may be intended. This leads to the consideration of measures, which should be resolved upon as early as possible as the only means of gaining the confidence of the public, by teaching them as well what they are as what they are not to exact, and by this means preventing disappointment or surprise, or anything being left to the old Opposition or to the ministers who go out, to take credit for, which should never be allowed."[1]
Such was the reply of Lord Lansdowne; but nothing more was heard from the King, and the negotiation came to an abrupt termination.
Pitt however was not blind to the signs of the times and in the indignation caused by the events in France, he saw his own opportunity as well as the chance of saving Europe. In proportion as power began to pass from the reforming to the purely revolutionary party, the dread of French principles became more and more pronounced in England, and the Russian miscarriage became entirely a thing of the past. In the course of 1792 war had been begun by Austria and Prussia against France; the demand began to make itself heard that England should join the allies in their new crusade, and Russia soon came to be regarded as a desirable ally. It was believed that England was swarming with foreign emissaries intent on the destruction of all the most cherished institutions of the country. When Chauvelin, accompanied by Talleyrand, arrived as French Ambassador, he was received by very few members of the best society in London, except Lord Lansdowne.[2] Generally the two French Envoys were regarded with curiosity, but it was the curiosity of aversion.
For some time yet however Pitt hesitated what foreign policy to pursue. His mind was more rapidly made up on home affairs. On the 21st May 1792 the first signs of the change, which had come over the spirit of the dream of the Prime Minister appeared. A Proclamation was issued against the publication and dispersion of seditious writings. It was generally understood
