the most accomplished person + of his age, having a facetious wit, cultivated by learning, and advanced + with a great share of natural eloquence, which was his peculiar talent: + and it was no doubt the sense he had of this last perfection in himself, + that put him so often upon calling together the great councils of the + nation, where natural oratory is of most figure as well as use. + </p> + <h3> + THE REIGN OF STEPHEN. + </h3> + <p> + The veneration which people are supposed naturally to pay to a right line, + and a lawful title in their kings, must be upheld by a long uninterrupted + succession, otherwise it quickly loses opinion, upon which the strength of + it, although not the justice, is entirely founded: and where breaches have + been already made in the lineal descent, there is little security in a + good title (though confirmed by promises and oaths) where the lawful heir + is absent, and a popular aspiring pretender near at hand. This, I think, + may pass for a maxim, if any consequences drawn from history can pretend + to be called so, having been verified successively three times in this + kingdom, I mean by the two preceding kings, and by the prince whose reign + we are now writing. Neither can this observation be justly controlled by + any instances brought of future princes, who being absent at their + predecessor's death, have peaceably succeeded, the circumstances being + very different in every case, either by the weakness or justice of + pretenders, or else by the long establishment of lineal succession. + </p> + <h3> + 1135. + </h3> + <p> + Stephen Earl of Boulogne, whose descent hath been already shewn in the + foregoing reign, was the second of three brothers, whereof the eldest was + Theobald Earl of Blois, a sovereign prince, and Henry the youngest was + Bishop of Winchester, and the Pope's legate in England. At the time of + King Henry's death, his daughter the Empress was with her husband the Earl + of Anjou, a grave and cautious prince, altogether unqualified for sudden + enterprises: but Earl Stephen, who had attended the King in his last + expedition, made so great dispatch for England,[26] that the council had + not time to meet and make any declaration about a successor. When the + lords were assembled, the legate had already, by his credit and influence + among them, brought over a great party to his brother's interests; and the + Earl himself, knowing with what success the like methods were used by his + two last predecessors, was very liberal of his promises to amend the laws, + support the Church, and redress grievances: for all which the bishop + undertook to be guarantee. And thus was Stephen elected by those very + persons who had so lately, and in so solemn a manner, more than once sworn + fealty to another. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 26: Stephen was at Boulogne when he received the news of Henry's + death. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The motives whereby the nobility was swayed to proceed after this manner, + were obvious enough. There had been a perpetual struggle between them and + their former kings in the defence of their liberties; for the security + whereof, they thought a king elected without other title, would be readier + to enter into any obligations, and being held in constant dependence, + would be less tempted to break them: therefore, as at his coronation they + obtained full security by his taking new and additional oaths in favour of + their liberties, their oath of fealty to him was but conditional, to be of + force no longer than he should be true to those stipulations. + </p> + <p> + But other reasons were contrived and given out to satisfy the people: they + were told it was an indignity for so noble a nation to be governed by a + woman; that the late King had promised to marry his daughter within the + realm, and by consent of Parliament, neither of which was observed: and + lastly, Hugh Bigod, steward to King Henry, took a voluntary oath, before + the Archbishop of Canterbury, that his master, in his last sickness, had, + upon some displeasure, disinherited his daughter. + </p> + <p> + He received the crown with one great advantage that could best enable him + to preserve it: this was the possession of his uncle's treasures, + amounting to one hundred thousand pounds, and reckoned as a prodigious sum + in those days; by the help of which, without ever raising one tax upon the + people, he defended an unjust title against the lawful heir during a + perpetual contest of almost twenty years. + </p> + <p> + In order to defend himself against any sudden invasion, which he had cause + enough to expect, he gave all men licence to build castles upon their + lands, which proved a very mistaken piece of politics, although grounded + upon some appearance of reason. The King supposed that no invader would + venture to advance into the heart of his country without reducing every + castle in his way, which must be a work of much time and difficulty, nor + would be able to afford men to block them up, and secure his retreat: + which way of arguing may be good enough to a prince of an undisputed + title, and entirely in the hearts of his subjects: but numerous castles + are ill defenders of an usurpation, being the common retreat of + malcontents, where they can fly with security, and discover their + affections as they please: by which means the enemy, although beaten in + the field, may still preserve his footing in the bowels of a country; may + wait supplies from abroad; and prolong a war for many years: nor, while he + is master of any castles, can he ever be at mercy by any sudden + misfortune; but may be always in a condition of demanding terms for + himself. These, and many other effects of so pernicious a counsel, the + King found through the whole course of his reign; which was entirely spent + in sieges, revolts, surprises, and surrenders, with very few battles, but + no decisive action: a period of much misery and confusion, which affords + little that is memorable for events, or useful for the instruction of + posterity. + </p> + <h3> + 1136. + </h3> + <p> + The first considerable enemy that appeared against him was David King of + Scots, who having taken the oath of fealty to Maud and her issue, being + further engaged by the ties of blood, and stirred up through the + persuasions of several English nobles, began to take up arms in her cause; + and invading the northern parts, took Carlisle and Newcastle; but upon the + King's speedy approach with his forces, a peace was presently made, and + the towns restored. However, the Scottish prince would, by no means, + renounce his fidelity to the Empress, by paying homage to Stephen; so that + an expedient was found to have it performed by his eldest son: in + consideration of which the King gave, or rather restored, to him the + Earldom of Huntingdon. + </p> + <p> + Upon his return to London from this expedition, he happened to fall sick + of a lethargy, and it was confidently given out that he was dead. This + report was, with great industry and artifice, dispersed by his enemies, + which quickly discovered the ill inclination of several lords, who, + although they never believed the thing, yet made use of it for an occasion + or pretext to fortify their castles, which they refused to surrender to + the King himself; but Stephen was resolved, as he said, to convince them + that he was alive and well; for coming against them before he was + expected, he recovered Exeter, Norwich,[27] and other fortified places, + although not without much difficulty. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 27: Hugh Bigod had seized Norwich Castle. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + It is obvious enough to wonder how a prince of so much valour, and other + excellent endowments, elected by the Church and State, after a compliance + with all conditions they could impose on him, and in an age when so little + regard was had to the lineal descent, lastly confirmed by the Pope + himself, should be soon deserted and opposed by those very persons who had + been the most instrumental to promote him. But, beside his defective + title, and the undistinguished liberty of building castles, there were + three circumstances which very much contributed to those perpetual revolts + of the nobles against him: first, that upon his coming to the crown he was + very liberal in distributing lands and honours to several young gentlemen + of noble birth, who came to make their court, whereby he hoped to get the + reputation of a generous prince, and to strengthen his party against the + Empress: but, by this encouragement, the number of pretenders quickly grew + too fast upon him; and when he had granted all he was able, he was forced + to dismiss the rest with promises and excuses, who, either out of envy or + discontent, or else to mend their fortunes, never failed to become his + enemies upon the first occasion that offered. Secondly, when he had + reduced several castles and towns which had given the first example of + disaffection from him, he hardly inflicted the least punishment on the + authors; which unseasonable mercy, that in another prince and another age + would have been called greatness of spirit, passed in him for + pusillanimity and fear, and is reckoned, by the writers of those times to + have been the cause of many succeeding revolts. The third circumstance was + of a different kind: for, observing how little good effect he had found by + his liberality and indulgence, he would needs try the other extreme, which + was not his talent. He began to infringe the articles of his charter; to + recall or disown the promises he had made; and to repulse petitioners with + rough treatment, which was the more unacceptable by being new and + unexpected. + </p> + <h3> + 1137. + </h3> + <p> + Mean time the Earl of Anjou, who was not in a condition to assert his + wife's title to England, hearing Stephen was employed at home, entered + Normandy with small force, and found it no difficult matter to seize + several towns. The Normans, in the present distraction of affairs, not + well knowing what prince to obey, at last sent an invitation to Theobald + Earl of Blois, King Stephen's eldest brother, to accept their dukedom upon + the condition of protecting them from the present insults of the Earl of + Anjou. But before this matter could come to an issue, Stephen, who, upon + reduction of the towns already mentioned, had found a short interval of + quiet from his English subjects, arrived with unexpected speed into + Normandy; where Geoffrey of Anjou soon fled before him, and the whole + duchy came over to his obedience; for the further settlement whereof he + made peace with the King of France; constituted his son Eustace Duke of + Normandy; and made him swear fealty to that Prince, and do him homage. His + brother Theobald, who began to expostulate upon this disappointment, he + pacified with a pension of two thousand marks:[28] and even the Earl of + Anjou himself, who, in right of his wife, made demands of Stephen for the + kingdom of England, finding he was no equal match at present, was + persuaded to become his pensioner for five thousand more.[29] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 28: The mark of Normandy is to be understood here. Such a + pension in that age was equivalent to one of £31,000 sterling in the + present. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 29: Five thousand marks of silver coin was, in this reign, of + the same value as the sum of £77,500 modern currency, is now. Here again + the Norman mark seems to be used. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Stephen, upon his return to England, met with an account of new troubles + from the north; for the King of Scots, under pretence of observing his + oath of fealty to the Empress, infested the Borders, and frequently making + cruel inroads, plundered and laid waste all before him. + </p> + <h3> + 1138. + </h3> + <p> + In order to revenge this base and perfidious treatment, the King, in his + march northward, sat down before Bedford, and took it after a siege of + twenty days. This town was part of the Earldom of Huntingdon, given by + Stephen in the late peace to the eldest son of the Scottish King, for + which the young prince did homage to him; and it was upon that account + defended by a garrison of Scots. Upon intelligence of this surrender, King + David, overcome with fury, entered Northumberland, where, letting loose + the rage of his soldiers, he permitted and encouraged them to commit all + manner of inhumanities; which they performed in so execrable a manner as + would scarce be credible, if it were not attested by almost the universal + consent of writers: they ripped up women with child, drew out the infants, + and tossed them upon the points of their lances: they murdered priests + before the altars; then cutting the heads from off the crucifixes, in + their stead put on the heads of those they had murdered: with many other + instances of monstrous barbarity too foul to relate: but cruelty being + usually attended with cowardice, this perfidious prince, upon the approach + of King Stephen, fled into places of security. The King of England, + finding no enemy on whom to employ his revenge, marched forward into the + country, destroying with fire and sword all the southern parts; and would, + in all probability, have made terrible impressions into the heart of + Scotland, if he had not been suddenly recalled by a more dangerous fire at + home, which had been kindled in his absence, and was now broken out into a + flame. + </p> + <p> + Robert Earl of Gloucester, natural son of the late King, came into England + some time after the advancement of Stephen to the crown; and, yielding to + the necessity of the time, took the oath of fealty upon the same condition + used by the other nobles, to be of force so long as the King should keep + his faith with him, and preserve his dignity inviolate: but, being in his + heart wholly devoted to the interests of the Empress his sister, and moved + by the persuasions of several religious men, he had, with great secrecy + and application, so far practised upon the levity or discontents of + several lords, as to gain them to his party: for the King had, of late, + very much alienated the nobles against him; first, by seizing several of + their persons, and dispossessing them of their lands; and, secondly, by + taking into his favour William d'Ypres, a Flemish commander, of noble + birth, but banished by his prince. This man, with many of his followers, + the King employed chiefly both in his councils and his armies, and made + him Earl of Kent, to the great envy and displeasure of his English + subjects. The Earl of Gloucester, therefore, and his accomplices, having + prepared all things necessary for an insurrection, it was agreed among + them, that while the King was engaged against the Scots, each of them + should secure what towns and castles they could, and openly declare for + the Empress. Accordingly Earl Robert suddenly fortified himself in + Bristol; the rest followed his example; Hereford, Shrewsbury, Ludlow, + Dover,[30] and many other places, were seized by several lords, and the + defection grew so formidable, that the King, to his great grief, was + forced to leave his Scottish expedition unfinished, and return with all + possible speed to suppress the rebellion begun by his subjects; having + first left the care of the north to Thurstan Archbishop of York; with + orders carefully to observe the motions of the Scots. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 30: Robert Earl of Gloucester had been entrusted by Stephen with + the custody of Dover Castle: but Robert lying now under heavy suspicion, + the King sent Matilda his queen to besiege it, in which she was + successful. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Whilst the King was employed in the south in reducing his discontented + lords, and their castles, to his obedience, David, presuming upon the + distance between them, reentered England with more numerous forces, and + greater designs, than before: for, without losing more time than what was + necessary to pillage and destroy the country as he marched, he resolved to + besiege York, which, if he could force to surrender, would serve as a + convenient frontier against the English. To this end, advancing near the + city, and having pitched his tents, he sat down before it with his whole + army. In the mean time Archbishop Thurstan, having already summoned the + nobles and gentry of the shire and parts adjacent, had, by powerful + persuasions incited them to defend their country against a treacherous, + bloody, and restless enemy: so that before the King of Scotland could make + any progress in the siege, the whole power of the north was united against + him, under the Earl of Albemarle, and several other nobles. Archbishop + Thurstan happening to fall sick, could not go in person to the army, but + sent the Bishop of Durham in his stead; by whose encouragements the + English, although in number far inferior, advanced boldly towards the + enemy, and offered them battle, which was as readily accepted by the + Scots, who, sending out a party of horse to secure the rising ground, were + immediately attacked by the English, and, after a sharp dispute, entirely + defeated. In the heat of the battle the King of Scots, and his son Henry + Earl of Huntingdon, gave many proofs of great personal valour. The young + prince fell with such fierceness upon a body of the English, that he + utterly broke and dispersed them; and was pursuing his victory, when a + certain man, bearing aloft the head of an enemy he had cut off, cried out, + It was the head of the Scottish King, which being heard and believed on + both sides, the English, who had lately fled, rallied again, assaulting + their enemies with new vigour; the Scots, on the other side, discouraged + by the supposed death of their Prince, began to turn their backs: the King + and his son used all endeavours to stop their flight, and made several + brave stands against the enemy; but the greatest part of their army being + fled, and themselves almost encompassed, they were forced to give way to + fortune, and with much difficulty made their escape. + </p> + <p> + The loss on the English side was inconsiderable; but of Scots, by general + consent of writers, ten thousand were slain. And thus ended the War of the + Standard, as it was usually called by the authors of that age, because the + English, upon a certain engine, raised the mast of a ship, on the top + whereof, in a silver box, they put the consecrated wafer, and fastened the + standards of St. Peter and other saints: this gave them courage, by + remembering they were to fight in the presence of God; and served likewise + for a mark where to reassemble when they should happen to be dispersed by + any accident or misfortune. + </p> + <h3> + 1139 + </h3> + <p> + Mean time the King was equally successful against his rebellious lords at + home, having taken most of their castles and strong-holds; and the Earl of + Gloucester himself, no longer able to make any resistance, withdrew into + Normandy, to concert new measures with the Empress his sister. Thus the + King had leisure and opportunity for another expedition into Scotland, to + pursue and improve his victory, where he met with no opposition: however, + he was at length persuaded with much difficulty to accept his own + conditions of a peace; and David delivered up to him his eldest son Henry, + as hostage for performance of articles between them. + </p> + <p> + The King, in his return homeward, laid siege to Ludlow Castle, which had + not been reduced with the rest: here Prince Henry of Scotland, boiling + with youth and valour, and exposing his person upon all occasions, was + lifted from his horse by an iron grapple let down from the wall, and would + have been hoisted up into the castle, if the King had not immediately + flown to his assistance, and brought him off with his own hands by main + force from the enemy, whom he soon compelled to surrender the castle. + </p> + <h3> + 1140 + </h3> + <p> + Stephen having thus subdued his inveterate enemies the Scots, and reduced + his rebellious nobles, began to entertain hopes of enjoying a little ease. + But he was destined to the possession of a crown with perpetual + disturbance; for he was hardly returned from his northern expedition, when + he received intelligence that the Empress, accompanied by her brother the + Earl of Gloucester, was preparing to come for England, in order to dispute + her title to the kingdom. The King, who knew by experience what a powerful + party she already had to espouse her interests, very reasonably concluded, + the defection from him would be much greater, when she appeared in person + to countenance and reward it; he therefore began again to repent of the + licence he had granted for building castles, which were now like to prove + so many places of security for his enemies, and fortifications against + himself; for he knew not whom to trust, vehemently suspecting his nobles + ever since their last revolt. He therefore cast about for some artifice to + get into his hands as many of their castles as he could: in the strength + and magnificence of which kind of structures, the bishops had far outdone + the rest, and were upon that, as well as other accounts, very much + maligned and envied by the temporal lords, who were extreme jealous of the + Church's increasing power, and glad upon all occasions to see the prelates + humbled. The King, therefore, having formed his project, resolved to make + trial where it would be least invidious, and where he could foresee least + danger in the consequences. At a Parliament or assembly of nobles at + Oxford, it was contrived to raise a quarrel between the servants of some + bishops and those of Alan Count of Dinan in Bretagne, upon a contention of + rooms in their inns. Stephen took hold of this advantage, sent for the + bishops, taxed them with breaking his peace, and demanded the keys of + their castles, adding threats of imprisonment if they dared to disobey. + Those whom the King chiefly suspected, or rather who had built the most + and strongest castles, were Roger Bishop of Salisbury, with his nephew and + natural son the Bishops of Ely and Lincoln, whom the King, by many + circumstances of rigour, compelled to surrender, going himself in person + to seize the Devizes, then esteemed the noblest structure of Europe, and + built by the forementioned Bishop Roger, whose treasure, to the value of + forty thousand marks,[31] there likewise deposited, fell, at the same + time, into the King's hand, which in a few days broke the bishop's heart, + already worn with age and infirmity. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 31: This prelate's treasure is doubtless computed by the smaller + or Saxon mark; the use of which still prevailed in England: and even thus + computed, it amounts to a vast sum, equal to about £116,350 of modern + money. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + It may, perhaps, not be thought a digression to say something of the + fortunes of this prelate, who, from the lowest beginnings, came to be, + without dispute, the greatest churchman of any subject in his age. It + happened that the late King Henry, in the reign of his brother, being at a + village in Normandy, wanted a priest to say mass before him and his train, + when this man, who was a poor curate thereabouts, offered his service, and + performed it with so much dexterity and speed, that the soldiers who + attended the prince recommended him to their master, upon that account, as + a very proper chaplain for military men; but it seems he had other + talents; for having gotten into the prince's service, he soon discovered + great application and address, much order and economy in the management of + his master's fortunes, which were wholly left to his care. After Henry's + advancement to the crown, this chaplain grew chief in his favour and + confidence; was made Bishop of Salisbury, Chancellor of England, employed + in all his most weighty affairs, and usually left vicegerent of the realm + while the King was absent in Normandy. He was among the first that swore + fealty to Maud and her issue; and among the first that revolted from her + to Stephen, offering such reasons in council for setting her aside, as, by + the credit and opinion of his wisdom, were very prevalent. But the King, + in a few years, forgot all obligations, and the bishop fell a sacrifice in + his old age to those treasures he had been so long heaping up for its + support. A just reward for his ingratitude towards the Prince that raised + him, to be ruined by the ingratitude of another, whom he had been so very + instrumental to raise. + </p> + <p> + But Henry Bishop of Winchester, the Pope's legate, not able to endure this + violation of the Church, called a council of all the prelates to meet at + Winchester, where the King being summoned, appeared by his advocate, who + pleaded his cause with much learning; and the Archbishop of Rouen coming + to the council, declared his opinion, That although the canons did allow + the bishops to possess castles, yet in dangerous times they ought to + deliver them up to the King. This opinion Stephen followed very steadily, + not yielding a tittle, although the legate his brother used all means, + both rough and gentle, to work upon him. + </p> + <p> + The council of bishops broke up without other effect than that of leaving + in their minds an implacable hatred to the King, in a very opportune + juncture for the interests of Maud, who, about this time, landed at + Portsmouth with her brother Robert Earl of Gloucester. The whole force she + brought over for this expedition consisted but of one hundred and forty + knights;[32] for she trusted altogether in her cause and her friends. With + this slender attendance she went to Arundel, and was there received into + the castle by the widow of the late King; while Earl Robert, accompanied + only by twenty men, marched boldly to his own city of Gloucester, in order + to raise forces for the Empress, where the townsmen turned out the King's + garrison as soon as they heard of his approach. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 32: In these times none served on horseback but gentlemen or + knights, in right of their fiefs, or their representatives, called <i>Men-at-arms;</i> + and each of these was attended by at least two servants or retainers + mounted and armed. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + King Stephen was not surprised at the news of the Empress's arrival, being + a thing he had always counted upon, and was long preparing himself + against. He was glad to hear how ill she was provided, and resolved to use + the opportunity of her brother's absence; for, hasting down to Arundel + with a sufficient strength, he laid siege to the castle, in hopes, by + securing her person, to put a speedy end to the war. + </p> + <p> + But there wanted not some very near about the King, who, favouring the + party of Maud, had credit enough to prevail with him not to venture time + and reputation against an impregnable fortress, but rather, by withdrawing + his forces, permit her to retire to some less fortified place, where she + might more easily fall into his hands. This advice the King took against + his own opinion; the Empress fled out of Arundel by night; and, after + frequent shifting her stages through several towns, which had already + declared in her favour, fixed herself at last at Lincoln; where, having + all things provided necessary for her defence, she resolved to continue, + and expect either a general revolt of the English to her side, or the + decision of war between the King and her brother. + </p> + <p> + But Stephen, who had pursued the Empress from place to place, hearing she + had shut herself up in Lincoln, resolved to give her no rest; and to help + on his design, it fell out that the citizens in hatred to the Earl of + Chester, who commanded there for the Empress, sent a private invitation to + the King, with promise to deliver the town and their governor into his + hands. The King came accordingly, and possessed himself of the town; but + Maud and the Earl made their escape a few days before. However, many great + persons of Maud's party remained prisoners to the King, and among the rest + the Earl of Chester's wife, who was daughter to the Earl of Gloucester. + These two Earls resolving to attempt the relief of their friends, marched + with all their forces near Lincoln, where they found the enemy drawn up + and ready to receive them. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, after battle offered by the lords, and accepted by the + King, both sides made ready to engage. The King having disposed his + cavalry on each wing, placed himself at the head of his foot, in whom he + reposed most confidence. The army of the lords was divided in three + bodies; those whom King Stephen had banished were placed in the middle, + the Earl of Chester led the van, and the Earl of Gloucester commanded the + rear. The battle was fought at first with equal advantage, and great + obstinacy on both sides; at length the right wing of the King's horse, + pressed by the Earl of Chester, galloped away, not without suspicion of + treachery; the left followed the example. The King beheld their flight, + and encouraging those about him, fell with undaunted valour upon the + enemy; and being for some time bravely seconded by his foot, did great + execution. At length overpowered by numbers, his men began to disperse, + and Stephen was left almost alone with his sword in his hand, wherewith he + opposed his person against a whole victorious army, nor durst any be so + hardy to approach him; the sword breaking, a citizen of Lincoln put into + his hands a Danish battle-axe,[33] with which he struck to the ground the + Earl of Chester,[34] who presumed to come within his reach. But this + weapon likewise flying in pieces with the force of those furious blows he + dealt on all sides, a bold knight of the Empress's party, named William de + Keynes, laid hold on his helmet, and immediately cried out to his fellows, + "I have got the King." Then the rest ran in, and he was taken + prisoner.[35] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 33: Sim. Dunelmensis. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 34: The Earl of Chester lived nevertheless to fight other + battles, and died twelve years afterwards by poison. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 35: Gervase. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The King being thus secured, was presented to the Empress, then at + Gloucester, and by her orders conveyed to Bristol, where he continued in + strict custody nine months, although with honourable treatment for some + time, until either upon endeavouring to make his escape, or in malice to + the Londoners, who had a great affection for their King, he was, by + express command from the Empress, laid in irons, and used with other + circumstances of severity. + </p> + <p> + This victory was followed by a general defection of almost the whole + kingdom; and the Earl of Anjou, husband to the Empress, upon the fame of + the King's defeat and imprisonment, reduced without any difficulty the + whole Duchy of Normandy to his obedience. + </p> + <p> + The legate himself, although brother to King Stephen, received her at + Winchester with great solemnity, accepted her oath for governing with + justice, redressing grievances, and supporting the rights of the Church, + and took the old conditional one of fealty to her; then in an assembly of + bishops and clergy convoked for the purpose, he displayed the miscarriages + of his brother, and declared his approbation of the Empress to be Queen; + to which they unanimously agreed. To complete all, he prevailed by his + credit with the Londoners, who stood out the last of any, to acknowledge + and receive her into the city, where she arrived at length in great pomp, + and with general satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + But it was the misfortune of this Princess to possess many weaknesses that + are charged to the sex, and very few of its commendable qualities: she was + now in peaceable possession of the whole kingdom, except the county of + Kent, where William d'Ypres pretended to keep up a small party for the + King; when by her pride, wilfulness, indiscretion, and a disobliging + behaviour, she soon turned the hearts of all men against her, and in a + short time lost the fruits of that victory and success which had been so + hardly gained by the prudence and valour of her excellent brother. The + first occasion she took to discover the perverseness of her nature, was in + the treatment of Maud, the wife of King Stephen, a lady of great virtue, + and courage above her sex, who, coming to the Empress an humble suitor in + behalf of her husband, offered, as a price of his liberty, that he should + resign all pretensions to the crown, and pass the rest of his life in + exile, or in a convent: but this request was rejected with scorn and + reproaches; and the Queen finding all entreaties to no purpose, writ to + her son Eustace to let him understand the ill success of her negotiation, + that no relief was to be otherwise hoped for than by arms, and therefore + advised him to raise immediately what forces he could for the relief of + his father. + </p> + <p> + Her next miscarriage was towards the Londoners, who presented her a + petition for redressing certain rigorous laws of her father, and restoring + those of Edward the Confessor. The Empress put them off for a time with + excuses, but at last discovered some displeasure at their importunity. The + citizens, who had with much difficulty been persuaded to receive her + against their inclinations, which stood wholly for the King, were moved + with indignation at her unreasonable refusal of their just demands, and + entered into a conspiracy to seize her person. But she had timely notice + of their design, and leaving the city by night in disguise, fled to + Oxford. + </p> + <p> + A third false step the Empress made,[36] was in refusing her new powerful + friend the legate a favour he desired in behalf of Eustace, the King's + son, to grant him the lands and honours held by his father before he came + to the crown. She had made large promises to this prelate, that she would + be directed in all things by his advice, and to be refused upon his first + application a small favour for his own nephew, stung him to the quick; + however, he governed his resentments a while, but began at the same time + to resume his affection for his brother. These thoughts were cultivated + with great address by Queen Maud, who prevailed at last so far upon the + legate, that private measures were agreed between them for restoring + Stephen to his liberty and crown. The bishop took leave of the Empress, + upon some plausible pretence, and retired to Winchester, where he gave + directions for supplying with men and provisions several strong castles he + had built in his diocese, while the Queen with her son Eustace prevailed + with the Londoners and men of Kent to rise in great numbers for the King; + and a powerful army was quickly on foot, under the command of William + d'Ypres Earl of Kent. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 36: William of Malmesbury. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + In the mean time the Empress began to be sensible of the errors she had + committed; and in hope either to retrieve the friendship of the legate, or + take him prisoner, marched with her army to Winchester, where being + received and lodged in the castle, she sent immediately for the legate, + spoke much in excuse of what was past, and used all endeavours to regain + him to her interests. Bishop Henry, on the other side, amused her with + dubious answers, and kept her in suspense for some days; but sent + privately at the same time to the King's army, desiring them to advance + with all possible speed; which was executed with so much diligence, that + the Empress and her brother had only time with their troops to march a + back way out of the town. They were pursued by the enemy so close in the + rear, that the Empress had hardly time, by counterfeiting herself dead, to + make her escape; in which posture she was carried as a corpse to + Gloucester; but the Earl her brother, while he made what opposition he + could, with design to stop her pursuers, was himself taken prisoner, with + great slaughter of his men. After the battle, the Earl was in his turn + presented to Queen Maud, and by her command sent to Rochester to be + treated in the same manner with the King. + </p> + <p> + Thus the heads of both parties were each in the power of his enemy, and + Fortune seemed to have dealt with great equality between them. Two + factions divided the whole kingdom, and, as it usually happens, private + animosities were inflamed by the quarrel of the public; which introduced a + miserable face of things throughout the land, whereof the writers of our + English story give melancholy descriptions, not to be repeated in this + history; since the usual effects of civil war are obvious to conceive, and + tiresome as well as useless to relate. However, as the quarrel between the + King and Empress was grounded upon a cause that in its own nature little + concerned the interests of the people, this was thought a convenient + juncture for transacting a peace, to which there appeared an universal + disposition. Several expedients were proposed; but Earl Robert would + consent upon no other terms than the deposing of Stephen, and immediate + delivery of the crown to his sister. These debates lasted for some months, + until the two prisoners, weary of their long constraint, by mutual consent + were exchanged for each other, and all thoughts of agreement laid aside. + </p> + <p> + The King, upon recovery of his freedom, hastened to London, to get + supplies of men and money for renewing the war. He there found that his + brother of Winchester had, in a council of bishops and abbots, renounced + all obedience to the Empress, and persuaded the assembly to follow his + example. The legate, in excuse for this proceeding, loaded her with + infamy, produced several instances wherein she had broken the oath she + took when he received her as Queen, and upon which his obedience was + grounded; said, he had received information that she had a design upon his + life.[37] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 37: William of Malmesbury. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + It must be confessed that oaths of fealty in this Prince's reign were + feeble ties for binding the subject to any reasonable degree of obedience; + and the warmest advocates for liberty cannot but allow, from those + examples here produced, that it is very possible for people to run upon + great extremes in this matter, that a monarch may be too much limited, and + a subject too little; whereof the consequences have been fully as + pernicious for the time as the worst that can be apprehended from + arbitrary power in all its heights, although not perhaps so lasting or so + hard to be remedied; since all the miseries of this kingdom, during the + period we are treating of, were manifestly owing to that continual + violation of such oaths of allegiance, as appear to have been contrived on + purpose by ambitious men to be broken at pleasure, without the least + apprehension of perjury, and in the mean time keep the prince in a + continual slavish dependence. + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Gloucester, soon after his release, went over into Normandy, + where he found the Earl of Anjou employed in completing the conquest of + that duchy; there he delivered him the sons of several English noblemen, + to be kept as hostages for their fathers' fidelity to the Empress, and + used many arguments for persuading him to come over in person with an army + to her assistance: but Geoffrey excused himself by the importance of other + affairs, and the danger of exposing the dominions he had newly acquired to + rebellions in his absence. However, he lent the Earl of Gloucester a + supply of four hundred men, and sent along with him his eldest son Henry, + to comfort his mother, and be shewn to the people. + </p> + <p> + During the short absence of the Earl of Gloucester, the Empress was + closely besieged in Oxford by the King; and provisions beginning to fail, + she was in cruel apprehensions of falling into his hands. This gave her + occasion to put in practice the only talent wherein she seemed to excel, + which was that of contriving some little shift or expedient to secure her + person upon any sudden emergency. A long season of frost had made the + Thames passable upon the ice, and much snow lay on the ground; Maud with + some few attendants clad all in white, to avoid being discovered from the + King's camp, crossed the river at midnight on foot, and travelling all + night, got safe to Wallingford Castle, where her brother and young son + Henry, newly returned from France, arrived soon after, to her great + satisfaction: but Oxford, immediately upon the news of her flight, + surrendered to the King. + </p> + <p> + However, this disgrace was fully compensated soon after by another of the + same kind, which happened to King Stephen; for whilst he and his brother + of Winchester were fortifying a nunnery at Wilton, to bridle his enemies + at Salisbury, who very much harassed those parts by their frequent + excursions, the Earl of Gloucester, who watched all opportunities, came + unaware with a strong body of men, and set fire on the nunnery while the + King himself was in it. Stephen, upon the sudden surprise of the thing, + wholly lost or forgot his usual courage, and fled shamefully away, leaving + his soldiers to be cut in pieces by the Earl. + </p> + <p> + During the rest of the war, although it lasted nine years longer, there is + little memorable recorded by any writer; whether the parties being pretty + equal, and both sufficiently tired with so long a contention, wanted + vigour and spirit to make a thorough conquest, and only endeavoured to + keep what they had, or whether the multitude of strong castles, whose + number daily increased, made it very difficult to end a war between two + contending powers almost in balance; let the cause be what it will, the + whole time passed in mutual sieges, surprises, revolts, surrenders of + fortified places, without any decisive action, or other event of + importance to be related. By which at length the very genius of the people + became wholly bent upon a life of spoil, robbery, and plunder; many of the + nobles, although pretending to hold their castles for the King or the + Empress, lived like petty independent princes in a perpetual state of war + against their neighbours; the fields lay uncultivated, all the arts of + civil life were banished, no veneration left for sacred persons or things; + in short, no law, truth, or religion among men, but a scene of universal + misery, attended with all the consequences of an embroiled and distracted + state. + </p> + <p> + About the eleventh year of the King's reign, young Henry, now growing + towards a man, was sent for to France by a message from his father, who + was desirous to see him; but left a considerable party in England, to + adhere to his interests; and in a short time after (as some write[38]) the + Empress herself grown weary of contending any longer in a cause where she + had met with nothing but misfortunes of her own procuring, left the + kingdom likewise, and retired to her husband. Nor was this the only good + fortune that befell Stephen; for before the year ended, the main prop and + pillar of his enemies was taken away by death; this was Robert Earl of + Gloucester, than whom there have been few private persons known in the + world that deserve a fairer place and character in the registers of time, + for his inviolable faith, disinterested friendship, indefatigable zeal, + and firm constancy to the cause he espoused, and unparalleled generosity + in the conduct thereof: he adhered to his sister in all her fortunes, to + the ruin of his own; he placed a crown on her head; and when she had lost + it by her folly and perverseness refused the greatest offers from a + victorious enemy, who had him in his power, and chose to continue a + prisoner rather than recover his liberty by any hazard to her pretensions: + he bore up her sinking title in spite of her own frequent miscarriages, + and at last died in her cause by a fever contracted with perpetual toils + for her service. An example fit to be shewn the world, although few + perhaps are like to follow it; but however, a small tribute of praise, + justly due to extraordinary virtue, may prove no ill expedient to + encourage imitation. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 38: Gervase. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + But the death of this lord, together with the absence of the Empress and + her son in France, added very little to the quiet or security of the King. + For the Earl of Gloucester, suspecting the fidelity of the lords, had, + with great sagacity, delivered their sons to the Earl of Anjou, to be kept + as pledges for their fathers' fidelity, as we have before related: by + which means a powerful party was still kept up against Stephen, too strong + to be suddenly broken. Besides, he had, by an unusual strain of his + conduct, lately lost much good-will, as well as reputation, in committing + an act of violence and fraud on the person of the Earl of Chester, a + principal adherent of the Empress. This nobleman, of great power and + possessions, had newly reconciled himself to Stephen, and came to his + court at Northampton, where, against all laws of hospitality, as well as + common faith and justice, he was committed to prison, and forced to buy + his liberty with the surrender of Lincoln, and all his other places, into + the King's hands. + </p> + <h3> + 1149. 1150. + </h3> + <p> + Affairs continued in this turbulent posture about two years, the nobles + neither trusting the King nor each other. The number of castles still + increased, which every man who had any possessions was forced to build, or + else become a prey to his powerful neighbours. This was thought a + convenient juncture, by the Empress and her friends, for sending young + Prince Henry to try his fortune in England, where he landed at the head of + a considerable number of horse and foot, although he was then but sixteen + years old. Immediately after his arrival he went to Carlisle, where he met + his cousin David King of Scots, by whom he was made knight, after the + usual custom of young princes and noblemen in that age. The King of + England, who had soon intelligence of Henry's landing and motions, marched + down to secure York, against which he expected the first attempt of his + enemy was designed. But, whatever the cause might be (wherein the writers + of those ages are either silent or unsatisfactory) both armies remained at + that secure distance for three months, after which Henry returned back to + Normandy, leaving the kingdom in the state of confusion he found it at his + coming. + </p> + <p> + The fortunes of this young prince Henry Fitz-Empress now began to advance + by great and sudden steps, whereof it will be no digression to inform the + reader, as well upon the connection they have with the affairs at home + about this time, as because they concern the immediate successor to the + crown. + </p> + <h3> + 1151. + </h3> + <p> + Prince Henry's voyage to France was soon followed by the death of his + father Geoffrey Earl of Anjou, whereby the son became possessed of that + earldom, together with the Duchy of Normandy; but in a short time after he + very much enlarged his dominions by a marriage, in which he consulted his + reputation less than his advantage. For Louis the Young, King of France, + was lately divorced from his wife Eleanor, who, as the French writers + relate, bore a great contempt and hatred to her husband, and had long + desired such a separation. Other authors give her not so fair a character: + but whatever might be the real cause, the pretext was consanguinity in the + fourth degree.