Whitehall, Jan. 12th, 1789.
MY DEAR BROTHER,
I understand from different conversations, as well as from the
general report here, that there is an intention of moving for an
Address to the Prince, such as was proposed here, immediately on
the first meeting of the Irish Parliament. Grattan, &c., &c., are
all going over, so as to be in Dublin by the 20th. He is understood
to have entered completely into all the views of the party here,
and to be ready to pledge himself to all their doctrines,
maintained, or retracted, or both. I thought it right to give you
this intelligence, although you will probably hear it from many
other quarters, and though I have very little apprehension, indeed,
from the effect of such a manoeuvre. If anything could more
completely ruin them here than they are ruined already, it would be
such a measure. As to its effect in Ireland, I cannot persuade
myself that there can be any difficulty in getting people to pledge
themselves not to run before this country; and to appoint a Regent,
without conditions, in Ireland, before it is even known what
conditions are to be proposed, much less whether they will be
adopted by the British Parliament. At all events, however, the
battle must be fought; for it would be the most disgraceful thing
in the world to appear to give it up, or rather not to appear to
dispute it inch by inch.
Lord Glendon and Lord Fairford are both going over to assist you.
They both complain (particularly the former) of want of attention
from you; but I am so accustomed to such complaints, without
foundation, that I am not disposed to give much credit to them in
this instance. I understand that Lord Hillsborough has expressed
himself on the subject in a more decided manner than you seem at
all disposed to give him credit for.
Our report cannot probably be made to-day; but when it does appear,
I am told that the impression of it will be favourable to the idea
of the King's recovery. Surely, when this circumstance is taken
into consideration by your Irish speculators, in addition to the
many other considerations which make everybody here allow that
Pitt's side has the best of the day, they will not be induced to
hazard so decisive a step as you must give them to understand their
agreeing to this Address will be considered.
It was mentioned to me, that considerable offers had been made to
Corry. I mention this to you, but you will probably be able to
ascertain the truth of the report more accurately than I can.
It is worth observing, that the appointment of a Regent in Ireland
by Address goes directly to dissolve the Union of the two kingdoms,
because a Regent so appointed could not command the use of the
English Great Seal.
Ever most affectionately yours,
W. W. G.