at the Head of the Admiralty. Suppose Lord Tavistock were made Ambassador to Paris. These two things would fix the Duke of Bedford, who might then quit if he pleased. And let Lord Egremont be President. Lord Talbot talks of nothing but how well he is with the King, and, I cannot believe thinks of quitting. If he does Lord Egremont will make the best Lord Steward that ever was, be a great economist for the King, and yet keep up great dignity. I should give the Lieutenancy of Ireland to Lord Waldegrave. And I wish it may be considered of what great use Lord Northumberland may be to Administration in Middlesex and Westminster. If there is room I would give him the Privy Seal, and put Lord Hertford in his place if it is thought worth while to give him anything. I have not said enough of Lord Waldegrave. He will do the King's business in Ireland better than anybody whatever, suaviter et fortiter, and though he will never join Devonshire House, yet the employing him will disarm and cast a damp upon them more than anything. Lord Egremont, if he were to go to Ireland, would, I believe, manage and behave worse than anybody. He has not one quality for that employment.
"When I know how these great things are settled it will be time enough (if ever requisite) to give my sentiments on less matters that depend on these. Of what relates to me and mine as far as promised or even hinted to me, I have no doubt. Unmentioned things that I will call Agréments or graces, on my departure I will hope for, as they will not be unreasonable. But at all events, let me trust that I shall retain the good opinion of the King whose benignity charms me, and the sincere friendship (for I will not be content with less) of that man of strictest truth and honour, my Lord Bute."[1]
In the midst of these compliments a sudden storm arose. It became known to Shelburne and Bute, both of whom were under the impression that Fox, on being raised to the peerage, would resign the Pay Office, that
- ↑ Fox to Bute, March 17th, 1763.
