St. James's Square, Jan. 30th, 1794.
MY DEAREST BROTHER,
I believe Pitt's budget is finished, as it is to be opened on
Wednesday. I have, however, sent him your project; though I do not
conceive favourably of it, as the object appears so small, and
such a nest of hornets to be brought upon one by it.
The French seem certainly disposed to try their scheme of invasion.
This leads to the necessity of some augmentation of interior force,
and possibly some of our last year's plans will be resorted to. Our
best defence is unquestionably our water-guard, which is very
strong, and will, I trust, every day get stronger. In the meantime,
Lord Moira's force stationed at Cowes, and with its transports
ready to put to sea at the shortest notice, is no inconsiderable
check upon them.
I have no faith in their attacking Flanders; but rather believe
they will wait our attack. But two Dutch, and as many Flanders
mails are due.
Mack returns to the army to the great joy of every one. We expect
him over here every day.
Ever my dear brother's
Most affectionately,
G.
The Budget was brought forward by Mr. Pitt on the 2nd of February. It
estimated the total supply for the year at twenty millions; and proposed
for the ways and means a loan of eleven millions, and the imposition of
some new taxes.
Here was the first great pressure of the war on the industry of the
people. It was a trying moment with Government; but the demands of the
Minister were, nevertheless, heartily responded to. The interior force
of the kingdom at this time amounted to one hundred and forty thousand
men; and the foreign troops in British pay to forty thousand more. The
augmentation of the Militia, which was not carried into effect till the
following month, was now occupying the consideration of Government.