When I had lately the Honour of being returned one of your
Representatives in Parliament, I little expected that it
would be necessary so soon to address you again; but seeing
in the County Newspapers, that an Opposition is preparing
against me, I feel it an imperative Duty to come forward with
an Avowal of my Sentiments, and in Vindication of my public
conduct. The Accusation is that _I voted against_ Lord John
Russell's _Reform Bill_. Gentlemen, my Conscience and my best
Judgment revolted at this Bill; so violent in principle, so
hazardous to our well-balanced Constitution, the envy of other
countries, the safety of our own. I am by no means an enemy
to such Reform as Time and change of circumstances may have
rendered necessary; but let calm, and deliberate caution attend
the Measure, neither spoliating the Property of some, nor
destroying the Privileges of others; such a Measure shall have
my best support. I can, with truth say, that the retrospect
of my public life, whether in a Military or Civil capacity
gives me no reproach; I have served my Country independently,
honestly, and faithfully, to the best of my judgment, ever
anxiously promoting the wishes of my Constituents, never asking
favour for myself. Let, then, the trial with my Opponents
come when it will, I will meet it fearlessly; resting on the
Integrity of my own intentions, and on the support of those
numerous friends, who now voluntarily offer me their Services.
With the greatest Gratitude and Respect,
I am, Gentlemen,
Your very faithful and obedient Servant,
HENRY BEAUCHAMP LYGON.
_Grosvenor Place, April 19th, 1831._
This ambiguous address of Colonel Lygon's created a vehement outburst
of opposition from the reformers against him, thus--