[39] Henry was content to accept this lady with all her + faults, and in her right became Duke of Aquitaine, and Earl of Poitou, + very considerable provinces, added to his other dominions. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 39: Louis VII., after living fourteen years with his Queen, + obtained a dissolution of the marriage on the plea of relationship within + the prohibited degrees. See Bouchet, "Annalles d'Acquitaine." [W.S.J.]] + </p> + <p> + But the two Kings of France and England began to apprehend much danger + from the sudden greatness of a young ambitious prince; and their interests + were jointly concerned to check his growth. Duke Henry was now ready to + sail for England, in a condition to assert his title upon more equal + terms; when the King of France, in conjunction with Eustace, King + Stephen's son, and Geoffrey, the Duke's own brother, suddenly entered into + his dominions with a mighty army; took the Castle of Neufmarché by storm, + and laid siege to that of Angers. The Duke, by this incident, was forced + to lay aside his thoughts of England, and marching boldly towards the + enemy, resolved to relieve the besieged; but finding they had already + taken the castle, he thought it best to make a diversion, by carrying the + war into the enemy's country, where he left all to the mercy of his + soldiers, surprised and burnt several castles, and made great devastations + wherever he came. This proceeding answered the end for which it was + designed; the King of France thought he had already done enough for his + honour, and began to grow weary of a ruinous war, which was likely to be + protracted. The conditions of a peace, by the intervention of some + religious men, were soon agreed. The Duke, after some time spent in + settling his affairs, and preparing all things necessary for his intended + expedition, set sail for England, where he landed[40] the same year in the + depth of winter, with a hundred and forty knights, and three thousand + foot. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 40: The place where he landed is not mentioned by our + historians. It was probably in the West of England, as the first + garrisoned town he attacked was Malmesbury. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Some time before Henry landed, the King had conceived a project to + disappoint his designs, by confirming the crown upon himself and his own + posterity.[41] He sent for the Archbishop of Canterbury, with several + other prelates, and proposed that his son Eustace should be crowned King + with all the usual solemnity: but the bishops absolutely refused to + perform the office, by express orders from the Pope, who was an enemy to + Stephen, partly upon account of his unjust or declining cause, but chiefly + for his strict alliance with the King of France, who was then engaged in a + quarrel against that See, upon a very tender point relating to the + revenues of vacant churches. The King and his son were both enraged at the + bishops' refusal, and kept them prisoners in the chamber where they + assembled, with many threats to force them to a compliance, and some other + circumstances of rigour; but all to no purpose, so that he was at length + forced to desist. But the archbishop, to avoid further vexation, fled the + realm. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 41: Gervase, Hen. Huntingdon. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + This contrivance of crowning the son during the life and reign of the + father, which appears so absurd in speculation, was actually performed in + the succeeding reign, and seems to have been taken up by those two princes + of French birth and extraction, in imitation of the like practice in their + native country,[42] where it was usual for kings grown old and infirm, or + swayed by paternal indulgence, to receive their eldest son into a share of + the administration, with the title of King; a custom borrowed, no doubt, + from the later emperors of Rome, who adopted their Caesars after the like + manner. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 42: Mezeray. [D.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + 1153 + </h3> + <p> + The King was employed in his usual exercise of besieging castles when the + news was brought of Henry's arrival. He left the work he was about, and + marched directly against the Duke, who was then sat down before + Malmesbury. But Stephen forced him to raise the siege, and immediately + offered him battle. The Duke, although his army was much increased by + continual revolts, thought it best to gain time, being still in number far + inferior to the King, and therefore kept himself strongly entrenched. + There is some difference among writers about the particulars of this war: + however, it is generally agreed, that in a short time after, the two + armies met, and were prepared for battle, when the nobles on both sides, + either dreading the consequences, or weary of a tedious war, prevailed + with the King and Duke to agree to a truce for some days in order to a + peace; which was violently opposed by Eustace, the King's son, a youth of + great spirit and courage, because he knew very well it could not be built + but upon the ruin of his interests; and therefore finding he could not + prevail, he left the army in a rage, and, attended by some followers, + endeavoured to satiate his fury, by destroying the country in his march: + But in a few days, as he sat at dinner in a castle of his own, he fell + suddenly dead, either through grief, madness, or poison. + </p> + <p> + The truce was now expired, and the Duke began to renew the war with fresh + vigour; but the King was wholly dispirited upon this fatal accident, and + now first began to entertain real thoughts of a peace. He had lost a son + whom he dearly loved, and with him he likewise lost the alliance of the + French King, to whose sister the young prince was married. He had indeed + another son left, but little esteemed by the nobles and people; nor, as it + appears, much regarded by his father. He was now in the decline of his + age, decayed in his health, forsaken by his friends, who, since the death + of Eustace, fell daily from him; and having no further care at heart for + his posterity, he thought it high time to seek repose for his person. The + nobles soon observed this disposition in their King, which was so + agreeable to their own; therefore, by general consent, Theobald Archbishop + of Canterbury was appointed mediator between both princes. All matters + were soon agreed; an assembly of lords was convened at Winchester, where + the King received the Duke with great marks of courtesy and kindness. + There the peace was confirmed by the King's charter, wherein are expressed + the terms of agreement. But I shall relate only the principal. + </p> + <p> + The King, by this charter, acknowledged Henry for lawful successor to the + crown; in which capacity all the nobles paid him homage: and Henry + himself, with his party, paid homage to Stephen. There is likewise a + reservation for William, the King's son, of all the honours possessed by + his father before he came to the crown. The King likewise acknowledges the + obedience of his subjects to be no longer due to him than he shall observe + the conditions of this charter. And for the performance of these articles, + the archbishops and bishops were appointed guarantees. There were some + other articles agreed on, which are not mentioned in the charter; as, a + general pardon; a restitution, to the right owners, of those lands and + possessions, which had been usurped in the time of the troubles; that all + castles built during the war should be razed to the ground, which are said + to have been above eleven hundred; that the rights of the Church should be + preserved; with other matters of less moment. + </p> + <p> + Thus, by the prudence of Archbishop Theobald, the moderation of the two + princes engaged, and the universal inclination of the people, a happy + period was put to this tedious and troublesome war: men began to have the + prospect of a long peace; nor was it easy to foresee what could possibly + arise to disturb it; when discovery was made, by accident, of a most + horrible piece of treachery, which, if it had met with success, would have + once more set the whole nation in a flame. The Duke, after the peace, + attended the King to London, to be shewn to the people as the undoubted + successor to the crown; and having made a progress together through some + other parts of the kingdom, they came to Canterbury; where Henry received + private notice of a design upon his life. It hath been already observed, + that the King employed in his wars a body of Flemings, to the great + discontent of his own subjects, with whom they were very ungracious. These + foreigners were much discontented at the peace, whereby they were likely + to become useless and burthensome to the present King, and hateful to the + successor. To prevent which, the commanders among them began to practise + upon the levity and ambition of William the King's son. They urged the + indignity he had received in being deprived of his birthright; offered to + support his title by their valour, as they had done that of his father; + and, as an earnest of their intentions, to remove the chief impediment by + dispatching his rival out of the world, The young prince was easily + wrought upon to be at the head of this conspiracy; time and place were + fixed; when, upon the day appointed, William broke his leg by a fall from + his horse; and the conspirators wanting their leader immediately + dispersed. This disappointment and delay, as it usually happens among + conspirators, were soon followed by a discovery of the whole plot, whereof + the Duke, with great discretion, made no other use than to consult his own + safety; therefore, without any shew of suspicion or displeasure, he took + leave of the King, and returned to Normandy. + </p> + <h3> + 1154. + </h3> + <p> + Stephen lived not above a year to share the happiness of this peace with + his people, in which time he made a progress through most parts of the + kingdom, where he gained universal love and veneration, by a most affable + and courteous behaviour to all men. A few months after his return he went + to Dover, to have an interview with the Earl of Flanders;[43] where, after + a short sickness, he died of the iliac passion, together with his old + distemper the hemorrhoids, upon the twenty-fifth day of October, in the + forty-ninth year of his age, and the nineteenth of his reign. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 43: The Earl of Flanders was a potent sovereign on the + continent, and had landed at Dover, in order to meet and confer with the + King. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + He was a prince of wonderful endowments, both in body and mind: in his + person tall and graceful, of great strength as well as vigour: he had a + large portion of most virtues that can be useful in a King towards the + happiness of his subjects or himself; courtesy and valour, liberality and + clemency, in an eminent degree; especially the last, which he carried to + an extreme, though very pardonable, yet hardly consisting with prudence, + or his own safety. If we except his usurpation of the crown, he must be + allowed a prince of great justice, which most writers affirm to have been + always unblemished, except in that single instance: for, as to his + treatment of the bishops and the Earl of Chester, it seems very excusable + by the necessity of the time; and it was the general opinion, if he had + not used that proceeding with the latter, it would have cost him his + crown. Perhaps his injustice to the Empress might likewise admit a little + extenuation. Four kings successively had sat on the throne without any + regard to lineal descent; a period beyond the memory of most men then + alive; whereby the people had lost much of that devotion they were used to + bear towards an established succession: besides, the government of a woman + was then a thing unknown, and for that reason disliked by all who + professed to hate innovations. + </p> + <p> + But the wisdom of this prince was by no means equal to the rest of his + virtues. He came to the crown upon as fair a title as his predecessor, + being elected by the general consent of the nobles, through the credit of + his brother, and his own personal merit. He had no disturbance for some + time, which he might easily have employed in settling the kingdom, and + acquiring the love of his people. He had treasure enough to raise and pay + armies, without burthening the subject. His competitor was a woman, whose + sex was the least of her infirmities, and with whom he had already + compounded for his quiet by a considerable pension: yet with all these + advantages he seldom was master of above half the kingdom at once, and + that by the force of perpetual struggling, and with frequent danger of + losing the whole. The principal difficulties he had to encounter, appear + to have been manifest consequences of several most imprudent steps in his + conduct, whereof many instances have been produced in the history of his + reign; such as, the unlimited permission of building castles; his raising + the siege of a weak place where the Empress was shut up, and must, in a + few days, have fallen into his hands; his employing the Flemings in his + wars, and favouring them above his own subjects; and lastly, that abortive + project of crowning his son, which procured him at once the hatred and + contempt of the clergy, by discovering an inclination to violence and + injustice that he durst not pursue: whereas, it was nothing else but an + effect of that hasty and sudden disposition usually ascribed to those of + his country, and in a peculiar manner charged to this prince: for authors + give it as a part of his character, to be hot and violent in the beginning + of an enterprise, but to slacken and grow cold in the prosecution. + </p> + <p> + He had a just sense of religion, and was frequent in attending the service + of the Church, yet reported to be no great friend of the clergy; which, + however, is a general imputation upon all the kings of this realm in that + and some succeeding reigns, and by no means personal to this prince, who + deserved it as little as any. + </p> + <p> + I do not find any alterations during this reign in the meetings of general + assemblies, further than that the Commons do not seem to have been + represented in any of them; for which I can assign no other reason than + the will of the King, or the disturbance of the time.[44] I observed the + word Parliament is used promiscuously among authors, for a general + assembly of nobles, and for a council of bishops, or synod of the clergy; + which renders this matter too perplexed to ascertain anything about it. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 44: The rise and history of Parliaments had not been cleared up + when the Doctor writ in the beginning of this current century. It is + certain, that the Commons had as yet never been represented. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + As for affairs of the Church, that deserve particular mention, I have not + met with any; unless it should be worth relating, that Henry Bishop of + Winchester, the Pope's legate, who held frequent synods during this reign, + was the first introducer of appeals to Rome, in this kingdom, for which he + is blamed by all the monkish historians who give us the account. + </p> + <h3> + THE REIGN OF HENRY THE SECOND + </h3> + <h3> + A FRAGMENT + </h3> + <h3> + 1154. + </h3> + <p> + The spirit of war and contention, which had for a long time possessed the + nation, became so effectually laid during the last year of King Stephen's + reign, that no alteration or disturbance ensued upon his death, although + the new King,[45] after he had received intelligence of it, was detained + six weeks[46] by contrary winds: besides, the opinion of this prince's + power and virtues, had already begotten so great an awe and reverence for + him among the people, that upon his arrival he found the whole kingdom in + a profound peace. He landed at Hostreham,[47] about the beginning of + December, was received at Winchester by a great number of the nobility, + who came there to attend and swear fealty to him, and three weeks after + was crowned at Westminster, about the twenty-third year of his age. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 45: Henry was at that time besieging a castle on the frontiers + of Normandy. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 46: Five weeks at the most; a month, saith Brompton. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 47: At Hostreham, saith Gervase. This place is not easy to be + found; however, it must be on the Sussex or Hampshire coast, because the + King went directly from the place of his landing to Winchester. Carte says + he landed December 8th, near Hurst Castle in the New Forest. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + For the further settling of the kingdom, after the long distractions in + the preceding reign, he seized on all the castles which remained + undestroyed since the last peace between him and King Stephen; whereof + some he demolished, and trusted others to the government of persons in + whom he could confide. + </p> + <p> + But that which most contributed to the quiet of the realm, and the general + satisfaction of his subjects, was a proclamation published, commanding all + foreigners to leave England, enforced with a most effectual clause, + whereby a day was fixed, after which it should be capital for any of them + to appear; among these was William d'Ypres Earl of Kent, whose possessions + the King seized into his own hands. + </p> + <p> + These foreigners, generally called Flemings by the writers of the English + story, were a sort of vagabond soldiers of fortune, who in those ages, + under several denominations, infested other parts of Europe as well as + England: they were a mixed people, natives of Arragon, Navarre, Biscay, + Brabant, and other parts of Spain and Flanders. They were ready to be + hired to whatever prince thought fit to employ them, but always upon + condition to have full liberty of plunder and spoil. Nor was it an easy + matter to get rid of them, when there was no further need of their + service. In England they were always hated by the people, and by this + prince in particular, whose continual enemies they had been. + </p> + <p> + After the expulsion of these foreigners, and the forcing a few refractory + lords to a surrender of their castles, King Henry, like a wise prince, + began to consider that a time of settled peace was the fittest juncture to + recover the rights of the crown, which had been lost by the war. He + therefore resumed, by his royal authority, all crown lands that had been + alienated by his predecessor; alleging that they were unalienable in + themselves, and besides, that the grants were void, as coming from an + usurper. Whether such proceedings are agreeable with justice, I shall not + examine; but certainly a prince cannot better consult his own safety than + by disabling those whom he renders discontent, which is effectually done + no other way but by depriving them of their possessions. + </p> + <h3> + 1156. + </h3> + <p> + While the King was thus employed at home, intelligence came that his + brother Geoffrey was endeavouring by force to possess himself of the + Earldom of Anjou, to which he had fair pretensions; for their father + considering what vast dominions would fall to his eldest son, bequeathed + that earldom to the second in his last sickness, and commanded his nobles + then about him, to take an oath that they would not suffer his body to be + buried until Henry (who was then absent) should swear to observe his will. + The Duke of Normandy, when he came to assist at his father's obsequies, + and found that without his compliance he must draw upon himself the + scandal of keeping a father unburied, took the oath that was exacted for + observance of his will, though very much against his own. But after he was + in possession of England, whether it were that his ambition enlarged with + his dominions, or that from the beginning he had never intended to observe + what he had sworn, he prevailed with Pope Adrian (of English birth) to + dispense with his oath, and in the second year of his reign went over into + Normandy, drove his brother entirely out of Anjou, and forced him to + accept a pension for his maintenance. But the young prince, through the + resentment of this unnatural dealing, in a short time died of grief. + </p> + <p> + Nor was his treatment more favourable to the King of Scots, whom, upon a + slight pretence, he took occasion to dispossess of Carlisle, Newcastle, + and other places granted by the Empress to that prince's father, for his + services and assistance in her quarrel against Stephen. + </p> + <p> + Having thus recovered whatever he had any title to demand, he began to + look out for new acquisitions. Ireland was in that age a country little + known in the world. The legates sent sometimes thither from the Court of + Rome, for urging the payment of annats, or directing other Church affairs, + represented the inhabitants as a savage people, overrun with barbarism and + superstition: for indeed no nation of Europe, where the Christian religion + received so early and universal admittance, was ever so late or slow in + feeling its effects upon their manners and civility.[48] Instead of + refining their manners by their faith, they had suffered their faith to be + corrupted by their manners; true religion being almost defaced, both in + doctrine and discipline, after a long course of time, among a people + wholly sunk in ignorance and barbarity. There seem to have been two + reasons why the inhabitants of that island continued so long uncultivated; + first, their subjection or vassalage to so many petty kings, whereof a + great number is mentioned by authors, besides those four or five usually + assigned to the several provinces. These princes were engaged in perpetual + quarrels, in doing or revenging injuries of violence, or lust, or + treachery, or injustice, which kept them all in a continual state of war. + And indeed there is hardly any country, how renowned soever in ancient or + modern story, which may not be traced from the like original. Neither can + a nation come out from this state of confusion, until it is either reduced + under one head at home, or by force or conquest becomes subject to a + foreign administration. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 48: The Irish had been very learned in former ages, but had + declined for several centuries before the reign of Henry II. <i>Vide</i> + Bede. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + The other reason why civility made such late entrances into that island, + may be imputed to its natural situation, lying more out of the road of + commerce or conquest than any other part of the known world. All the + intercourse the inhabitants had, was only with the western coasts of Wales + and Scotland, from whence, at least in those ages, they were not like to + learn very much politeness. + </p> + <h3> + 1155. + </h3> + <p> + The King, about the second year of his reign, sent ambassadors to Pope + Adrian, with injunctions to desire his licence for reducing the savage + people of Ireland from their brutish way of living, and subjecting them to + the crown of England. The King proceeded thus, in order to set up a title + to the island, wherein the Pope himself pretended to be lord of the see; + for in his letter, which is an answer and grant to the King's requests, he + insists upon it, that all islands, upon their admitting the Christian + faith, become subject to the See of Rome; and the Irish themselves avowed + the same thing to some of the first conquerors. In that forementioned + letter, the Pope highly praises the King's generous design,[49] and + recommends to him the civilizing the natives, the protection of the + Church, and the payment of Peter-pence. The ill success of all past + endeavours to procure from a people so miserable and irreligious this + revenue to the holy see was a main inducement with the Pope to be easy and + liberal in his grant; for the King professed a design of securing its + regular payment. However, this expedition was not undertaken until some + years after, when there happened an incident to set it forward, as we + shall relate in its place. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 49: Radulphus de Diceto. [D.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + HENRY THE SECOND'S CHARACTER + </h3> + <h3> + EXTRACTED FROM THE MONKS + </h3> + <p> + Hard to gather his character from such bad authors. + </p> + <p> + A wise prince, to whom other princes referred their differences; and had + ambassadors from both empires, east and west, as well as others, at once + in his court. + </p> + <p> + Strong and brawny body, patient of cold and heat, big head, broad breast, + broken voice, temperate in meat, using much exercise, just stature, <i>forma + elegantissima, colore sub-rufo, oculis glaucis</i>, sharp wit, very great + memory, constancy in adversity [and] in felicity, except at last he + yielded, because almost forsaken of all; liberal, imposed few tributes, + excellent soldier and fortunate, wise and not unlearned. His vices: mild + and promising in adversity, fierce and hard, and a violator of faith in + prosperity; covetous to his domestics and children, although liberal to + soldiers and strangers, which turned the former from him; loved profit + more than justice; very lustful, which likewise turned his sons and others + from him. Rosamond and the labyrinth at Woodstock. Not very religious;[50] + <i>mortuos milites lugens plus quam vivos amans, largus in publico, parcus + in privato</i>. Constant in love and hatred, false to his word, morose, a + lover of ease. Oppressor of nobles, sullen, and a delayer of justice; <i>verbo + varius et versutus</i>—Used churchmen well after Becket's death; + charitable to the poor, levied few taxes, hated slaughter and cruelty.[51] + A great memory, and always knew those he once saw. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 50: Brompton. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 51: Giraldus. [D.S.]] + </p> + <p> + Very indefatigable in his travels backwards and forwards to Normandy, + &c. of most endless desires to increase his dominions. + </p> + <p> + <i>Caetera desiderantur</i>. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0009" id="link2H_4_0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SWIFT'S REMARKS ON THE CHARACTERS + </h2> + <h3> + OF THE COURT OF QUEEN ANNE. + </h3> + <h3> + FROM "MEMOIRS OF THE SECRET SERVICES OF JOHN MACKY, ESQ." + </h3> + <h3> + NOTE. + </h3> + <p> + JOHN MACKY, the author of the "Characters," was, for many years, in the + employ of the English government, as an agent for obtaining information as + to the movements of the French. He published, in 1696, "A View of the + Court of St. Germains from the Year 1690 to 1695." The information + embodied in this work he obtained from personal observation while in + Paris. About 1709, however, he aroused the government's suspicions, and + was imprisoned. He was kept confined until the accession of George I. On + his release he attempted to establish a packet-service between England and + Ireland, to Dublin; but the venture failed. He died at Rotterdam in 1726. + The "Characters" was first published in 1733, with the title: + </p> + <p> + "Memoirs of the Secret Services of John Macky, Esq., during the Reigns of + King William, Queen Anne, and King George I. Including also the true + Secret History of the Rise, Promotions, etc., of the English and Scots + Nobility; Officers, Civil, Military, Naval, and other Persons of + distinction from the Revolution. In their respective Characters at large: + drawn up by Mr. Macky pursuant to the direction of Her Royal Highness the + Princess Sophia. Published from his original manuscript, as attested by + his son, Spring Macky, Esq. London, 1733." The work was prepared for the + press by a Mr. Davis, an officer in the Customs. + </p> + <p> + It has been questioned whether Swift did really make the "remarks" + attributed to him by his various editors; but there can be little doubt + about their authenticity. Thomas Birch seems to have transcribed the + "remarks" in 1753, if we are to believe a note in a copy of Macky's book + in the British Museum, which says: "The MS. notes on the Characters in + this Book were written by Dr. Swift, and transcribed by Tho. Birch. Aug. + 15, 1753." Isaac Reed's copy is also in the British Museum, but his notes + were transcribed from another copy in the possession of J. Putland, and + Putland's copy, Reed notes, was "formerly in the possession of Philip + Carteret Webb, Esq., now [1770] of Thomas Astle, Esq." J. Ritson's copy, + which is at the South Kensington Museum, had the "remarks" transcribed to + it from Reed's copy, but Ritson notes that Reed copied the "remarks" from + J. Putland's transcript of the Dean's own original. Ritson, however, does + not say how he knew that Putland had the "Dean's own original." In "Notes + and Queries" (3, ii. 430) the Rev. J. Jebb, Rector of Peterstow, states he + had (in 1862) a copy of the "Characters" with transcript of Swift's + "remarks" by Bishop Jebb. Mr. Edward Solly has an interesting paper on + this matter in the "Bibliographer" for March, 1883. He suggests that Mr. + Putland may have written them down himself from remarks made by Swift. + "The Crypt" for December, 1829, published Swift's "remarks" from a copy in + the possession of Mr. Pickering, the bookseller. + </p> + <p> + A careful collation of all the available copies has been made for this + edition, and the text of Macky's work has been read with the first + edition. Where neither Reed nor Birch give no remarks, they have been + omitted from this reprint. "The Crypt" and Nichols in his quarto edition + (vol. xiv.) often differ, but these differences have been adjusted. + </p> + <p> + It is almost needless to say that Sir Walter Scott's text and notes have + been very much altered by this process. + </p> + <h3> + [T.S.] + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + REMARKS ON THE CHARACTERS OF THE COURT OF QUEEN ANNE. + </h2> + <h3> + JOHN, DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. + </p> + <p> + A tall, handsome man for his age, with a very obliging address; of a + wonderful presence of mind, so as hardly ever to be discomposed; of a very + clean head, and sound judgment; ... every way capable of being a great + man, if the great success of his arms, and the heaps of favours thrown + upon him by his sovereign, does not raise his thoughts above the rest of + the nobility, and consequently draw upon him the envy of the people of + England. He is turned of 50 years of age.—<i>Swift</i>. Detestably + covetous. + </p> + <h3> + JAMES, DUKE OF ORMONDE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath all the qualities of a great man, except that one of + a statesman, hating business. ... He is about 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + Fairly enough writ. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, DUKE OF SOMERSET. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is of a middle stature, well shaped, a very black + complexion, a lover of music and poetry; of good judgment.—<i>Swift</i>. + Not a grain; hardly common sense. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, DUKE OF BUCKINGHAMSHIRE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky.</i> He is a nobleman of learning, and good natural parts, but of + no principles. Violent for the high-church, yet seldom goes to it. Very + proud, insolent, and covetous, and takes all advantages. In paying his + debts, unwilling; and is neither esteemed nor beloved.—<i>Swift</i>. + This character is the truest of any. + </p> + <h3> + DANIEL, EARL OF NOTTINGHAM [AFTERWARDS EARL OF WINCHILSEA]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath the exterior air of business, and application enough + to make him very capable. In his habit and manners very formal; a tall, + thin, very black man, like a Spaniard or Jew, about 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + He fell in with the Whigs, was an endless talker. + </p> + <h3> + HENRY, EARL OF ROMNEY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He was indeed the great wheel on which the Revolution + rolled.—<i>Swift</i>. He had not a wheel to turn a mouse. + </p> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a gentleman that hath lived up [<i>Swift</i>, down] to + the employments the King gave him; of great honour and honesty, with a + moderate capacity.—<i>Swift</i>. None at all. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath one only daughter, who will be the richest heiress + in Europe.—<i>Swift</i>. Now Countess of Oxford; cheated by her + father. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES [LENNOX], DUKE OF RICHMOND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a gentleman good-natured to a fault; very well bred, + and hath many valuable things in him; is an enemy to business, very + credulous, well shaped, black complexion, much like King Charles; not 30 + years old.—<i>Swift</i>. A shallow coxcomb. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, DUKE OF BOLTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Does not now make any figure at court.—<i>Swift</i>. + Nor anywhere else. A great booby. + </p> + <h3> + GEORGE, DUKE OF NORTHUMBERLAND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a man of honour, nice in paying his debts, and living + well with his neighbours in the country; does not much care for the + conversation of men of quality, or business. Is a tall black man, like his + father the King, about 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He was a most + worthy person, very good-natured, and had very good sense. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES [FITZROY], DUKE OF GRAFTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Grandson to King Charles II.; ... a very pretty gentleman, + hath been abroad in the world; zealous for the constitution of his + country. A tall black man, about 25 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. Almost + a slobberer; without one good quality. + </p> + <h3> + SIR NATHAN WRIGHT, LORD KEEPER. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is son of a clergyman,[1] a good common lawyer, a slow + chancellor, and no civilian. Chance more than choice brought him the + seals.—<i>Swift</i>. Very covetous. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: His father had the living of Thurcaston, in Leicestershire. + [S.]] + </p> + <h3> + RALPH, DUKE OF MONTAGU. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a great supporter of the French, and other Protestants + ... an admirer of learning.—<i>Swift</i>. As arrant a knave as any + in his time. + </p> + <h3> + WILLIAM, MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. One of the best beloved gentlemen, by the country party, in + England.—<i>Swift</i>. A very poor understanding. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, LORD SOMERS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Of a creditable family, in the city of Worcester.—<i>Swift</i>. + Very mean; his father was a noted rogue.—<i>Macky</i>. He is + believed to be the best chancellor that ever sat in the chair.—<i>Swift</i>. + I allow him to have possessed all excellent qualifications except virtue. + He had violent passions, and hardly subdued them by his great prudence. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, LORD HALIFAX [AFTERWARDS EARL OF HALIFAX]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a great encourager of learning and learned men, is the + patron of the muses, of very agreeable conversation, a short fair man, not + 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. His encouragements were only good words + and dinners; I never heard him say one good thing, or seem to taste what + was said by another. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF DORSET. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. One of the finest gentlemen, in England, in the reign of + King Charles II.; of great learning [<i>Swift</i>. small, or none], + extremely witty, and hath been the author of some of the finest poems in + the English language, especially satire.... One of the pleasantest + companions in the world [<i>Swift</i>. not of late years, but a very dull + one], when he likes his company. + </p> + <h3> + RICHARD, EARL RIVERS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He was one of the greatest rakes in England in his younger + days, but always a lover of the constitution of his country; is a + gentleman of very good sense, and very cunning.—<i>Swift</i>. An + arrant knave in common dealings, and very prostitute. + </p> + <h3> + ARNOLD, EARL OF ALBEMARLE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He was King William's constant companion in all his + diversions and pleasures.—<i>Swift</i>. Very infamous pleasures. + </p> + <h3> + ALGERNON, EARL OF ESSEX. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is son to that earl whose throat was cut in the Tower.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cut his own throat. + </p> + <h3> + WILLIAM, EARL OF PORTLAND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is supposed to be the richest subject in Europe, very + profuse in gardening, birds, and household furniture, but mighty frugal + and parsimonious in everything else; of a very lofty mien, and yet not + proud; of no deep understanding.—<i>Swift</i>. As great a dunce as + ever I knew. + </p> + <h3> + JAMES, EARL OF DERBY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. On his brothers death he came to the House of Peers, where + he never will make any great figure, the sword being more his profession; + he is a fair-complexioned man, well shaped, taller than the ordinary size, + and a man of honour.—<i>Swift</i>. As arrant a scoundrel as his + brothers. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF PETERBOROUGH. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He affects popularity, and loves to preach in coffee-houses, + and public places; is an open enemy to revealed religion; brave in his + person; hath a good estate; does not seem expensive, yet always in debt, + and very poor.—<i>Swift</i>. This character is for the most part + true. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF SUNDERLAND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. This gentleman is endued with a great deal of learning, + virtue [<i>Swift</i>, no], and good sense. + </p> + <h3> + THOMAS, EARL OF STAMFORD. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is one of the first branches of the Greys, a noble family in + England.... He doth not want sense; but by reason of a defect in his + speech, wants elocution.—<i>Swift</i>. He looked and talked like a + very weak man; but it was said he spoke well at council. + </p> + <h3> + THOMAS [TUFTON], EARL OF THANET. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a good country gentleman, a great assertor of the + prerogatives of the monarchy and the Church.—<i>Swift</i>. Of great + piety and charity. + </p> + <h3> + EDWARD [MONTAGU], EARL OF SANDWICH. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Of very ordinary parts; married the witty Lord Rochester's + daughter, who makes him very expensive.—<i>Swift</i>. As much a + puppy as ever I saw; very ugly, and a fop. + </p> + <h3> + ROBERT, LORD LUCAS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is every way a plain man, yet took a great deal of pains + to seem knowing and wise; everybody pitied him when the Queen turned him + out, for his seeming good nature, and real poverty.—<i>Swift</i>. A + good plain humdrum. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF WINCHILSEA. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath neither genius nor gusto for business,... and is + zealous for the monarchy and Church to the highest degree. He loves jests + and puns, [<i>Swift</i>. I never observed it,] and that sort of low wit.—<i>Swift</i>. + Being very poor, he complied too much with the party he hated. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, LORD POULETT OF HINTON [AFTERWARDS EARL POULETT]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is certainly one of the hopefullest gentlemen in England; + is very learned, virtuous, and a man of honour; much esteemed in the + country, for his generous way of living with the gentry, and his charity + to the poorest sort.—<i>Swift</i>. This character is fair enough. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, LORD [VISCOUNT] TOWNSHEND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is a gentleman of great learning, attended with a sweet + disposition; a lover of the constitution of his country; is beloved by + everybody that knows him.—<i>Swift</i>. I except one. + </p> + <h3> + WILLIAM, LORD DARTMOUTH [AFTERWARDS EARL OF DARTMOUTH]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He sets up for a critic in conversation, makes jests, and + loves to laugh at them; takes a great deal of pains in his office, and is + in a fair way of rising at court.—<i>Swift</i>. This is right + enough, but he has little sincerity. + </p> + <h3> + THOMAS, LORD WHARTON [AFTERWARDS EARL OF WHARTON]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. One of the completest gentlemen in England, hath a very + clear understanding, and manly expressions, with abundance of wit. He is + brave in his person, much of a libertine, of a middle stature, fair + complexion, and 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. The most universal + villain I ever knew. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, LORD MOHUN. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is brave in his person, bold in his expressions, and + rectifies, as fast as he can, the slips of his youth by acts of honesty; + which he now glories in more, than he was formerly extravagant.—<i>Swift</i>. + He was little better than a conceited talker in company. + </p> + <h3> + HENRY, EARL OF KENT.[2] + </h3> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Afterwards Duke of Kent.] + </p> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is the first branch of the ancient family of Grey. The + present gentleman was much esteemed, when Lord Ruthen; was always very + moderate, has good sense, and a good estate; which, with his quality, must + make him always bear a considerable figure in the nation.—<i>Swift</i>. + He seems a good-natured man, but of very little consequence. + </p> + <h3> + ROBERT, EARL OF LINDSEY [AFTERWARDS DUKE OF ANCASTER]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A fine gentleman, has both wit and learning.—<i>Swift</i>. + I never observed a grain of either. + </p> + <h3> + MONTAGU, EARL OF ABINGDON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A gentleman of fine parts, makes a good figure in the + counties of Oxford and Buckinghamshire:... is very high for the monarchy + and Church.—<i>Swift</i>. Very covetous. + </p> + <h3> + PHILIP, EARL OF CHESTERFIELD. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is very subtle and cunning, never entered into the + measures of King William, nor ever will, in all probability, make any + great appearance in any other reign.—<i>Swift</i>. If it be old + Chesterfield, I have heard he was the greatest knave in England. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF BERKELEY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A gentleman of learning, parts, and a lover of the + constitution of his country; a short fat man.—<i>Swift</i>. + Intolerably lazy and indolent, and somewhat covetous. + </p> + <h3> + LOUIS, EARL OF FEVERSHAM. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A third son of the family of Duras in France; he came over + with one of the Duke of York's family;... is a middle-statured brown man, + turned of 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He was a very dull old fellow. + </p> + <h3> + HENRY, EARL OF GRANTHAM. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a very pretty gentleman, fair complexioned, and past + 30 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. And good for nothing. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, LORD DE LA WARR. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A free jolly gentleman, turned of 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + Of very little sense; but formal, and well stocked with the low kind of + lowest politics. + </p> + <h3> + ROBERT, LORD LEXINTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is of a good understanding, and very capable to be in the + ministry; a well-bred gentleman, and an agreeable companion.—<i>Swift</i>. + A very moderate degree of understanding. + </p> + <h3> + RALPH, LORD GREY OF WERKE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A sweet disposed gentleman; he joined King William at the + Revolution, and is a zealous assertor of the liberties of the people.—<i>Swift</i>. + Had very little in him. + </p> + <h3> + JAMES, LORD CHANDOS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Was warm against King William's reign, and doth not make any + great figure in this; but, his son, Mr. Brydges[3] does, being a member of + the House of Commons, one of the counsellors to the prince, and a very + worthy gentleman.—<i>Swift</i>. But a great compiler with every + court. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: Afterwards Duke of Chandos.] + </p> + <h3> + FRANCIS, LORD GUILFORD. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is son to the lord-keeper North, hath been abroad, does not + want sense nor application to business, and his genius leads him that way.—<i>Swift</i>. + A mighty silly fellow. + </p> + <h3> + EDWARD, LORD GRIFFIN. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Having-followed King James's fortunes, is now in France. He + was always a great sportsman, and brave; a good companion, turned of 60 + years old.—<i>Swift</i>. His son was a plain drunken fellow. + </p> + <h3> + HUGH, LORD CHOLMONDELEY [AFTERWARDS EARL OF CHOLMONDELEY]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. This lord is a great lover of country sports; is handsome in + his person, and turned of 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. Good for + nothing, as far as ever I knew. