he could see means which, if used, might possibly make the decision in the House of Lords doubtful. "I answered," wrote Mr. Orde to Shelburne, "that you would wish to know the probability of any use in your appearance, consistently with your situation and dignity. He said that he was sensible of the importance, which should alone have weight to influence your Lordship's actions, and added that it would be unbecoming in you to move on any other occasion; but that in the present it would probably be known to you in time for you to decide upon the steps you should take. I observed to him, that though I should perhaps write to your Lordship, I could not at all communicate any information, because I was ignorant of any, and I gently hinted to him, that I thought you ought to have some more marked signification of the measures wished or intended, before an expectation should be formed of your coming forth to take up the line, which was to be the test of your sentiments and support. He nodded assent, but said no more.
"I am astonished at the indecency and folly of neglecting to pay your Lordship the compliment of asking your advice, and of imparting at the same time their ideas of the means and methods of opposing this hardy attempt in Administration to establish themselves in absolute power. I hear very general hopes and wishes expressed, that your Lordship may come up, but it is probable, that you are supposed to be consulted and concerted with upon all measures.
"I shall be impatient to know more of the real state of things, especially of the information your Lordship may have received, and in what manner, and from what quarter, and yet more your opinion and advice upon the conduct to be pursued."[1]
- ↑ Orde to Shelburne, December 9th, 12th, 1783. The principal division on the India Bill in the House of Commons was on the motion for the adjournment of the debate on the second reading (November 27th, 1783). Barré appears to have been absent, though apparently owing to illness. So was Robert Waller, one of the members for Chipping-Wycombe. James Townshend, who succeeded Dunning in the representation of Calne, voted against the Bill. Lord Mahon, the other member for Chipping-
