ting the
execution of them.

I am far from believing that such intelligence as our ministry is
expected to procure, requires any uncommon subtilty, or any other agents
than are always employed by every minister, to transmit to them
informations from foreign courts. Such, I am afraid, are always hovering
about our consultations, and I know not why our ministers should be less
diligent or less successful than those of other princes.

If, therefore, such intelligence might have been obtained, it was
criminal not to obtain it; and if the departure of the Spanish squadron
was foreseen, it ought to be inquired, why it was not prevented; and if
it was only known when it was too late to hinder it from sailing, why it
was not pursued, or why succours were not immediately despatched to
admiral Vernon.

All these questions can only be resolved, in consequence of the
information which his majesty shall give us; and for which it is,
therefore, in my opinion, necessary to petition.

Mr. Henry PELHAM spoke next, to this purpose:--Sir, how the regency
could be informed of the intention of the Spaniards to leave their ports
till it appeared by their departure, or by what means it can be expected
that his majesty should be now acquainted with their particular course,
or farther designs, I confess myself unable to conceive.

With regard, sir, to the intelligence transmitted from foreign courts by
agents and spies, a little consideration will easily discover that it is
not to be trusted. For what can be generally expected from them, but
that they should catch flying reports, or by chance intercept uncertain
whispers, that they should inquire timorously, and, therefore, for the
greatest part, of those from whom no satisfactory accounts can be
received, and that they should often endeavour to deserve their salaries
by such information as is rather pleasing than true.

All the knowledge that can be obtained of an enemy's designs, must arise
from a diligent comparison of one circumstance with another, and from a
general view of his force, his interest, and his opportunities. And that
such conjectures will be often erroneous, needs not be told.

Probability, therefore, is, in such inquiries, all that can be attained,
and he that sits idle in the time of war, expecting certain
intelligence, will see his enemies enjoying the advantages of his folly,
and laying hold on a thousand opportunities which he has neglected to
improve.

The war