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, LORD BUTLER OF WESTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Earl of Arran in Ireland, and brother to the Duke of + Ormonde;... of very good sense, though seldom shows it.—<i>Swift</i>. + This is right; but he is the most negligent of his own affairs. + </p> + <h3> + MR. THOMAS MANSELL [AFTERWARDS LORD MANSELL]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a gentleman of a great deal of wit and good nature, a + lover of the ladies, and a pleasant companion.—<i>Swift</i>. Of very + good nature, but a very moderate capacity. + </p> + <p> + ROBERT HARLEY, ESQ. [AFTERWARDS EARL OF OXFORD], SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF + COMMONS. + </p> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is skilled in most things, and very eloquent, [<i>Swift</i>, + a great lie;] was bred a Presbyterian, yet joins with the Church party in + everything; and they do nothing without him.—<i>Swift</i>. He could + not properly be called eloquent, but he knew how to prevail on the House + with few words and strong reasons. + </p> + <h3> + THE HON. HENRY BOYLE [AFTERWARDS LORD CARLETON], CHANCELLOR OF THE + EXCHEQUER. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is a good companion in conversation; agreeable amongst the + ladies; serves the Queen very assiduously in council; makes a considerable + figure in the House of Commons; by his prudent administration, obliges + everybody in the exchequer; and in time may prove a great man.—<i>Swift</i>. + He had some very scurvy qualities, particularly avarice. + </p> + <h3> + SIR THOMAS FRANKLAND, POST-MASTER-GENERAL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a gentleman of a very sweet, easy, affable + disposition; of good sense, extremely zealous for the constitution of his + country, yet does not seem over forward; keeps an exact unity amongst the + officers under him, and encourages them in their duty, through a peculiar + familiarity, by which he obliges them, and keeps up the dignity of being + master.—<i>Swift</i>. A fair character. + </p> + <h3> + THE RT. HON. JOHN SMITH, ONE OF HER MAJESTY'S PRIVY-COUNCIL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A gentleman of much honour, a lover of the constitution of + his country; a very agreeable companion in conversation, a bold orator in + the House of Commons,[4] when the interest of his country is at stake; of + a good address.—<i>Swift</i>. I thought him a heavy man. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: He was Speaker of the House of Commons, 1705-1708. [T.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES D'AVENANT, LL.D. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He was very poor at the Revolution, had no business to + support him all the reign of King William, yet made a good figure. He is a + very cloudy-looked man, fat, of middle stature, about 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + He was used ill by most ministries; he ruined his own estate, which put + him under a necessity to comply with the times. + </p> + <h3> + MATTHEW PRIOR, ESQ., COMMISSIONER OF TRADE. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. On the Queen's accession to the throne, he was continued in + his office, is very well at court with the ministry, and is an entire + creature of my Lord Jersey's, whom he supports by his advice. Is one of + the best poets in England, but very factious in conversation; a thin + hollow-looked man, turned of 40 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. This is + near the truth. + </p> + <h3> + THOMAS TENISON, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A plain, good, heavy man, now much in years, and wearing + out; very tall, of a fair complexion, and 70 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + The most good-for-nothing prelate I ever knew. + </p> + <h3> + GILBERT BURNET. BISHOP OF SALISBURY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Of a very good family in Scotland, of the name of Burnet, + his father was Lord [<i>Swift</i>, laird] of Cremont.... He is one of the + greatest [<i>Swift</i>, Scotch] orators of the age he lives in. His + "History of the Reformation," and his "Exposition of the Thirty-nine + Articles," show him to be a man of great learning; but several of his + other works show him to be a man neither of prudence nor temper; his + sometimes opposing, and sometimes favouring, the Dissenters, hath much + exposed him to the generality of the people of England; yet he is very + useful in the House of Peers, and proves a great pillar, both of the civil + and ecclesiastical constitution, against the encroachments of a party + which would destroy both.—<i>Swift</i>. His true character would + take up too much time for me (who knew him well) to describe it. + </p> + <h3> + GEORGE STEPNEY, ESQ., ENVOY EXTRAORDINARY TO THE EMPEROR [OF AUSTRIA]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A gentleman of admirable natural parts, very learned, one of + the best poets [<i>Swift</i>, scarce of a third rate] now in England. + </p> + <h3> + MR. [AFTERWARDS SIR PAUL] METHUEN, AMBASSADOR TO THE KING OF PORTUGAL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A man of intrigue, but very muddy in his conceptions, and + not quickly understood in anything. In his complexion and manners, much of + a Spaniard.—<i>Swift</i>. A profligate rogue, without religion or + morals; but cunning enough, yet without abilities of any kind. + </p> + <h3> + THOMAS, LORD RABY [AFTERWARDS EARL OF STRAFFORD], ENVOY EXTRAORDINARY TO + THE KING OF PRUSSIA. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a young gentleman, <i>de bon naturel</i>, handsome, of + fine understanding, [<i>Swift</i>, very bad, and can't spell,] and, with + application, may prove a man of business. He is of low stature [<i>Swift</i>, + he is tall]. + </p> + <h3> + MR. [RICHARD] HILL, ENVOY EXTRAORDINARY TO THE DUKE OF SAVOY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is a gentleman of a good family in Shropshire. He was + designed for the church, and took deacon's [<i>Swift</i>, priest's] + orders; but having a genius for business, and falling into the + acquaintance of my Lord Ranelagh, when tutor to my Lord Hyde, he was sent + into Flanders as paymaster to the English troops there. ... He is a + gentleman of very clear parts, and affects plainness and simplicity [<i>Swift, + au contraire</i>] in his dress, and conversation especially. He is a + favourite to both parties [<i>Swift</i>, to neither]; and is beloved for + his easy access, and affable way by those he has business to do with. He + is a thin, tall man, [<i>Swift,</i> short, if I remember right,] taller + than the ordinary stature, near 50 years old. + </p> + <h3> + SIR LAMBERT BLACKWELL, ENVOY TO THE GREAT DUKE OF TUSCANY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He affects much the gentleman in his dress, and the minister + in his conversation: Is very lofty, yet courteous, when he knows his + people; much envied by his fellow merchants.—<i>Swift</i>. He seemed + to be a very good-natured man. + </p> + <h3> + MR. <i>[Dr.]</i> AGLIONBY, ENVOY TO THE SWISS CANTONS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath abundance of wit, and understands most of the modern + languages well; knows how to tell a story to the best advantage; but has + an affected manner of conversation; is thin, splenetic, and tawny + complexioned, turned of 60 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He had been a + Papist. + </p> + <h3> + MR. D'AVENANT, AGENT AT FRANKFORT. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A very giddy-headed young fellow, with some wit; about 25 + years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He is not worth mentioning. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, LORD CUTTS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath abundance of wit, but too much seized with vanity + and self-conceit; he is affable, familiar, and very brave; ... towards 50 + years old.—<i>Swift</i>. The vainest old fool alive. + </p> + <h3> + HENRY, EARL OF GALWAY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. One of the finest gentlemen in the army, with a head fitted + for the cabinet, as well as the camp; is very modest, vigilant, and + sincere; a man of honour and honesty, [<i>Swift</i>, in all directly + otherwise;] without pride or affectation; wears his own hair, is plain in + his dress and manners, towards 60 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. A + deceitful, hypocritical, factious knave; a damnable hypocrite, of no + religion. + </p> + <h3> + GEORGE, EARL OF ORKNEY. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a very well-shaped black man; is brave; but, by reason + of a hesitation in his speech wants expression.—<i>Swift</i>. An + honest good-natured gentleman, and hath much distinguished himself as a + soldier. + </p> + <h3> + MR. JAMES STANHOPE [AFTERWARDS EARL STANHOPE], ENVOY EXTRAORDINARY TO THE + STATES GENERAL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a man of honour,... and pleases the Dutch. His son, + Colonel Stanhope, is one of the finest young gentlemen we have; is very + learned, with a great deal of wit. ... A handsome [<i>Swift</i>, ugly] + black man. + </p> + <h3> + SIR CHARLES O'HARA [AFTERWARDS LORD TYRAWLEY], LIEUTENANT-GENERAL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. At the Revolution he had a company in the foot-guards; was + afterwards lieutenant-colonel to that regiment; was made colonel to the + fusileers, and gradually advanced to the post he now hath, which he well + deserves, being of good understanding, and abundance of learning; fit to + command, if not too covetous; he is a short, black man, 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + His father was a groom; he was a man of sense, without one grain of + honesty. + </p> + <h3> + COLONEL MATTHEW AYLMER [AFTERWARDS LORD AYLMER], VICE-ADMIRAL OF THE + FLEET. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath a very good head, indefatigable and designing; is + very zealous for the liberties of the people, makes a good figure in the + Parliament, as well as the fleet.—<i>Swift</i>. A virulent party + man, born in Ireland. + </p> + <h3> + JAMES, DUKE OF HAMILTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. On the Queen's accession to the throne, he made strong + efforts to get into the administration, but hath not yet succeeded, though + he is well received at court; he is brave in his person, with a rough air + of boldness; of good sense, very forward and hot for what he undertakes; + ambitious and haughty, a violent enemy; hath been very extravagant in his + manner of living; but now grows covetous.—<i>Swift</i>. He was made + master of the ordnance; a worthy good-natured person, very generous, but + of a middle understanding; he was murdered by that villain Macartney, an + Irish Scot. + </p> + <h3> + ARCHIBALD, DUKE OF ARGYLL. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Few of his years hath a better understanding, nor a more + manly behaviour. He hath seen most of the courts of Europe, is very + handsome in his person, fair complexioned; about 25 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + Ambitious, covetous, cunning Scot; has no principle, but his own interest + and greatness. A true Scot in his whole conduct. + </p> + <h3> + JAMES, MARQUESS OF MONTROSE [AFTERWARDS DUKE OF MONTROSE]. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Representative of the ancient and noble family of Graham; + great-grandson to that famous Montrose, who was hanged and quartered for + Charles I.; and grandson, by the mother, to the Duke of Rothes. He + inherits all the great qualities of those two families, with a sweetness + of behaviour, which charms all those who know him; hath improved himself + in most foreign courts; is very beautiful in his person, and about 25 + years old.—<i>Swift</i>. Now very homely, and makes a sorry + appearance. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, EARL OF SUTHERLAND. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A very honest man, a great assertor of the liberties of the + people; hath a good, rough sense; is open and free; a great lover of his + bottle and his friend; brave in his person, which he hath shown in several + duels; too familiar for his quality, and often keeps company below it.—<i>Swift</i>. + A blundering, rattle-pated, drunken sot. + </p> + <h3> + SECRETARY [JAMES] JOHNSTOUN, NOW LORD-REGISTER. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. Is a younger son of my Lord Warriston, who was beheaded. ... + He is very honest, [<i>Swift</i>, a treacherous knave,] yet something too + credulous and suspicious; endued with a great deal of learning and virtue; + is above little tricks, free from ceremony; and would not tell a lie for + the world.—<i>Swift.</i> One of the greatest knaves even in + Scotland. + </p> + <h3> + MR. [WILLIAM] CARSTAIRS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is the cunningest, subtle dissembler in the world, with + an air of sincerity, a dangerous enemy, because always hid. An instance of + which was Secretary Johnstoun, to whom he pretended friendship, till the + very morning he gave him a blow, though he had been worming him out of the + King's favour for many months before; he is a fat, sanguine-complexioned + fair man, always smiling, where he designs most mischief, a good friend + when he is sincere; turned of 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. A true + character; but not strong enough by a fiftieth part. + </p> + <h3> + JOHN, EARL OF MAR. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is a very good manager in his private affairs, which were + in disorder when his father died, and is a stanch countryman, fair + complexioned, low stature, and 30 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He is + crooked; he seemed to me to be a gentleman of good sense and good nature, + </p> + <h3> + ANDREW FLETCHER, OF SALTON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. A gentleman of a fair estate in Scotland, attended with the + improvement of a good education. ... He hath written some excellent + tracts, but not published in his name; and hath a very fine genius; is a + low, thin man, brown complexion, full of fire, with a stern, sour look, + and 50 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. A most arrogant, conceited pedant in + politics; cannot endure the least contradiction in any of his visions or + paradoxes. + </p> + <h3> + CHARLES, EARL OF MIDDLETON. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He is one of the politest gentlemen in Europe; hath a great + deal of wit, mixed with a sound judgment, and a very clear understanding; + of an easy, indifferent access, but a careless way of living. ... He is a + black man, of a middle stature, with a sanguine complexion; and one of the + pleasantest companions in the world. Towards 60 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. + Sir William Temple told me, he was a very valuable man, and a good + scholar. I once saw him. + </p> + <h3> + DAVID, EARL OF WEEMS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Macky</i>. He hath not yet been in the administration; is a fine + personage, and very beautiful; hath good sense, and is a man of honour. + About 30 years old.—<i>Swift</i>. He was a black man, and handsome + for a Scot. + </p> + <p> + NOTE.—The characters on the Duke of Shrewsbury, the Duke of + Devonshire, the Earl of Ranelagh, and Rear-Admiral Byng, have been + entirely omitted. The first is not given by Reed, and includes in Birch + the single word "none"; the second is not given either by Birch or Reed, + but appears only in "The Crypt"; the third is given only by Nichols; and + the last is not given by Birch or Reed. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + REMARKS ON + </h2> + <h3> + LORD CLARENDON'S HISTORY OF + </h3> + <h3> + THE REBELLION + </h3> + <h3> + OXFORD EDITION, 1707, 3 VOLS. + </h3> + <h3> + FROM THE ORIGINAL, IN ST. PATRICK'S LIBRARY. + </h3> + <h3> + NOTE. + </h3> + <p> + The text of this edition of Swift's notes on Clarendon has been founded on + the careful transcript made by Mr. Percy Fitzgerald. This transcript is + now in the Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington. Mr. Fitzgerald + refers to Dr. Rowan's collation, but I have been unable to find the + original of this. Rowan's additions, however, were noted by Mr. + Fitzgerald, and they have been included here. Mr. Fitzgerald says: + "Scott's notes, subject to the corrections just given [by himself], are + correct, and would serve as the base of the new edition. The additions I + have given and the few given by Dr. Rowan (which are given here a little + further on) will have to be inserted in their proper places and will make + the whole complete." This has been done, and the present reprint is a very + careful following out of this suggestion. + </p> + <p> + After the following pages were in type, however, I have had the + opportunity, through the kindness of Dr. Bernard, the Dean of St. + Patrick's Cathedral, of examining the original copy in the Marsh Library + at Dublin. Assisted by the Rev. Newport J.D. White, the librarian of the + Marsh Library, I have been able to correct several of Mr. Percy + Fitzgerald's transcripts, and to add some "remarks" omitted both by him + and Scott. + </p> + <p> + Mr. White, in an article in "Hermathena" (No. xxvii., 1901), suggests that + the successive perusals by Swift account "for the fact that some of the + notes are in ink, though most are in pencil; while in one or two cases + Swift seems to have retraced in ink a remark originally in pencil." + Although Swift finished his fourth reading of the "History" in 1741, it is + undoubted that he had already annotated the volumes at a much earlier + date. The copy of the "History," now in the Marsh Library, was presented + to it by Archbishop King, though the exact date of this presentation can + only be guessed. "In the register of benefactions," writes Mr. White in + "Hermathena," "the first list, which was evidently written at one time and + by one hand, contains the names of all books presented by King. Two of + these were published as late as 1723. The next entry is dated April 12th, + 1726. It is probable, therefore, that these volumes came into their + present abode between 1723 and 1726. As Dean of St. Patrick's, Swift was + one of the governors of the library, and in that capacity attended many of + the annual visitations between 1718 and 1736. It is natural to suppose + that he was a constant reader." It follows, therefore, that Swift borrowed + the volumes from the library for his re-perusal; and perhaps retraced his + annotations at that time and added new ones. + </p> + <p> + It is worth while to reprint a sentence from Scott's note on these + "Remarks" of Swift's, if only to continue a record of retort against + Swift's intemperance of feeling against the Scottish nation: "The + ludicrous virulence of his execrations against the Scottish nation, go a + great way to remove the effect of his censure; and a native of Scotland + may be justified in retaining them, were it but for that reason." + </p> + <h3> + [T.S.] + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + REMARKS ON CLARENDON'S HISTORY OF THE REBELLION. + </h2> + <h3> + VOL. I. + </h3> + <p> + On the first board: Finished the 4th time, April 18, 1741. Judicium de + authore.[1] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 1 The note "Finished the 4th time April 18, 1741," which Scott + and Fitzgerald record as written on the first board of vol. i., is not now + to be traced, the volume having been rebound since their transcripts were + made.] + </p> + <p> + The cursed, hellish villainy, treachery, treasons of the Scots, were the + chief grounds and causes of that execrable rebellion.—<i>Swift</i>. + </p> + <p> + "The word of a king." This phrase is repeated some hundred times; but is + ever foolish, and too often false.—<i>Swift</i>. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + P. v. [p. xxi.[2]] <i>Clarendon</i>. We might give instances ... of those + points ... which have brought the prince, sometimes, under the + disadvantageous suspicion of being inclined to the love of arbitrary + power.—<i>Swift</i>. What king doth not love, and endeavour at it? + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 2 The references in square brackets apply to the recent Oxford + edition of Clarendon's "Rebellion" (6 vols., cr. 8vo, 1888). The prefaces + can only be referred to by the page, but throughout the body of the work + the <i>paragraphs</i> are separately numbered for each book. [T. S.]] + </p> + <p> + P, vi. [p. xxii.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The people may not always be + restrained from attempting by force to do themselves right, though they + ought not.—<i>Swift</i>. They <i>ought!</i> + </p> + <h3> + BOOK I. + </h3> + <p> + P. 9. [par. 12.] <i>Clarendon</i>. All men being inhibited, by the + proclamation at the dissolution of the Parliament in the fourth year, so + much as to mention or speak as if a Parliament should be called.—<i>Swift</i>. + Great weakness. + </p> + <p> + P. 47. [par. 128.] <i>Clarendon</i>. He [the Earl of Montgomery] had not + sat many years in that sunshine, when a new comet appeared in court, + Robert Carr, a Scotsman, quickly after declared favourite.—<i>Swift</i>. + A Scottish king makes a Scottish favourite. + </p> + <p> + P. 48. [par. 133.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Earl of Carlisle ... wrought + himself into ... greater affection and esteem with the whole English + nation, than any other of that country; by choosing their friendships, and + conversation, and really preferring it to any of his own—<i>Swift</i>. + A miracle in a Scot! + </p> + <p> + P. 58. [par. 159.] <i>Clarendon</i>. During the whole time that these + pressures were exercised, and those new, and extraordinary ways were run, + that is, from the dissolution of the Parliament in the fourth year, to the + beginning of this Parliament, which was above twelve years, this kingdom + ... enjoyed the greatest calm, and the fullest measure of felicity, that + any people in any age, for so long time together, have been blessed with.—<i>Swift</i>. + Partial. + </p> + <p> + P. 59. [par. 162.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The kingdoms, we now lament, were + alone looked upon as the garden of the world; Scotland (which was but the + wilderness of that garden), etc.—<i>Swift</i>. The <i>dunghill!</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [par. 163.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Those rough courses, which made + him [the King] perhaps less loved at home, made him more feared abroad; by + how much the power of kingdoms is more reverenced than their justice by + their neighbours: and it may be this consideration might not be the least + motive, and may not be the worst excuse for those counsels.—<i>Swift</i> + Too arbitrary. + </p> + <p> + P. 60. [par. 163.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Nerva was deified for uniting, <i>Imperium + et Libertas</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. "Libertas" underlined and "<i>nego</i>" + written in the margin. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 165.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Wise men knew that that which + looked like pride in some, would, etc. [Swift places a condemnatory pencil + mark beneath "that."] + </p> + <p> + P. 75. [par. 201.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A book so full of good learning,[3] [<i>i + e.,</i> Bp. John Williams (of Lincoln) against Innovations in Religion].—<i>Swift</i>. + Is that book to be bought or borrowed? + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: Again referred to on p. 271. <i>See</i> Scott's note <i>in + loco</i> (p. 297). [T.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + BOOK II. + </h3> + <p> + P. 88. [par. 18.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was so little curiosity either + in the court, or the country, to know anything of Scotland, or what was + done there, that when the whole nation was solicitous to know what passed + weekly in Germany, and Poland, and all other parts of Europe, no man ever + enquired what was doing in Scotland, nor had that kingdom a place or + mention in one page of any gazette.—<i>Swift</i>. Should Bridewell + news be in any gazette? + </p> + <p> + P.88. [par 18.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The people [the Scotch] after they had + once begun, pursued the business vigorously, and with all imaginable + contempt of the government.—<i>Swift</i>. Scottish scoundrels! + </p> + <p> + P. 94. [par. 38.] <i>Clarendon</i> in the address of the Scots to the + King:—Lamenting "their ill fortune that their enemies had so great + credit with the King, as to persuade him to believe that they were or + could be disobedient to him, a thing that could never enter into their + loyal hearts."—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch dogs! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 39.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Into Scotland ... as far as a + place called Dunce.—<i>Swift</i>. "Dunce" underlined. + </p> + <p> + P. 95. [par. 42.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Covenanters ... were very + reasonably exalted with this success, [the retreat of the Earl of Holland + from Dunse,] and scattered their letters abroad amongst the noblemen at + court, according to the humours of the men to whom they writ.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cursed Scots for ever! + </p> + <p> + P. 96. [par. 46.] <i>Clarendon</i>, speaking of the Marquess of Hamilton.—<i>Swift</i>. + A cursed true Scot! + </p> + <p> + P. 100. [par. 55] <i>Clarendon</i> The Scots got so much benefit and + advantage by it [the treaty of pacification], that they brought all their + other mischievous devices to pass, with ease.—<i>Swift</i>. + Confounded Scots! + </p> + <p> + P. 101. [par. 58.] Marginal note to Clarendon: The Earl of Argyle joins + with the Covenanters, notwithstanding his great obligations to the King.—<i>Swift</i>. + All Argyles, cursed Scottish hell-hounds for ever! + </p> + <p> + P. 103. [par. 60.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the letter from the Scotch + nobility to the French King, which was intercepted, and upon Lord Lowden, + in his examination:—refusing to give any other answer, than that it + was writ before the agreement ... and never sent; that if he had committed + any offence, he ought to be questioned for it in Scotland, and not in + England.—<i>Swift</i>. Scottish traitors! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 61.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The opinion of the prejudice and + general aversion over the whole kingdom to the Scots, and the indignation + they had at their presumption in their design of invading England, made it + believed that a Parliament would express a very sharp sense of their + insolence and carriage towards the King.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed + hellish Scots for ever! + </p> + <p> + P. 104. [par. 62.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the calling together of the + Parliament in 1640:—The King ... directed the lord-keeper to issue + out writs for the meeting of a Parliament upon the third day of April then + next ensuing.—<i>Swift</i>. April 3d for knaves; the 1st for fools! + </p> + <p> + P. 114. [par, 90.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Scots army ... were always + beaten.—<i>Swift</i>. "Always beaten" trebly underlined. + </p> + <p> + P. 116. [par. 97.] <i>Clarendon</i> The convocation-house (the regular and + legal assembling of the clergy) customarily beginning and ending with + Parliaments, was, after the determination of the last, by a new writ + continued.—<i>Swift</i>. Convocations of the clergy are as legal and + as necessary as those of the laity. + </p> + <p> + P. 122. [par 108.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the commissioners who met at + Ripon:—When these commissioners from the King arrived at Ripon, + there came others from the Scots army of a quality much inferior—<i>Swift</i>. + A cursed committee! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 108.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Alexander Henderson.—<i>Swift</i>. + A cursed fanatic! (Written in pencil, and partially rubbed out.) + </p> + <p> + P. 123. [par. 109.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was not a man of all the + English, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed hellish Scots! + </p> + <p> + P. 124. [par. 111.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They brought them with them and + presented them to the King [Swift underscores <i>them</i>.] + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 113.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Three of the commissioners, and + no more, were of the King's council, the Earls of Pembroke, Salisbury, and + Holland.—<i>Swift</i>. Bad counsellors. + </p> + <p> + P. 125. [par. 116.] <i>Clarendon</i> The commissioners at Ripon quickly + agreed upon the cessation; and were not unwilling to have allowed fifty + thousand pounds a month for the support of the Scots army, when they did + assign but thirty thousand pounds a month for the payment of the King's.—<i>Swift</i>. + Greedy Scotch rebellious dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 129. [par. 126.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It must not be doubted that there + were many particular persons of honour of that nation who abhorred the + outrages which were committed.—<i>Swift</i>. I doubt it; for they + were Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 130. [par. 128.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It can hardly be conceived, with + what entire confidence in each other, the numerous and <i>not very rich</i> + nobility of Scotland ... concurred in the carrying on this rebellion.—<i>Swift</i>. + Beggarly, beggarly! + </p> + <h3> + BOOK III. + </h3> + <p> + P. 148. [par. 32.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Mr. Saint-John ... a natural son of + the house of Bullingbrook.—<i>Swift</i>. A bastard. + </p> + <p> + P. 151. [par. 38.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Earl of Rothes ... was a man very + well bred, of very good parts, and great address.—<i>Swift</i>. A + Scotch freethinker. + </p> + <p> + P. 152. [par. 42.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the order of the Houses of + Parliament, to use the appellation of "our brethren of Scotland" towards + the Scotch commissioners.—<i>Swift</i> Cursed Scots, brethren in + iniquity. + </p> + <p> + P. 153 [par 44] <i>Clarendon</i> The allegation was, "That the charge + against the Earl of Stafford was of an extraordinary nature, being to make + a treason evident out of a complication of several ill acts, That he must + be traced through many dark paths," etc.—<i>Swift.</i> As a boy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i> [par 45] <i>Clarendon</i> It was alleged, "That at his coming + from Ireland the Earl had said in council there, That if ever he returned + to that sword again, he would not leave a Scottishman in that kingdom".—<i>Swift</i> + And it was a good resolution. + </p> + <p> + P 153 [par 45] <i>Clarendon</i> —— "And at his arrival in this + kingdom, the lord mayor and some aldermen of London attending the board + about the loan of moneys, and not giving that satisfaction was expected, + that he should tell the King, That it would never be well till he hanged + up a Lord Mayor of London in the City to terrify the rest".—<i>Swift</i> + At worst, only a rash expression. + </p> + <p> + P 155 [par 50] <i>Clarendon</i> Hereupon, in one day, were sworn privy + councillors, much to the public joy, the Earl of Hertford (whom the King + afterwards made marquess), the Earl of Bedford, the Earl of Essex, the + Earl of Bristol, the Lord Say, the Lord Saville, and the Lord Kimbolton, + and within two or three days after, the Earl of Warwick.—<i>Swift</i> + All [<i>rogues,</i> perhaps,[4]] but the first. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 4 P Fitzgerald says <i>[sworn,</i> more likely] [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + P 161 [par 67] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the method of procuring signatures to + one petition, and then cutting them off, and affixing them to a petition + of quite a different tendency.—<i>Swift</i> Dogs, villains, almost + as bad as the cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + P 366 [par 85] <i>Clarendon</i> The Earl of Bedford prevailed with the + King ... to make Oliver Saint-John ... his solicitor-general, which His + Majesty readily consented to: ... being a gentleman of an honourable + extraction (if he had been legitimate).—<i>Swift</i> The bastard + before mentioned. + </p> + <p> + P 183 [par 140] <i>Clarendon</i>, trial of Strafford—Mr Solicitor + Saint-John ... argued for the space of near an hour the matter of law. Of + the argument itself I shall say little, it being in print, and in many + hands, I shall only remember two notable propositions, which are + sufficient characters of the person and the time.—<i>Swift</i> Bp. + A[tterbury] + </p> + <p> + P 187 [par 156] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the bill for extirpating bishops, + deans, and chapters, etc.—Though the rejecting it, was earnestly + urged by very many, ... yet, all the other people, as violently pressed + the reading it; and none so importunately, as Saint-John.—<i>Swift</i>. + The bastard! + </p> + <p> + P. 195. [par. 179.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It being always their custom, when + they found the heat and distemper of the House (which they endeavoured to + keep up, by the sharp mention and remembrance of former grievances and + pressures) in any degree allayed, by some gracious act, or gracious + profession of the King's, to warm and inflame them again with a discovery, + or promise of a discovery, of some notable plot and conspiracy against + themselves.—<i>Swift.</i> King George I.'s reign. + </p> + <p> + P. 199. [par. 189.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Whereas some doubts, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + True Popish evasion. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, on the explanation of the Protestation for the + Church of England:—concerning the meaning of these words ... "<i>viz</i> + The true reformed Protestant religion, expressed in the doctrine of the + Church of England, against all Popery and Popish innovations within this + realm, contrary to the same doctrine," This House doth declare, that by + those words, was and is meant, only the public doctrine professed in the + said Church, so far as it is opposite to Popery, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + Fanatic dogs! + </p> + <p> + P. 202. [par. 198.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Archbishop of York.—<i>Swift</i>. + Williams, before of Lincoln. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 200.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the letter of Strafford to + the King, persuading him no longer to delay the order for his execution.—<i>Swift</i>. + Great magnanimity! + </p> + <p> + P. 203. [par. 201.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The delivery of this letter being + quickly known, new arguments were applied; "that this free consent of his + own, clearly absolved the King from any scruple that could remain with + him."—<i>Swift</i>. Weak, and wrong. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 202.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was reason enough to + believe, their impious hands would be lifted up against his own person, + and (which he much more apprehended) against the person of his royal + consort.—<i>Swift</i>. A most unhappy marriage. + </p> + <p> + P. 204. [par. 206.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Together with that of attainder of + the Earl of Strafford, another Bill was passed by the King, of almost as + fatal a consequence both to the King and kingdom, ... "the Act for the + perpetual Parliament;" as it is since called.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed + stupidity! <i>Hinc illae lachrymae</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 205. [par. 207.] <i>Clarendon</i>. No way could be thought of so sure, + as an Act of Parliament, "that this Parliament should not be adjourned, + prorogued, or dissolved, but by Act of Parliament, which, upon this + occasion, His Majesty would never deny to pass."—<i>Swift</i>. The + fatal stroke. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 210.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the King's passing this + Bill. —<i>Swift</i>. I wish the author had enlarged here upon what + motives the King passed that Bill. + </p> + <p> + P 205 [par 210] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the same.—<i>Swift</i> The King + by this act utterly ruined. + </p> + <p> + P 207 [par 217] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the passing of the tonnage and + poundage bill—And so in expectation and confidence, that they would + make glorious additions to the state and revenue of the crown, His Majesty + suffered himself to be stripped of all that he had left.—<i>Swift</i> + Great weakness in the King. + </p> + <p> + P 225 [par 271] <i>Clarendon</i> These Acts of Parliament, etc will be + acknowledged, by an uncorrupted posterity, to be everlasting monuments of + the King's princely and fatherly affection to his people.—<i>Swift</i> + Rather of his weakness. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK IV + </h3> + <p> + P 237 [par 24] <i>Clarendon</i> A general insurrection of the Irish, + spread itself over the whole country, in such an inhumane and barbarous + manner, that there were forty or fifty thousand of the English Protestants + murdered.—<i>Swift</i> At least. + </p> + <p> + P 243 [par 43] <i>Clarendon</i> That which should have been an act of + oblivion, was made a defence and justification of whatsoever they [the + Scotch] had done.—<i>Swift</i> Scot, Scot, Scot, for ever Scot. + </p> + <p> + P 244 [par 47] <i>Clarendon</i> His Majesty having never received any + considerable profit from Scotland, etc.—<i>Swift</i> How could he, + from Scottish rebels and beggars? + </p> + <p> + P 245 [par 47] <i>Clarendon</i> Surely he had then very hard thoughts of a + great part of the nation [the Scotch].—<i>Swift</i> Who can doubt of + it? + </p> + <p> + P 257 [par 87] <i>Clarendon</i> The propositions made from Scotland, "for + the sending ten thousand men from thence, into Ulster, to be paid by the + Parliament," were consented to, whereby some soldiers were dispatched + thither, to defend their own plantation, and did in truth, at our charge, + as much oppress the English that were there, as the rebels could have + done.—<i>Swift</i> Send cursed rebel Scots, who oppressed the + English in that kingdom as the Irish rebels did, and were governors of + that province, etc. + </p> + <p> + P 271 [par 130] <i>Clarendon</i>, Doctor Williams, Archbishop of York—had + himself published, by his own authority, a book against the using those + ceremonies [which were countenanced by Laud], in which there was much good + learning, and too little gravity for a bishop.—<i>Swift</i> Where is + that book to be had?[5] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: The book is extant, and was written in answer to Dr Heyhn's + "Coal from the Altar". Even the title page contains a punning allusion to + his adversary's work, rather too facetious for the subject of his own. It + is entitled "The Holy Table, name and thing, more anciently, properly, and + literally used under the New Testament, than that of Altar."] + </p> + <p> + P. 272. [par. 130.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Archbishop Williams:—appeared + to be a man of a very corrupt nature, whose passions could have + transported him into the most unjustifiable actions.—<i>Swift.</i> + This character I think too severe. + </p> + <p> + P. 275. [par. 138.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—The great hatred of + this man's person and behaviour, was the greatest invitation to the House + of Commons so irregularly to revive that Bill to remove the bishops.—<i>Swift</i>. + How came he to be so hated by that faction he is so said to favour? + </p> + <p> + P. 277. [par. 140.] <i>Clarendon</i>, petition and protestation of the + bishops.—<i>Swift</i>. I see no fault in this protestation. + </p> + <p> + P. 280. [par. 149.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the articles of high treason + against Lord Kimbolton, Pym, Hampden, Hollis, Haslerigg, and Strode.—<i>Swift</i>. + It proved a long and vexatious affair. + </p> + <p> + P. 281. [par. 152.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The next day in the afternoon, the + King ... came to the House of Commons.... Himself, with his nephew, the + Prince Elector, went into the House, to the great amazement of all.—<i>Swift.</i> + Too rash and indiscreet; the second great and fatal error. + </p> + <p> + P. 282. [par. 152.] <i>Clarendon</i>. He assured them in the word of a + King, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Never to be relied upon. + </p> + <p> + P. 284. [par. 157.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King ... published, the next + day, a proclamation, for the apprehension of all those, whom he had + accused of high treason, forbidding any person to harbour them; the + articles of their charge being likewise printed, and dispersed.—<i>Swift</i>. + A very weak and wrong proceeding in the King, which had very bad + consequences. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, on the same proceeding.—<i>Swift</i>. What + was their crime? + </p> + <p> + P. 322. [par. 264.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The humble petition of many + thousands of poor people in and about the city of London.—<i>Swift.</i> + Who was the author? + </p> + <p> + P. 334. [par. 302.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the King's passing the bills + against the bishops' votes, and about pressing.—<i>Swift</i>. Too + great a weakness, and attended by a heap of gross follies. + </p> + <p> + P. 336. [par. 307.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on:—An Ordinance of both + Houses of Parliament for the ordering of the Militia of the kingdom of + England, and dominion of Wales.—<i>Swift</i>. The most ruinous + consequence of the King's weakness and cowardice. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK V. + </h3> + <p> + P. 364. [par. 6.] <i>Clarendon,</i> in the King's Declaration, March 9, + 164-1/2:—For the Lord Digby, he assured them in the word of a King, + etc.—<i>Swift</i>. I cannot endure that phrase any more. + </p> + <p> + Written long ago by a minister in Lincolnshire, in answer to D. Coal, a + judicious divine of Q. Marie's dayes. 1637. [S.] + </p> + <p> + P. 365. [par. 9.] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the same:—What greater + earnest of his trust, and reliance on his Parliament could he give, than + the passing the Bill for the continuance of this present Parliament?—<i>Swift</i>. + Like a very weak prince. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, in the same:—The length of which + [Parliament] he said, he hoped, would never alter the nature of + Parliaments, and the constitution of this kingdom; or invite his subjects + so much to abuse his confidence, as to esteem anything fit for this + Parliament to do, which were not fit, if it were in his power to dissolve + it to-morrow.—<i>Swift</i>. Yet, that was his ruin. + </p> + <p> + P. 366. [par. 11.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The factious party [persuaded the + people] ... that there was a design to send the prince beyond the seas, + and to marry him to some Papist.—<i>Swift</i>. As it fell out. + </p> + <p> + P. 384. [par. 56.] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the King's answer to the petition + to remove the magazine from Hull:—We have ... most solemnly + promised, in the word of a king, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. How long is that + phrase to last? + </p> + <p> + P. 415. [par. 136] <i>Clarendon</i>. Whoever concurred, voted, and sided + with them, in their extravagant conclusions, let the infamy of his former + life, or present practice be what it would; his injustice and oppression + never so scandalous, and notorious; he was received, countenanced, and + protected with marvellous demonstrations of affection.—<i>Swift</i>. + King George's reign. + </p> + <p> + P. 419. [par. 148.] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the King's answer to the petition + to dissolve his Guards:—He asked them, "when they had so many months + together not contented themselves to rely for security, as their + predecessors had done, upon the affection of the people, but by their own + single authority had raised to themselves a guard ... and yet all those + pikes and protestations, that army, on one side, and that navy, on the + other, had not persuaded His Majesty to command them to disband their + forces," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. What are those pikes? + </p> + <p> + P. 427. [par. 162.] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the Declaration of the Lords and + Commons, May 19, 1642—That, in the word of a King, <i>etc.—Swift.</i> + A frequent foolish word, battered as a phrase. + </p> + <p> + P. 472. [par. 269.] <i>Clarendon</i>. He divested himself of the power of + dissolving this Parliament.—<i>Swift</i>. Proved his ruin. + </p> + <p> + P. 543. [par. 425.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the deposition of Sir Richard + Gurney, lord mayor.—<i>Swift</i> Dogs! + </p> + <h3> + VOL. II.—BOOK VI. + </h3> + <p> + P. 7. [par. 11.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Message of the King, Aug. 25th, 1642:—"Wherein, + as we promise, in the word of a King, all safety and encouragement to such + as shall be sent unto us ... for the treaty."—<i>Swift</i>. Very + weak. + </p> + <p> + P. 10. [par. 18.] <i>Clarendon</i>, answer of the Parliament to the King's + message received the 5th of September, 1642.—<i>Swift.</i> I do not + much dislike this answer. + </p> + <p> + P. 17. [par. 38.] <i>Clarendon.</i> The same rabble entered the house of + the Countess of Rivers near Colchester; for no other ground, than that she + was a Papist; and in few hours disfurnished it of all the goods.—<i>Swift.</i> + As bad as Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 18. [par. 40.] <i>Clarendon.</i> There are monuments enough in the + seditious sermons at that time printed ... of such wresting, and + perverting of Scripture to the odious purposes of the preacher.—<i>Swift.</i> + I wish I could find them. + </p> + <p> + P. 20. [par. 43.] <i>Clarendon.</i> Scottish officers.—<i>Swift.</i> + Dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 31 [par. 74.] <i>Clarendon.</i>. A thousand at the most. Most of the + persons of quality, etc. [Swift underscores <i>most.</i>] + </p> + <p> + P. 33. [par. 78.] <i>Clarendon,</i> on the exemption of Prince Rupert from + being under the command of the general, Lord Lindsey:—When the King + at midnight, being in his bed, and receiving intelligence of the enemy's + motion, commanded the Lord Falkland, his principal secretary of state, to + direct Prince Rupert, what he should do, his Highness took it very ill, + and expostulated with the Lord Falkland, for giving him orders.