* * * * *
For this great evil some immediate remedy must be provided; and I
confess, my lords, I did hope that his Majesty's servants would not have
suffered so many years of peace to relapse without paying some attention
to an object which ought to engage and interest all. I flattered myself I
should see some barriers thrown up in defense of the constitution; some
impediment formed to stop the rapid progress of corruption. I doubt not
we all agree that something must be done. I shall offer my thoughts,
such as they are, to the consideration of the House; and I wish that
every noble lord that hears me would be as ready as I am to contribute
his opinion to this important service. I will not call my own sentiments
crude and undigested. It would he unfit for me to offer anything to your
lordships which I had not well considered; and this subject, I own, has
not long occupied my thoughts. I will now give them to your lordships
without reserve. LORD CHATHAM.