e of my brother. I might use many arguments to enforce
this demand for the benefit of trade, the support of the navy, the
necessity of the crown, and the well-being of the government itself,
which I must not suffer to be precarious; but I am confident your own
consideration of what is just and reasonable will suggest to you
whatsoever might be enlarged upon this occasion.

"There is one popular argument which I foresee may be used against
what I ask of you, from the inclination men have for frequent
parliaments, which some may think would be the best security, by
feeding me from time to time by such proportions as they shall think
convenient. And this argument, it being the first time I speak to you
from the throne, I will answer, once for all, that this would be a
very improper method to take with me; and that the best way to engage
me to meet you often is always to use me well.

"I expect, therefore, that you will comply with me in what I have
desired, and that you will do it speedily, that this may be a short
session, and that we may meet again to all our satisfactions.

"My lords and gentlemen,--I must acquaint you that I have had news
this morning from Scotland that Argyle is landed in the West
Highlands, with the men he brought with him from Holland: that there
are two declarations published, one in the name of all those in arms,
the other in his own. It would be too long for me to repeat the
substance of them; it is sufficient to tell you I am charged with
usurpation and tyranny. The shorter of them I have directed to be
forthwith communicated to you.

"I will take the best care I can that this declaration of their own
faction and rebellion may meet with the reward it deserves; and I will
not doubt but you will be the more zealous to support the government,
and give me my revenue, as I have desired it, without delay."

The repetition of the words made use of in his first speech to the privy
council shows that, in the opinion of the court, at least, they had been
well chosen, and had answered their purpose; and even the haughty
language which was added, and was little less than a menace to parliament
if it should not comply with his wishes, was not, as it appears,
unpleasing to the party which at that time prevailed, since the revenue
enjoyed by his predecessor was unanimously, and almost immediately, voted
to him for life.