—<i>Swift.</i> + A great mistake in the King, by too much indulgence to Prince Rupert. + </p> + <p> + P. 40. [par. 90.] <i>Clarendon.</i> The King's preferring the Prince's + [Rupert's] opinion in all matters relating to the war before his [Lord + Lindsey's].—<i>Swift.</i> I blame the King's Partiality. + </p> + <p> + P. 48, line 28.—<i>Swift.</i> Cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 50. [par. 109.] <i>Clarendon.</i> His Majesty had, from time to time, + given his council of that kingdom [Scotland] full relations of all his + differences with his Parliament.—<i>Swift.</i> Cursed Scots for + ever. + </p> + <p> + P. 51. [par. 112.] <i>Clarendon.</i> The chief managers and governors in + the first war, by their late intercourse, and communication of guilt, + having a firm correspondence with the Marquess of Argyle, the Earl of + Lowden, and that party.—<i>Swift.</i> Always a cursed family of + Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 59. [par. 142.] <i>Clarendon.</i> As the inviting the Scots, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> + Too long a parenthesis. + </p> + <p> + P. 62. [par. 154.] <i>Clarendon.</i> For the better recruiting whereof + [the Parliament's army], two of their most eminent chaplains, Dr. Downing + and Mr. Marshal, publicly avowed, "that the soldiers lately taken + prisoners at Brentford, and discharged, and released by the King upon + their oaths that they would never again bear arms against him, were not + obliged by that oath;" but, by their power, absolved them thereof.—<i>Swift.</i> + Perfect Popery. + </p> + <p> + P. 65. [par. 161.] <i>Clarendon,</i> the King's message to the privy + council of Scotland:—"Of all ... the ... indignities, which had been + offered to him, he doubted not the duty and affection of his Scottish + subjects would have so just a resentment, that they would express to the + world the sense they had of his sufferings."—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed + Scots; to trust them. + </p> + <p> + P. 66. [par. 163.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same;—"There could not be a + clearer argument to his subjects of Scotland that he had no such thought, + [of bringing in foreign forces,] than that he had hitherto forborne to + require the assistance of that his native kingdom; from whose obedience, + duty, and affection, he should confidently expect it, if he thought his + own strength here too weak to preserve him."—<i>Swift</i>. In vain. + <i>Clarendon</i>. "And of whose courage, and loyalty, he should look to + make use."—<i>Swift</i>. And never find. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 164.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"He could not + doubt, a dutiful concurrence in his subjects of Scotland, in the care of + his honour, and just rights, would draw down a blessing upon that nation + too."—<i>Swift</i>. A Scot's blessing. + </p> + <p> + P. 67. [par. 165.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Other fruit of their [the Scots'] + allegiance he [the King] expected not, than that they should not rebel.—<i>Swift</i>. + But they did. + </p> + <p> + P. 81. [par. 204,] <i>Clarendon</i>, the King's declaration:—"These + are the men who ... at this time invite, and solicit our subjects of + Scotland, to enter this land with an army against us."—<i>Swift</i>. + Damnable Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 91. [par. 231, sec. 4.] <i>Clarendon</i>, humble desires and + propositions of the Lords and Commons:—"That your Majesty will be + pleased to give your royal assent unto the Bill ... for the utter + abolishing, and taking away of all archbishops, bishops, their + chancellors, and commissaries, deans, sub-deans, deans and chapters, + archdeacons, canons, and prebendaries, and all chanters, chancellors, + treasurers, sub-treasurers, succentors, and sacrists, and all vicars + choral, choristers, old vicars, and new vicars of any cathedral, or + collegiate church, and all other their under officers, out of the Church + of England."—<i>Swift</i>. A thorough sweep. <i>Clarendon</i>. "To + the Bill against scandalous ministers; to the Bill against pluralities; + and to the Bill for consultation to be had with godly, religious, and + learned divines."—<i>Swift. i.e.</i> cursed fanatics. + </p> + <p> + P. 99. [par. 243.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Sir Ralph Hopton ... marched to + Saltash, a town in Cornwall ... where was a garrison of two hundred Scots; + who, [upon his approach,] as kindly quit Saltash, as the others had + Launceston before.—<i>Swift</i>. Loyal Scots—ever cursed. + </p> + <p> + P. 101. [par 247.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Ruthen, a Scotchman, the governor of + Plymouth.—<i>Swift</i>. A cursed Scottish dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 103. [par. 250.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Earl of Stamford.—<i>Swift</i>. + A rogue, half as bad as a Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 134. [par. 338.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Petition of the Kirk of Scotland:—"A + chief praise of the Protestant religion (and thereby our not vain, but + just gloriation)."—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch phrase. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, the same:—"[The Papists] are openly declared + to be not only good subjects,... but far better subjects than + Protestants."—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch (Protestants). + </p> + <p> + P. 135. [par. 339.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"That your Majesty + ... may timeously and speedily," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 340.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"We are, with + greater earnestness than before, constrained <i>to fall down again</i> + before your Majesty."—<i>Swift</i>. Rise against. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, the same. They petition:—"for a meeting of + some divines to be holden in England, unto which ... some commissioners + may be sent from this <i>kirk</i>."—<i>Swift</i>. Hell! + </p> + <p> + P. 136. [par. 342.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"The strongest let, + till it be taken out of the way, is the mountain of prelacy."—<i>Swift</i>. + Scottish dogs. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>, the same:—"How many, from the experience of + the tyranny of the prelates, are afraid to discover themselves ... whereas + prelacy being removed, they would openly profess what they are, and join + with <i>others</i> in the way of reformation."—<i>Swift. i.e.</i> + Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 344.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"The national + assembly of this kirk, from which we have our commission."—<i>Swift</i>. + From Satan. + </p> + <p> + P. 138. [par. 347.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the King's answer:—"Our Church + of Scotland."—<i>Swift</i>. Kirk. + </p> + <p> + P. 139. [par. 348.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"We do believe that + the petitioners, when they shall consider how ... unbecoming [it is] in + itself, for them to require, the ancient, happy, and established + government of the Church of England to be altered, and conformed to the + laws, and constitutions of <i>another church,</i> will find themselves + misled," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. A Scotch kirk. + </p> + <p> + P. 140. [par. 351.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"To which [synod] we + shall be willing that some learned divines of our Church of Scotland may + be likewise sent."—<i>Swift</i>. To confound all. + </p> + <p> + P. 142. [par. 356.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"We conceived, we + had not left it possible, for any man to ... suspect, that the conversion + of <i>our dearest consort</i> was not so much our desire, that the + accession of as many crowns as God hath already bestowed on us, would not + be more welcome to us than that day."—<i>Swift</i>. A thorough + Papist. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK VII. + </h3> + <p> + P. 199. [par. 71.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Being this way secure from any future + clamours for peace, they proceeded to try Mr. Tomkins, Mr. Chaloner, ... + Mr. Hambden, who brought the last message from the King, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> + Which Hambden? Not the rebel Hambden? No, it was one Alexander Hambden. + </p> + <p> + P. 201. [par. 75.] <i>Clarendon</i>. In the beginning of the war, the army + in Scotland having been lately disbanded, many officers of that nation, + who had served in Germany and in France, betook themselves to the service + of the Parliament.—<i>Swift</i> Cursed Scots for ever. <i>Clarendon</i>. + Whereof divers were men of good conduct, and courage; though there were + more as bad as the cause, in which they engaged. Of the former sort + Colonel Hurry was a man of name, and reputation.—<i>Swift.</i> A + miracle! Colonel Urrie was an honest, valiant, loyal Scot, repenting his + mistakes. + </p> + <p> + P. 203. [par. 78.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The man [Hurry] was in his nature + proud, and imperious.—<i>Swift</i>. A mixture of the Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 219. [par. 106.] <i>Clarendon</i>. On the brow of the hill there were + breast-works, on which were pretty bodies of small shot, and some cannon; + on either flank grew a pretty thick wood.—<i>Swift</i>. Silly style. + </p> + <p> + P. 244. [par. 162.] <i>Clarendon</i>. "We, the Inhabitants, Magistrates," + etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed rogues. + </p> + <p> + P. 261. [par. 199.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, a young + gentleman ... of a fair and plentiful fortune.—<i>Swift.</i> Earl of + Shaftesbury by Charles II. A great villain. + </p> + <p> + P. 262. [par. 199.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The flexibility and instability of + that gentleman's nature, not being then understood, or suspected.—<i>Swift</i>. + Shaftesbury, an early rogue. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 200.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The express returned without + effect [from the King], and the Marquess [of Hertford] was as sensibly + touched as could be imagined; and said, "that he was fallen from all + credit with the King," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Too fond of those nephews. + </p> + <p> + P. 271. [par. 221.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [Lord Falkland] writ two large + discourses against the principal positions of that [the Roman Catholic] + religion, with that sharpness of style, and full weight of reason, that + the Church is deprived of great jewels in the concealment of them, and + that they are not published to the world.—<i>Swift</i>. Ten thousand + pities that they are not to be recovered! + </p> + <p> + P. 277. [par. 234.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Thus fell that incomparable young + man, [Lord Falkland,] in the four-and-thirtieth year of his age, having so + much dispatched the true business of life, that the eldest rarely attain + to that immense knowledge, and the youngest enter not into the world with + more innocency: Whosoever leads such a life needs be the less anxious upon + how short warning it is taken from him.—<i>Swift</i>. It moves grief + to the highest excess. + </p> + <p> + P. 277. [par. 236.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the jealousy between Essex and + Waller:—The passion and animosity which difference of opinion had + produced between any members, was totally laid aside and forgotten, and no + artifice omitted to make the world believe, that they were a people newly + incorporated, and as firmly united to one and the same end, as their + brethren the Scots.—<i>Swift</i>. Deceitful Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 282. [par. 246.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Earl of Holland.—<i>Swift.</i> + Treacherous. + </p> + <p> + P. 283 [par. 247.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the Earl of Holland, on his return + from Oxford, published a Declaration, in which he announced:—that he + found the court so indisposed to peace ... that he resolved to make what + haste he could back to the Parliament, and to spend the remainder of his + life in their service: which action, so contrary to his own natural + discretion and generosity, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Treachery. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 249.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The committee from the two + Houses of Parliament, which was sent into Scotland in July before ... + found that kingdom in so good and ready a posture for their reception, + that they had called an assembly of their kirk; and a convention of their + estates, without, and expressly against, the King's consent.—<i>Swift</i>. + Diabolical Scots for ever. + </p> + <p> + P. 284. [par. 250.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the Scotch said to the English + commissioners.—that there were many well-wishers to him [the King], + and maligners, in their hearts, of the present reformation.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 252.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A form of words was quickly + agreed on between them, for a perfect combination and <i>marriage</i> + between the Parliament and the Scots.—<i>Swift</i>. Satan was + parson. + </p> + <p> + P. 285. [par. 254.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Assembly, besides ... execute + execute his commands. [19 lines in one sentence.]—<i>Swift</i>. A + long confounding period. + </p> + <p> + P. 288. [par. 259, sec. 3.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A Solemn League and + Covenant. "To preserve ... liberties of the Kingdoms."—<i>Swift</i>. + Damnable rebel Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [sec. 6.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"And the honour + of the King."—<i>Swift</i>. By martyrdom. + </p> + <p> + P. 289. [par. 259, conclusion.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"We have + not as we ought valued the inestimable benefit of the Gospel."—<i>Swift</i>. + All very true. + </p> + <p> + P. 291. [par. 264.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They very devoutly extolled the + Covenant, magnified the Scottish nation, with all imaginable attributes of + esteem and reverence,... a nation that had reformed their lives for so + small a time, more than ever any people, that they knew of, in the world + had done.—<i>Swift.</i> Most diabolical Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 292. [par. 267.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [Sir Harry Vane the younger.] There + need no more be said of his ability, than that he was chosen to cozen, and + deceive a whole nation which was thought to excel in craft and cunning.—<i>Swift</i>. + Could out-cheat a Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 293. [par. 269.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Those of the nobility and gentry, + who did really desire to serve the King, applied themselves to Duke + Hamilton.—<i>Swift</i>. That duke was a hellish, treacherous villain + of a Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 316. [par. 322.] <i>Clarendon</i>. At this time, nothing troubled the + King so much, as the intelligence he received from Scotland, that they had + already formed their army, and resolved to enter England in the winter + season.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>., line 37.—<i>Swift</i>. Scottish Dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 318. [par. 328.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the proclamation for a Parliament + at Oxford.—A proclamation was issued out, containing the true + grounds and motives, and mentioning the league of Scotland to invade the + kingdom; which was the most universally odious, and detestable.—<i>Swift</i>. + Hellish Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 339 [Par. 373.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Letter from the Parliament of Oxford + to the Earl of Essex. They conjure him to lay to heart:—"the inward + bleeding condition of your country, and the outward more menacing + destruction by a foreign nation."—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed Scotland. + </p> + <p> + P. 340. [par. 377.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Essex's answer to the Earl of Forth.—<i>Swift</i>. + Essex was a cursed rebel. + </p> + <p> + P. 341. [par. 379.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the Declaration of the Scots on + entering England.—<i>Swift</i>. Abominable, damnable, Scotch hellish + dogs for ever. Let them wait for Cromwell to plague them, and enslave + their scabby nation. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 380.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same.—They said, "the + question was not,... whether they might propagate their religion by arms?" + etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Diabolical Scots for ever. + </p> + <p> + P. 342. [par. 383.] <i>Clarendon</i>. This war was of God.—<i>Swift</i>. + An error mistaking the Devil for God. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 384.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Declaration of England and + Scotland:—They gave now "public warning to all men to rest no longer + upon their neutrality,... but that they address themselves speedily to + take the Covenant."—<i>Swift</i>. The Devil made that damnable Scots + Covenant. + </p> + <p> + P. 343. [par. 385] <i>Clarendon</i>. Then they proclaimed a pardon to all + those who would before such a day desert the King, and adhere to them, and + take the Covenant.—<i>Swift</i>. The Devil to take the Covenant. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 386.] <i>Clarendon</i>. I cannot but observe, that + after this time that the Earl [of Essex] declined this opportunity of + declaring himself, he never did prosperous act in the remainder of his + life.—<i>Swift</i>. I am heartily glad of that. + </p> + <p> + P. 343. [par. 388.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There wanted not a just indignation + at the return of this trumpet; and yet the answer being so much in that + popular road, of saying something plausibly to the people, it was thought + fit again to make an attempt, that at least the world might see, that they + did, in plain <i>English</i> refuse to admit of any peace.—<i>Swift</i>. + Scotch. + </p> + <p> + P. 347. [par. 398, sec. 2.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Declaration of the + Parliament at Oxford:—"All his Majesty's subjects of the kingdom of + England and dominion of Wales, are both by their allegiance, and the Act + of Pacification, bound to resist and repress all those of Scotland as had, + or should enter upon any part of his Majesty's realm."—<i>Swift</i>. + Execrable Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 348. [<i>ibid,</i> sec. 5.] <i>Clarendon</i> the same:—"That the + Lords and Commons remaining at Westminster, who had given their consents + to the present coming in of the Scots in a warlike manner, had therein + committed high treason."—<i>Swift</i>. Rebel Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 400.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The invasion, which the Scots + made in the depth of winter, and the courage the enemy took from thence, + deprived his Majesty even of any rest in that season.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cursed Scots, ever inflaming. + </p> + <p> + P. 351. [par. 404.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Earl of Montrose ... was so much + in the jealousy, and detestation of the violent party, whereof the <i>Earl + of Argyle</i> was the head, that there was no cause or room left to doubt + his sincerity to the King.—<i>Swift</i>. Odious dog; and so are all + his descendants. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 405.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Duke Hamilton.—<i>Swift</i>. + An arrant Scot. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Clarendon</i>. As soon as the King had had fuller intelligence. + [Swift alters the second <i>had to received</i>.] + </p> + <p> + P. 352. [par. 407.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Duke [Hamilton] had given the + King an account,... that though some few hot, and passionate men, desired + to put themselves in arms, to stop both elections of the Members, and any + meeting together in Parliament; yet, that all sober men ... were clearly + of the opinion, to take as much pains as they could to cause good + elections to be made.—<i>Swift.</i> What! in Scotland? + </p> + <p> + P. 353. [par. 409.] <i>Clarendon</i>. About this time the councils at + Westminster lost a principal supporter, by the death of John Pym; who died + with great torment and agony of a disease unusual, and therefore the more + spoken of, <i>morbus pediculosus,</i> as was reported.—<i>Swift</i>. + I wish all his clan had died of the same disease. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK VIII. + </h3> + <p> + P. 382. [par. 60.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Colonel Ashburnham, then governor of + Weymouth, was made choice of for that command; ...and, to make way for + him, Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper had been, the year before, removed from + that charge; and was thereby so much disobliged, that he quitted the + King's party, and gave himself up, body and soul, to the service of the + Parliament, with an implacable animosity against the royal interest.—<i>Swift</i>. + A rogue all his life. + </p> + <p> + P. 385. [par. 66.] <i>Clarendon</i>, at Cropredy-bridge:—the + [parliamentary] general of their ordnance [was] taken prisoner. This man, + one Weemes, a Scotchman, had been as much obliged by the King, as a man of + his condition could be, and in a manner very unpopular: for he was made + master-gunner of England,... and having never done the King the least + service, he took the first opportunity to disserve him.—<i>Swift</i>. + A cursed, hellish Scot! Why was not the rogue hanged? + </p> + <p> + P-387. [par. 69.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Message from the King to the + parliamentary army:—It was agreed, that Sir Edward Walker (who was + both Garter king at arms, and secretary to the council of war) should be + sent to publish that, his Majesty's grace.—<i>Swift</i>. A very mean + author. + </p> + <p> + P. 388. [par. 74.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Battle of Marston-moor:—That + party of the King's horse which charged the Scots, so totally routed and + defeated their whole army, that they fled all ways for many miles + together.—<i>Swift</i>. I am glad of that. + </p> + <p> + P. 420. [par. 153.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Colonel Hurry, a Scotchman, who had + formerly served the Parliament, and is well mentioned, in the transactions + of the last year, for having quitted them, and performed some signal + service to the King,... desired a pass to go beyond the seas, and so + quitted the service: but instead of embarking himself, made haste to + London; and put himself now into the Earl of Manchester's army, and made a + discovery of all he knew of the King's army.—<i>Swift</i>. Mentioned + before, and then I was deceived by him; but now I find him a cursed true + Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 427. [par. 167.] <i>Clarendon</i>. After the battle of York, the Scots + returned to reduce Newcastle; which they had already done; and all other + garrisons which had held out for the King.—<i>Swift</i>. Most + damnable Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 168.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King's army was less united + than ever; the old general was set aside, and Prince Rupert put into the + command, which was no popular change.—<i>Swift</i>. Too fond of his + nephews. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 169.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Wilmot loved debauchery.—<i>Swift</i>. + Character of Wilmot and Goring. + </p> + <p> + P. 453. [par. 233.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Treaty at Uxbridge: Debates about + the militia. They insisted:—upon having the whole command of the + militia by sea, and land, and all the forts, and ships of the kingdom at + their disposal; without which they looked upon themselves as lost, and at + the King's mercy; not considering that he must be at theirs, if such a + power was committed to them.—<i>Swift</i>. The case seems doubtful. + The point should be undecided. + </p> + <p> + P. 454. [par. 235.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same: Ireland. The Chancellor of + the Exchequer:—put them in mind, ... [that] one hundred thousand + pounds, brought in by the adventurers for Ireland, had been sent in one + entire sum into <i>Scotland</i>, to prepare and dispose that kingdom to + send an army to invade this.—<i>Swift</i> Cursed. + </p> + <p> + P. 456. [On this page two <i>ands</i> are erased.] + </p> + <p> + P. 457. [par. 241.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The conversation ... made a great + discovery of the faction that was in the Parliament ... that the Scots + would insist <i>upon</i> the whole government of the Church, and in all + other matters would <i>defer</i> to the King.—<i>Swift</i>. [Instead + of <i>upon,</i>] to destroy; [and instead of <i>defer,</i>] to betray. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 242.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Satisfied, that in the + particular which concerned the Church, the Scots would never depart from a + tittle.—<i>Swift</i>. Scots hell-hounds. + </p> + <p> + P. 466. [par. 262.] <i>Clarendon</i>. After the battle at York, ... the + Scotch army marched northwards, to reduce the little garrisons remaining + in those parts; which was easily done.—<i>Swift</i>. Scottish dogs. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 263.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The person whom that earl [of + Montrose] most hated, and contemned, was the Marquess of Argyle.—<i>Swift</i>. + A most damnable false dog, and so are still their family. + </p> + <p> + P. 478. [par. 284.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Parliament had, some months + before, made an ordinance against giving quarter to any of the Irish + nation which should be taken prisoners. ... The Earl of Warwick, and the + officers under him at sea, had as often as he met with any Irish frigates, + ... taken all the seamen who became prisoners to them of that nation, and + bound them back to back, and thrown them overboard into the sea.—<i>Swift</i>. + Barbarous villains, and rebels. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK IX. + </h3> + <p> + P. 484. [par. 2.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Persons, whose memories ought to be + charged with their own evil actions, rather than that the infamy of them + should be laid on the age wherein they lived; which did produce as many + men, eminent for their loyalty and incorrupted fidelity to the crown, as + any that had preceded it.—<i>Swift</i>. Not quite. + </p> + <p> + P. 485. [par. 4.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Marquess of Argyle was now come + from Scotland.—<i>Swift</i>. A cursed Scotch hell-hound. + </p> + <p> + P. 501. [par. 29.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Prince Rupert ... disposed the King + to resolve to march northwards, and to fall upon the Scotch army in + Yorkshire, before Fairfax should be able to perfect his new model to that + degree, as to take the field.—<i>Swift.</i> Cursed Scots still. + </p> + <p> + P. 516. [par. 55.] <i>Clarendon,</i> on Sir Richard Greenvil hanging an + attorney named Brabant, as a spy, out of private revenge.—<i>Swift.</i> + This rogue would almost be a perfect Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 521. [par. 63.] <i>Clarendon</i>. (The which had been already so + scandalous, ... contribution.) [61/2 lines between parentheses.] —<i>Swift.</i> + Long parenthesis. + </p> + <p> + P. 574. [par. 164] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King ... resolved once more to + try another way, ... [whereby] he should discover, whether he had so many + friends in the Parliament, and the city, as many men would persuade him to + conclude; and whether the Scots had ever a thought of doing him service.—<i>Swift.</i> + No more than Beelzebub. + </p> + <p> + P. 579. [par. 175.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Monsieur Montrevil [was sent] into + England: ... who likewise persuaded his Majesty, to believe ... that the + cardinal was well assured, that the Scots would behave themselves + henceforwards very honestly.—<i>Swift.</i> Damnable Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 580. [par. 176.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Scots were resolved to have <i>no + more</i> to do with his Majesty.—<i>Swift</i>. Gave up the King. + </p> + <h3> + VOLUME III. + </h3> + <p> + On the bastard title: That frequent expression,—<i>upon the word of + a king</i>, I have always despised and detested, for a thousand reasons. + </p> + <p> + Dedication, 21st par. [vol. I., p. li., edit of 1888.] <i>Clarendon.</i> + Some very near that King ... putting him on the thoughts of marrying some + Roman Catholic lady.—<i>Swift</i>. As he did. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK X. + </h3> + <p> + P. 2. [par. 2.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Sir Dudley Wyat had been sent expressly + from the Lord Jermin, to assure the prince, that such a body of five + thousand foot were actually raised under the command of <i>Ruvignie</i>, + and should be embarked for Pendennis within less than a month.—<i>Swift</i>. + Father to Lord Galloway; a Huguenot. + </p> + <p> + P. 6. [par. 11.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Upon the Queen's hearing that the King + had gone to the Scots army, she:—renewed her command for the + prince's immediate repair into France; whereas the chief reason before + was, that he would put himself into the Scots' hands.—<i> Swift</i>. + He could not do worse. + </p> + <p> + P. 7 [par. 12] <i>Clarendon</i> The King ... was by this time known to be + in the Scots army—<i>Swift</i>. And these hell hounds sold him to + the rebels. + </p> + <p> + P. 11 [par. 21] <i>Clarendon</i> [The Scots] had pressed the King to do + many things, which he had absolutely refused to do, and that thereupon + they had put very strict guards upon his Majesty, ... so that his Majesty + looked upon himself as a prisoner—<i>Swift</i>. The cursed Scots + begin their new treachery. + </p> + <p> + P. 14 [par. 27] <i>Clarendon</i>, on "the paper Montrevil sent to the + King, being a promise for the Scots receiving the King, Apr 1"—<i>Swift</i>. + Montrevil might as safely promise for Satan as for the Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 28] <i>Clarendon</i> on Montrevil's advertising the + King of the change in the Scotch—<i>Swift</i>. Will Montrevil trust + them again? + </p> + <p> + P. 15 [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i> [The Sots] with much ado agreed, that the + two princes [Rupert and Maurice] ... might follow the King, with such + other of his servants as were not excepted from pardon—<i>Swift</i>. + And why those? Because the Scots were part of the rebels. + </p> + <p> + P. 16 [par. 30] <i>Clarendon</i>, in a letter from Montrevil—"They + tell me that they will do more than can be expressed"—<i>Swift</i>. + So the Scots did, and with a vengeance. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the same—"The hindering + his Majesty from falling into the hands of the English is of so great + importance to them, that it cannot be believed but that they will do all + that lies in their power to hinder it"—<i>Swift</i>. By delivering + him up for money. Hellish Scottish dogs! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 31] <i>Clarendon</i>. If he [Montrevil] were too + sanguine ... when he signed that engagement upon the first of April, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + April fool.[6] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: The words quoted are the side note, which is not printed in + the edition of 1888 [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 17 [par. 33] <i>Clarendon</i>. In this perplexity, he [the King] chose + rather to commit himself to the Scots army—<i>Swift</i>. To be + delivered up for money. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i>. He left Oxford, ... leaving those + of his council in Oxford who were privy to his going out, not informed + whether he would go to the Scots army, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Which + would betray him, though his countrymen. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i> [The King,] in the end, went into + the Scots army before Newark—<i>Swift</i>. Prodigious weakness, to + trust the malicious Scotch hell-hounds. + </p> + <p> + P. 17. [par. 34.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Scottish commissioners at London + [assured the Parliament] ... that all their orders would meet with an + absolute obedience in their army.—<i>Swift</i>. No doubt of it. + </p> + <p> + P. 18. [par. 35.] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the text of the sermon preached at + Newark before the King:—"And all <i>the men of Judah</i> answered + the men of Israel, Because the King is near of kin to us: wherefore then + be ye angry for this matter?"—<i>Swift.</i> Scotch, (opposite to + Judah). + </p> + <p> + P. 21. [par. 41.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Lord Digby and Lord Jermin said:—that + there should be an army of thirty thousand men immediately transported + into England, with the Prince of Wales in the head of them.—<i>Swift</i>. + Gasconade. + </p> + <p> + P. 23. [par. 50.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Parliament made many sharp + instances that the King might be delivered into their hands; and that the + Scots army would return into their own country, having done what they were + sent for, and the war being at an end.—<i>Swift</i>. By the event + they proved true Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 51.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The Scots] made as great + profession to him [the King,] of their duty and good purposes, which they + said they would manifest as soon as it should be <i>seasonable</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. + See the event;—still Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 52.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the Marquess of Montrose.—<i>Swift</i> + The only honest Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 24. [par. 53.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [It] is still believed, that if his + Majesty would have been induced to have satisfied them in that particular + [the extirpation of Episcopacy in England,] they would ... thereupon have + declared for the King.—<i>Swift</i>. Rather declare for the Devil. + </p> + <p> + P. 26. [par. 60.] <i>Clarendon</i>. When the Scots, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 27. [par. 62.] <i>Clarendon</i>. That all Governors of any Garrisons, + etc. —<i>Swift</i>. Cursed, abominable, hellish, Scottish villains, + everlasting traitors, etc., etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + P. 28. [par. 64.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Scots, who were enough convinced + that his Majesty could never be wrought upon to sacrifice the Church ... + used all the rude importunity and threats to his Majesty, to persuade him + freely to consent to all.—__Swift _. Most damnable Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 65.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Chancellor of Scotland told + him, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed Scots Chancellor [this remark + obliterated]. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 66.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The General Assembly ... had + petitioned the conservators of the peace of the kingdom, that if the King + should refuse to give satisfaction to his Parliament, he might not be + permitted to come into Scotland.—<i>Swift</i>. Scots inspired by + Beelzebub. + </p> + <p> + P. 29. [par. 68.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They agreed; and, upon the payment of + two hundred thousand pounds in hand, and security for as much more upon + days agreed upon, the Scots delivered the King up.—<i>Swift</i>. + Cursed Scot! sold his King for a groat. Hellish Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 69.] <i>Clarendon</i>. In this infamous manner that + excellent prince was ... given up, by his Scots subjects, to those of his + English who were intrusted by the Parliament to receive him.—<i>Swift</i>. + From this period the English Parliament were turned into Scotch devils. + </p> + <p> + P. 31. [par. 76.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Sir Harry Killigrew:—When the + Earl of Essex was chosen general, and the several members of the House + stood up, and declared, what horse they would raise, ... one saying he + would raise ten horses, and another twenty, he stood up and said, "he + would provide a good horse, and a good buff coat, and a good pair of + pistols, and then he doubted not but he should find a good cause;" and so + went out of the House, and rode post into Cornwall.—<i>Swift</i>. + Another loyall man used the like saying. + </p> + <p> + P. 53. [par. 118.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Many years after, when he [the Duke + of York] ... made the full relation of all the particulars to me, with + that commotion of spirit, that it appeared to be deeply rooted in him; + [speaking of the King's injunctions to the duke].—<i>Swift</i>. Yet + he lived and died a rank Papist, and lost his kingdom. + </p> + <p> + P. 55. [par. 121.] <i>Clarendon</i>. No men were fuller of professions of + duty [to the King], ... than the Scottish commissioners.—<i>Swift</i> + The Scots dogs delivered up their King. False-hearted Scots. [This + addition obliterated.] + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 122.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The agitators, and council of + officers, sent some propositions to the King.—<i>Swift</i>. + Detestable villains, almost as bad as Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 64 [par. 136] <i>Clarendon</i>. Mr. Ashburnham had so great a + detestation of the Scots.—<i>Swift</i>. So have I. + </p> + <p> + P. 68. [par. 144.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Hammond,—<i>Swift</i>. A detes + Villain, almost as wicked as a Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 76. [par. 159.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Marquess of Argyle.—<i>Swift</i>. + Always a cursed family. + </p> + <p> + P. 77 [par. 159.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The commissioners ... were confident + that all Scotland would rise as one man for his Majesty's defence and + vindication.—<i>Swift</i>. A strange stupidity, to trust Scots at + any time. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 160.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They required ... "that the + Prince of Wales should be present with them, and march in the head of + their army." ... The King would by no means consent that the prince should + go into Scotland.—<i>Swift</i>. The King acted wisely not to trust + the Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 79. [par. 162.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Treaty signed, Dec. 26, 1647. They + (the Scotch) required:—that an effectual course should be taken ... + for the suppressing the opinions and practices of anti-trinitarians, + arians, socinians, anti-scripturists, anabaptists, antinomians, arminians, + familists, brownists, separatists, independents, libertines, and seekers.—<i>Swift</i>. + What a medley of religions! in all thirteen. + </p> + <p> + P. 80. [par. 163.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—They would assert the + right that belonged to the crown, in the power of the militia, the great + seal, bestowing of honours and offices of trust, choice of the + privy-councillors, and the right of the King's negative voice in + Parliament.—<i>Swift</i>. They would rather be hanged than agree. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—An army should be + sent out of Scotland ... for making a firm union between the kingdoms + under his Majesty, and his posterity.—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch + impudence. + </p> + <p> + P. 81. [par. 165.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—The King engaged + himself to employ those of the Scots nation equally with the English in + all foreign employments, and negotiations; and that a third part of all + the offices and places about the King, Queen, and Prince, should be + conferred upon some persons of that nation.—<i>Swift</i>. Impudent + Scottish scoundrels. + </p> + <p> + P. 83. [par. 169.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Presbyterians, by whom I mean the + Scots, formed all their counsels by the inclinations, and affections of + the people.—<i>Swift</i>. Hellish Scotch dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 85. [par. 171.] <i>Clarendon</i>. With this universal applause, he + [Fairfax] compelled the Scots army to depart the kingdom, with that + circumstance as must ever after render them odious and infamous.—<i>Swift</i>. + He out-cunninged the Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 86. [par. 172.] <i>Clarendon</i>. But the delivery of the King up, + besides the infamy of it, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. That infamy is in the + scurvy nature of a <i>Scot</i>, and the best ... of their false hearts. + [Written in pencil and rubbed out—one word is illegible.] + </p> + <p> + P. 89. [par. 179.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The vile artifices of the Scottish + commissioners to draw the King into their hands.—<i>Swift</i>. Vile, + treacherous Scots for ever. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XI. + </h3> + <p> + P. 97. [par. 13.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the discourses against the English + in the Scottish Parliament:—This discourse ... was entertained by + the rest with so general a reception, that Argyle found it would be to no + purpose directly to contradict or oppose it.—<i>Swift</i>. An + infamous dog, like all his family. + </p> + <p> + P. 108. [par. 35.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Prince [Charles II.] set sail + first for Yarmouth road, then for the Downs, having sent his brother, the + Duke of York, with all his family, to The Hague.—<i>Swift</i>. A + sorry admiral. + </p> + <p> + P. 109 [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Prince determining to engage his own + person, he [the Duke] submitted to the determination—<i>Swift</i>. + Popery and cowardice stuck with him all his life. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 36] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Prince came prepared to + depend wholly upon the Presbyterian party, which, besides the power of the + <i>Scots army,</i> which was every day expected to invade England, was + thought to be possessed of all the strength of the City of London.—<i>Swift</i>. + Curse on the rogues! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [same par.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Sent from the Scots[7]—<i>Swift</i>. + So much the worse to rely on the cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: The words are "sent from thence" in edition of 1888. [T. S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 112 [par. 43] <i>Clarendon</i>. Argyle took notice of Sir Marmaduke + Langdale's, and Sir Philip Musgrave's being in the town.—<i>Swift</i>. + That Scotch dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 113 [par. 45] <i>Clarendon</i>. They entreated them with all imaginable + importunity, that they would take the Covenant.—<i>Swift</i>. Their + damned Covenant. + </p> + <p> + P. 117 [par. 53] <i>Clarendon</i>. Sir Philip Musgrave, that it might + appear that they did not exclude any who had taken the Covenant, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + Confound their damnable Covenant! + </p> + <p> + P. 129 [par. 85] <i>Clarendon</i>. Defeat of the Scots army—<i>Swift</i>. + I cannot be sorry. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [pars. 86, 87] <i>Clarendon</i>, after the defeat of the + Scottish army, the Earl of Lauderdale had been sent to The Hague The + Prince of Wales—thought fit, that the earl should give an account of + his commission at the board, ... and, that all respect might be shewed to + the Parliament of Scotland, he had a chair allowed him to sit upon—<i>Swift</i>. + Respect to a Scotch Parliament, with a pox. + </p> + <p> + P. 130 [par. 87] <i>Clarendon</i>. Redeem His Majesty's person from that + captivity, which they held themselves obliged ... to endeavour to do—<i>Swift</i>. + Not to do. + </p> + <p> + P. 133 [par. 96] <i>Clarendon</i>. Within a short time after, orders were + sent out of Scotland for the delivery of Berwick and Carlisle to the + Parliament—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 98] <i>Clarendon</i>. It was generally believed, that + the Marquess of Argyle earnestly invited him [Cromwell] to this progress + [into Scotland]—<i>Swift</i>. That eternal dog, Argyle. + </p> + <p> + P. 141 [par. 114] <i>Clarendon</i>. By the time that the commissioners + returned from the Isle of Wight, and delivered this answer to the + Parliament, news was brought of the defeat of the Scots army, and Cromwell + had written to his friends, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. A cursed hell hound. + </p> + <p> + P. 142. [par. 116.] <i>Clarendon</i>. When there appeared some hopes that + the Scots would raise an army for the relief and release of the King.—<i>Swift</i>. + Trust them not, for they are Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 145. [par. 120.] <i>Clarendon</i>. And himself a prisoner.—<i>Swift.</i> + Base. + </p> + <p> + P. 155. [par. 141.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Duke [of York], who was not yet + above fifteen years of age, was so far from desiring to be with the fleet, + that, when there was once a proposition, upon occasion of a sudden mutiny + amongst the seamen, that he should go ... amongst them, who professed + great duty to his Highness, he was so offended at it that he would not + hear of it.—<i>Swift</i>. The Duke's courage was always doubtful. + </p> + <p> + P. 157. [par. 146.] <i>Clarendon</i>. (Many persons of honour ... the rest + had done.)—<i>Swift</i>. Parenthesis eleven lines. + </p> + <p> + P. 167. [par. 169.