pretence of a visit, but, in
reality, with a view of discovering whether there were in that place
any unusual concourse of people, or any extraordinary preparations which
might threaten an insurrection. Soon after, Essex received a summons to
attend the council, which met at the treasurer's house; and while he was
musing on this circumstance, and comparing it with the late unexpected
visit from Sacville, a private note was conveyed to him, by which he
was warned to provide for his own safety. He concluded, that all his
conspiracy was discovered, at least suspected; and that the easiest
punishment which he had reason to apprehend, was a new and more severe
confinement: he therefore excused himself to the council on pretence
of an indisposition; and he immediately despatched messages to his more
intimate confederates, requesting their advice and assistance in the
present critical situation of his affairs. They deliberated, whether
they should abandon all their projects, and fly the kingdom; or
instantly seize the palace with the force which they could assemble; or
rely upon the affections of the citizens, who were generally known to
have a great attachment to the earl. Essex declared against the first
expedient, and professed himself determined to undergo any fate rather
than submit to live the life of a fugitive. To seize the palace seemed
impracticable without more preparations; especially as the queen seemed
now aware of their projects, and, as they heard, had used the precaution
of doubling her ordinary guards. There remained, therefore, no expedient
but that of betaking themselves to the city; and while the prudence and
feasibility of this resolution was under debate, a person arrived, who,
as if he had received a commission for the purpose, gave them assurance
of the affections of the Londoners, and affirmed that they might
securely rest any project on that foundation. The popularity of Essex
had chiefly buoyed him up in all his vain undertakings; and he fondly
imagined, that, with no other assistance than the good will of the
multitude, he might overturn Elizabeth's government, confirmed by time,
revered for wisdom, supported by vigor, and concurring with the general
sentiments of the nation. The wild project of raising the city was
immediately resolved on; the execution of it was decayed till next day;
and emissaries were despatched to all Essex's friends, informing
them that Cobham and Raleigh had laid schemes agai