pose something was founded, for when
the H(ouse) was up, he was never from Lord North's elbow.
Notwithstanding Charles's impatience, it will not be settled all
this (month?) till the Easter holidays, and how it will be settled
then, I do not conceive. They talk now of Barre for Rigby's place. I
have never once heard my nephew's(218) name in any part of the
arrangement, but he has, I presume, a situation fixed in his own
mind, as adequate to his consequence. Young Pitt expects to be sent
for from the circuit to the Cabinet, but not in a subordinate
capacity. George has not sent from Neasdon any proposals to the
K(ing), so I suppose (e is)waiting till he can negotiate a Peace. I
wish that I could overhear him in his rhetorical mood.

(218) Thomas Townshend.

(1782, March 16,) Saturday noon.--Lord G(ower) assured me that he
knew that at this juncture there was no arrangement; that there
certainly would be, and soon; that it was impossible to guess at the
disposal of the parts. That Charles would be, and has been, a thorn
in the side of his party; that the Ministers would not suffer him to
rule, nor would the country gentlemen endure him. But you might be
recalled; that it was not now an object of ambition to be the
Governor of Ireland; that he thought it would have been a lucky
event for you, and that it would have afforded you an occasion of
resigning, the best that you could have had; for things would grow
worse, and that hitherto all had been well, and that you might now
come away without reproach; but that your circumstances opposed this
option.. He was, on account of the great expense and your love of
show, afraid how these would be hurt; that he could not help being
alarmed, notwithstanding the prospect Mr. Gregg held out of saving,
at one time, to provide against the extra charges of another.

I own that these reflections have often struck me, and very
forcibly, and makes us in a sad dilemma and perplexity about what
can be done. He assured me that as soon as he knew anything, I
should be informed of it. I told him that I wish(ed) we had our four
members, which could not be, unless Lord Mellbourn could be made by
some consideration to vacate his seat; but if we had, I would risk
my fortune in Government with yours, and take my chance, and be
served in the second place, when those had the administration with
whom we could draw.

What these will do, and in what manner they will treat the King's
friends, the Lo