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Two of them [the ministers] very + plainly and fiercely told the King, "that if he did not consent to the + utter abolishing of the Episcopacy, he would be damned."—<i>Swift</i>. + Very civil. + </p> + <p> + P. 168. [par. 172.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The King] did, with much + reluctancy, offer ... "to suspend Episcopacy for three years," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + Prudent concessions. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>, he consented:—likewise, + "that money should be raised upon the sale of the Church lands, and only + the old rent should be reserved to the just owners and their successors."—<i>Swift</i>. + Scotch principles. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 173.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They required farther, "that in + all cases, when the Lords and Commons shall declare the safety of the + kingdom to be concerned, unless the King give his royal assent to such a + Bill as shall be tendered to him for raising money, the Bill shall have + the force of an Act of Parliament, as if he had given his royal assent."—<i>Swift</i>. + English dogs, as bad as Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 170. [par. 176.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the King's concessions.—<i>Swift</i>. + After so many concessions, the commissioners shewed themselves most + damnable villains. + </p> + <p> + P. 172. [par. 181.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The King] confessed, "If they would + preserve the Scripture Bishop he would take away the Bishop by Law."—<i>Swift</i>. + Indeed! a great concession. + </p> + <p> + P. 174. [par. 187.] <i>Clarendon</i>. For Scotland, they demanded "the + King's consent, to confirm by Act of Parliament such agreements as should + be made by both Houses with that kingdom ... for the settling and + preserving a happy and durable peace between the two nations, and for the + mutual defence of each other."—<i>Swift</i>. A most diabolical + alliance. + </p> + <p> + P. 175. [par. 189.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the letter from the King to his + son, concerning the treaty.—<i>Swift</i>. The whole letter is a most + excellent performance. + </p> + <p> + P. 176. [par. 189.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The major part of both Houses of + Parliament was, at that time, so far from desiring the execution of all + those concessions, that, if they had been able to have resisted the wild + fury of <i>the army</i>, they would have been themselves suitors to have + declined the greatest part of them.—<i>Swift</i>. Diabolical + villains. + </p> + <p> + P. 177. [par. 193.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It cannot be imagined how + wonderfully fearful some persons in France were that he [the King] should + have made his escape, and the dread they had of his coming thither.—<i>Swift</i>. + French villains. + </p> + <p> + P. 180. [par. 198.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the Commons sent to Winchester:—their + well tried Serjeant Wild, to be the sole judge of that circuit.—<i>Swift</i>. + An infernal dog. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 200.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Young Sir Harry Vane had begun + the debate [upon the treaty] with the highest insolence, and provocation.—<i>Swift</i>. + A cursed insolent villain, worse than even a Scot, or his own father. + </p> + <p> + P. 183. [par. 206.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the seizure of many Members + entering into the House, by the soldiers.—<i>Swift</i>. Damnable + proceeding. + </p> + <p> + P. 184. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the remaining Members vote the contrary + to their former votes:—that the answer the King had given to their + propositions was not satisfactory.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed rogues. + </p> + <p> + P. 189. [par. 221.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Harrison was the son of a butcher.—<i>Swift</i>. + The fitter for that office. + </p> + <p> + P. 195. [par. 233.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Trial of the King:—The King + ... told them, "he would first know of them, by what authority they + presumed by force to bring him before them, and who gave them power to + judge of his actions, for which he was accountable to none but God."—<i>Swift</i>. + Very weak. + </p> + <p> + P. 198. [par. 241] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The King] was always a great lover + of the Scottish nation.—<i>Swift</i>. There I differ from him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Having not only been born there, + but educated by that people, and besieged by them always.—<i>Swift</i>. + Who were the cause of his destruction, like abominable Scotch dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 199. [par. 244] <i>Clarendon</i>. In that very hour when he was thus + wickedly murdered in the sight of the sun, he had as great a share in the + hearts and affections of his subjects ... as any of his predecessors.—<i>Swift</i>. + Only common pity for his death, and the manner of it. + </p> + <p> + P. 208. [par. 261] <i>Clarendon</i>, Lord Capel's trial:—<i>Cromwell,</i> + who had known him very well, spoke so much good of him, and professed to + have so much kindness and respect for him, that all men thought he was now + safe.—<i>Swift</i>. Cursed dog. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XII. + </h3> + <p> + P. 217. [par. 4.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Charles II. proclaimed in Scotland: + —upon condition of "his good behaviour, and strict observation of + the Covenant, and his entertaining no other persons about him but such as + were godly men, and faithful to that obligation."—<i>Swift</i> + Cursed Scots in every circumstance. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 5.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The new Duke [of Hamilton].—<i>Swift</i>. + A Scotch duke, celebrated by the author: a perfect miracle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A rare virtue in the men of that + time. —<i>Swift.</i> [Of that] nation. + </p> + <p> + P. 218. [par. 7.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the commission sent to England when + the King was tried:—The Marquess of Argyle had had too deep a share + in that wickedness [the delivery of the King], to endure the shock of a + new dispute, and inquisition upon that subject; and therefore gave not the + least opposition to their passion [of the Scots].—<i>Swift</i>. A + true Argyle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [continuation of the same sentence.] <i>Clarendon</i>. But + seemed equally concerned in the honour of the nation, to prosecute an high + expostulation with those of England, for the breach of faith, and the + promises, which had been made for the safety, and preservation of the + King's person, at the time he was delivered up.—<i>Swift</i>. The + Scots were the cause and chief instruments of the King's murder by + delivering him up to the English rebels. + </p> + <p> + P. 222. [par. 13.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It was very manifest ... that the + Marquess of Argyle meant only to satisfy the people, in declaring that + they had a King ... but that such conditions should be put upon him, as he + knew, he would not submit to.—<i>Swift</i>. Most detestable villain. + </p> + <p> + P. 224. [par. 17.] <i>Clarendon</i>. As soon as he came into the room + where they were.—<i>Swift</i>. Abominable Scotch dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 225. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A learned and worthy Scottish divine, + Dr. Wishart.—<i>Swift</i>. A prodigious rarity. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 18.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Earl [of Lauderdale] told + him [one of the council] ... that he could not imagine, or conceive the + barbarities and inhumanities Montrose was guilty of, in the time he made a + war in Scotland.—<i>Swift</i>. That earl was a beast; I mean + Lauderdale. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. That he [Montrose] had in one + battle killed fifteen hundred of one family, of the Campbells, of the + blood and name of Argyle.—<i>Swift</i>. Not half enough of that + execrable breed. + </p> + <p> + P. 228. [par. 24.] <i>Clarendon</i>, for the embassy from the Parliament: + —one Dorislaus, a doctor in the civil law, was named.—<i>Swift</i>. + A Dutch fellow, employed by those regicides who murdered the King. + </p> + <p> + P. 237. [par. 41.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Prince of Orange ... wished, + "that, in regard of the great differences which were in England about + matters of religion, the King would offer ... to refer all matters in + controversy concerning religion to a national synod."—<i>Swift</i>. + I do not approve it. + </p> + <p> + P. 249. [par. 69.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the defeat of the Marquess of + Ormonde by Jones.—<i>Swift</i>. Ormonde's army discomfited! + </p> + <p> + P. 265. [par. 119.] <i>Clarendon</i>. And that Committee of the + Parliament.—<i>Swift</i>. Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 119.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The council of Scotland ... + sent a gentleman ... to invite his Majesty again to come into his kingdom + of Scotland, not without a rude insinuation that it was the last + invitation he should receive.—<i>Swift</i>. Still cursed Scots. + </p> + <p> + P. 267. [par. 122.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the conditions sent from Scotland + to Breda, in case the King consented to come to Scotland:—The King + himself, and all who should attend upon him, were first to sign the + Covenant before they should be admitted to enter into the kingdom.—<i>Swift</i>. + Damnable Scottish dogs. + </p> + <p> + P. 268. [par. 125.] <i>Clarendon</i>, some lords warned the King, that it + was to be feared that:—Argyle would immediately deliver up the + person of the King into the hands of Cromwell.—<i>Swift</i>. That + Scotch dog was likely enough to do so, and much worse. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 126.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the ambassadors in Spain:—were + extremely troubled, both of them having always had a strong aversion that + the King should ever venture himself in the hands of that party of the + Scottish nation, which had treated his father so perfidiously.—<i>Swift</i>. + Damnable nation for ever. + </p> + <p> + P. 269. [par. 127.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The King] was before [in Spain] + looked upon as being dispossessed, and disinherited of all his dominions, + as if he had no more subjects than those few who were banished with him, + and that there was an entire defection in all the rest. But now that he + was possessed of one whole kingdom, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Yet all + cursed villains; a possession of the Devil's kingdom, where every Scot was + a rebel. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 128.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There fell out at this time ... + an accident of such a prodigious nature, that, if Providence had not, for + the reproach of Scotland, determined that the King should once more make + experiment of the courage and fidelity of that nation, could not but have + diverted his Majesty from that northern expedition; which, how unsecure + soever it appeared to be for the King, was predestinated for a greater + chastisement and mortification of that people, as it shortly after proved + to be: [alluding to Montrose's execution.]—<i>Swift</i>. That is + good news. + </p> + <p> + P. 270. [par. 128.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Marquess [of Montrose], who was + naturally full of great thoughts, and confident of success.—<i>Swift</i>. + He was the only man in Scotland who had ever one grain of virtue; and was + therefore abhorred, and murdered publicly by his hellish countrymen. + </p> + <p> + P. 270. [par. 129.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There were many officers of good + name and account in Sweden, of the Scottish nation.—<i>Swift</i>. + Impossible. + </p> + <p> + P. 271. [par. 130.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Montrose knew, that of the two + factions there, which were not like to be reconciled, each of them were + equally his implacable enemies.—<i>Swift</i>. Very certain. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The whole kirk ... being alike + malicious to him.—<i>Swift.</i> Scots damnable kirk. + </p> + <p> + P. 272. [par. 131]. <i>Clarendon</i>. Many of [the nobility] ... assured + him [Montrose], that they would meet him with good numbers; and they did + prepare to do so, some really; and others, with a purpose to betray him.—<i>Swift</i>. + Much the greater number. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 133.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The tyranny of Argyle ... + caused very many to be barbarously murdered, without any form of law or + justice, who had been in arms with Montrose.—<i>Swift</i>. That + perpetual inhuman dog and traitor, and all his posterity, to a man, + damnable villains. + </p> + <p> + P. 273. [par 134.] <i>Clarendon</i> Most of the other officers were + shortly after taken prisoners, all the country desiring to merit from + Argyle by betraying all those into his hands which they believed to be his + enemies.—<i>Swift</i>. The virtue and morality of the Scots. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i>. And thus, whether <i>by the owner + of the house</i> or any other way, the Marquess himself became their + prisoner.—<i>Swift</i>. A tyrannical Scottish dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 274. [par. 137.] <i>Clarendon</i> "That for the League and Covenant, he + had never taken it," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. The Devil, their God, I + believe had taken it. [This remark is nearly obliterated.] + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 138] <i>Clarendon</i>, sentence on Montrose:—That + he was ... to be carried to Edinburgh Cross, and there to be hanged upon a + gallows thirty foot high, for the space of three hours, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + Oh! if the whole nation, to a man, were just so treated! begin with + Argyle, and next with the fanatic dogs who teased him with their kirk + scurrilities. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 139.] <i>Clarendon</i>. After many such barbarities, + they [the ministers] offered to intercede for him to the kirk upon his + repentance, and to pray with him.—<i>Swift</i>. Most treacherous, + damnable, infernal Scots for ever! + </p> + <p> + P. 275. [par. 140] <i>Clarendon</i>. He bore it [the execution] with ill + the courage and magnanimity, and the greatest piety, that a good Christian + could manifest.—<i>Swift.</i> A perfect hero; wholly un-Scotified. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto] <i>Clarendon</i>. [He] prayed, "that they might not + betray him [the King], as they had done his father."—<i>Swift</i>. A + very seasonable prayer, but never performed. + </p> + <p> + P. 275. [par. 142.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Marquess of Argyle ... wanted + nothing but <i>honesty and courage</i> to be a very extraordinary man.—<i>Swift</i>. + Trifles to a Scot. + </p> + <p> + P. 276. [par. 143.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They who were most displeased with + Argyle and his faction, were not sorry for this inhuman, and monstrous + prosecution [of Montrose].—<i>Swift</i>. Impudent, lying Scottish + dogs. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XIII. + </h3> + <p> + P. 285. [par. 1.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Without he likewise consented to + those.—<i>Swift</i>. Bad. + </p> + <p> + P. 286. [par. 3.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King was received by the Marquess + of Argyle with all the outward respect imaginable.—<i>Swift</i>. + That dog of all Scotch dogs. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. They did immediately banish him + [Daniel O'Neill] the kingdom, and obliged him to sign a paper, by which he + consented to be put to death, if he were ever after found in the kingdom.—<i>Swift</i>. + In Scotland, with a pox. + </p> + <p> + P. 287. [par. 5.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King's table was well served. + —<i>Swift</i>. With Scotch food, etc. etc. etc. + </p> + <p> + P. 300. [par 36.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King had left ... the Duke of York + with the Queen, with direction "that he should conform himself entirely to + the will and pleasure of the Queen his mother, matters of religion only + excepted."—<i>Swift</i>. Yet lost his kingdom for the sake of + Popery. + </p> + <p> + P. 301. [par. 37.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Duke [of York] was full of spirit + and courage, and naturally loved designs.—<i>Swift. Quantum mutatus!</i> + </p> + <p> + P. 304. [par. 42.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the proposed match between the + Duke of York, and the Duke of Lorraine's natural daughter:—Only Sir + George Ratcliffe undertook to speak to him about it, who could only make + himself understood in Latin, which the Duke cared not to speak in.—<i>Swift</i>. + Because he was illiterate, and only read Popish Latin. + </p> + <p> + P. 305. [par. 44.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The Queen] bid him [the chancellor + of the exchequer] "assure the Duke of York, that he should have a free + exercise of his religion, as he had before."—<i>Swift</i>. Who + unkinged himself for Popery. + </p> + <p> + P. 306. [par. 45.] <i>Clarendon</i>. It was indeed the common discourse + there [in Holland], "that the Protestants of the Church of England could + never do the King service, but that all his hopes must be in the Roman + Catholics, and the Presbyterians."—<i>Swift</i>. A blessed pair. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [par. 46.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The Duke of York] was fortified + with, a firm resolution never to acknowledge that he had committed any + error.—<i>Swift</i>. No, not when he lost his kingdom or Popery. + </p> + <p> + P. 311. [par. 58.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The King had ... friendship with Duke + Hamilton.—<i>Swift. Vix intelligo</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 318. [par. 75.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the King's defeat at Worcester, 3d of + September.—<i>Swift</i>. September 3d, always lucky to Cromwell. + </p> + <p> + P. 339. [par. 122.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was no need of spurs to be + employed to incite the Duke [of York]; who was most impatient to be in the + army.—<i>Swift</i> How old was he when he turned a Papist, and a + coward? + </p> + <p> + P. 340. [par. 123.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Duke pressed it [his being + allowed to join the army] with earnestness and passion, in which he + dissembled not.—<i>Swift. Dubitat Augustinus</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 343. [par. 128.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the Duke, in the French army:—got + the reputation of a prince of very signal courage, and to be universally + beloved of the whole army by his affable behaviour.—<i>Swift</i>. + But proved a cowardly Popish king. + </p> + <p> + P. 348, line 50. <i>Swift</i>. Scots. + </p> + <p> + P, 349. [par. 140.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The chancellor ... told his Majesty, + "this trust would for ever deprive him of all hope of the Queen's favour; + who could not but discern it within three or four days, and, by the + frequent resort of the Scottish vicar [one Knox; who came with Middleton + to Paris,] to him" (who had the vanity to desire long conferences with + him) "that there was some secret in hand which was kept from her."—<i>Swift</i>. + The little Scottish scoundrel, conceited vicar. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XIV. + </h3> + <p> + P. 386. [par. 41.] <i>Clarendon</i>. Scotland lying under a heavy yoke by + the strict government of Monk.—<i>Swift</i>. I am glad of that. + </p> + <p> + P. 387. [par. 44.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The day of their meeting [Cromwell's + Parliament] was the third of September in the year 1654.—<i>Swift</i>. + His lucky day. + </p> + <p> + P. 394. [par. 56.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The Highlanders ... made frequent + incursions in the night into the English quarters; and killed many of + their soldiers, but stole more of their horses.—<i>Swift</i>. Rank + Scottish thieves. + </p> + <p> + P. 413. [par. 95.] <i>Clarendon</i>. A bold person to publish, etc.— + <i>Swift</i>. Bussy Rabutin, Amours des Gaules. + </p> + <p> + P. 414. [par. 96.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was at that time in the court + of France, or rather in the jealousy of that court, a lady of great + beauty, of a presence very graceful and alluring, and a wit and behaviour + that captivated those who were admitted into her presence; [to whom + Charles II. made an offer of marriage]—<i>Swift</i>. A prostitute + whore. + </p> + <p> + P. 420. [par. 109.] <i>Clarendon</i>. The chancellor of the exchequer one + day ... desired him [the king] "to consider upon this news, and + importunity from Scotland, whether in those Highlands there might not be + such a safe retreat and residence, that he might reasonably say, that with + the affections of that people, which had been always firm both to his + father and himself, he might preserve himself in safety, though he could + not hope to make any advance."—<i>Swift</i>. The chancellor never + thought so well of the Scots before. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>, [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>. His Majesty discoursed very calmly + of that country, ... "that, if sickness did not destroy him, which he had + reason to expect from the ill accommodation he must be there contented + with, he should in a short time be betrayed and given up"—<i>Swift</i>. + But the King knew them better. + </p> + <p> + P. 425. [par. 118.] <i>Clarendon</i>. [The King's enemies] persuaded many + in England, and especially of those of the reformed religion abroad, that + his Majesty was in truth a Papist.—<i>Swift</i>. Which was true. + </p> + <p> + P. 443.[8] <i>Clarendon</i>. The wretch [Manning], soon after, received + the reward due to his treason.—<i>Swift</i>. In what manner? + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: This sentence, which follows at the end of par. 146, is + omitted in the edition of 1888. [T.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XV. + </h3> + <p> + P. 469. [par. 53.] <i>Clarendon.</i> That which made a noise indeed, and + crowned his [Cromwell's] successes, was the victory his fleet, under the + command of Blake, had obtained over the Spaniard.—<i>Swift</i>. I + wish he were alive, for the dogs the Spaniards' sake, instead of our + worthless H——. + </p> + <p> + P. 495. [par. 119, sec. 3,] <i>Clarendon</i>, in the address of the + Anabaptists to the King:—"We ... humbly beseech your Majesty, that + you would engage your royal word never to erect, nor suffer to be erected, + any such tyrannical, Popish, and Antichristian hierarchy (Episcopal, + Presbyterian, or by what name soever it be called) as shall assume a power + over, or impose a yoke upon, the consciences of others."—<i>Swift</i>. + Honest, though fanatics. + </p> + <p> + P. 501. [par. 136.] <i>Clarendon</i>, at the siege of Dunkirk:—Marshal + Turenne, accompanied with the Duke of York, who would never be absent upon + those occasions, ... spent two or three days in viewing the line round,—<i>Swift</i>. + James II., a fool and a coward. + </p> + <p> + P. 502. [par. 137.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There was a rumour.., that the Duke + of York was taken prisoner by the English, ... whereupon many of the + French officers, and gentlemen, resolved to set him at liberty; ... So + great an affection that nation owned to have for his Highness.—<i>Swift</i>. + Yet he lived and died a coward. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK XVI. + </h3> + <p> + P. 523. [par. 29.] <i>Clarendon</i>, on the discovery of the treachery of + Sir Richard Willis.—<i>Swift</i>. Doubtful. + </p> + <p> + P. 539. [par. 47.[9]] <i>Clarendon</i>. If it had not been for the King's + own <i>steadiness</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. Of which, in religion, he never + had any. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 9: This was par. 74 in the edition of 1849. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 540. [par. 75.] <i>Clarendon</i>, upon the Duke of York's being invited + into Spain, with the office of El Admirante del Oceano, he was warned that + he:—would never be suffered to go to sea under any title of command, + till he first changed his religion.—<i>Swift</i>. As he did openly + in England. + </p> + <p> + P. 559. [par. 131.] <i>Clarendon</i>. There being scarce a bon-fire at + which they did not roast a rump.—<i>Swift</i>. The <i>Rump</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 583. [par. 194.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Declaration of the King, April 4-1/4 + 1660:—"Let all our subjects, how faulty soever, rely upon the word + of a King," etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Usually good for nothing. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid</i>. [ditto.] <i>Clarendon</i>, the same:—"A free + Parliament; by which, upon the word of a King, we will be advised."—<i>Swift</i>. + Provided he be an honest and sincere man. + </p> + <p> + P. 585. [par. 199.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Letter to the fleet:—"Which + gives us great encouragement and hope, that God Almighty will heal the + wounds by the same plaster that made the flesh raw."—<i>Swift</i>. A + very low comparison. + </p> + <p> + P. 586. [par. 201.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Letter to the city of London:—"Their + affections to us in the city of London; which hath exceedingly raised our + spirits, and which, no doubt, hath proceeded from the Spirit of God, and + His extraordinary mercy to the nation; which hath been encouraged by you, + and your good example ... to discountenance the imaginations of those who + would subject our subjects to a government they have not yet devised."—<i>Swift</i>. + Cacofonia. + </p> + <p> + P. 595. [par. 222.] <i>Clarendon</i>, Proclamation of the King, May 8, by + the Parliament, Lord Mayor, etc.:—"We ... acknowledge, ... that ... + he [Charles II.] is of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, the most + potent, mighty, and undoubted King; and thereunto we most humbly and + faithfully do submit, and oblige ourselves, our heirs, and posterity for + ever."—<i>Swift</i>. Can they oblige their posterity 10,000 years to + come? + </p> + <p> + P. 596. [par. 225]. <i>Clarendon</i>, The case of Colonel Ingoldsby: After + he had refused to sign the death-warrant of the King:—Cromwell, and + others, held him by violence; and Cromwell, with a loud laughter, taking + his hand in his, and putting the pen between his fingers, with his own + hand writ Richard Ingoldsby he making all the resistance he could.—<i>Swift</i>. + A mistake; for it was his own hand-writ, without any restraint. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + REMARKS ON + </h2> + <h3> + "BISHOP BURNET'S HISTORY OF ['SCOTLAND + </h3> + <h3> + IN'—<i>SWIFT</i>] HIS OWN TIME," + </h3> + <h3> + FOLIO EDITION, 1724-34. + </h3> + <h4> + FROM THE ORIGINAL, IN THE LIBRARY of THE LATE + </h4> + <h3> + MARQUESS OF LANSDOWNE. + </h3> + <h3> + NOTE. + </h3> + <p> + The standard edition of Burnet's interesting "History" is that by Dr. + Routh, first issued in 1823 and revised in a second edition in 1833. Mr. + Osmund Airy is at present engaged on a new edition for the Clarendon + Press, but so far only two volumes have been published. It was in Dr. + Routh's edition that almost all of Swift's notes first appeared. In the + Preface to the issue of 1823, the learned editor informs us that Swift's + notes were taken "from his own copy of the history, which had come into + the possession of the first Marquis of Lansdowne." A note in the edition + of 1833 corrects a statement made in the previous edition that Swift's + copy had been burnt. It was not Swift's own copy, but a copy containing a + transcript of Swift's notes that was burnt. + </p> + <p> + In the preparation of the present text every available reference has been + searched. Sir Walter Scott's reprint of Swift's "Notes" was sadly + inadequate. Not only did he misquote the references to Burnet's work, but + he could not have consulted the Lansdowne copy, since fully a third of the + "notes" were altogether ignored by him. It is believed that the text here + given contains every note accurately placed to its proper account in + Burnet's "History." The references are to the edition in folio issued in + 1724-1734. + </p> + <p> + In the twenty-seventh volume of the "European Magazine," and in the two + following volumes, a fair proportion of Swift's notes were first + published. These were reprinted by Dr. Burnet in 1808, in his "Essay on + the Earlier Part of the Life of Swift." Both these authorities have been + consulted. Dr. Routh's modesty forbade him including six of the notes, + because they were "not written with the requisite decorum." These have + been included here. Mr. Osmund Airy has "thought it unadvisable to + encumber the pages with simple terms of abuse"; but an editor of Swift's + works cannot permit himself this licence. His duty is to include + everything. + </p> + <p> + The text of the "Short Remarks" is taken from vol. viii., Part 1, of the + quarto edition of Swift's works, edited by Deane Swift, and published in + 1765. + </p> + <h3> + [T.S.] + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + SHORT REMARKS ON BISHOP BURNET'S HISTORY. + </h2> + <p> + This author is in most particulars the worst qualified for an historian + that ever I met with. His style is rough, full of improprieties, in + expressions often Scotch, and often such as are used by the meanest + people.[1] He discovers a great scarcity of words and phrases, by + repeating the same several hundred times, for want of capacity to vary + them. His observations are mean and trite, and very often false. His + secret history is generally made up of coffeehouse scandals, or at best + from reports at the third, fourth, or fifth hand. The account of the + Pretender's birth, would only become an old woman in a chimney-corner. His + vanity runs intolerably through the whole book, affecting to have been of + consequence at nineteen years old, and while he was a little Scotch parson + of forty pounds a year. He was a gentleman born, and, in the time of his + youth and vigour, drew in an old maiden daughter of a Scotch earl to marry + him.[2] His characters are miserably wrought, in many things mistaken, and + all of them detracting,[3] except of those who were friends to the + Presbyterians. That early love of liberty he boasts of is absolutely + false; for the first book that I believe he ever published is an entire + treatise in favour of passive obedience and absolute power; so that his + reflections on the clergy, for asserting, and then changing those + principles, come very improperly from him. He is the most partial of all + writers that ever pretended so much to impartiality; and yet I, who knew + him well, am convinced that he is as impartial as he could possibly find + in his heart; I am sure more than I ever expected from him; particularly + in his accounts of the Papist and fanatic plots. This work may be more + properly called "A History of Scotland during the Author's Time, with some + Digressions relating to England," rather than deserve the title he gives + it. For I believe two thirds of it relate only to that beggarly nation, + and their insignificant brangles and factions. What he succeeds best in, + is in giving extracts of arguments and debates in council or Parliament. + Nothing recommends his book but the recency of the facts he mentions, most + of them being still in memory, especially the story of the Revolution; + which, however, is not so well told as might be expected from one who + affects to have had so considerable a share in it. After all, he was a man + of generosity and good nature, and very communicative; but, in his ten + last years, was absolutely party-mad, and fancied he saw Popery under + every bush. He hath told me many passages not mentioned in this history, + and many that are, but with several circumstances suppressed or altered. + He never gives a good character without one essential point, that the + person was tender to Dissenters, and thought many things in the Church + ought to be amended. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: "His own opinion," says my predecessor, Mr Nichols, "was very + different, as appears by the original MS of his History, wherein the + following lines are legible, though among those which were ordered not to + be printed 'And if I have arrived at any faculty of writing clearly and + correctly, I owe that entirely to them [Tillotson and Lloyd]. For as they + joined with Wilkins, in that noble, though despised attempt, of an <i>universal + character</i>, and a philosophical language; they took great pains to + observe all the common errors of language in general, and of ours in + particular. And in the drawing the tables for that work, which was Lloyd's + province, he looked further into a natural purity and simplicity of style, + than any man I ever knew; into all which he led me, and so helped me to + any measure of exactness of writing, which may be thought to belong to + me.' The above was originally designed to have followed the words, 'I know + from them,' vol. i. p. 191, 1. 7, fol. ed. near the end of A.D. 1661." + [S]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 2: Lady Margaret Kennedy, daughter to the Earl of Cassilis. + [S.]] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 3: A note in Swift's Works, vol. ix., pt. ii. [1775] says: After + "detracting," add "Many of which were stricken through with his own hand, + but left legible in the MS.; which he ordered, in his last will, 'his + executor to print faithfully, as he left it, without adding, suppressing, + or altering it in any particular.' In the second volume, Judge Burnet, the + Bishop's son and executor, promises that 'the original manuscript of both + volumes shall be deposited in the Cotton Library.' But this promise does + not appear to have been fulfilled; at least it certainly was not in 1736, + when two letters were printed, addressed to Thomas Burnet, Esq. In p. 8 of + the Second Letter, the writer [Philip Beach] asserted, that he had in his + own possession 'an authentic and complete collection of the castrated + passages.'" [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + <i>Setting up for a maxim, laying down for a maxim, clapt up, decency,</i> + and some other words and phrases, he uses many hundred times. + </p> + <p> + <i>Cut out for a court, a pardoning planet, clapt up, left in the lurch, + the mob, outed, a great beauty, went roundly to work:</i> All these + phrases used by the vulgar, shew him to have kept mean or illiterate + company in his youth. + </p> + <h3> + REMARKS ON BURNET'S HISTORY OF HIS OWN TIME. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF2" id="link2H_PREF2"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE, p. 3. <i>Burnet.</i> + </h2> + <p> + Indeed the peevishness, the ill nature, and the ambition of many clergymen + has sharpened my spirits perhaps too much against them; so I <i>warn</i> + my reader to take all that I say on these heads with some grains of + allowance.—<i>Swift.</i> I will take his <i>warning.</i> + </p> + <p> + P. 4. <i>Burnet.</i> Over and over again retouched and polished by me.—<i>Swift.</i> + Rarely polished; I never read so ill a style. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> That thereby I may awaken the world to just + reflections on their own errors and follies.—<i>Swift.</i> This I + take to be nonsense. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK I. + </h3> + <p> + P. 6. <i>Burnet.</i> That king saw that those who were most in his + interests were likewise jealous of his authority, and apt to encroach upon + it.—<i>Swift.</i> Nonsense. + </p> + <p> + P. 10. <i>Burnet</i> says that competent provision to those who served the + cure:—was afterwards in his son's time raised to about fifty pounds + a year.—<i>Swift.</i> Scotch pounds, I suppose. + </p> + <p> + P. 11. <i>Burnet.</i> Colonel Titus assured me that he had from King + Charles the First's own mouth, that he was well assured he [Prince Henry] + was poisoned by the Earl of Somerset's means.—<i>Swift.</i> Titus + was the greatest rogue in England. + </p> + <p> + P. 18. <i>Burnet</i> says that Gowry's conspiracy against King James was + confirmed to him by his father.—<i>Swift.</i> Melvil makes nothing + of it. + </p> + <p> + P. 20. <i>Burnet.</i> I turn now to the affairs of Scotland, which are but + little known.—<i>Swift.</i> Not worth knowing. + </p> + <p> + P. 23. <i>Burnet,</i> Archbishop Spotswood began:—his journey as he + often did on a Sunday, which was a very odious thing in that country.—<i>Swift.</i> + Poor malice. + </p> + <p> + P. 24. <i>Burnet,</i> Mr. Steward, a private gentleman, became:—so + considerable that he was raised by several degrees to be made Earl of + Traquair and Lord-Treasurer [of Scotland], and was in great favour; but + suffered afterwards such a reverse of fortune, that I saw him so low that + he wanted bread, ... and it was believed died of hunger.—<i>Swift.</i> + A strange death: perhaps it was of want of <i>meat</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 26. <i>Burnet.</i> My father ... carefully preserved the petition + itself, and the papers relating to the trial [of Lord Balmerinoch]; of + which I never saw any copy besides those which I have. ... The whole + record ... is indeed a very noble piece, full of curious matter.—<i>Swift.</i> + Puppy. + </p> + <p> + P. 28. <i>Burnet.</i> The Earl of Argyle was a more solemn sort of man, + grave and sober, free of all scandalous vices.—<i>Swift.</i> As a + man is free of a corporation, he means. + </p> + <p> + P. 29. <i>Burnet.</i> The Lord Wharton and the Lord Howard of Escrick + undertook to deliver some of these; which they did, and were <i>clapt up</i> + upon it.—<i>Swift.</i> Dignity of expression. + </p> + <p> + P. 30. <i>Burnet.</i> [King Charles I.] was now in great straits ... his + treasure was now exhausted; his subjects were highly irritated; the + ministry were all frighted, being exposed to the anger and justice of the + Parliament. ... He loved high and rough methods, but had neither the skill + to conduct them, nor the height of genius to manage them.—<i>Swift.</i> + Not one good quality named. + </p> + <p> + P. 31. <i>Burnet.</i> The Queen [of Charles I.] was a woman of great + vivacity in conversation, and loved all her life long to be <i>in + intrigues of all sorts.</i>—<i>Swift.</i> Not of love, I hope. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> By the concessions that he made, especially that of + the triennial Parliament, the honest and quiet part of the nation was + satisfied, and thought their religion and liberties were secured: So they + broke off from those violenter propositions that occasioned the war.—<i>Swift.</i> + Dark, or nonsense. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> He intended not to stand to them any longer than he + lay under that force that visibly drew them from him contrary to his own + inclinations.—<i>Swift.</i> Sad trash. + </p> + <p> + P. 33. <i>Burnet.</i> The first volume of the Earl of Clarendon's + "History" gives a faithful representation of the beginnings of the + troubles, though writ in favour of the court.—<i>Swift.</i> Writ + with the spirit of an historian, not of [a raker] into scandal. + </p> + <p> + P. 34. <i>Burnet.</i> Dickson, Blair, Rutherford, Baily, Cant, and the two + Gillispys ... affected great sublimities in devotion: They poured + themselves out in their prayers with a loud voice, and often with many + tears. They had but an ordinary proportion of learning among them; + something of Hebrew, and very little Greek: Books of controversy with + Papists, but above all with the Arminians, was the height of their study.—<i>Swift.</i> + Great nonsense. Rutherford was half fool, half mad. + </p> + <p> + P. 40. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the bad effects of the Marquess of + Montrose's expedition and defeat, says:—It alienated the Scots much + from the King: It exalted all that were enemies to peace. Now they seemed + to have some colour for all those aspersions they had cast on the King, as + if he had been in a correspondence with the Irish rebels, when the worst + tribe of them had been thus employed by him.—<i>Swift.</i> Lord + Clarendon differs from all this. + </p> + <p> + P. 41. <i>Burnet.</i> The Earl of Essex told me, that he had taken all the + pains he could to enquire into the original of the Irish massacre, but + could never see any reason to believe the King had any accession to it.—<i>Swift.</i> + And who but <i>a beast</i> ever believed it? + </p> + <p> + P. 42. <i>Burnet,</i> arguing with the Scots concerning the propriety of + the King's death, observes:—Drummond said, "Cromwell had plainly the + better of them at their own weapon."—<i>Swift.</i> And Burnet + thought as Cromwell did. + </p> + <p> + P. 46. <i>Burnet.</i> They [the army] will ever keep the Parliament in + subjection to them, and so keep up their own authority.—<i>Swift.</i> + Weak. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Fairfax was much distracted in his mind, and changed + purposes often every day.—<i>Swift.</i> Fairfax had hardly common + sense. + </p> + <p> + P. 49. <i>Burnet.</i> I will not enter farther into the military part: For + I remember an advice of Marshal Schomberg's, never to meddle in the + relation of military matters.—<i>Swift.</i> Very foolish advice, for + soldiers cannot write. + </p> + <p> + P. 50. <i>Burnet.</i> [Laud's] defence of himself, writ ... when he was in + the Tower, is a very mean performance. ... In most particulars he excuses + himself by this, that he was but one of many, who either in council, + star-chamber, or high commission voted illegal things. Now though this was + true, yet a chief minister, and one in high favour, determines the rest so + much, that they are generally little better than machines acted by him. On + other occasions he says, the thing was proved but by one witness. Now, how + strong soever this defence may be in law, it is of no force in an appeal + to the world; for if a thing is true, it is no matter how full or how + defective the proof is.—<i>Swift.</i> All this is full of malice and + ill judgement. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the "Eikon Basilike," supposed to be + written by Charles the First, says:—There was in it a nobleness and + justness of thought with a greatness of style, that made it to be looked + on as the best writ book in the English language.—<i>Swift.</i> I + think it a poor treatise, and that the King did not write it. + </p> + <p> + P. 51. <i>Burnet.</i> Upon the King's death the Scots proclaimed his son + King, and sent over Sir George Wincam, <i>that married my great-aunt</i>, + to treat with him while he was in the Isle of Jersey.—<i>Swift.</i> + Was that the reason he was sent? + </p> + <p> + P. 53. <i>Burnet.</i> I remember in one fast-day there were six sermons + preached without intermission. I was there myself, and not a little weary + of so tedious a service.—<i>Swift.</i> Burnet was not then eight + years old. + </p> + <p> + P. 61. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the period of the usurpation in + Scotland:—Cromwell built three citadels, at Leith, Ayr, and + Inverness, besides many little forts. There was good justice done, and + vice was suppressed and punished; so that we always reckon those eight + years of usurpation a time of great peace and prosperity.—<i>Swift.</i> + No doubt you do. + </p> + <p> + P. 63. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Scotch preachers at sacrament times + during the civil wars, says:—The crowds were far beyond the capacity + of their churches, or the reach of their voices.—<i>Swift.</i> I + believe the church had as much capacity as the minister. + </p> + <p> + P. 64. <i>Burnet.</i> The resolutioners sent up one Sharp, who had been + long in England, and was an active and eager man.—<i>Swift.</i> + Afterwards archbishop, and murdered. + </p> + <p> + P. 66. <i>Burnet.</i> Thus Cromwell had all the King's party in a net. He + let them dance in it at pleasure. And upon occasions <i>clapt</i> them up + for a short while.—<i>Swift.</i> Pox of his <i>claps</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 87. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Restoration:—Of all this Monk + had both the praise and the reward, though I have been told a very small + share of it belonged to him.—<i>Swift.</i> Malice. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK II. + </h3> + <p> + P. 92. <i>Burnet.</i> I will therefore enlarge ... on the affairs of + Scotland; both out of the inbred love that all men have for their native + country, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Could not he keep his inbred love to + himself? + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Sharp, who was employed by the resolutioners ... + stuck neither at solemn protestations, ... nor at appeals to God of his + sincerity in acting for the presbytery both in prayers and on other + occasions, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Sure there was some secret personal + cause of all this malice against Sharp. + </p> + <p> + P. 93. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of Charles II. says:—He was affable + and easy, and loved to be made so by all about him. The great art of + keeping him long was, the being easy, and the making everything easy to + him.—<i>Swift.</i> Eloquence. + </p> + <p> + P. 99. <i>Burnet</i> says of Bennet, afterwards Earl of Arlington:—His + parts were solid, but not quick.—<i>Swift.</i> They were very quick. + </p> + <p> + P. 100. <i>Burnet</i> says of the Duke of Buckingham:—Pleasure, + frolic, or extravagant diversion was all that he laid to heart. He was + true to nothing, for he was not true to himself.—<i>Swift.</i> No + consequence. <i>Burnet.</i> He had no steadiness nor conduct: He could + keep no secret, nor execute any design without spoiling it.—<i>Swift.</i> + Nonsense. + </p> + <p> + P. 117. <i>Burnet.</i> It was visible that neither the late King nor the + present were under any force when they passed ... those Acts [bringing in + Presbyterian government].—<i>Swift.</i> Both Kings were under a + force. + </p> + <p> + P. 118. <i>Burnet.</i> To annul a Parliament was a terrible precedent, + which destroyed the whole security of government.