INTRODUCTORY MEMOIR. 3 I
the allies, and that they are ready to explain the succession to be the Protestant succession and to put in what we shall desire against the Pretender.
" These points I think should be publicly known in England to stop people's mouths who roar against Peace, but you'll take no notice you have it from me. The allies meet to-morrow to settle some matters and answers for the French ; amongst ourselves we are impatient to hear from your side, wanting some posts, and know nothing what is done with your 12 Peers nor Prince Eugene nor our great discarded General. They tell us many Lies and stories but I hope all goes well and that you are in perfect health which will be the greatest comfort imaginable to your Lordship's most faithful obedient," &c.
Lord Strafford still continued ambassador at the Hague after the signing of the Utrecht Treaty : in November, 17 13, he came over to England for about three months, apparently to look after his own affairs. The following letter was written to Mrs. Arundell, now a lady of the bedchamber, shortly before the death of Queen Anne, in reference to the attempt made to bring over Prince George of Hanover, soon to succeed her as George L : —
"Hague, 25 May, 1714. "Dear Sister,
" Is there anything in this world to be valued by us equal to the Queen's health and satisfaction } I am sure there is nothing I would not do to contribute to both.
" I must own to you that I was struck with mortification when I received letters last night that she had been extreme ill, and one in the ministry attributes it partly to being uneasy that the Electoral Prince- of Hanover would come over, and that House keep no measures with her. I know both to be false ; and if you found an occasion you might let her majesty know what I write, and that there is nothing I would not undertake to satisfy her majesty on this or any other point.
" A certain great minister writ to me to write to the
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