Whitehall, Dec. 15th, 1788.
MY DEAR BROTHER,
I had yesterday some conversation with Pitt on the subject of your
letter, which I had received in the morning.
On the best consideration, we agreed that the line I before
mentioned to you is the best which you ought to follow; that you
should write a letter, to be delivered immediately upon the Prince
of Wales being Regent, to state the doubts, to suggest the solution
of Lords Justices, to desire His Royal Highness's commands upon the
danger of giving offence here, by the appearing to raise
difficulties in Ireland. This was agreed to be more proper, even to
the King, than leaving them to open the Parliament. Pitt has
received a very haughty letter from the Prince of Wales to Thurlow,
complaining of his general behaviour to him, and of his not having
had Pitt's plan communicated to him, and ordering Thurlow to
require him to send it to him in writing. Pitt has sent a
respectful answer, disclaiming any disrespect to him; but saying
that he does not think it proper to do this until the question of
right has been discussed.
It is reported that the four Princes of the blood met yesterday,
and agreed to refuse the Regency under any limitations, and this is
to be declared in the House of Commons to-morrow. I have reason to
believe this to be true. Pitt saw the Queen yesterday; I do not
know what passed, though I think he is satisfied.
I enclose a letter from Camplin, upon which you must decide. I have
not yet seen Captain Nugent, who has sent me a letter from you, but
his business is wholly out of our cognizance.
Ever most affectionately yours,
W. W. G.
When Pitt was at Kew he saw Willis, who told him that he did not
think the difference in the King's state within these last two
days, of the smallest importance. That this sort of fluctuation was
naturally to be expected, and did not in any degree diminish his
hopes, which are as sanguine as ever.