Dublin Castle, Jan. 15th, 1795.
MY DEAR LORD,
As it was through your Lordship's kind and affectionate partiality
that I was placed in the War Office, I think it my duty to give you
the earliest information of my removal.
Since Lord Fitzwilliam's arrival, I have merely seen his Excellency
at levee. With his chief secretary, Lord Milton, I have daily
transacted official business, without a syllable passing of a
nature in any degree confidential. The removal of Mr. Beresford, of
the Attorney and Solicitor-General, had created alarms; but there
were assurances from an English quarter that Mr. Hamilton and I
were not to be meddled with.
The reverse has taken place. About four o'clock to-day, Lord Milton
conveyed to Mr. Hamilton his Excellency's pleasure that he should
retire from office, with a desire that Mr. Hamilton should state
his situation after removal, as it was his Excellency's intention
to make him a provision.
About half an hour after, Lord Milton sent for me, and delivered a
similar message; stating, upon conversation, that his Excellency
did not in any degree mean to reflect upon my conduct, but that my
retirement was necessary for his arrangements, and that he was
disposed to make me a fair provision; at the same time, upon
conversation, his Lordship intimated that it was possible his
Excellency might differ as to the provision which I might expect
and he might think reasonable.
I have thought it my duty to submit these particulars to your
Lordship. From your Lordship I received my office; the Government
with which you have been connected I have supported to my utmost;
and I have the happiness to feel assured that I shall ever retain
your Lordship's kindness and regards till I cease to deserve it.
Believe me, my dear Lord, with the utmost respect,
Ever your most devoted and humble servant,
E. COOKE.
The Most Noble the Marquis of Buckingham, &c. &c.