—<i>Swift.</i> + Wrong arguing. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Distress on his affairs was really equivalent to a + force on his person.—<i>Swift.</i> It was so. + </p> + <p> + P. 119. <i>Burnet.</i> We went into it, he said, as knaves, and therefore + no wonder if we miscarried in it as fools.—<i>Swift.</i> True. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> No government was so well established, as not to be + liable to a revolution. This [the Rescissory Act] would cut off all hopes + of peace and submission, if any disorder should happen at any time + thereafter.—<i>Swift.</i> Wrong weak reasoning. + </p> + <p> + P. 120. <i>Burnet.</i> Such care was taken that no public application + should be made in favour of Presbytery. Any attempt that was made on the + other hand met with great encouragement.—<i>Swift.</i> Does the man + write like a bishop? + </p> + <p> + P. 126. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the execution of the Marquess of + Argyle:—After some time spent in his private devotions he was + beheaded.—<i>Swift.</i> He was the greatest villain of his age. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> The kirk ... asserted all along that the doctrine + delivered in their sermons did not fall under the cognisance of the + temporal courts, till it was first judged by the church.—<i>Swift.</i> + Popery. + </p> + <p> + P. 127. <i>Burnet.</i> The proceedings against Wariston were soon + dispatched.—<i>Swift.</i> Wariston was an abominable dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 135. <i>Burnet,</i> of Bishop Leightoun's character:—The grace + and gravity of his pronunciation was such, that few heard him without a + very sensible emotion. ... His style was rather too fine.—<i>Swift.</i> + Burnet is not guilty of that. + </p> + <p> + P. 140. <i>Burnet.</i> Leightoun did not stand much upon it. He did not <i>think</i> + orders given without bishops were null and void. He <i>thought</i>, the + forms of government were not settled by such positive laws as were + unalterable; but only by apostolical practices, which, as he <i>thought</i>, + authorized Episcopacy as the best form. Yet he did not <i>think</i> it + necessary to the being of a church. But he <i>thought</i> that every + church might make such rules of ordination as they pleased.—<i>Swift. + Think, thought, thought, think, thought.</i> + </p> + <p> + P. 154. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of a proclamation for shutting up two + hundred churches in one day:—Sharp said to myself, that he knew + nothing of it. ... He was glad that this was done without his having any + share in it: For by it he was furnished with somewhat, in which he was no + way concerned, upon which he might cast all the blame of all that + followed. Yet this was suitable enough to a maxim that he and all that + sort of people set up, that the execution of laws was that by which all + governments maintained their strength, as well as their honour.—<i>Swift.</i> + Dunce, can there be a better maxim? + </p> + <p> + P. 157. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of those who enforced church discipline, + says:—They had a very scanty measure of learning, and a narrow + compass in it. They were little men, of a very indifferent size of + capacity, and apt to fly out into great excess of passion and + indiscretion.—<i>Swift.</i> Strange inconsistent stuff. + </p> + <p> + P. 160. <i>Burnet.</i> One Venner ... thought it was not enough to believe + that Christ was to reign on earth, and to put the saints in the possession + of the kingdom ... but added to this, that the saints were to take the + kingdom themselves.—<i>Swift.</i> This wants grammar. + </p> + <p> + P. 163. <i>Burnet.</i> John Goodwin and Milton did also escape all + censure, to the surprise of all people.—<i>Swift.</i> He censures + even mercy. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Milton ... was ... much admired by all at home for + the poems he writ, though he was then blind; chiefly that of "Paradise + Lost," in which there is a nobleness both of contrivance and execution, + that, though he affected to write in blank verse without rhyme, and made + many new and rough words, yet it was esteemed the beautifullest and + perfectest poem that ever was writ, at least in <i>our</i> language.—<i>Swift.</i> + A mistake, for it is <i>in English.</i> + </p> + <p> + P. 164. <i>Burnet.</i> The great share he [Sir Henry Vane] had in the + attainder of the Earl Strafford, and in the whole turn of affairs to the + total change of government, but above all the great opinion that was had + of his parts and capacity to embroil matters again, made the court think + it was necessary to put him out of the way.—<i>Swift.</i> A + malicious turn. Vane was a dangerous enthusiastic beast. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> When he [Sir Henry Vane] saw his death was designed, + he composed himself to it, with a resolution that surprised all who knew + how little of that was natural to him. Some instances of this were very + extraordinary, though they cannot be mentioned with <i>decency</i>.—<i>Swift.</i> + His lady <i>conceived</i> of him the night before his execution. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Sir Henry Vane died with so much composedness, that + it was generally thought, the government had lost more than it had gained + by his death.—<i>Swift.</i> Vane was beheaded for new attempts, not + here mentioned. + </p> + <p> + P. 179. <i>Burnet.</i> [The Papists] seemed zealous for the Church. But at + the same time they spoke of toleration, as necessary both for the peace + and quiet of the nation, and for the encouragement of trade.—<i>Swift.</i> + This is inconsistent. + </p> + <p> + P. 180. <i>Burnet</i> says that Mr. Baxter:—was a man of great + piety; and, if he had not meddled in too many things, would have been + esteemed one of the learned men of the age: He writ near <i>two hundred + books.</i>—<i>Swift.</i> Very sad ones. + </p> + <p> + P. 184. <i>Burnet.</i> The Convocation that prepared those alterations, as + they added some new holy days, St. Barnabas, and the Conversion of St. + Paul, so they took in more lessons out of the Apocrypha, in particular the + story of Bel and the Dragon.—<i>Swift.</i> I think they acted wrong. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Reports were spread ... of the plots of the + Presbyterians in several counties. Many were taken up on those reports: + But none were ever tried for them.—<i>Swift.</i> A common practice. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> writing of the ejection of the Nonconformists on St. + Bartholomew's Day, 1662, says:—A severity neither practised by Queen + Elizabeth in the enacting her Liturgy, nor by Cromwell in ejecting the + Royalists.—<i>Swift.</i> But by King William. + </p> + <p> + P. 186. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the great fines raised on the church + estates ill applied, proceeds:—If the half had been applied to the + buying of tithes or glebes for small vicarages, here a foundation had been + laid down for a great and effectual reformation.—<i>Swift.</i> He + judges here right, in my opinion. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> continuing the same subject:—The men of merit + and service were loaded with many livings and many dignities. With this + great accession of wealth there broke in upon the Church a great deal of + luxury and high living, on the pretence of hospitality; while others made + purchases, and left great estates, most of which we have seen melt away.—<i>Swift.</i> + Uncharitable aggravation; a base innuendo. + </p> + <p> + P. 189. <i>Burnet.</i> Patrick was a great preacher. He wrote ... well, + and chiefly on the Scriptures. He was a laborious man in his function, of + great strictness of life, but a little too severe against those who + differed from him. But that was, when he thought their doctrines struck at + the fundamentals of religion. He became afterwards more moderate.—<i>Swift.</i> + Yes, for he turned a rank Whig. + </p> + <p> + P. 190. <i>Burnet.</i> [Archbishop Tenison] was a very learned man.—<i>Swift.</i> + The dullest, good-for-nothing man I ever knew. + </p> + <p> + P. 191. <i>Burnet,</i> condemning the bad style of preaching before + Tillotson, Lloyd, and Stillingfleet, says their discourses were:—long + and heavy, when all was <i>pie-bald</i>, full of many sayings of different + languages.—<i>Swift.</i> A noble epithet. <i>Burnet.</i> The King + ... had got a right notion of style.—<i>Swift.</i> How came Burnet + not to learn this style? + </p> + <p> + P. 193. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the first formation of the Royal + Society:—Many physicians, and other ingenious men went into the + society for natural philosophy. But he who laboured most ... was Robert + Boyle, the Earl of Cork's youngest son. He was looked on by all who knew + him as a very perfect pattern. ... He neglected his person, despised the + world, and lived abstracted from all pleasures, designs, and interests.—<i>Swift.</i> + Boyle was a very silly writer. + </p> + <p> + P. 195. <i>Burnet.</i> Peter Walsh, ... who was the honestest and + learnedest man I ever knew among [the Popish clergy, often told me] ... + there was nothing which the whole Popish party feared more than an union + of those of the Church of England with the Presbyterians. ... The Papists + had two maxims, from which they never departed: The one was to divide us: + And the other was to keep themselves united.—<i>Swift.</i> Rogue. + </p> + <p> + P. 202. <i>Burnet.</i> The queen-mother had brought over from France one + Mrs. Steward, reckoned a very <i>great beauty.</i>—<i>Swift.</i> A + pretty phrase. + </p> + <p> + P. 203. <i>Burnet.</i> One of the first things that was done in this + session of Parliament [1663] was <i>the execution of my unfortunate uncle, + Wariston.</i>—<i>Swift.</i> Was he hanged or beheaded? A fit uncle + for such a bishop. + </p> + <p> + P. 211. <i>Burnet.</i> Many were undone by it [religious persecution], and + went over to the Scots in Ulster, where they were well received, and had + all manner of liberty as to their way of religion.—<i>Swift.</i> The + more the pity. + </p> + <p> + P. 214. <i>Burnet.</i> The blame of all this was cast upon Sharp..... And + the Lord Lauderdale, to complete his disgrace with the King, got many of + his letters ... and laid these before the King; So that the King looked on + him as one of the worst of men.—<i>Swift.</i> Surely there was some + secret cause for this perpetual malice against Sharp. + </p> + <p> + P. 220. <i>Burnet.</i> Pensionary De Witt had the notions of a + commonwealth from the Greeks and Romans. And from them he came to fancy, + that an army commanded by officers of their own country was both more in + their own power, and would serve them with the more zeal, since they + themselves had such an interest in their success.—<i>Swift.</i> He + ought to have judged the contrary. + </p> + <p> + P. 236. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the slight rebellion in the west of + Scotland, 1666, says:—The rest [of the rebels] were favoured by the + darkness of the night, and the weariness of the King's troops that were + not in case to pursue them. ... For they were a poor harmless company of + men, become mad by oppression.—<i>Swift.</i> A fair historian! + </p> + <p> + P. 237. <i>Burnet.</i> They might all have saved their lives, if they + would have renounced the Covenant: So they were really a sort of martyrs + for it.—<i>Swift.</i> Decent term. + </p> + <p> + P. 238. <i>Burnet.</i> [Sir John Cunningham] was not only very learned in + the civil and canon law ... [but] was above all, a man of eminent probity, + and of a sweet temper, and indeed one of the <i>piousest</i> men of the + nation.—<i>Swift.</i> Is that Scotch? + </p> + <p> + P. 242. <i>Burnet.</i> When the peace of Breda was concluded, the King + wrote to the Scottish council, and communicated <i>that</i> to them; and + with <i>that</i> signified, <i>that</i> it was his pleasure <i>that</i> + the army should be disbanded.—<i>Swift.</i> Four <i>thats</i> in one + line. + </p> + <p> + P. 243. <i>Burnet.</i> [Archbishop Burnet] saw Episcopacy was to be pulled + down, and ... writ upon these matters a long and sorrowful letter to + Sheldon: And upon that Sheldon writ a very long one to Sir R. Murray; + which I read, and found more temper and moderation in it than I could have + expected from him.—<i>Swift.</i> Sheldon was a very great and + excellent man. + </p> + <p> + P. 245. <i>Burnet.</i> [The Countess of Dysert] was a woman of great + beauty, but of far greater parts. ... She had studied not only divinity + and history, but mathematics and philosophy. She was violent in everything + she set about, a violent friend, but a much more violent enemy. ... [When + Lauderdale] was prisoner after Worcester fight, she made him believe he + was in great danger of his life, and that she saved it by her intrigues + with Cromwell.—<i>Swift.</i> Cromwell had gallantries with her. + </p> + <p> + P. 248. <i>Burnet.</i> The clergy ... saw designs were forming to turn + them all out: And, hearing that they might be better provided in Ireland, + they were in many places bought out, and prevailed on to desert their + cures.—<i>Swift.</i> So Ireland was well provided. + </p> + <p> + P. 252. <i>Burnet.</i> The King ... suspecting that Lord Cornbury was in + the design, spoke to him as one in a rage that forgot all decency. ... In + the afternoon he heard him with more temper, as he himself told me.—<i>Swift.</i> + Who told him? + </p> + <p> + P. 253. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of Sheldon's remonstrating with the King + about his mistresses, adds:—From that day forward Sheldon could + never recover the King's confidence.—<i>Swift.</i> Sheldon had + refused the sacrament to the King for living in adultery. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> Sir Orlando Bridgman ... was a man of great + integrity, and had very serious impressions of religion on his mind. He + had been always on the side of the Church.—<i>Swift.</i> What side + should he be of? + </p> + <p> + P. 256. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Earl of Clarendon's banishment:—It + seemed against the common course of justice, to make all corresponding + with him treason, when he himself was not attainted of treason.—<i>Swift.</i> + Bishop of Rochester's case. + </p> + <p> + P. 257. <i>Burnet.</i> Thus the Lord Clarendon fell under the common fate + of great ministers, whose employment exposes them to envy, and draws upon + them the indignation of all who are disappointed in their pretensions. + Their friends turning as violently against them, as they formerly fawned + abjectly upon them.—<i>Swift.</i> Stupid moralist. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Earl of Clarendon's eldest son, who + afterwards succeeded him, says:—His judgement was not to be <i>much</i> + depended on, for he was <i>much</i> carried by vulgar prejudices, and + false notions. He was <i>much</i> in the Queen's favour. <i>Swift.</i> + Much, much, much. + </p> + <p> + P. 258. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Earl of Rochester, second son of + Lord Clarendon:—[He] is a man of far greater parts [than his + brother]. He has a <i>very good pen</i>, but speaks not gracefully.—<i>Swift.</i> + I suppose it was of gold or silver. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> [The King] told me, he had a chaplain, that was a + very honest man, but a very great blockhead, to whom he had given a living + in Suffolk, that was full of that sort of people [Nonconformists]. He had + gone about among them from house to house, though he could not imagine + what he could say to them, for he said he was a very silly fellow. But + that, he believed, his nonsense suited their nonsense, for he had brought + them all to church. And, in reward of his diligence, he had given him a + bishopric in Ireland.—<i>Swift.</i> Bishop Wolley, of Clonfert. + </p> + <p> + P. 259. <i>Burnet.</i> If the sectaries were humble and modest, and would + tell what would satisfy them, there might be some colour for granting some + concessions.—<i>Swift.</i> I think so too. + </p> + <p> + P. 260. <i>Burnet.</i> The three volumes of the "Friendly Debate," though + writ by a very good man.—<i>Swift.</i> Writ by Bishop Patrick. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> After he [Samuel Parker, afterwards Bishop of Oxford] + had for some years entertained the nation with several virulent books, + writ with much life, he was attacked by the liveliest droll of the age, + etc.—<i>Swift.</i> What is a droll? <i>Burnet.</i> That not only + humbled Parker, but the whole party. For the author of "The Rehearsal + Transposed," etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Andrew Marvel. + </p> + <p> + P. 263. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the King's attachment to Nell Gwyn, + says:—But after all he never treated her with the <i>decencies</i> + of a mistress.—<i>Swift.</i> Pray what <i>decencies</i> are those? + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> The King had another mistress, that was managed by + Lord Shaftesbury, who was the daughter of a clergyman, Roberts, in whom + her first education had so deep a root, that, though she fell into many + scandalous disorders, with very dismal adventures in them all, yet a + principle of religion was so deep laid in her, that, though it did not + restrain her, yet it kept alive in her such a constant horror at sin, that + she was never easy in an ill course, and died with a great sense of her + former ill life. I was <i>often with her</i> the last three months of her + life.—<i>Swift</i>. Was she handsome then? + </p> + <p> + P. 264. <i>Burnet</i>. The King loved his [the Earl of Rochester's] + company for the diversion it afforded, better than his person: And there + was no love lost between them.—<i>Swift</i>. A noble phrase. + </p> + <p> + P. 265. <i>Burnet</i>. Sedley had a more sudden and copious wit, which + furnished a perpetual run of discourse: But he was not so correct as Lord + Dorset, nor so sparkling as Lord Rochester.—<i>Swift</i>. No better + a critic in wit than style. + </p> + <p> + P. 266. <i>Burnet</i>. Lord Roberts, afterwards made Earl of Radnor, [who + succeeded the Duke of Ormonde in his government of Ireland,] was a morose + man, believed to be severely just, and as wise as a <i>cynical</i> humour + could allow him to be.—<i>Swift</i>. How does that hinder wisdom? + </p> + <p> + P. 273. <i>Burnet</i>. Charles II. confessed himself a Papist to the + Prince of Orange:—The Prince told me, that he never spoke of this to + any other person, till <i>after his death</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. That + is, <i>his own death</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 277. <i>Burnet</i> quotes an exclamation of Archbishop Sharp's, after + an attempt to assassinate him, and adds:—This was the single + expression savouring of piety, that ever fell from him in all the + conversation that passed between him and me.—<i>Swift.</i> Rank + malice. + </p> + <p> + P. 285. <i>Burnet</i>. No body could ever tell me how the word + "Ecclesiastical matters" was put in the Act. Leightoun thought, he was + sure it was put in after the draught and form of the Act was agreed on.—<i>Swift</i>. + Nonsense. + </p> + <p> + P. 287. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of Archbishop Burnet, says:—He was + not cut out for a court, or for the ministry.—<i>Swift</i>. A phrase + of dignity. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burne</i>, mentioning his own appointment as Professor of + Divinity at Glasgow University, says:—There was no sort of artifice + or management to bring this about: It came of themselves: And they did it + without any recommendation of any person whatsoever.—<i>Swift</i>. + Modest. + </p> + <p> + P. 288. <i>Burnet</i>. The Episcopal party thought I intended to make + myself popular at their cost: So they began that strain of fury and + calumny that has pursued me ever since from <i>that sort of people</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. + A civil term for all who are Episcopal. + </p> + <p> + P. 298. <i>Burnet</i>. [In compiling the Memoirs of the Dukes of + Hamilton,] I found there materials for a very large history. I writ it + with great sincerity; and concealed none of their errors. I did indeed + conceal several things that related to the King: I left out some passages + that were in his letters; in some of which was too much weakness.—<i>Swift.</i> + The letters, if they had been published, could not have given a worse + character. + </p> + <p> + P. 300. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the Scotch clergy refusing to be made + bishops, says:—They had an ill opinion of the court, and could not + be brought to leave their retirement.—<i>Swift.</i> For that very + reason they should have accepted bishoprics. + </p> + <p> + P. 301. <i>Burnet,</i> after mentioning the murder of the Duchess of + Orleans, says:—I will set down one story of her, that was told me by + a person of distinction, who had it from some who were well informed of + the matter.—<i>Swift.</i> Poor authority. + </p> + <p> + P. 303. <i>Burnet.</i> Madame [the Duchess of Orleans] had an intrigue + with another person, whom I knew well, the Count of Tréville. When she was + in her agony, she said, "Adieu, Tréville." He was so struck with this + accident, that it had a good effect on him; for he went and lived many + years among the Fathers of the Oratory, and became both a very learned, + and devout man. He came afterwards out into the world. I saw him often. He + was a man of a very sweet temper, only a little too formal for a + Frenchman. But he was very sincere. He was a Jansenist. He hated the + Jesuits.—<i>Swift.</i> Pretty jumping periods. + </p> + <p> + P. 304. <i>Burnet.</i> Lord Shaftesbury laid the blame of this chiefly on + the Duke of Buckingham: For he told me, ... And therefore he blamed him.—<i>Swift.</i> + Who blamed whom. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> The Duke of Savoy was encouraged to make a conquest + of Genoa.—<i>Swift.</i> Geneva. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> When a foreign minister asked the King's leave to + treat with him [Lockhart] in his master's name, the King consented; but + with this severe reflection, That he believed he would be true to anybody + but himself.—<i>Swift.</i> Does he mean, Lockhart would not be true + to Lockhart? + </p> + <p> + P. 305. <i>Burnet.</i> They [the French] so possessed De Groot, then the + Dutch ambassador at Paris, or they corrupted him into a belief that they + had no design on them, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Who on whom? + </p> + <p> + P. 306. <i>Burnet.</i> The Earl of Shaftesbury was the chief man in this + advice [recommending the King to shut up the exchequer].—<i>Swift.</i> + Clifford had the merit of this. + </p> + <p> + P. 318. <i>Burnet,</i> after mentioning the death of William II., Prince + of Orange, says of the Princess:—As she bore her son a week after + his death, in the eighth month of her time, so he came into the world + under great disadvantages.—<i>Swift.</i> A pretty contrast. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i> mentions an astrological prediction of the Prince's + fate, and adds:—But that which <i>was</i> most particular <i>was</i>, + that he <i>was</i> to have a son by a widow, and <i>was</i> to die of the + small-pox in the twenty-fifth year of his age.—<i>Swift</i>. Was, + was, was, was. + </p> + <p> + P. 320. <i>Burnet</i>. They set it also up for a maxim.—<i>Swift</i>. + He can vary a phrase; set up for a maxim, and lay down for a maxim. + </p> + <p> + P. 321. <i>Burnet</i>. His oath was made to them, and by consequence it + was in their power to release the obligation that did arise from it to + themselves.—<i>Swift</i>. Bad casuist. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. As soon as he [the Prince of Orange] was brought into + the command of the armies, he told me, he spoke to De Witt, and desired to + live in an entire confidence with him. His answer was cold: So he saw that + he could not depend upon him. When he told me this, he added, that he was + certainly one of the greatest men of the age, and he believed he served + his country faithfully—<i>Swift</i>. Yet the Prince contrived that + he should be murdered. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. Now I come to give an account of the fifth crisis + brought on the whole reformation, which has been of the longest + continuance, since we are yet in the agitations of it.—<i>Swift</i>. + Under the Queen and Lord Oxford's ministry. + </p> + <p> + P. 322. <i>Burnet</i>. [In this famous campaign of Louis XIV. against the + Dutch, (1672,)] there was so little heart or judgement shewn in the + management of that run of success, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. A metaphor, + but from gamesters. + </p> + <p> + P. 326. <i>Burnet</i>, referring to the action of the rabble when + Cornelius de Witt was banished, says of the Prince of Orange:—His + enemies have taken advantages from thence to cast the infamy of this on + him, and on his party, to make them all odious; though the Prince spoke of + it always to me with the greatest horror possible.—<i>Swift</i>. Yet + he was guilty enough. + </p> + <p> + P. 328. <i>Burnet</i>. Prince Waldeck was their chief general: A man of a + great compass.—<i>Swift, i.e.</i> very fat. + </p> + <p> + P. 330. <i>Burnet</i>. He broke twice with the Prince, after he came into + a confidence with him. He employed me to reconcile him to him for the + third time—<i>Swift</i>. Perspicuity. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> The actions sinking on the sudden on the breaking out + of a new war, that sunk him into a melancholy, which quite distracted him.—<i>Swift</i>. + Eloquent. + </p> + <p> + P. 335. <i>Burnet</i>. I will complete the transactions of this memorable + year:—P. 337. Thus I have gone far into the state of affairs of + Holland in this memorable year.—<i>Swift</i>. Why, you called it so + but just now before. + </p> + <p> + P. 337. <i>Burnet</i>. It seems, the French made no great account of their + prisoners, for they released 25,000 Dutch for 50,000 crowns—<i>Swift</i>. + What! ten shillings a piece! By much too dear for a Dutchman. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. This year [1672] the King declared a new mistress, + and made her Duchess of Portsmouth. She had been maid of honour to Madame, + the King's sister, and had come over with her to Dover; where the King had + expressed such a regard to her, that the Duke of Buckingham, who hated the + Duchess of Cleveland, intended to <i>put her on the King</i>.—<i>Swift.</i> + Surely he means the contrary. + </p> + <p> + P. 341. <i>Burnet</i>. [The Duke of Lauderdale] called for me all on the + sudden, and put me in mind of the project I had laid before him, of + putting all the outed ministers by <i>couples</i> into parishes: So that + instead of wandering about the country to hold conventicles in all places, + they might be fixed to a certain abode, and every one might have the half + of a benefice.—<i>Swift.</i> A sottish project; instead of feeding + <i>fifty</i>, you starve a <i>hundred</i>. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK III. + </h3> + <p> + P. 346. <i>Burnet</i>. It was believed, if the design had succeeded, he + [Lord Clifford] had agreed with his wife to take orders, and to aspire to + a cardinal's hat.—<i>Swift</i>. Was he or she to take orders? + </p> + <p> + P. 362. <i>Burnet</i>. I told him, what afterwards happened, that most of + these would make their own terms, and leave him in the lurch.—<i>Swift</i>. + True sublime. + </p> + <p> + P. 370. <i>Burnet</i>. I was ever of Nazianzen's opinion, who never wished + to see any more synods of the clergy.—<i>Swift</i>. Dog! + </p> + <p> + P. 372. <i>Burnet</i>, when he was struck out of the list of chaplains, + says:—The King said, he was afraid I had been too busy; and wished + me to go home to Scotland, and be more quiet.—<i>Swift</i>. The King + knew him right. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. I preached in many of the churches of London; and was + so well received, that it was probable I might be accepted of in any that + was to be disposed of by <i>a popular election.</i>—<i>Swift</i>. + Much to his honour. + </p> + <p> + P. 373. <i>Burnet</i>. This violent and groundless prosecution lasted some + months. And during that time I said to some, that Duke Lauderdale had gone + so far in opening some wicked designs to me, that I perceived he could not + be satisfied, unless I was undone. So I told what was mentioned before of + the discourses that passed between him and me.—<i>Swift</i>. Scotch + dog! + </p> + <p> + P. 374. <i>Burnet</i>. He [Lord Howard] went over in the beginning of the + war, and offered to serve De Witt. But he told me, he found him a dry man.—<i>Swift</i>. + Who told who? I guess Howard told Burnet. + </p> + <p> + P. 378. <i>Burnet</i>. At least he [Sir William Temple] thought religion + was fit only for the mob.—<i>Swift</i>. A word of dignity for an + historian. <i>Burnet.</i> He was a corrupter of all that came near him. + And he delivered himself up wholly to study, ease, and pleasure.—<i>Swift</i>. + Sir William Temple was a man of virtue, to which Burnet was a stranger. + </p> + <p> + P. 380. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of his being pressed, before Parliament, + to reveal what passed between him and the Duke of Lauderdale <i>in private</i>; + and the Parliament, in case of refusal, threatening him, says:—Upon + this I yielded, and gave an account of the discourse formerly mentioned.—<i>Swift</i>. + Treacherous villain. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. My love to my country, and my private friendships + carried me perhaps too far.—<i>Swift</i>. Right. + </p> + <p> + P. 382. <i>Burnet</i>. [Sir Harbottle Grimstone] had always <i>a + tenderness to the Dissenters</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. Burnet's test of all + virtues. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. [Lady Grimstone] was the humblest, the devoutest, and + best tempered person I ever <i>knew of that sort</i> [having high notions + for Church and Crown].—<i>Swift</i>. Rogue. + </p> + <p> + P. 384. <i>Burnet</i>, the country party maintained that:—if a + Parliament thought any law inconvenient for the good of the whole, they + must be supposed still free to alter it: And no previous limitation could + bind up their legislature.—<i>Swift.</i> Wrong arguing. + </p> + <p> + P. 387. <i>Burnet</i>. It was said, a standing Parliament changed the + constitution of England.—<i>Swift</i>. The present case under King + George. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. It was moved, that an address should be made to the + King for dissolving the Parliament.—<i>Swift. Tempora mutantur</i>; + for nothing now will do but septennial Parliaments. + </p> + <p> + P. 388 <i>Burnet</i>. He [Lord Russell] had from his first education an + inclination to favour the Non-conformists.—<i>Swift</i>. So have all + the author's favourites. + </p> + <p> + P. 392. <i>Burnet</i>. But with these good qualities Compton was a weak + man, wilful, and strangely wedded to a party.—<i>Swift.</i> He + means, to the Church. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. Bancroft, Dean of St. Paul's, was raised to [the see + of Canterbury]. ... He was a man of solemn deportment, had a sullen + gravity in his looks, and was considerably learned. He had put on a + monastic strictness, and lived abstracted from company. ... He was a dry, + cold man, reserved, and peevish; so that none loved him, and few esteemed + him.—<i>Swift</i>. False and detracting. + </p> + <p> + P. 396. <i>Burnet</i>. My way of writing history pleased him [Sir William + Jones].—<i>Swift</i>. Very modest. + </p> + <p> + P. 399. <i>Burnet</i>. Men were now though silent, not quiet.—<i>Swift</i>. + Nonsense, or printer's mistake. It should be, "Silent, though not quiet." + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid, Burnet</i>. One Carstairs, a loose and vicious gentleman.—<i>Swift</i>. + Epithets well placed. + </p> + <p> + P. 404. <i>Burnet</i>. It was an extraordinary thing that a random cannon + shot should have killed him [Turenne].—<i>Swift</i>. How + extraordinary? Might it not kill him as well as another man? + </p> + <p> + P. 406. <i>Burnet</i>, in the battle at St. Omer between the Prince of + Orange (afterwards King William) and the Duke of Orleans:—some + regiments of marines, on whom the Prince depended much, did basely run + away. Yet the other bodies fought so well, that he lost not much, besides + the <i>honour of the day</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. He was used to that. + </p> + <p> + P. 407. <i>Burnet</i>. These leading men did so entangle the debates, and + over-reached those on whom he had practised, that they, working on the + aversion that the English nation naturally has to a French interest, + spoiled the hopefullest session the court had had of a great while, before + the court was well aware of it.—<i>Swift</i>. Rare style! + </p> + <p> + P. 409. <i>Burnet</i>, Lord Danby, speaking to King Charles II., said:—If + they saw his [the Duke of York's] daughter given to one that was at the + head of the Protestant interest, it would very much soften those + apprehensions, when it did appear that his religion was only a personal + thing, not to be derived to his children after him. With all this the King + was convinced.—<i>Swift</i>. Then how was the King for bringing in + Popery? + </p> + <p> + P. 413. <i>Burnet</i>. His friend answered, He hoped he did not intend to + make use of him to trepan a man to his ruin. Upon that, with lifted up + hands, Sharp promised by the living God, that no hurt should come to him, + if he made a full discovery.—<i>Swift</i>. Malice. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>, upon the examination of Mitchell before the + privy-council for the intended assassination of Archbishop Sharp, it being + first proposed to cut off the prisoner's right hand, and then his left:—Lord + Rothes, who was a pleasant man, said, "How shall he wipe his breech then?" + This is not very <i>decent</i> to be mentioned in such a work, if it were + not necessary.—<i>Swift</i>. As decent as a thousand other passages; + so he might have spared his apology. + </p> + <p> + P. 414. <i>Burnet</i>, in the last article of the above trial, observes:— + But the judge, who hated Sharp, as he went up to the bench, passing by the + prisoner said to him, "Confess nothing, unless you are sure of your limbs + as well as of your life."—<i>Swift</i>. A rare judge. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>, mentioning Mackenzie's appointment as king's + advocate, says of him:—He has published many books, some of law, but + all full of faults; for he was a slight and superficial man.—<i>Swift</i>. + Envious and base. + </p> + <p> + P. 416. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the execution of the above Mitchell for + the attempt against Sharp, says:—Yet Duke Lauderdale had a chaplain, + Hickes, afterwards Dean of Worcester, who published a false and partial + relation of this matter, in order to the justifying of it—<i>Swift</i>. + A learned, pious man.[4] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 4: The "Ravillac [<i>sic</i>] Redivivus" of Hickes, is, + notwithstanding his learning and piety, in every respect deserving of the + censures passed upon it by Burnet. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 425. <i>Burnet</i>. [Titus Oates] got to be a chaplain in one of the + king's ships, from which he was dismissed upon complaint of some unnatural + practices, not to be named.—<i>Swift</i>. Only sodomy. + </p> + <p> + P. 434. <i>Burnet</i>. He [Staley] was cast.—<i>Swift. Anglicê</i>, + found guilty. + </p> + <p> + P. 441. <i>Burnet</i>, on the impeachment of Lord Danby:—Maynard, an + ancient and eminent lawyer, explained the words of the statute of 25 + Edward III. that the courts of law could not proceed but upon one of the + crimes there enumerated: But the Parliament had still a power, by the + clause in that Act, to declare what they thought was treason.—<i>Swift</i>. + Yes, by a new Act, but not with a retrospect; therefore Maynard was a <i>knave + or a fool, with all his law</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 442. <i>Burnet</i>. This indeed would have justified the King, if it + had been demanded above board.—<i>Swift</i>. Style of a gamester. + </p> + <p> + P. 451. <i>Burnet</i>. Yet many thought, that, what doctrines soever men + might by a subtlety of speculation be earned into, the approaches of + death, with the seriousness that appeared in their deportment, must needs + work so much on the probity and candour which seemed footed in human + nature, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Credat Judaeus Apella. + </p> + <p> + P. 455. <i>Burnet</i>, the Bill of Exclusion disinherited:—the next + heir, which certainly the King and Parliament might do, as well as any + private man might disinherit his next heir.—<i>Swift.</i> That is + not always true. Yet it was certainly in the power of King and Parliament + to exclude the next heir. + </p> + <p> + P. 457. <i>Burnet</i>. Government was appointed for those that were to be + governed, and not for the sake of governors themselves.—<i>Swift</i>. + A true maxim and infallible. + </p> + <p> + P. 458. <i>Burnet</i>. It was a maxim among our lawyers, that even an Act + of Parliament against <i>Magna Charta</i> was null of itself.—<i>Swift</i>. + A sottish maxim. + </p> + <p> + P. 459. <i>Burnet</i>. For a great while I thought the accepting the + limitations [proposed in the Exclusion Bill] was the wisest and best + method.—<i>Swift</i>. It was the wisest, because it would be less + opposed; and the King would consent to it; otherwise an <i>exclusion</i> + would have done better. + </p> + <p> + P. 471. <i>Burnet</i>. The guards having lost thirty of their number were + forced to run for it.—<i>Swift</i>. For what? + </p> + <p> + P. 475. <i>Burnet</i>. Dangerfield, a subtle and dexterous man, who ... + was a false coiner, undertook now to coin a plot for the ends of the + Papists.—<i>Swift</i>. Witty. + </p> + <p> + P. 479. <i>Burnet</i>. Godolphin ... had true principles of religion and + virtue, and was free from all vanity, and never heaped up wealth: So that + all things being laid together, he was one of the worthiest and wisest men + that has been employed in our time.—<i>Swift</i>. All this very + partial to my knowledge. + </p> + <p> + P. 483. <i>Burnet</i>. I laid open the cruelties of the Church of Rome in + many instances that happened in Queen Mary's reign, which were not then + known: And I <i>aggravated</i>, though <i>very truly</i>, the danger of + falling under the power of that religion.—<i>Swift</i>. A BULL! + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. Sprat had studied a polite style much: But there was + little strength in it: He had the beginnings of learning laid well in him: + But he has allowed himself in a course of some years in much sloth and too + many liberties.—<i>Swift</i>. Very false. + </p> + <p> + P. 489. <i>Burnet</i>. Here was a justice to be done, and a service to + truth, towards the saving a man's life.... He advised with all his + friends, and with my self in particular. The much greater number were of + opinion that he ought to be silent.—<i>Swift</i>. Damned advice. + </p> + <p> + P. 496. <i>Burnet</i>. Jones stood upon a point of law, of the + unseparableness of the prerogative from the person of the King.—<i>Swift</i>. + A lawyer's way of arguing, very weak. + </p> + <p> + P. 509. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the grand juries in the latter end of + King Charles's reign returning <i>ignoramus</i> so frequently on bills of + indictment, states that:—in defence of these <i>ignoramus juries</i> + it was said, that by the express words of their oath they were bound to + make true presentments of what should appear true to them: And therefore, + if they did not believe the evidence, they could not find a bill, though + sworn to. A book was writ to support that, in which both law and reason + were brought to confirm it: It passed as writ by Lord Essex, though I + understood afterwards it was writ by Somers.—<i>Swift</i>. Lord + Somers. + </p> + <p> + P. 516. <i>Burnet</i> says, on the imposition of a Test Act:—The + bishops were earnest for this, which they thought would secure them for + ever from a Presbyterian Parliament. It was carried in the vote: And that + made many of the court more zealous than ever for carrying through the + Act.—<i>Swift</i>. And it was very reasonable. + </p> + <p> + P. 519. <i>Burnet</i> mentions that, when the Test Act was passed:—about + eighty of the most learned and pious of their clergy left all rather than + comply with the terms of this law.... About twenty of them came up to + England.—<i>Swift</i>. Enough to corrupt England. + </p> + <p> + P. 523. <i>Burnet</i>, describing the death of the Duke of Lauderdale, + says—His heart seemed quite spent: There was not left above the + bigness of a walnut of firm substance: The rest was spongy, liker the + lungs than the heart.—<i>Swift. Anglicé</i>, more like. + </p> + <p> + P. 525. <i>Burnet</i>, Home was convicted on the credit of one infamous + evidence:—Applications were made to the Duke [of York] for saving + his life: But he was not born under <i>a pardoning planet</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. + Silly fop. + </p> + <p> + P. 526. <i>Burnet</i> All the Presbyterian party saw they were now + disinherited of a main part of their birth-right.—<i>Swift</i>. As + much of Papists as of Presbyterians. + </p> + <p> + P. 527. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the surrender of the charters in 1682:—It + was said, that those who were in the government in corporations, and had + their charters and seals trusted to their keeping, were not the + proprietors nor masters of those rights. They could not extinguish those + corporations, nor part with any of their privileges. Others said, that + whatever might be objected to the reason and equity of the thing, yet, + when the seal of a corporation was put to any deed, such a deed was good + in law. The matter goes beyond my skill in law to determine it.—<i>Swift</i>. + What does he think of the surrenders of the charters of abbeys? + </p> + <p> + P. 528. <i>Burnet</i> The Non-conformists were now persecuted with much + eagerness. This was visibly set on by the Papists: And it was wisely done + of them, for they knew how much the <i>Non-conformists were set against + them</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. Not so much as they are against the Church. + </p> + <p> + P. 531. <i>Burnet</i> Lord Hyde was the person that disposed the Duke to + it: Upon that Lord Halifax and he fell to be in ill terms; for he hated + Lord Sunderland beyond expression, though he had married his sister.—<i>Swift</i>. + Who married whose sister? + </p> + <p> + P. 536. <i>Burnet</i> The truth is, juries became at that time the shame + of the nation, as well as a reproach to religion: For they were packed, + and prepared to bring in verdicts as they were directed and not as matters + appeared on the evidence.—<i>Swift</i>. So they are now. + </p> + <p> + P. 538. <i>Burnet</i> He [Algernon Sidney] was ambassador in Denmark at + the time of the Restoration.—<i>Swift</i>. For Cromwell. + </p> + <p> + P. 543. <i>Burnet</i>, on Rumbold's proposal to shoot the King at Hodsdon, + in his way to Newmarket, adds:—They [the conspirators] ran into much + <i>wicked talk</i> about the way of executing that. But nothing was ever + fixed on: All was <i>but talk</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. All plots begin + with talk. + </p> + <p> + P. 548. <i>Burnet</i>. At the time of Lord Russell's plot, Baillie being + asked by the King whether they had any design against his person? he + frankly said not; but being asked:—if they had been in any + consultations with lords or others in England, in order to an insurrection + in Scotland? Baillie faltered at this. For his <i>conscience</i> + restrained him from <i>lying</i>;—<i>Swift.</i> The author and his + <i>cousins</i> could <i>not tell lies</i>, but they <i>could plot</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 549. <i>Burnet.</i> Next morning he went with him to the Tower gate, + the messenger being again fast asleep.—<i>Swift.</i> Is this a + blunder? + </p> + <p> + P. 553. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of Lord Essex's suicide (1683)—His + man, thinking he stayed longer than ordinary in his <i>closet</i>, looked + through the key hole, and there saw him lying dead.—<i>Swift.</i> He + was on the close stool. + </p> + <p> + P. 555. <i>Burnet,</i> on Lord Russell's trial—Finch summed up the + evidence against him. But ... shewed more of a vicious eloquence, in + turning matters with some subtlety against the prisoners, than of solid or + sincere reasoning.—<i>Swift.</i> Afterwards Earl of Aylesford, an + arrant rascal. + </p> + <p> + P. 562. <i>Burnet.</i> I offered to take my oath, that the speech [of Lord + Russell] was penned by himself, and not by me.—<i>Swift.</i> + Jesuitical. + </p> + <p> + P. 567. <i>Burnet.</i> I knew Spanheim particularly, <i>who was</i> envoy + from the Elector of Brandenburg, <i>who is</i> the greatest critic of the + age in all ancient learning.—<i>Swift. Who was—who is</i>, + pure nonsense. + </p> + <p> + P. 568. <i>Burnet.</i> All people were apprehensive of very black designs, + when they saw Jeffreys made Lord Chief Justice, who ... run out upon all + occasions into declamations, that did not become the bar, much less the + bench. He was not learned in his profession: And his eloquence, though + viciously copious, yet was neither correct nor agreeable.—<i>Swift.</i> + Like Burnet's eloquence. + </p> + <p> + P. 572. <i>Burnet,</i> on Algernon Sidney's trial, observes, that:—Finch + aggravated the matter of the book, as a proof of his intentions, + pretending it was an overt act, for he said, <i>Scribere est agere</i>.—<i>Swift.</i> + Yet this Finch was made Earl of Aylesford by King George. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> when Sidney charged the sheriffs who brought him the + execution-warrant with having packed the jury—one of the sheriffs + ... wept. He told it to a person, from whom Tillotson had it, who told it + me.—<i>Swift.</i> Admirable authority. + </p> + <p> + P. 577. <i>Burnet.</i> So that it was plain, that after all the story they + had made of the [Rye-house] Plot, it had gone no further, than that a + company of seditious and inconsiderable persons were framing among + themselves some treasonable schemes, that were never likely to come to + anything.—<i>Swift.</i> Cursed partiality. + </p> + <p> + P. 579. <i>Burnet</i>. The King [Charles II.] had published a story all + about the court, ... as the reason of this extreme severity against + Armstrong: He said, that he was sent over by Cromwell to murder him beyond + sea; ... and that upon his confessing it he had promised him never to + speak of it any more as long as he lived. So the King, counting him now + dead in law, thought he was free from that promise.