ther day, but when I could
not ask him any more upon the subject, the idea of a paragraph
about Ireland in the King's Speech. I have writ to Townshend
to-day, to desire that if this idea is pursued, he will let me
see it before the words are finally determined upon. I think
such a paragraph may have a good effect; because, when re-echoed
in the addresses, it will include the three branches.

I am waiting with the most anxious expectation the decision of
the great question--peace or war? Reports are hourly circulated
on both sides, but nothing is known from any authority. I need
not say, that the moment it is known, I will send it off.

I know no more of the East India business than you will see in
the papers. I was so intent on this, that I forgot to ask
Townshend to-day about it.

I shall most probably be with you before you can answer this, as
the 5th is the day for the meeting. But if they should again
prorogue the Parliament, and wish me to stay, supposing the
point not decided, what shall I do?

Ever most affectionately yours,
W. W. G.

Townshend and Conway have both been plaguing me about Murray,
who wanted to raise a corps in the North. It seems he is an
Irishman, with considerable connexions in the North. Talbot's
inspection makes a figure in the papers.

MR. W. W. GRENVILLE TO LORD TEMPLE.

(Most Secret and Private.)

Pall Mall, Monday, Dec. 2nd, 1782.

My dear Brother,

I told you, in my last letter, that Lord Shelburne had thrown
out to me the idea of a paragraph in the King's Speech on the
subject of Ireland, and that I had applied to Townshend, that I
might see it before it was decided upon. In consequence of this,
I received, through him, a message from Lord Shelburne, desiring
to see me this morning. I have just been with him. He made his
excuses to me as soon as I came in, for having appointed me at a
time when he should only be able to converse with me for _a very
short time_, as unexpected business had occurred. He then took
out the Speech, and read to me the sentence in question, which
is nearly this: The liberal spirit of your measures respecting
the commerce of Ireland, confirmed by the rest of your conduct
towards her, meets with my full approbation and concurrence; and
I should recommend to you a general revision of the