ently reflected on the condition of this kingdom, and the possibility of pursuing the war at that ruinous rate. This argument is not the weaker for being often urged. Besides, France is likely to have a long minority; or, if not, perhaps to be engaged in a civil war. And I do not find that in publick affairs, human wisdom is able to make provisions for futurity, which are not liable to a thousand accidents. We have done all we can; and for the rest, curent posteri.
Sir William Temple's Memoirs, which you mentioned, is his first part[1], and was published twenty years ago; it is chiefly the treaty of Nimeguen, and was so well known, that I could hardly think your grace has not seen it.
I am in some doubt, whether a fall from a horse be suitable to the dignity of an archbishop. It is one of the chief advantages in a great station, that one is exempt from common accidents of that kind. The late king[2] indeed got a fall; but his majesty was a foxhunter. I question whether you can plead any precedent to excuse you; and therefore, I hope, you will commit no more such errours: and in the mean time, I heartily congratulate with your grace, that I can rally you upon this accident.
I am in some fear that our peace will hardly be concluded in several weeks, by reason of a certain incident that could not be foreseen; neither can I tell whether the parliament will sit before the conclusion of the peace; because some persons differ in
- ↑ That is, the first part existing; for the first part written was destroyed by sir W. Temple himself: of the third, Dr. Swift was the editor.
- ↑ King William III, who died by a fall from his horse.
