He was, by hereditary connection, a Cavalier: but with the
Cavaliers he had nothing in common. They were zealous for monarchy, and
condemned in theory all resistance. Yet they had sturdy English hearts
which would never have endured real despotism. He, on the contrary,
had a languid speculative liking for republican institutions which was
compatible with perfect readiness to be in practice the most servile
instrument of arbitrary power. Like many other accomplished flatterers
and negotiators, he was far more skilful in the art of reading the
characters and practising on the weaknesses of individuals, than in the
art of discerning the feelings of great masses, and of foreseeing the
approach of great revolutions. He was adroit in intrigue; and it
was difficult even for shrewd and experienced men who had been amply
forewarned of his perfidy to withstand the fascination of his manner,
and to refuse credit to his professions of attachment. But he was so
intent on observing and courting particular persons, that he often
forgot to study the temper of the nation. He therefore miscalculated
grossly with respect to some of the most momentous events of his time.
More than one important movement and rebound of the public mind took
him by surprise; and the world, unable to understand how so clever a man
could be blind to what was clearly discerned by the politicians of the
coffee houses, sometimes attributed to deep design what were in truth
mere blunders.

It was only in private conference that his eminent abilities displayed
themselves. In the royal closet, or in a very small circle, he exercised
great influence. But at the Council board he was taciturn; and in the
House of Lords he never opened his lips.

The four confidential advisers of the crown soon found that their
position was embarrassing and invidious. The other members of the
Council murmured at a distinction inconsistent with the King's
promises; and some of them, with Shaftesbury at their head, again betook
themselves to strenuous opposition in Parliament. The agitation, which
had been suspended by the late changes, speedily became more violent
than ever. It was in vain that Charles offered to grant to the Commons
any security for the Protestant religion which they could devise,
provided only that they would not touch the order of succession. They
would hear of no compromise. They would have the Exclusion Bill, and
nothing but the Exclusion Bill. The King, therefore,