—<i>Swift</i>. If + the King had a mind to lie, he would have stayed till Armstrong was + hanged. + </p> + <p> + P. 583. <i>Burnet</i>. It ended in dismissing Lord Aberdeen, and making + Lord Perth chancellor, to which he had been long aspiring in a most + indecent manner.—<i>Swift. Decent</i> and <i>indecent</i>, very + useful words to this author. + </p> + <p> + P. 585. <i>Burnet</i>. I saved myself out of those difficulties by saying + to all my friends, that I would not be involved in any such confidence; + for as long as I thought our circumstances were such that resistance was + not lawful, I thought the concealing any design in order to it was + likewise unlawful.—<i>Swift.</i> Jesuitical. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i> says, after relating how the thumb-screws were applied + to Spence and Carstairs:—Upon what was thus screwed out of these two + persons, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Witty the second time. + </p> + <p> + P. 586. <i>Burnet</i>, Baillie suffered several hardships and fines for + being supposed to be in the Rye-house Plot; yet:—seemed all the + while so composed, and even so cheerful, that his behaviour looked like + the reviving of the spirit of the noblest of the old Greeks or Romans.—<i>Swift</i>. + For he was our <i>cousin</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 587. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of Baillie's execution, says:—The + only excuse that was ever pretended for this infamous prosecution was, + that they were sure he was guilty.—<i>Swift</i>. Bishop of + Rochester. + </p> + <p> + P. 588. <i>Burnet</i>, Lord Perth wanting to see Leightoun, I writ so + earnestly to him, that he came to London; and, on—his coming to me, + I was amazed to see him at above seventy look so fresh and well.... [Two + days afterwards] Leightoun sunk so, that both speech and sense went away + of a sudden: And he continued panting about twelve hours; and then died + without pangs or convulsions.—<i>Swift</i>. Burnet killed him by + bringing him to London. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i> Leightoun ... retained still a peculiar inclination to + Scotland.—<i>Swift</i>. Yet he chose to live in England. + </p> + <p> + P. 589. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of Leightoun's views of the Church of + England, says:—As to the administration, both with relation to the + ecclesiastical courts, and the pastoral care, he looked on it as one of + the most corrupt he had ever seen.—<i>Swift</i>. Very civil. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. There were two remarkable circumstances in his + [Leightoun's] death. He used often to say, that if he were to choose a + place to die in, it should be an inn; it looking like a pilgrim's going + home, to whom this world was all as an inn, and who was weary of the noise + and confusion in it.—<i>Swift.</i> Canting puppy. + </p> + <p> + P. 590. <i>Burnet</i>. Sterne, Archbishop of York, died in the 86th year + of his age: He was a sour ill-tempered man, and minded chiefly the + enriching his family.—<i>Swift</i>. Yet thought author of "The Whole + Duty of Man." + </p> + <p> + P. 591. <i>Burnet</i> says of Bishop Mew:—Though he knew very little + of divinity, or of any other learning, and was weak to a childish degree, + yet obsequiousness and zeal raised him through several steps to this great + see [Bath and Wells].—<i>Swift</i>. This character is true. + </p> + <p> + P. 595. <i>Burnet</i>. And now the tables were turned—<i>Swift.</i> + Style of a gamester. + </p> + <p> + P. 596. <i>Burnet</i>, being appointed to preach the sermon on the + Gunpowder Plot, (1684,) at the Rolls Chapel:—I chose for my text + these words: "Save me from the lion's mouth, thou hast heard me from the + horns of the unicorns." I made no reflection in my thoughts on the lion + and unicorn, as being the two supporters of the King's scutcheon.—<i>Swift</i>. + I doubt that. + </p> + <p> + P. 600. <i>Burnet</i> relates a story of a quarrel between three + gentlemen, one of whom was killed. He says that one of the others:—was + prevailed on to confess the indictment, and to let sentence pass on him + for murder; a pardon being promised him if he should do so. [After this he + had to pay £16,000 for his pardon.]—<i>Swift</i>. The story is wrong + told. + </p> + <p> + P. 604. <i>Burnet</i> mentions a scheme to raise dissensions between + Charles II. and the Duke of York, and adds:—Mr. May of the privy + purse told me, that he was told there was a design to break out, with + which he himself would be well pleased.—<i>Swift</i>. The bishop + told me this with many more particulars. + </p> + <p> + P. 609. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the suspicion of Charles II. being + poisoned, says that:—Lower and Needham, two famous physicians, ... + [noticed some] blue spots on the outside of the stomach. Needham called + twice to have it opened: but the surgeons seemed not to hear him. And when + he moved it the second time, he, as he told me, heard Lower say to one + that stood next him, "Needham will undo us, calling thus to have the + stomach opened, for he may see they will not do it." ... Le Fevre, a + French physician, told me, he saw a blackness in the shoulder; Upon which + he made an incision, and saw it was all mortified. Short, another + physician, who was a Papist, but after a form of his own, did very much + suspect foul dealing.—<i>Swift</i>. One physician told me this from + Short himself. + </p> + <p> + P. 611. <i>Burnet</i>, describing the behaviour of Charles II. when in + hiding after the battle of Worcester, says:—Under all the + apprehensions he had then upon him, he shewed a temper so careless, and so + much turned to levity, that he was then diverting himself with little + household sports, in as unconcerned a manner, as if he had made no loss, + and had been in no danger at all.—<i>Swift.</i> This might admit a + more favourable turn. + </p> + <p> + P. 613. <i>Burnet,</i> in his character of Charles II., says:—His + person and temper, his vices as well as his fortunes, resemble the + character that we have given us of Tiberius so much, that it were easy to + draw the parallel between them. Tiberius's banishment, and his coming + afterwards to reign, makes the comparison in that respect come pretty + near. His hating of business, and his love of pleasures, his raising of + favourites, and trusting them entirely; and his pulling them down, and + hating them excessively; his art of covering deep designs, particularly of + revenge, with an appearance of softness, brings them so near a likeness, + that I did not wonder much to observe the resemblance of their face and + person.—<i>Swift.</i> Malicious, and in many circumstances false. + </p> + <p> + P. 615. <i>Burnet</i> concludes his character of Charles II. with these + words:—How ungrateful soever this labour has proved to my self, and + how unacceptable soever it may be to some, who are either obliged to + remember him gratefully, or by the engagement of parties and interests are + under other biasses, yet I have gone through all that I knew relating to + his life and reign with that regard to truth, and what I think may be + instructive to mankind, which became an impartial writer of history, and + one who believes, that he must give an account to God of what he writes, + as well as of what he says and does.—<i>Swift.</i> He was certainly + a very bad prince, but not to the degree described in this character, + which is poorly drawn, and mingled with malice very unworthy an historian, + and the style abominable, as in the whole history, and the observations + trite and vulgar. + </p> + <h3> + BOOK IV. + </h3> + <p> + P. 623. <i>Burnet.</i> Because Chudleigh the envoy there had openly broken + with the Prince [of Orange], (for he not only waited no more on him, but + acted openly against him; and once in the Vorhaut had affronted him, while + he was driving the Princess upon the snow in a <i>trainau</i>, according + to the German manner, and pretending they were masked, and that he did not + know them, had ordered his coachman to keep his way, as they were coming + towards the place where he drove;) the King recalled him.—<i>Swift.</i> + A pretty parenthesis. + </p> + <p> + P. 626. <i>Burnet.</i> This gave all thinking men a melancholy prospect. + England now seemed lost, unless some happy accident should save it. All + people saw the way for packing a Parliament now laid open.—<i>Swift.</i> + Just our case at the Queen's death. + </p> + <p> + P. 638. <i>Burnet</i> says that Musgrave and others pretended:—when + money was asked for just and necessary ends, to be frugal patriots, and to + be careful managers of the public treasure.—<i>Swift.</i> A party + remark, + </p> + <p> + P. 651. <i>Burnet.</i> Goodenough, who had been under-sheriff of London + when Cornish was sheriff, offered to swear against Cornish; and also said, + that Rumsey had not discovered all he knew. So Rumsey to save himself + joined with Goodenough, to swear Cornish guilty of that for which the Lord + Russell had suffered. And this was driven on so fast, that Cornish was + seized on, tried, and executed within the week.—<i>Swift.</i> + Goodenough went to Ireland, practised law, and died there. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> It gave a general horror to the body of the nation: + And it let all people see, what might be expected from a reign that seemed + to delight in blood.—<i>Swift.</i> The same here since the Queen's + death. + </p> + <p> + P. 654. <i>Burnet.</i> The Archbishop of Armagh[5] [1685,] had continued + Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and was in all points so compliant to the + court, that even his religion came to be suspected on that account.—<i>Swift.</i> + False. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 5: Michael Boyle, who, when Archbishop of Dublin, was made + chancellor soon after the Restoration (1665), and continued in that office + to January, 1686, during which time he was raised to the Archbishopric of + Armagh.—SEWARD.] + </p> + <p> + Ibid <i>Burnet,</i> and yet this archbishop:—was not thought + thorough-paced. So Sir Charles Porter, who was a zealous promoter of + everything that the King proposed, and was a man of ready wit, and being + poor was thought a person fit to be made a tool of, was declared Lord + Chancellor of Ireland.—<i>Swift.</i> False and scandalous. + </p> + <p> + P. 669. <i>Burnet.</i> Solicitor-general Finch ... was presently after + turned out. And Powis succeeded him, who was a compliant young aspiring + lawyer, though in himself he was no ill natured man.—<i>Swift.</i> + Sir Thomas Powis, a good dull lawyer. + </p> + <p> + P. 670. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of the power claimed for the King to + dispense with the sacramental test, says:—It was an overturning the + whole government, ... to say that laws, ... where one of the penalties was + an incapacity, which by a maxim of law cannot be taken away even by a + pardon, should at the pleasure of the prince be dispensed with: A fine was + also set by the Act on offenders, but not given to the King, but to the + informer, which thereby became his. So that the King could no more pardon + that, than he could discharge the debts of the subjects, and take away + property.—<i>Swift.</i> Wrong reasoning. + </p> + <p> + P. 672. <i>Burnet.</i> Intimations were everywhere given, that the King + would not have them [Dissenters], or their meetings, to be disturbed. Some + of them began to grow insolent upon this shew of favour.—<i>Swift.</i> + The whole body of them grew insolent, and complying to the King. + </p> + <p> + P. 675. <i>Burnet.</i> Sancroft lay silent at Lambeth. He seemed zealous + against Popery in private discourse: But he was of such a timorous temper, + and <i>so set on the enriching his nephew,</i> that he shewed no sort of + courage.—<i>Swift.</i> False as hell. + </p> + <p> + P. 681. <i>Burnet,</i> referring to the revived national zeal against + Popery, says:—The Episcopal clergy were in many places so sunk into + sloth and ignorance, that they were not capable of conducting this zeal: + ... But the Presbyterians, though they were now freed from the great + severities they had long smarted under, yet expressed on all occasions + their unconquerable aversion to Popery.—<i>Swift.</i> Partial dog! + </p> + <p> + P. 682. <i>Burnet.</i> He made the Earl of Tyrconnell Lord Lieutenant.—<i>Swift.</i> + Lord deputy. + </p> + <p> + P. 688. <i>Burnet.</i> Nor were the clergy more diligent in their labours + among their people, in which respect it must be confessed that the English + clergy are the most remiss of any.—<i>Swift.</i> Civil that. + </p> + <p> + P. 690. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of King William's character, says:—he + had no vice, but of one sort, in which he was very <i>cautious</i> and <i>secret</i>.—<i>Swift.</i> + It was of two sorts—<i>male</i> and <i>female</i>—in the <i>former</i> + he was neither cautious nor secret. + </p> + <p> + P. 691. <i>Burnet,</i> in a conversation with the Prince of Orange at The + Hague, (1686):—When he found I was in my opinion for toleration, he + said, that was all he would ever desire to bring us to, for quieting our + contentions at home.—<i>Swift.</i> It seems the Prince even then + thought of being King. + </p> + <p> + P. 692. <i>Burnet,</i> the advice I gave the Princess of Orange, when she + should be Queen of England, was, to:—endeavour effectually to get it + [the real authority] to be legally vested in him [the Prince] during life: + This would lay the greatest obligation on him possible, and lay the + foundation of a perfect union between them, which had been of late a + little embroiled.—<i>Swift.</i> By Mrs. Villiers, now Lady Orkney; + but he proved a <i>d——d husband for all that.</i>[6] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 6: Lady Orkney was a favourite of Swift, as appears from several + passages in the Journal. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 693. <i>Burnet,</i> having told the Princess of Orange that her + succession to the throne would not make her husband king, and given her + the advice just quoted, says:—she in a very frank manner told him, + that she did not know that the laws of England were so contrary to the + laws of God, as I had informed her: she did not think that the husband was + ever to be obedient to the wife.—<i>Swift.</i> Foolish. + </p> + <p> + P. 693. <i>Burnet.</i> [Penn, the Quaker,] was a talking vain man, who had + been long in the King's favour, he being the vice-admiral's son. ... He + had a tedious luscious way, that was not apt to overcome a man's reason, + though it might tire his patience.—<i>Swift.</i> He spoke very + agreeably, and with much spirit. + </p> + <p> + P. 695. <i>Burnet.</i> Cartwright was promoted to Chester. He was a man of + good capacity, and had made some progress in learning. He was ambitious + and servile, cruel and boisterous: And, by the great liberties he allowed + himself, he fell under much scandal of the <i>worst sort</i>.—<i>Swift.</i> + Only sodomy. + </p> + <p> + P. 696. <i>Burnet.</i> [Cartwright] was looked on as a man that would more + effectually advance the design of Popery, than if he should turn over to + it. And indeed, bad as he was, he never made that step, even in the most + desperate state of his affairs.—<i>Swift.</i> He went to Ireland + with King James, and there died neglected and poor. + </p> + <p> + P. 697. <i>Burnet.</i> In all nations the privileges of colleges and + universities are esteemed such sacred things, that few will venture to + dispute these, much less to disturb them.—<i>Swift.</i> Yet in King + George's reign, Oxford was bridled and insulted with troops, for no manner + of cause but their steadiness to the Church. + </p> + <p> + P. 699. <i>Burnet.</i> It was much observed, that this university + [Oxford], that had asserted the King's prerogative in the highest strains + of the most abject flattery possible, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> And their + virtue and steadiness ought equally to be observed. + </p> + <p> + P. 701. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of King James's proceedings against the + universities, and that several of the clergy wrote over to the Prince of + Orange to engage in their quarrel, adds:—When that was communicated + to me, I was still of opinion, that, though this was indeed an act of + despotical and arbitrary power, yet I did not think it struck at the + whole: So that it was not in my opinion a lawful case of resistance.—<i>Swift.</i> + He was a better <i>Tory</i> than I, if he spoke as he thought. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> The main difference between these [the Presbyterians + and the Independents] was, that the Presbyterians seemed reconcilable to + the Church; <i>for they loved Episcopal ordination and a liturgy.</i>—<i>Swift.</i> + A damnable lie. + </p> + <p> + P. 702. <i>Burnet.</i> [Both Presbyterians and Independents] were enemies + to this high prerogative, that the King was assuming, and were very averse + to Popery.—<i>Swift.</i> Style. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet.</i> So the more considerable among them [the Dissenters] + resolved not to stand at too great a distance from the court, nor provoke + the King so far, as to give him cause to think they were irreconcilable to + him, lest they should provoke him to make up matters on any terms with the + Church party.—<i>Swift.</i> They all complied most shamefully and + publicly, as is well known. + </p> + <p> + P. 703. <i>Burnet.</i> The King's choice of Palmer, Earl of Castlemain, + was liable to great exception.—<i>Swift.</i> Duchess of Cleveland's + husband. + </p> + <p> + P. 705. <i>Burnet.</i> Since what an ambassador says is understood as said + by the prince whose character he bears, this gave the States a right to + make use of all advantages that might offer themselves.—<i>Swift.</i> + Sophistry. + </p> + <p> + P. 710. <i>Burnet.</i> The restless spirit of some of that religion + [Popery], and of their clergy in particular, shewed they could not be at + quiet till they were masters.—<i>Swift.</i> All sects are of that + spirit. + </p> + <p> + P. 716. <i>Burnet,</i> speaking of "the fury that had been driven on for + many years by a Popish party," adds:—When some of those who had been + always moderate told these, who were putting on another temper, that they + would perhaps forget this as soon as the danger was over, they promised + the contrary very solemnly. It shall be told afterwards, how well they + remembered this.—<i>Swift.</i> False and spiteful. + </p> + <p> + P. 726. <i>Burnet.</i> That which gave the crisis to the King's anger was + that he heard I was to be married to a considerable fortune at The Hague.—<i>Swift.</i> + A phrase of the rabble. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet,</i> when a prosecution was commenced against Burnet in + Scotland, he obtained naturalization for himself in Holland, after which + he wrote to the Earl of Middleton, saying that:—being now + naturalized in Holland, my allegiance was, during my stay in these parts, + transferred from His Majesty to the States.—<i>Swift.</i> Civilians + deny that, but I agree with him. + </p> + <p> + P. 727. <i>Burnet.</i> I come now to the year 1688, which proved + memorable, and produced an extraordinary and <i>unheard</i>-of revolution.—<i>Swift.</i> + The Devil's in that, sure all Europe <i>heard</i> of it. + </p> + <p> + P. 730. <i>Burnet,</i>after saying that he had been naturalized in + Holland, upon marrying one of the subjects of the States, goes on:—The + King took the matter very ill, and said, it was an affront to him, and a + just cause of war.—<i>Swift.</i> Vain fop. + </p> + <p> + P. 731. <i>Burnet.</i> I never possessed my own soul in a more perfect + calm, and in a clearer cheerfulness of spirit, than I did during all those + threatenings, and the apprehensions that others were in concerning me.—<i>Swift.</i> + A modest account of his own magnanimity. + </p> + <p> + P. 746. <i>Burnet.</i> But after all, though soldiers were <i>bad + Englishmen and worse Christians</i>, yet the court [of James II.] found + them too good Protestants to trust much to them.—<i>Swift</i>. + Special doctrine. + </p> + <p> + P. 748. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the Queen's expectation of a child, + says:—I will give as full and as distinct an account of all that + related to that matter, as I could gather up either at that time or + afterwards.—<i>Swift</i>. All coffee-house chat. + </p> + <p> + P. 751. <i>Burnet</i>. Now a resolution was taken for the Queen's lying in + at St. James's.—<i>Swift</i>. Windsor would have been more + suspicious. + </p> + <p> + P. 752. <i>Burnet</i>, doubting of the legitimacy of the Pretender, and + describing the Queen's manner of lying-in, says:—The Queen lay all + the while a-bed: And, in order to the warming one side of it, a + warming-pan was brought. But it was not opened, that it might be seen that + there was fire and nothing else in it.—<i>Swift</i>. This, the + ladies say, is foolish. + </p> + <p> + P. 753. <i>Burnet</i>. Hemings, a very worthy man,... was reading in his + parlour late at night, when he heard one coming into the neighbouring + parlour, and say with a doleful voice, "The Prince of Wales is dead"; Upon + which ... it was plain, they were in a great consternation.—<i>Swift</i>. + A most foolish story, hardly worthy of a coffee-house. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>. It was said, that the child was strangely revived of + a sudden. Some of the physicians told Lloyd, Bishop of St. Asaph, that it + was not possible for them to think it was the same child. They looked on + one another, but durst not speak what they thought.—<i>Swift</i>. So + here are three children. + </p> + <p> + P. 762. <i>Burnet</i>. The Lord Mordaunt was the first of all the English + nobility that came over openly to see the Prince of Orange.—<i>Swift</i>. + Now Earl of Peterborough. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>. The Earl of Shrewsbury ... seemed to be a man of + great probity, and to have a high sense of honour.—<i>Swift</i>. + Quite contrary. + </p> + <p> + P. 763. <i>Burnet</i>. Lord Lumley, who was a late convert from Popery, + and had stood out very firmly all this reign.—<i>Swift</i>. He was a + knave and a coward. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>. Mr. Sidney,[7] brother to the Earl of Leicester and + to Algernon Sidney. He was a graceful man, and had lived long in the + court, where he had some adventures that became very public. He was a man + of a sweet and caressing temper, had no malice in his heart, but too great + a love of pleasure.—<i>Swift</i>. An idle, drunken, ignorant rake, + without sense, truth, or honour. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 7: Henry Sidney, afterwards Earl of Romney. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 764. <i>Burnet</i>. But, because he [Mr. Sidney] was lazy, and the + business required an active man, who could both run about, and write over + long and full accounts of all matters, I recommended a kinsman of my own, + Johnstoune, whom I had formed, and knew to be both faithful and diligent.—<i>Swift</i>. + An arrant Scotch rogue. + </p> + <p> + P. 764. <i>Burnet</i>. The Earl of Nottingham ... had great credit with + the whole Church party; For he was a man possessed with their notions.—<i>Swift</i>. + That is, Church notions. + </p> + <p> + P. 765. <i>Burnet</i>. Lord Churchill [afterwards Duke of Marlborough] ... + was a man of a noble and graceful appearance, bred up in the court with no + literature: But he had a solid and clear understanding, with a constant + presence of mind. He knew the arts of living in a court better than any + man in it. He caressed all people with a soft and obliging deportment, and + was always ready to do good offices.... It must be acknowledged, that he + is one of the greatest men the age has produced.—<i>Swift</i>. A + composition of perfidiousness and avarice. + </p> + <p> + Ibid. <i>Burnet</i>, still speaking of Lord Churchill:—He was also + very doubtful as to the pretended birth. So he resolved, when the Prince + should come over, to go in to him; but to betray no post, nor do anything + more than the withdrawing himself, with such officers as he could trust + with such a secret.—<i>Swift</i>. What could he do more to a mortal + enemy. + </p> + <p> + P. 769. <i>Burnet</i>. [Skelton's] rash folly might have procured the + order from the court of France, to own this alliance [with England]; He + thought it would terrify the States; And so he pressed this officiously, + which they easily granted.—<i>Swift</i>. And who can blame him, if + in such a necessity he made that alliance? + </p> + <p> + P. 772. <i>Burnet</i>. The King of France thought himself tied by no + peace; but that, when he suspected his neighbours were intending to make + war upon him, he might upon such a suspicion begin a war on his part.—<i>Swift</i>. + The common maxim of princes. + </p> + <p> + P. 776. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the Declaration prepared for Scotland, + says that the:—Presbyterians, had drawn it so, that, by many + passages in it, the Prince by an implication declared in favour of + Presbytery. He did not see what the consequences of those were, till I + explained them. So he ordered them to be altered. And by the Declaration + that matter was still entire.—<i>Swift</i>. The more shame for King + William, who changed it. + </p> + <p> + P. 782. <i>Burnet</i>, three days before the Prince of Orange embarked, he + visited the States General, and:—took God to witness, he went to + England with no other intentions, but those he had set out in his + Declaration.—<i>Swift</i>. Then he was perjured; for he designed to + get the crown, which he denied in the Declaration. + </p> + <p> + P. 783. <i>Burnet</i>, after describing the storm which put back the + Prince of Orange's fleet, observes:—In France and England ... they + triumphed not a little, as if God had fought against us, and defeated the + whole design. We on our part, who found our selves delivered out of so + great a storm and so vast a danger, looked on it as a mark of God's great + care of us, Who, ... had preserved us.—<i>Swift</i>. Then still it + must be a <i>miracle</i>. + </p> + <p> + P. 785. <i>Burnet</i>, when matters were coming to a crisis at the + Revolution, an order was:—sent to the Bishop of Winchester, to put + the President of Magdalen College again in possession, ... [But when the + court heard] the Prince and his fleet were blown back, it was + countermanded; which plainly shewed what it was that drove the court into + so much compliance, and how long it was like to last.—<i>Swift</i>. + The Bishop of Winchester assured me otherwise. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. The court thought it necessary, now in an <i>after-game</i> + to offer some satisfaction in that point [of the legitimacy of the Prince + of Wales].—<i>Swift</i>. And this was the proper time. + </p> + <p> + P. 786. <i>Burnet</i>. Princess Anne was not present [at the Queen's + delivery]. She indeed excused herself. She thought she was breeding: And + all motion was forbidden her. None believed that to be the true reason.... + So it was looked on as a colour that shewed she did not believe the thing, + and that therefore she would not by her being present seem to give any + credit to it.—<i>Swift</i>. I have reason to believe this to be true + of the Princess Anne. + </p> + <p> + P. 790. <i>Burnet</i>. [The Prince of Orange's army] stayed a week at + Exeter, before any of the gentlemen of the country about came in to the + Prince. Every day some person of condition came from other parts. The + first were the Lord Colchester the eldest son of the Earl of Rivers, and + the Lord Wharton.—<i>Swift.</i> Famous for his cowardice in the + rebellion of 1642. + </p> + <p> + P. 791. <i>Burnet</i>. Soon after that. Prince George, the Duke of + Ormonde, and the Lord Dramlanrig, the Duke of Queensberry's eldest son, + left him [King James], and came over to the Prince.—<i>Swift</i>. + Yet how has he been since used? [referring to the Duke of Ormonde.] + </p> + <p> + P. 792. <i>Burnet</i>. In a little while a small army was formed about her + [Princess Anne], who chose to be commanded by the Bishop of London; of + which he too easily accepted.—<i>Swift,</i> And why should he not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. A foolish ballad was made at that time, treating the + Papists, and chiefly the Irish, in a very ridiculous manner, which had a + burden, said to be Irish words, "Lero, Lero, Lilibulero," that made an + impression on the army, that cannot be well imagined by those who saw it + not.—<i>Swift</i>. They are not Irish words, but better than Scotch. + </p> + <p> + P. 795. <i>Burnet</i>. The Queen took up a sudden resolution of going to + France with the child. The midwife, together with all who were assisting + at the birth, were also carried over, or so disposed of, that it could + never be learned what became of them afterwards.—<i>Swift</i> That + is strange and incredible. + </p> + <p> + P. 796. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of King James's first attempt to leave the + kingdom, says:—With this his reign ended: For this was a plain + deserting his people, and the exposing the nation to the pillage of an + army, which he had ordered the Earl of Feversham to disband.—<i>Swift</i>. + Abominable assertion, and false consequence. + </p> + <p> + P. 797. <i>Burnet</i>, the incident of the King's being retaken at + Feversham, and the subsequent stragglings, gave rise to the party of + Jacobites:—-For, if he had got clear away, by all that could be + judged, he would not have had a party left: All would have agreed, that + here was a desertion, and that therefore the nation was free, and at + liberty to secure itself. But what followed upon this gave them a colour + to say, that he was forced away, and driven out.—<i>Swift</i>. So he + certainly was, both now and afterwards. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. None were killed, no houses burnt, nor were any + robberies committed.—<i>Swift</i>. Don Pedro de Ronquillo's house + was plundered and pulled down; he was Spanish ambassador. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. Jeffreys, finding the King was gone, saw what reason + he had to look to himself: And, apprehending that he was now exposed to + the rage of the people, whom he had provoked with so particular a + brutality, he had disguised himself to make his escape. But he fell into + the hands of some who knew him. He was insulted by them with as much scorn + and rudeness as they could invent. And, after many hours tossing him + about, he was carried to the Lord Mayor; whom they charged to commit him + to the Tower.—<i>Swift</i>. He soon after died in the Tower by + drinking strong liquors. + </p> + <p> + P. 798. <i>Burnet</i>, when the Prince heard of King James's flight:—he + sent to Oxford, to excuse his not coming thither, and to offer the + association to them, which was signed by almost all the heads, and the + chief men of the University; even by those, who, being disappointed in the + preferments they aspired to, became afterwards his most implacable + enemies.—<i>Swift</i>. Malice. + </p> + <p> + P. 799. <i>Burnet</i>, when I heard of King James's flight and capture:—I + was affected with this dismal reverse of the fortune of a great prince, + more than I think fit to express.—<i>Swift</i>. Or than I will + believe. + </p> + <p> + P. 800. <i>Burnet</i>, after relating that King James "sent the Earl of + Feversham to Windsor, without demanding any passport," describes his + reception, and adds:—Since the Earl of Feversham, who had commanded + the army against the Prince, was come without a passport, he was for some + days put in arrest.—<i>Swift.</i> Base and villainous. + </p> + <p> + P. 801. <i>Burnet</i>, when it was thought prudent for King James to leave + London, the Earl of Middleton suggested that he:—should go to + Rochester; for "since the Prince was not pleased with his coming up from + Kent, it might be perhaps acceptable to him, if he should go thither + again." It was very visible, that this was proposed in order to a second + escape.—<i>Swift</i>. And why not? + </p> + <p> + P. 802. <i>Burnet</i>. Some said, he [James] was now a prisoner, and + remembered the saying of King Charles the First, that the prisons and the + graves of princes lay not far distant from one another: The person of the + King was now struck at, as well as his government: And this specious + undertaking would now appear to be only a disguised and designed + usurpation.—<i>Swift.</i> All this is certainly true. + </p> + <p> + P. 803. <i>Burnet</i>. Now that the Prince was come, all the bodies about + the town came to welcome him.... Old Serjeant Maynard came with the men of + the law. He was then near ninety, and yet he said the liveliest thing that + was heard of on that occasion. The Prince took notice of his great age, + and said, "that he had outlived all the men of the law of his time:" He + answered, "He had like to have outlived the law itself, if his Highness + had not come over."—<i>Swift</i>. He was an old rogue for all that. + </p> + <p> + P. 805. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the first effects of the Revolution + upon the Presbyterians in Scotland, says:—They generally broke in + upon the Episcopal clergy with great insolence and much cruelty. They + carried them about the parishes in a mock procession: They tore their + gowns, and drove them from their churches and houses. Nor did they treat + those of them, who had appeared very zealously against Popery, with any + distinction.—<i>Swift</i>. To reward them for which, King William + abolished Episcopacy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>, The Episcopal party in Scotland saw themselves under + a great cloud: So they resolved all to adhere to the Earl of Dundee, who + had served some years in Holland, and was both an able officer, and a man + of good parts, and of some very valuable virtues.—<i>Swift</i>. He + was the best man in Scotland. + </p> + <p> + P. 806. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of Londonderry and Inniskilling, says:—Those + two small unfurnished and unfortified places, resolved to stand to their + own defence, and at all perils to stay till supplies should come to them + from England.—<i>Swift</i>. He should have mentioned Doctor Walker, + who defended Derry. + </p> + <p> + P. 807. <i>Burnet</i>. Those, who were employed by Tyrconnell to deceive + the Prince, made their applications by Sir William Temple, who had a long + and well established credit with him.—<i>Swift.</i> A lie of a Scot; + for Sir William Temple did not know Tyrconnell. + </p> + <p> + P. 807. <i>Burnet.</i> Others thought, that the leaving Ireland in that + dangerous state, might be a mean to bring the convention to a more speedy + settlement of England; and that therefore the Prince ought not to make too + much haste to relieve Ireland.—<i>Swift.</i> That is agreed to be + the true reason, and it was a wicked one. + </p> + <p> + P. 810. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of Archbishop Sancroft, says:—He was + a poor spirited, and fearful man; and acted a very mean part in all this + great transaction.—<i>Swift.</i> Others think very differently. + </p> + <p> + P. 811. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the proposal to establish a regency, + says:—The much greater part of the House of Lords was for this, and + stuck long to it: And so was about a third part of the House of Commons. + The greatest part of the clergy declared themselves for it.—<i>Swift.</i> + And it was certainly much the best expedient. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> The third party was made up of those, who thought + that there was an original contract between the King and the people of + England; by which the kings were bound to defend their people, and to + govern them according to law, in lieu of which the people were bound to + obey and serve the king.—<i>Swift.</i> I am of this party, and yet I + would have been for a regency. + </p> + <p> + P. 813. <i>Burnet</i>, it was argued that this scheme of a regency was:—both + more illegal; and more unsafe, than the method they proposed. The law of + England had settled the point of the subject's security in obeying the + king in possession, in the statute made by Henry the Seventh. So every man + knew he was safe under a king, and so would act with zeal and courage. But + all such as should act under a <i>prince-regent</i>, created by this + convention, were upon a bottom that had not the necessary forms of law for + it.—<i>Swift.</i> There is something in this argument. + </p> + <p> + P. 814. <i>Burnet.</i> It was believed, that those of his [King James's] + party, who were looked on as men of conscience, had secret orders from him + to act upon this pretence; since otherwise they offered to act clearly in + contradiction to their own oaths and principles,—<i>Swift.</i> This + is malice. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> [Others thought] that in our present circumstances + the extremity of affairs, by reason of the late ill government, and by + King James's flying over to the enemy of the nation, rather than submit to + reasonable terms, had put the people of England on the necessity of + securing themselves upon a legal bottom.—<i>Swift.</i> This was the + best reason. + </p> + <p> + P. 815. <i>Burnet.</i> There were good authorities brought, by which it + appeared, that when a person did a thing upon which his leaving any office + ought to follow, he was said to abdicate. But this was a critical dispute: + And it scarce became the greatness of that assembly, or the importance of + the matter.—<i>Swift.</i> It was a very material point. + </p> + <p> + P. 815. <i>Burnet.</i> It was urged, that, by the law, the king did never + die; but that with the last breath of the dying king the regal authority + went to the next heir.—<i>Swift.</i> This is certainly true. + </p> + <p> + P. 816. <i>Burnet.</i> An heir was one that came in the room of a person + that was dead: it being a maxim that no man can be the heir of a living + man—<i>Swift.</i> This is sophistry. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> It was proposed, that the birth of the pretended + prince might be examined into.... I was ordered to gather together all the + presumptive proofs that were formerly mentioned:.... It is true, these did + not amount to a full and legal proof: Yet they seemed to be such violent + presumptions, that, when they were all laid together, they were more + convincing than plain and downright evidence: For that was liable to the + suspicion of subornation: Whereas the other seemed to carry on them very + convincing characters of truth and certainty.—<i>Swift.</i> Well + said, Bishop. + </p> + <p> + P. 817. <i>Burnet.</i> If there was no clear and positive proof made of an + imposture, the pretending to examine into it, and then the not being able + to make it out beyond the possibility of contradiction, would really give + more credit to the thing, than it then had, and, instead of weakening it, + would strengthen the pretension of his birth.—<i>Swift.</i> Wisely + done. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> [Some people] thought, it would be a good security + for the nation, to have a dormant title to the crown lie as it were + neglected, to oblige our princes to govern well, while they would + apprehend the danger of a revolt to a Pretender still in their eye.—<i>Swift.</i> + I think this was no ill design; yet it hath not succeeded in mending + kings. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> I have used more than ordinary care to gather + together all the particulars that were then laid before me as to that + matter [the birth of the Pretender].—<i>Swift.</i> And where are + they? + </p> + <p> + P. 818. <i>Burnet</i>, after relating a long conversation with Bentinck + [afterwards Earl of Portland], adds—Next morning I came to him, and + desired my <i>congé</i>. I would oppose nothing in which the Prince seemed + to be concerned, as long as I was his servant. And therefore I desired to + be disengaged, that I might be free to oppose this proposition [to offer + him the crown] with all the strength and credit I had. He answered me, + that I might desire that when I saw a step made: But till then he wished + me to stay where I was.—<i>Swift.</i> Is all this true? + </p> + <p> + P. 819. <i>Burnet.</i> I heard no more of this; in which the Marquess of + Halifax was single among the peers: For I did not find there was any one + of them of his mind; unless it was the Lord Colepeper, who was a vicious + and corrupt man, but made a figure in the debates that were now in the + House of Lords, and died about the end of them.—<i>Swift.</i> Yet + was not the same thing done in effect, while the King had the sole + administration? + </p> + <p> + P. 819. <i>Burnet.</i> The Princess continued all the while in Holland, + being shut in there during the east winds, by the freezing of the rivers, + and by contrary winds after the thaw came. So that she came not to England + till all the debates were over.—<i>Swift.</i> Why was she [not] sent + for till the matter was agreed? This clearly shews the Prince's original + design was to be king, against what he professed in his Declaration. + </p> + <p> + P. 820. <i>Burnet.</i> [The Prince of Orange] said, he came over, being + invited, to save the nation: He had now brought together a free and true + representative of the kingdom: He left it therefore to them to do what + they thought best for the good of the kingdom: And, when things were once + settled, he should be well satisfied to go back to Holland again.—<i>Swift.</i> + Did he tell truth? + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> He thought it necessary to tell them, that he would + not be the Regent: So, if they continued in that design, they must look + out for some other person to be put in that post.—<i>Swift.</i> Was + not this a plain confession of what he came for? + </p> + <p> + P. 821. <i>Burnet.</i> In the end he said, that he could not resolve to + accept of a dignity, so as to hold it only the life of another: Yet he + thought, that the issue of Princess Anne should be preferred, in the + succession, to any issue that he might have by any other wife than the + Princess.—<i>Swift.</i> A great concession truly. + </p> + <p> + P. 822. <i>Burnet.</i> The poor Bishop of Durham [Lord Crewe], who had + absconded for some time, ... was now prevailed on to come, and by voting + the new settlement to merit at least a pardon for all that he had done: + Which, all things considered, was thought very indecent in him, yet not + unbecoming the rest of his life and character.—<i>Swift.</i> This is + too hard, though almost true. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet.</i> Then the power of the Crown to grant a <i>non-obstante</i> + to some statutes was objected.—<i>Swift.</i> Yet the words continue + in patents. + </p> + <p> + P. 824. <i>Burnet.</i> A notion was started, which ... was laid thus: "The + Prince had a just cause of making war on the King." In that most of them + agreed. In a just war, in which an appeal is made to God, success is + considered as the decision of Heaven. So the Prince's success against King + James gave him the right of conquest over him. And by it all his rights + were transferred to the Prince.—<i>Swift.</i> The author wrote a + paper to prove this, and it was burnt by the hangman, and is a very + foolish scheme.[8] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 8: "A Pastoral Letter writ by ... Gilbert, Lord Bishop of Sarum, + to the clergy of his Diocess" [dated May 15th, 1689] was condemned by the + House of Commons on Jan. 23rd, 169-2/3, and ordered to "be burnt by the + hand of the common hangman." [T.S.]] + </p> + <h3> + BOOK VII. + </h3> + <p> + P. 525 (second volume). <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the Act for the General + Naturalization of Protestants, and the opposition made against it by the + High Church, adds:—This was carried in the House of Commons, with a + great majority; but all those, who appeared for this large and + comprehensive way, were reproached for their coldness and indifference in + the concerns of the Church: And in that I had a large share.—<i>Swift</i>. + Dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 526. <i>Burnet</i>. The faction here in England found out proper + instruments, to set the same humour on foot [in Ireland], during the Earl + of Rochester's government, and, as was said, by his directions:... So the + clergy were making the same bold claim there, that had raised such + disputes among us.—<i>Swift</i>. Dog, dog, dog. + </p> + <p> + P. 580. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the interruption in the negotiations + for a peace consequent on the Earl of Jersey's death, adds:—<i>One + Prior</i>, who had been Jersey's secretary, upon his death, was employed + to prosecute that, which the other did not live to finish. Prior had been + taken a boy, out of a tavern, by the Earl of Dorset, who accidentally + found him reading Horace; and he, being very generous, gave him an + education in literature.—<i>Swift</i>. Malice. + </p> + <p> + P. 581. <i>Burnet</i>. Many mercenary pens were set on work, to justify + our proceedings, and to defame our allies, more particularly the Dutch; + this was done with much art, but <i>with no regard to truth</i>, in a + pamphlet entitled "The Conduct of the Allies, and of the late Ministry."—<i>Swift + It was all true</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Ibid. Burnet</i>. The Jacobites did, with the greater joy entertain + this prospect of peace, because the Dauphin had, in a visit to St. + Germains, congratulated that court upon it; which made them conclude, that + it was to have a happy effect, with relation to the Pretender's affairs.—<i>Swift</i>. + The Queen hated and despised the Pretender, to my knowledge. + </p> + <p> + P. 583. <i>Burnet</i>, in a conference I had with the Queen on the subject + of peace.—she hoped bishops would not be against peace: I said, a + good peace was what we prayed daily for, but ... any treaty by which Spain + and the West Indies were left to King Philip, must in a little while + deliver up all Europe into the hands of France; and, if any such peace + should be made, she was betrayed, and we were all ruined; in less than + three years' time, she would be murdered, and the fires would be again + raised in Smithfield.—<i>Swift</i>. A false prophet in every + particular. + </p> + <p> + P. 589. <i>Burnet</i>, the Queen having sent a message to the Lords to + adjourn, it was debated:—that the Queen could not send a message to + any one House to adjourn, when the like message was not sent to both + Houses: the pleasure of the Prince, in convening, dissolving, proroguing, + or ordering the adjournment of Parliaments, was always directed to both + Houses; but never to any one House, without the same intimation was made, + at the same time, to the other.