e life his
character was both exemplary and amiable--his public character is
defined in the preceding pages.

THE DUKE OF RICHMOND'S MOTION RESUMED.

The Duke of Richmond's motion was resumed on the day after it had been
interrupted by Chatham's illness. The resumed debate, however, only
served to place the difference of opinion which existed between the
Rockingham and Chatham parties respecting America in a clearer light.
The former contended for the independence of that country, without
reserve or delay; while the latter as warmly contended that such a
measure would prove one of the greatest political evils that could
befall the nation. The Earl of Shelburne also maintained that the
resources of Great Britain, if properly managed, were sufficient to
cope with our triple foes--America, France, and Spain--and that our
navy would not fail of supporting the glory they had gained in so many
conflicts. The motion was negatived by a majority of fifty-five against
thirty-three.

THE SESSION CLOSED.

Although the season was now far advanced, motions were made in both
houses to put off the prorogation. These motions were, however lost, and
on the 3rd of June, the king terminated the session. In his speech, his
majesty thanked his faithful commons for their zeal and attention to the
interests of their country, and the honourable support they had made for
the royal family; several annuities having been granted to his numerous
family. Alluding to the one great question, he said, that his desire was
to preserve the tranquillity of Europe; that the faith of treaties and
the law of nations had been respected by him, and that he had anxiously
avoided giving offence to any foreign power. He added:--"Let that power
by whom this tranquillity shall be broken, answer to their subjects and
to the world for all the fatal consequences of war!"

PROCEEDINGS IN FRANCE.

Having entered into a treaty with America, in which treaty it was
stipulated that the Americans should never return to their allegiance
to the British crown, and having thereby hurled a bold defiance to the
power of England, the French made preparations for war. At this time
France was by no means in a flourishing condition, but by oppressing
the poverty-stricken people with imposts, duties, and _corvees_, and by
taking the bread from half-famished mouths, means were found to raise
armies and equip fleets. The coasts of Normandy and Britainy swarmed
wit