“I was highly gratified by the attention you were so good
as to show me in ordering a copy of your pamphlet to be sent to me, as every
testimony of your regard and approbation is of the highest value in my
estimation. I read the work with the avidity which my knowledge of the merits
of the author in every way was so well calculated to excite, as well as the
subject which he had treated, which of all others is the nearest to my heart.
You may believe me, when I assure you that (exclusive of the note which is so
peculiarly pleasant to me personally, and for which I sincerely thank you) my
expectations, however highly raised, were perfectly satisfied, and that I
esteem the production worthy of your fame and of the great work respecting
which you have written. The positions you have taken are impregnable; the
truths you have told are incon-
| LIFE OF WILLIAM ROSCOE. | 427 |
“You will have perceived that I gave notice some days since of my intention of submitting to the House a direct proposition on the subject of peace. I delay it for the purpose of seeing whether any further step will be taken by the French Emperor in consequence of the foolish and insolent refusal of his overtures, and because I think, for some parliamentary reasons, it may be brought forward with greater effect a short time hence. You have given me powerful assistance. I wish you were amongst us, that I might derive further aid from your exertions in the House; and in that wish I am sure I am joined by all who value independence, ability, and integrity. You avowed your opinion of the propriety of my conduct, at a time when I felt myself impelled to act by motives too powerful for restraint. Many who then joined in the attempt to restrain me, now give me the late satisfaction of knowing that they agreed with me in opinion at the time. I thank them for their frankness, and it gives me additional courage to proceed.”