—<i>Swift</i>. Modern nonsense. + </p> + <p> + P. 591. <i>Burnet</i>. The House of Commons, after the recess, entered on + the observations of the commissioners for taking the public accounts; and + began with [Sir Robert] Walpole, whom they resolved to put out of the way + of disturbing them in the House.—<i>Swift</i>. He began early, and + has been thriving <i>twenty-seven years</i>, to January 1739. + </p> + <p> + P. 609. <i>Burnet</i>. A new set of addresses ran about.... Some of these + addresses mentioned the Protestant succession, and the House of Hanover, + with zeal; others did it more coldly; and some made no mention at all of + it. And it was universally believed, that no addresses were so acceptable + to the ministers, as those of <i>the last sort</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. + Foolish and factious. + </p> + <p> + P. 610. <i>Burnet</i>. The Duke of Ormonde had given the States such + assurances, of his going along with them through the whole campaign, that + he was let into the secrets of all their counsels, which by that + confidence were all known to the French: And, if the auxiliary German + troops had not been prepared to disobey his orders, it was believed he, in + conjunction with the French army, would have forced the States to come + into the new measures.—<i>Swift</i>. Vile Scot, dare to touch + Ormonde's honour, and so falsely. + </p> + <p> + P. 612. <i>Burnet</i>, the Duke of Hamilton and Lord Mohun were engaged in + litigation; and:—upon a very high provocation, the Lord Mohun sent + him [the Duke] a challenge, which he tried to decline: but both being + hurried, by those false points of honour, they fatally went out to Hyde + Park, in the middle of November, and fought with so violent an animosity, + that neglecting the rules of art, they seemed to run on one another, as if + they tried who should kill first; in which they were both so unhappily + successful, that the Lord Mohun was killed outright, and Duke Hamilton + died in a few minutes after.[9]—<i>Swift</i>. Wrongly told. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 9: A footnote to the 1833 edition of Burnet says that "the duke + in the belief of some was killed by General Macartney, the Lord Mohun's + second." See also Chesterfield's letter quoted in Introduction, and + Swift's own version in the "Four Last Years," p. 178. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + P. 614. <i>Burnet</i> says of the Earl of Godolphin:—After having + been thirty years in the Treasury, and during nine of those Lord + Treasurer, as he was never once suspected of corruption, or of suffering + his servants to grow rich under him, so in all that time his estate was + not increased by him to the value of £4,000. <i>Swift</i>. A great lie. + </p> + <h3> + THE CONCLUSION. + </h3> + <p> + P. 669. <i>Burnet</i>, speaking of the progress of his own life, says:—The + pleasures of sense I did soon nauseate.—<i>Swift</i>. Not so soon + with the wine of some elections. + </p> + <h3> + THE LIFE OF THE AUTHOR, BY THOMAS BURNET, ESQ. + </h3> + <p> + Opposite to the title-page:—<i>Swift</i>. A rude violent party + jackanapes. + </p> + <p> + In the Life, p. 719, is printed a letter from Archbishop Tillotson, dated + October 23, 1764 [sic, the volume was printed in 1734, the date should be + 1694], in which he says: "The account given of Athanasius's Creed, seems + to me no-wise satisfactory; I wish we were well rid of it."—<i>Swift</i> + has drawn a finger in the margin of his copy of Burnet's History pointing + to this passage. + </p> + <p> + P. 722. <i>Thomas Burnet</i>. The character I have given his wives, will + scarce make it an addition to his, that he was a most affectionate + husband. His tender care of the <i>first</i>, during a course of sickness, + that lasted for many years; and <i>his fond love to the other two</i>, and + the deep concern he expressed for their loss, were no more than their just + due, from one of his humanity, gratitude and discernment.—<i>Swift</i>. + Three wives. + </p> + <p> + P. 723. <i>Thomas Burnet</i>. The bishop was a kind and bountiful master + to his servants, whom he never changed, but with regret and through + necessity: Friendly and obliging to all in employment under him, and + peculiarly happy in the choice of them; especially in that of the steward + to the bishopric and his courts, William Wastefield, Esq. (a gentleman of + a plentiful fortune, at the time of his accepting this post) and in that + of his domestic steward, Mr. <i>Mackney</i>.—<i>Swift</i>. A Scot, + his own countryman. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE" id="link2H_NOTE"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + NOTES ON THE FREE-HOLDER. + </h2> + <h3> + NOTE + </h3> + <p> + "THE FREE HOLDER" was a political periodical written in the form of + essays. It continued for fifty five numbers from Friday, December 23rd, + 1715, to Friday, June 29th, 1716. Its purpose was to reconcile the English + nation to the Hanoverian succession. "These papers," notes Scott, "while + they exhibit the exquisite humour and solid sense peculiar to the author, + show also, even amid the strength of party, that philanthropy and + gentleness of nature, which were equally his distinguishing attributes. + None of these qualities would have conciliated his great opponent, Swift, + had the field of combat yet remained open to him. But as he withdrew from + it in sullen indignation, he seems to have thrown out the following + flashes of satire, as brief examples of what he would have done had the + hour of answer been yet current." + </p> + <p> + Scott obtained these "notes" from a transcription of the original in + Swift's own hand, in a copy of "The Free holder" which belonged to Dr. + Bernard, Bishop of Limerick. The present text is a reprint of Scott's, but + the text of "The Free holder" has been read with the octavo and duodecimo + editions of that periodical issued by Midwinter in 1716. The titles to the + essays were not given in the original issue, except that to No. 9. They + were added as a "Contents" to the re-issue in volume form. + </p> + <h3> + [T.S.] + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE1" id="link2H_NOTE1"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + NOTES ON THE FREE-HOLDER.[1] + </h2> + <h3> + No. 2. <i>Dec. 26, 1715</i>.—<i>Of His Majesty's Character.</i> + </h3> + <p> + <i>Addison.</i> + </p> + <p> + [Footnote 1: "The Free-holder," conducted by Addison, was published on + Mondays and Fridays from December 23rd, 1715, till June 29th, 1716; + fifty-five numbers were issued altogether. [T.S.]] + </p> + <p> + It was by this [this firmness of mind] that he surmounted those many + difficulties which lay in the way to his succession.—<i>Swift</i>. + What difficulties were those, or what methods did he take to surmount + them? + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It is observed by Sir William Temple, that the English are + particularly fond of a king who is valiant: Upon which account His Majesty + has a title to all the esteem that can be paid the most warlike prince; + though at the same time, for the good of his subjects, he studies to + decline all occasions of military glory.—<i>Swift</i>. This seems to + be a discovery. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. I might here take notice of His Majesty's more private + virtues, but have rather chosen to remind my countrymen of the public + parts of his character.—<i>Swift</i>. This is prudent. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. But the most remarkable interpositions of Providence, in + favour of him, have appeared in removing those seemingly invincible + obstacles to his succession; in taking away, at so critical a juncture, + the person who might have proved a dangerous enemy; etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + False, groundless, invidious, and ungrateful. Was that person the Queen? + </p> + <p> + No. 3. <i>Dec. 30, 1715</i>.—<i>The Memoirs of a Preston Rebel.</i> + </p> + <p> + [<i>A Ludicrous Account of the Principles of the Northumberland + Insurgents, and the Causes of their taking Arms</i>.]—<i>Swift</i>. + Could this author, or his party, offer as good reasons for their infamous + treatment of our blessed Queen's person, government, and majesty? + </p> + <p> + The same. <i>Addison</i>. Having been joined by a considerable + reinforcement of Roman Catholics, whom we could rely upon, as knowing them + to be the best Tories in the nation, and avowed enemies to + Presbyterianism.—<i>Swift</i>. By this irony, the best Whigs are + professed friends to fanatics. + </p> + <p> + The same. <i>Addison</i>. But before we could give the word [to retreat], + the trainbands, taking advantage of our delay, fled first.—<i>Swift</i>. + An argument for a standing army. + </p> + <p> + No. 6. <i>Jan. 9, 1715-16</i>.—<i>The Guilt of Perjury.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Though I should be unwilling to pronounce the man who is + indolent, or indifferent in the cause of his prince, to be absolutely + perjured; I may venture to affirm, that he falls very short of that + allegiance to which he is obliged by oath.—<i>Swift</i>. Suppose a + king grows a beast, or a tyrant, after I have taken an oath: a 'prentice + takes an oath; but if his master useth him barbarously, the lad may be + excused if he wishes for a better. + </p> + <p> + No. 7. <i>Jan. 13, 1715-16</i>.—<i>Of Party Lies.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. If we may credit common report, there are several remote + parts of the nation in which it is firmly believed, that all the churches + in London are shut up; and that if any clergyman walks the streets in his + habit, 'tis ten to one but he is knocked down by some sturdy schismatic.—<i>Swift</i>. + No—but treated like a dog. + </p> + <p> + No. 8. <i>Jan. 16, 1715-16</i>.—<i>The Female Association.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It is therefore to be hoped that every fine woman will + make this laudable use of her charms; and that she may not want to be + frequently reminded of this great duty, I will only desire her to think of + her country every time she looks in her glass.—<i>Swift</i>. By no + means, for if she loves her country, she will not be pleased with the + sight. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Every wife ought to answer for her man. If the husband be + engaged in a seditious club or drinks mysterious healths ... let her look + to him, and keep him out of harm's way; etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Will they + hang a man for that. + </p> + <p> + No. 9. <i>Jan. 20, 1715-16</i>.—<i>Answer of the Free-holders of + Great Britain to the Pretender's Declaration.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>The Declaration of the Free-holders of Great Britain, in Answer to that + of the Pretender</i>.—<i>Addison</i>. Can you in conscience think us + to be such fools as to rebel against the King, for ... having removed a + general [the Duke of Ormonde] who is now actually in arms against him, + etc.—<i>Swift</i>. Driven out by tyranny, malice, and faction. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. The next grievance, which you have a mighty mind to + redress among us, is the Parliament of Great Britain, against whom you + bring a stale accusation which has been used by every minority in the + memory of man; namely, that it was procured by unwarrantable influences + and corruptions.—<i>Swift.</i> The freeholders will never sign this + paragraph. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. How comes it to pass that the Electorate of Hanover is + become all of a sudden one of the most inconsiderable provinces of the + empire?—<i>Swift</i>. It is indeed grown considerable by draining of + England. + </p> + <p> + No. 12. <i>Jan</i>. 30, 1715-16.—<i>The Guilt of Rebellion in + general, and of the late Rebellion in particular</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. The present rebellion [1715] is formed against a king, ... + who has not been charged with one illegal proceeding.—<i>Swift</i> + Are you serious? + </p> + <p> + No. 13. <i>Feb</i>. 3, 1715-16.—<i>Of those who are indifferent in a + time of Rebellion</i>, + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. In such a juncture [a rebellion], though a man may be + innocent of the great breach which is made upon government, he is highly + culpable, if he does not use all the means that are suitable to his + station for reducing the community into its former state of peace and good + order.—<i>Swift</i>. He speaks at his ease, but those who are ill + used will be apt to apply what the boy said to his mother, who told him + the enemy was approaching. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. This law [one of Solon's] made it necessary for every + citizen to take his party, because it was highly probable the majority + would be so wise as to espouse that cause which was most agreeable to the + public weal.—<i>Swift</i>. No—for, in England, a faction that + governs a weak, or honours a wicked prince, will carry all against a + majority in the kingdom, as we have seen by sad experience. + </p> + <p> + No. 14. <i>Feb.</i> 6, 1715-16.—<i>The Political Creed of a Tory + Malcontent.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Article XIII, That there is an unwarrantable faction in + this island, consisting of King, Lords, and Commons.—<i>Swift</i>. + This article is too true, with a little alteration. + </p> + <p> + The same. <i>Addison</i>. Article XV. That an Act of Parliament to empower + the King to secure suspected persons in times of rebellion, is the means + to establish the sovereign on the throne, and consequently a great + infringement of the liberties of the subject.—<i>Swift</i>. No—but + to destroy liberty. + </p> + <p> + No. 21. <i>Mar</i>. 2, 1715-16.—<i>The Birthday of Her Royal + Highness the Princess of Wales</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. When this excellent princess was yet in her father's + court, she was so celebrated for the beauty of her person, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. + I have bad eyes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. There is no part of her Royal Highness's character which + we observe with greater pleasure, than that behaviour by which she has so + much endeared herself to His Majesty.—<i>Swift.</i> What would he + say now?[2] + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: 2: The prince and his father, George I., were now [1727, just + before George I. died] at variance. [S.]] + </p> + <p> + No. 24. <i>Mar</i>. 12, 1715-16.—<i>The Designs of His Majesty's + Enemies impracticable</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. To this we may add ... that submissive deference of his + Royal Highness both from duty and inclination to all the measures of his + Royal father.—<i>Swift</i>. Which still continues. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. There is no question but His Majesty will be as generally + valued and beloved in his British as he is in his German dominions, when + he shall have time to make his royal virtues equally known among us.—<i>Swift.</i> + How long time does he require? + </p> + <p> + No. 26. <i>Mar</i>. 19, 1715-16.—<i>Considerations offered to the + disaffected part of the Fair Sex</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Several inconveniencies which those among them undergo, + who have not yet surrendered to the government.—<i>Swift</i>. Would + he pimp for the court? + </p> + <p> + No. 29. <i>Mar</i>. 30, 1716.—<i>The Practice of Morality necessary + to make a Party flourish</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Those of our fellow-subjects, who are sensible of the + happiness they enjoy in His Majesty's accession to the throne, are + obliged, by all the duties of gratitude, to adore that Providence which + has so signally interposed in our behalf, by clearing a way to the + Protestant succession through such difficulties as seemed insuperable—<i>Swift</i>. + I wish he had told us any one of those difficulties. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It is the duty of an honest and prudent man, to sacrifice + a doubtful opinion to the concurring judgement of those whom he believes + to be well intentioned to their country, and who have better opportunities + of looking into all its most complicated interests.—<i>Swift</i>. A + motion to make men go every length with their party. I am sorry to see + such a principle in this author. + </p> + <p> + No. 31. <i>Apr</i>. 6, 1716.—<i>Answer to a celebrated Pamphlet + entitled "An Argument to prove the Affections of the People of England to + be the best Security of the Government; etc."</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. This middle method [of tempering justice with mercy] ... + has hitherto been made use of by our sovereign.—<i>Swift</i>. In + trifles. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Would it be possible for him [the reader] to imagine, that + of the several thousands openly taken in arms, and liable to death by the + laws of their country, not above forty have yet suffered?—<i>Swift.</i> + A trifle! + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Has not His Majesty then shewn the least appearance of + grace in that generous forgiveness which he has already extended to such + great numbers of his rebellious subjects, who must have died by the laws + of their country, had not his mercy interposed in their behalf?—<i>Swift</i>. + Prodigious clemency, not to hang all the common soldiers who followed + their leaders! + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Those who are pardoned would not have known the value of + grace, if none had felt the effects of justice.—<i>Swift.</i> And + only hanging the lords and gentlemen, and some of the rabble. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. Their [the last ministry's] friends have ever since made + use of the most base methods to infuse those groundless discontents into + the minds of the common people, etc.—<i>Swift.</i> Hath experience + shown those discontents groundless? + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. If the removal of these persons from their posts has + produced such popular commotions, the continuance of them might have + produced something much more fatal to their king and country.—<i>Swift</i>. + Very false reasoning. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. No man would make such a parallel, [between the treatment + of the rebels, and that of the Catalans under King Philip,] unless his + mind be so blinded with passion and prejudice, as to assert, in the + language of this pamphlet, "That no instances can be produced of the least + lenity under the present administration from the first hour it commenced + to this day."—<i>Swift</i>. Nor to this, 1727. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. God be thanked we have a king who punishes with + reluctancy.—<i>Swift</i>. A great comfort to the sufferers! + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It would be well if all those who ... are clamorous at the + proceedings of His present Majesty, would remember, that notwithstanding + that rebellion [the Duke of Monmouth's] ... had no tendency ... to destroy + the national religion, etc.—<i>Swift</i>. To introduce fanaticism, + and destroy monarchy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. No prince has ever given a greater instance of his + inclinations to rule without a standing army.—<i>Swift</i>. We find + this true by experience. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. What greater instances could His Majesty have given of his + love to the Church of England, than those he has exhibited by his most + solemn declarations; by his daily example; and by his promotions of the + most eminent among the clergy to such vacancies as have happened in his + reign.—<i>Swift.</i> Most undeniable truth, as any in Rabelais. + </p> + <p> + No. 44. <i>May</i> 21, 1716.—<i>Tory Foxhunter's Account of the + Masquerade on the Birth of the Arch-Duke.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. What still gave him greater offence was a drunken bishop, + who reeled from one side of the court to the other, and was very sweet + upon an Indian Queen.—<i>Swift</i>. Then, that story is true? + </p> + <p> + No. 45. <i>May</i> 25, 1716.—<i>The Use and Advantage of Wit and + Humour under proper Regulations</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. I have lately read with much pleasure, the "Essays upon + several Subjects" published by Sir Richard Blackmore.—<i>Swift</i>. + I admire to see such praises from this author to so insipid a scoundrel, + whom I know he despised. + </p> + <p> + No. 51. <i>June</i> 15, 1716.—<i>Cautions to be observed in the + reading of ancient Greek and Roman Historians</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. "History of Free-thinking."—<i>Swift</i>. Writ by + Collins. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. The greatest theorists ... among those very people [the + Greeks and Romans,] have given the preference to such a form of + government, as that which obtains in this kingdom.—<i>Swift</i>. + Yet, this we see is liable to be wholly corrupted. + </p> + <p> + No. 52. <i>June</i> 18, 1716.—<i>Of State Jealousy</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It is plain, ... that such a base ungenerous race of men + could rely upon nothing for their safety in this affront to His Majesty, + [wearing a mark on the Pretender's birth-day,] but the known gentleness + and lenity of his government.—<i>Swift</i>. Then the devil was in + them. + </p> + <p> + No. 54. <i>June</i> 25, 1716.—<i>Preference of the Whig Scheme to + that of the Tories</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. The Whigs tell us ... that the Tory scheme would terminate + in Popery and arbitrary government.—<i>Swift.</i> But Tories never + writ or spoke so gently and favourably of Popery, as Whigs do of + Presbytery. Witness a thousand pamphlets on both sides. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. I shall not impute to any Tory scheme the administration + of King James the Second, on condition that they do not reproach the Whigs + with the usurpation of Oliver.—<i>Swift</i>. I will not accept that + condition, nor did I ever see so unfair a one offered. + </p> + <p> + No. 55. <i>June</i> 29, 1716.—<i>Conclusion</i>. + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. The enemies of His present Majesty ... find him in a + condition to visit his dominions in Germany, without any danger to + himself, or to the public; whilst his dutiful subjects would be in no + ordinary concern upon this occasion, had they not the consolation to find + themselves left under the protection of a prince who makes it his ambition + to copy out his Royal Father's example.—<i>Swift</i> Then, why was + he never trusted a second time? + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. It would indeed have been an unpardonable insolence for a + fellow-subject to treat in a vindictive and cruel style, those persons + whom His Majesty has endeavoured to reduce to obedience by gentle methods, + which he has declared from the throne to be most agreeable to his + inclinations.—<i>Swift</i>. And is that enough? + </p> + <p> + <i>Addison</i>. May we not hope that all of this kind, who have the least + sentiments of honour or gratitude, will be won over to their duty by so + many instances of Royal clemency?—<i>Swift</i> Not one instance + produced. + </p> + <h3> + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0016" id="link2H_4_0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + INDEX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ABINGDON, Earl of, character of, 279. + Addison, Joseph, Swift and, 15; + Swift's Notes on the Freeholder, 371-377. + Aglionby, Mr., character of, 284. + Albemarle, Earl of, defeated at Denain, 169, 175; + character of, 276. + Allies, the, unfair treatment of England by, 104 <i>et seq</i>. + Ancaster, Duke of, character of, 279. + Anne, the Princess, her behaviour at the birth of the Pretender, 360. + <i>See</i> Anne, Queen. + Anne, Queen, her treatment of Swift, 10 and <i>n</i>., 15; + offers a reward for discovery of author of + the "Public Spirit of the Whigs," 15; + her change of ministry, 19, 31; + her overtures with regard to peace, 31, 50; + creates twelve new peers, 38, 39; + stated to have pressed Marlborough + to become general for life, 40; + dismisses Marlborough, 48, 49; + her conduct of the peace negotiations, <i>see</i> Utrecht, Congress of; + speech on the terms of peace with France, 151 <i>et seq</i>. + Argyle, the family of, Swift on, + 293, 300, 306, 308, 312, 313, 314, 317, 318, 319, 332, 335. + Argyle, Archibald, Duke of, character of, 286. + Arlington, Earl of, character of, 334. + Assiento, the, demanded by England, 63, 67, 136, 144, 145, 153; + the Dutch demand a share in, 130, 138, 140, 141. + Aylesford, Earl of, Swift on, 350. + Aylmer, Colonel Matthew (Lord), character of, 284. + + Baillie, Robert, 349-350; + his execution, 351. + Barrier Treaty, the, 41, 80-82; + inquiry into, 99; + laid before the House, 100; + interests of Great Britain sacrificed by, 110-114; + peace proposals affecting, 134, 135, 138, 140, 143; + new treaty signed, 180-182. + Bavaria, Elector of, peace proposals affecting, + 79, 171, 176, 179, 183, 184, 188. + Baxter, Richard, 337. + Berkeley, Earl of, character of, 279. + Berry, Duke of, declared heir to the French throne, 152, 174. + Blackmore, Sir Richard, 376. + Blackwell, Sir Lambert, character of, 284. + Blunt, Sir John, on the National Debt, 91, 92. + Bolingbroke, Henry St. John, Lord, his estrangement from Harley, 13, 16; + information given to Swift by, 18 <i>n</i>.; + and the Duke of Somerset, 33; + his interview with Bothmar, 43; + introduces Prince Eugene to the Queen, 43; + hated by Eugene, 45; + his attacks on Walpole, 84 and <i>n</i>.; + his energy in instituting an enquiry into the war, 119; + his negotiations with Buys, 130; + orders Ormonde not to fight, 150 <i>n</i>., 156 <i>n</i>.; + letter to Thomas Harley on the conduct of the Dutch, 160 <i>n</i>.; + his opinion of Rebellion, 166 <i>n</i>.; + created Viscount, 170; + his indignation at not being made an Earl, 170 <i>n</i>.; + his mission to France, 171, 172; + mentioned, 76, 77, 121. + Bolton, Charles, Duke of, character of, 274; + Bothmar, M., Hanover Envoy, + memorial of, 42, 43, 129, 167; + his interview with Bolingbroke, 43, 45, 48; + deceives his master by false representations, 166. + Boyle, Archbishop Michael, 354. + Boyle, Hon. Henry (Lord Carleton), + character of, 281. + Boyle, Robert, 338. + Bristol, John Digby, 3rd Earl of, 27 <i>n</i>. + Bromley, William, 121. + Brydges, Mr. (Duke of Chandos), character of, 280. + Buckingham, Duke of, character of, 334, 335. + Buckinghamshire, John Duke of, character of, 273. + Burnet, Gilbert, Bishop of Salisbury, 16, + the originator of the National Debt, 88; + character of, 282; + Swift's remarks on his "History," 325-368; + appointed Professor of Divinity at Glasgow, 341; + his "Lives of the Dukes of Hamilton," 341; + settled in Holland, 357; + and the Earl of Portland, 364; + his "Pastoral Letter," 365, 366; + his criticism of "The Conduct of the Allies," 366; + his opinion on the peace, 366, 367; + his wives, 368. + Burnet, Thomas, his life of Bishop Burnet, 368. + Butler of Weston, Lord, character of, 281. + Buys, Pensionary, + Dutch envoy in London, 38, 41-43, 48, 60,74-76, 80-82, 129; + account of, 41, 42; + on national debts, 88; + his unreasonable proposals, 130; + goes to Utrecht, 136; + his hostile attitude to England, 136-139, 144; + his altered behaviour, 187; + charges all delays to Heinsius, 187. + + Cadogan, General, 164. + Cardonnell, Adam, secretary to the Duke of Marlborough, + expelled the house, 87. + Carstairs, William, character of, 287, 345. + Carstares, Rev. W., 117, 118 <i>n</i>. + Cartwright, Bishop, 356. + Chandos, Lord, character of, 280. + Charles II., his mistresses, 339, 340, 344; + Burnet's character of, 353. + Charles VI., Emperor, averse from ending the war, 42; + his proposals, 43, 44; + how affected by Treaty of Utrecht, 188; + does not sign the Treaty, 190. + Charles XII., King of Sweden, Swift's veneration for, 195. + Chesterfield, Earl of, character of, 279. + Cholmondeley, Earl of, 19; character of, 280. + Church of Rome, the, usurpations of, 207. + Churches, suggestion for building fifty new, 20. + Clarendon, Earl of, 16; + Swift's remarks on his "History of the Rebellion," 291-323, 332; + Burnet on his banishment, 339, 340. + Congreve, William, Swift and, 15. + Cowper, Lord, character of, 28, 29. + Craggs, father of the Secretary, 40. + + Crewe, Lord, Bishop of Durham, 365. + Croissy, Chevalier de, 54. + Cromwell, Oliver, Swift on, 314, 316, 333, 334; + and the Countess of Dysert, 339. + Cutts, Lord, character of, 284. + + Dartmouth, Earl of, 129; + character of, 278. + D'Avenant, Charles, character of, 282. + D'Avenant, Mr., agent at Frankfort, character of, 284. + De La Warr, Lord, character of, 280. + Denain, battle of, 52, 169. + Derby, Earl of, character of, 276. + De Witt, Pensionary, 338; + the Prince of Orange and, 343. + Disney, Colonel, 165. + Dorislaus, Dr., 317. + Dorset, Earl of, character of, 276. + Dundee, Earl of, Swift on, 362. + Dunkirk, proposed demolition of, 62, 67, 68, 70, 74, 135, 153; + Hill takes possession of, 161, 163, 165. + Dutch, the, the French affect resentment against, 55 and <i>n.</i>; + negotiate secretly with France, 55 <i>n.</i>, 60, 61, 139, 143, 145; + their answer to the French proposals, 59; + French and English preliminaries submitted to, 71; + their object in sending M. Buys to London, 76; + agree to Congress of Utrecht, 79; + their treaty with England, 80-82, 129; + fail to observe their agreements, 104, 105; + unreasonable demands of, 130; + misled by factions in England, 131, 137, 142, 145, 158, 161, 175; + the Queen's indignation with, 131; + hostile attitude of, to England, 138, 139, 144, 145; + English concessions to, 143; + protest against Ormonde's refusal to fight, 159, 160, 162; + refuse Ormonde passage through their towns, 163; + refuse to join England in the armistice, 168; + their consequent losses, 175; + discover they have been deceived, 176, 184; + their proposals, 176; + last English offers to, 179; + new Succession and Barrier treaty concluded with, 180, 181, 182; + convinced of the Queen's sincerity, 184. + Dysert, Countess of, and Cromwell, 339. + + "Eikon Basilike," Swift on, 333. + England, Abstract of the History of, 195-270. + Essex, Earl of, 276, 303, 305; + Swift on, 305; + suicide of, 350. + Eugene, Prince, in England, 43; + design of his visit, 44, 45, 132; + his hatred of Bolingbroke, 45; + his action in Flanders, 147; + deserts Ormonde, 162. + + Fairfax, Lord, 333. + Falkland, Lord, and Prince Rupert, 300; + his discourses against the Roman Catholic religion, 303; + character of, 303. + Feversham, Earl of, character of, 279; + Burnet on, 361. + Fitzgerald, Percy, his collation of the "Four Last Years," xxi; + his collation of Swift's remarks on Clarendon, 290. + "Four Last Years of the Queen," + History of the, editor's advertisement to, 5; + editor's motives in publishing, 7; + editor's criticism of Swift, 8-11; + Swift's reasons for writing, 13, 14; + Swift's materials for, 14. + <i>See also</i> Introduction. + Fletcher, Andrew, of Saltoun, character of, 287. + France, offers terms of peace, 51; + refuses the British demands, 51, 53; + anxious for peace, 53; + affects resentment against the Dutch, 55 and <i>n.</i>; + negotiations between the Allies and, 56 <i>et seq., + see</i> Utrecht, Congress of; + renounces the succession In Spain, 152, 173, 174. + Frankland, Sir Thomas, character of, 281. + "Free Thoughts on the Present State of Affairs," + publication of, delayed by Bolingbroke, 21 <i>n</i>. + + Gallas, Count, Austrian Ambassador, 44, 54; + forbidden the Court, 77, 78. + Galway, Earl of, character of, 284. + Gaultier, Abbé, employed in peace negotiations, 53 and <i>n</i>., 54 <i>et + seq</i>., 78, 142. + George I., Addison on, 374, 375, 376, 377. + Gertruydenberg, conference at, 54, 55, 56, 59, 76. + Gibraltar, to be annexed to Britain, 136, 140, 141, 153. + Godolphin, Earl of, character of, 26, 27; + nicknamed "Volpone," 27; + his treatment of the Duke of Somerset, 33; + in need of protection, 41; + debt incurred under his administration, 92, 93, 96; + at the head of the Junto, 129; + Burnet on, 348, 368. + Goodenough, under-sheriff of London, 354. + Grafton, Duke of, character of, 275. + Grand Alliance, the, 70, 83. + Grantham, Earl of, character of, 279. + Greenvil, Sir Richard, Swift on, 309. + Grey of Werke, Lord, character of, 280. + Griffin, Lord, character of, 280. + Guernsey, Heneage Finch, Lord, 30. + Guilford, Lord, character of, 280. + Guiscard, Marquis de, 97, 120. + Gyllenborg, Count de, the "Abstract of the History of England," + dedicated to, 194, 195. + + Hague, The, conference at, 51, 54, 55, 59, 65. + Halifax, Lord, character of, 275. + + Hamilton, 3rd Marquess, afterwards Duke of, + Swift on, 293,305, 306, 317, 321. + Hamilton, James Douglas, 4th Duke of, + his duel with Lord Mohun, 178, 179, 286, 367; + character of, 286. + Hanmer, Sir Thomas, his "Representation," 100. + Hanover, the Elector of, 34, 42; + his "Memorial to the Queen," 42, 43 and <i>n</i>.; + deceived by Robethon and Bothmar, 166, 167; + T. Harley's mission to, 167, 168. + Hanover, House of, Bill for fixing the precedence of the, 98, 99. + Harley, Robert, Earl of Oxford, + his estrangement from Bolingbroke, 13, 16; + information given to Swift by, 18 <i>n</i>.; + his financial measures, 20, 96-98; + blamed in connection with Nottingham's amendment to the address, 38; + advises the Queen to create new peers, 38; + character of, 93-96, 281. + Harley, Thomas, his mission to Utrecht, 140; + sent to Hanover, 166, 167, 168. + Hartington, Marquess of, character of, 275. + Hedges, Sir Charles, 86. + Heinsius, Pensionary, 60; + charged by Bays with all delays, 187. + Henderson, Alexander, "a cursed fanatic," 294. + Henry I., history of reign of, 217-237; + his character and person, 236. + Henry II., history of the reign of, 265-268; + character of, 269. + Hickes, Dean, 346, 347. + Hill, John, takes Dunkirk, 161, 163, 165. + Hill, Richard, character of, 283. + Hoffman, the Emperor's Resident in England, 129, 132. + Holland, Earl of, Swift on, 304. + Hompesch, Count, Dutch General, 164, 175. + Hurry, Colonel, character of, 302, 303, 307. + + Ingoldsby, Colonel, 323. + Ireland, "a most obscure disagreeable country," 196; + slow growth of civilization in, 267, 268. + + James II, the "abdicated king," 10, 11, 26; + flight and capture of, 361. + Jeffreys, Judge, his death in the Tower, 361. + Jersey, Earl of, 35; + and the Abbe Gaultier, 54. + Johnstoun, James, character of, 287. + Junto, Lords of the, 32, 39, 129. + + Kennedy, Lady Margaret, married Bishop Burnet, 328. + Kent, Earl (afterwards Duke) of, character of, 279. + + Land, Bill appointing Commissioners to examine into Crown grants of, 121. + Lauderdale, Earl of, Swift on, 317. + Leightoun, Bishop, Burnet on, 335; + death of, 351, 352. + Leopold, the Emperor, fails to observe his agreements, 105. + Lewis, Erasmus, letter of, to Swift, on the "Four Last Years," + quoted, x, 25 <i>n</i>., 30 <i>n</i>., 33 <i>n</i>., 42 <i>n</i>., 45 <i>n</i>. + Lexington, Lord, appointed Ambassador in Spain, 178, 190; + character of, 280; + Lindsey, Earl of <i>See</i> Ancaster, Duke of. + Louis XIV., King of France, his negotiations for peace, 51 <i>et seq</i>., + <i>See</i> Utrecht, Congress of. + Lorraine, Duke of, 61. + Lucas, Dr. Charles, Editor of the "Four Last Years," 5 <i>n</i>. + Lucas, Lord; character of, 277. + Lumley, Lord, character of, 358. + + Macartney, General, kills the Duke of Hamilton, 178, 179, 286. + Macky, John, account of, 272; + "Memoirs of the Secret Services of," 272; + his characters of the Court of Queen Anne, 273, 288. + Mansell, Thomas (afterwards Lord), character of, 281. + Mar, Earl of, character of, 287. + March Club, the, 121. + Marlborough, Duke of, 19, 58; + character of, 24, 25, 273; + insinuations against his courage, 25 and <i>n</i>., 48; + fears an inquiry, 40; + his demand to be made general for life, 40, 41; + fall of, 46, 49; + accused of corruption, 84, 86; + his deduction of 2-1/2 per cent from the pay of foreign troops, 85, 116; + at the head of the Junto, 129; + endeavours to dissuade the Dutch from concluding peace, 187, 188; + "detestably covetous," 273; + Burnet on, 359. + Marlborough, Duchess of, character of, 25, 26. + Masham, Mrs., her hostility to the Duke of Marlborough, 87. + Maynard, Sir John, 347, 362. + Mesnager, M., his mission to London, 66, 67; + appointed plenipotentiary at Utrecht, 80; + favours the Dutch, 165; + quarrels with Count Rechteren, 177, 181, 182; + his unreasonable attitude, 182, 183, 189. + Methuen, Sir Paul, character of, 283. + Mew, Bishop, character of, 352. + Middleton, Earl of, character of, 287. + Milton's "Paradise Lost," Burnet's criticism of, 336. + Mohun, Lord, his duel with the Duke of Hamilton, 178, 367; + character of, 278. + Molo, Dutch agent, 139, 166. + Montagu, Duke of, character of, 275. + Monteleon, Marquis of, Spanish ambassador in London, 190. + Montrevil, M., 310, 311. + Montrose, Marquess (afterwards Duke) of, character of, 286, 311, 318, 333. + Munster, Treaty of, 112. + + Nassau, Count, 164. + National Debt, the, origin of, 87. + Newcastle, Duke of, 35; + character of, 274. + Newfoundland, to be restored to England, 63, 68, 136, 153; + French fishing rights in, 68. + Northumberland, George, Duke of, character of, 274. + Nottingham, Earl of, character of, 29, 30; + his nicknames, 30 <i>n</i>.; + his amendment to the address with reference to the peace, + 34 <i>n</i>., 36, 129, 131; + out of favour at Court, 34; + his disappointment, 35; + goes over to the Whigs, 35, 48, 129; + his bill against Occasional Conformity, 35, 37, 39, 40; + votes against the Bill for appointing Commissioners to examine + into Crown grants of land, 122; + character of, 274. + + Occasional Conformity, Bill against, 35, 37, 39, 40. + October Club, the, 120. + O'Hara, Sir Charles. <i>See</i> Tyrawley, Lord. + Orange, Prince of. <i>See</i> William III. + Orkney, Earl of, character of, 284. + Orkney, Lady, 355. + Ormonde, Duke of, succeeds Marlborough in Flanders, 46, 143; + ordered to avoid fighting, 146, 150 <i>n</i>., 156 and <i>n</i>.; + refuses to fight, 147; + anger of the Dutch against, 147, 148; + why unable to take Dunkirk, 159; + deserted by the allies, 162; + declares an armistice, 163; + refused passage through Dutch towns, 163; + takes possession of Ghent and Bruges, 164, 165; + character of, 273; + Burnet on, 360, 367; + Addison on, 372. + Ossuna, Duke d', 190. + Oxford, Countess of, "cheated by her father," 274. + Oxford, Earl of. <i>See</i> Harley. + + Palatines, the, 115. + Parker, Chief Justice, 38. + Parliament, origin of, in England, 225-227. + Patrick, Bishop, character of, 337, 340. + Peace, desire for, 19, 20; + the Queen's overtures in favour of, 31, 50; + amendment to the address with reference to, carried, 36; + history of the negotiations for, 51 <i>et seq. + See</i> Utrecht, Congress of. + Penn, William, Swift on, 356. + Petecum, M., 56 <i>n</i>.; + his negotiations with Torcy, 60. + Peterborough, Earl of, a spy in the service of, 77; + character of, 277. + Philip V., King of Spain, + renounces the Kingdom of France, 142, 143, 146, 151, 157. + Polignac, Abbé de, one of the plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, 79, 82, 166; + made a cardinal, 182. + Porter, Sir Charles, 354. + Portland, Earl of, character of, 276. + Poulett, Lord, character of, 278. + Powis, Sir Thomas, 354. + Press, licence of the, 124; + Bill for regulation of, not passed, 126. + Pretender, the, sent out of France, 189; + Burnet on the birth of, 358, 364; + taken to France, 360, 361; + hated by the Queen, 366. + Prior, M., his "History of his own Time," quoted, 55 <i>n</i>., 61; + mission to Versailles, 56 <i>n</i>., 61, 63; + his return, 66; + mission to France with Bolingbroke, 172, 176, 184; + character of, 282; + Burnet on, 366. + Protestant religion, meaning of the words, 296. + Protestants, Act for naturalizing foreign, 114. + Pym, John, Swift on the death of, 306. + + Quakers, their objection to oaths, 127, 128. + Queen Elizabeth's Day, 47 and <i>n</i>. + + Raby, Lord. <i>See</i> Strafford, Earl of. + Rechteren, Count, his quarrel with M. Mesnager, 177, 181, 182. + Report of the Commissioners for inspecting public accounts, 84-87. + "Representation," the, on the war presented to the Queen, 100-114, 118; + Dutch memorial in answer to, 119. + Richmond, Duke of, character of, 274. + Rivers, Earl, his mission to Hanover, 166, 167; + character of, 276. + Robethon, a Frenchman in the Elector of Hanover's service, 166. + Robinson, Dr., Bishop of Bristol, made Lord Privy Seal, 20, 35; + plenipotentiary at Utrecht, 31, 82; + goes to Holland, 132; + opens the Congress, 138 <i>et seq</i>. + Rochester, Earl of, 32, 35; + Burnet on, 340, 341. + Romney, Henry, Earl of, character of, 274, 358. + Ronquillo, Don Pedro de, Spanish Ambassador, his house pulled down, 361. + Rothes, Earl of, character of, 294; + a remark of, quoted, 346. + Rouille, M., 52. + Roxburgh, Duke of, and the Earl of Nottingham, 35. + + Sacheverell, Dr., trial of, 20, 24, 53; + nicknames Godolphin "Volpone," 27. + St. John, George, 191 <i>n</i>. + St. John, Henry. <i>See</i> Bolingbroke. + St. John, Oliver, 294, 295, 296. + Sancroft, Archbishop, Burnet on, 345, 355, 363. + Sandwich, Earl of, character of, 277. + Savoy, Duke of, + peace proposals affecting, 62, 63, 76, 78, 79, 135, 155, 171, 178, 180. + Scarborough, Earl of, 36. + Scotch, the, Swift's hatred of. <i>See</i> Remarks on Clarendon's History + and Burnet's History, 291-368 <i>passim</i>. + Scotland, Act of Toleration with, + regard to the Episcopal Church of, 116, 117, 118 <i>n</i>.; + Act restoring Patronage in the Church of, 117, 118, and <i>n</i>. + Shaftesbury (Sir A.A. Cooper), Earl of, character of, 303, 306. + Sharp, Archbishop, 334, 336, 338, 341, 346. + Sheldon, Archbishop, character of, 339. + Shrewsbury, Earl of, character of, 358. + Shrewsbury, Duke of, 54; + appointed Ambassador at Paris, 181 <i>et seq</i>.; + Swift's opinion of, 186 <i>n</i>. + Shower, Rev. Mr., letter to Harley from, 39. + Sichel, Walter, his "Bolingbroke and his Times," quoted, 77 <i>n</i>. + Sidney, Henry. <i>See</i> Romney, Earl of. + Smith, Rt. Hon. John, character of, 282. + Somers, Lord, character of, 22-24, 275. + Somerset, Duke of, 19, 48; + the hope of the Whigs, 31; + in favour with the Queen, 32; + and Lord Godolphin, 32, 33; + his breach with the Tories, 33; + at the head of the Junto, 129. + Somerset, Duke of, character of, 273. + Spain, the war in, 106; + peace proposals affecting, 134, 135; + not represented at the Congress of Utrecht, 190; + treaty between Great Britain and, 190. + Sprat, Bishop, Burnet on, 348. + Stamford, Earl of, character of, 277, 301. + Stanhope, Colonel, character of, 284. + Stanhope, Earl, character of, 284. + Steele, Sir R., Swift and, 15 and <i>n</i>. + Stephen, King, history of the reign of, 238-264; + his character and person, 262. + Stepney, George, character of, 283. + Sterne, Archbishop, character of, 352. + Strafford, Earl of, attainder of, 295, 296. + Strafford (Lord Raby), Earl of, + plenipotentiary at Utrecht, 31, 82, 131 <i>et seq</i>.; + his negotiations at the Hague, 57, 58, 71; + character of, 283. + Sunderland, Earl of, character of, 27, 28; + his library, 27 and <i>n</i>.; + character of, 277. + Sutherland, Earl of, character of, 286. + Swift, Jonathan, avowal of his independence, 15; + endeavours to reconcile Harley and Bolingbroke, 16; + on the Hanoverian succession, 16, 17; + his suggestion for building new churches in London, 20 <i>n</i>.; + his definition of Whig and Tory, 21 <i>n</i>.; + helped Sir Thos. Hanmer with the "Representation," 100; + his remarks on characters of the court of Queen Anne, 273-288; + his remarks on Clarendon's "History of the Rebellion," 291-323, 330; + his remarks on Burnet's "History," 323-368; + his notes on the "Free-holder," 371-377. + + <i>Tacking</i>, explained, 123. + Temple, Sir William, Burnet on, 344, 345, 362. + Tenison, Archbishop, character of, 282, 337. + Thanet, Earl of, character of, 277. + Titus, Colonel, Swift on, 331. + Torcy, Marquis de, + his conduct of the peace negotiations, 51 <i>et seq</i>., 142, 146, 147; + his opinion of the British army, 169; + suggests that the Queen should join with France in compelling the Dutch + to a peace, 170; + the prime mover in favour of peace, 183; + testimony to his candour and integrity, 183, 184. + Tory principles, Swift's definition of, 21 <i>n</i>. + Townshend, Lord, on Dr. Lucas, 5 <i>n</i>.; + and the Barrier Treaty, 41, 58, 99; + declared an enemy to the Queen and kingdom, 100, 113; + character of, 278. + Trimnel, Dr., Bishop of Norwich, 27 <i>n</i>. + Tyrawley, Lord, character of, 284. + + Utrecht, Congress at, 20, 31, 50; + negotiations leading to, 51-82; + French overtures to England, 56; + transmitted to Holland, 57; + the Dutch reply, 59; + English preliminary demands sent to France, 62; + the French reply, 67; + preliminaries signed by France and England, 69; + communicated to Holland, 71; + Dutch objections, 74; + the Congress agreed to, 79; + instructions of the English plenipotentiaries, 133; + opening of the Congress, 138; + Dutch obstruction, 139 <i>et seq.</i>; + result of Ormonde's refusal to fight, 148, 149; + England declares herself under no obligation to the Dutch, 149, 150; + terms of peace between England and France, 151-155; + proposed armistice, 157; + anger of the Dutch, 158; + the conference resumed, 172; + difficulties caused by dissensions with the Dutch, 175; + the Dutch change their attitude, 176, 184; + English ultimatum, 185; + the French yield, 186; + further delay caused by French "litigious manner of treating," 188; + Treaty of Utrecht signed, 190. + Uxelles, Marechal d', one of the plenipotentiaries at Utrecht, 79; + favours the Dutch, 165, 183. + + Vanderdussen, M., 60. + Vane, Sir Harry, the younger, character of, 305, 316; + execution of, 336, 337. + Villars, Marechal de, 147, 156, 159, 165, 169. + + Walker, Dr., defended Londonderry, 362. + Walker, Sir Edward, 306. + Wallis, Count, 163. + Walpole, Horatio, 52. + Walpole, Sir Robert, 37; + committed to the Tower, 84; + attacked by Bolingbroke, 84 <i>n</i>. + Walsh, Peter, 338. + Wariston, Swift on, 335-338. + Weems, Earl of, character of, 288. + Wharton, Earl of, 38; + character of, 28, 278; + his Irish administration, 41. + "Whigs, Public Spirit of the," + a reward offered by the Queen for discovery of the author of, 15. + Whig and Tory, distinction between, 20, 21 <i>n</i>. + Wild Serjeant, 316. + William Rufus, history of the reign of, 202, 216; + his character and person, 214. + William III., King, character of, 355; + his Declaration, 359; + comes to England, 359, 360, 365; + Addison on, 371. + Williams, Archbishop, 292, 296, 297, 298. + Wincam, Sir George, married Burnet's great aunt, 333. + Winchilsea, Earl of, character of, 277. + Wolley, Bishop, of Clonfert, 340. + Wright, Sir Nathan, character of, 275. + + York, Duke of (afterwards James II.), + Swift on, 312, 314, 315, 320, 321, 322, 323. + + Zinzendorf, Count, Austrian Envoy at the Hague, 77, 78; + sows jealousies between England and Holland, 158; + deludes the Dutch with promises, 168, 176, 180. +</pre> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13040 ***</div> +</body> +</html> |