1722. John Churchill, the great duke of Marlborough, died at
Windsor-lodge, in a state of idiocy. He was son of sir Winston
Churchill, an English historian, and born at Ashe, in Devonshire, 1650.
At twelve years of age he became page to the duke of York, afterwards
James II.; at sixteen he entered the guards, and distinguished himself
under Turenne. He was called the handsome Englishman, married Miss
Jennings, (the celebrated duchess of Marlborough,) obtained
distinguished rank and offices, suppressed the duke of Monmouth’s
rebellion, and served king James with apparent fidelity in the wane of
his fortune, while he faithlessly made court to the prince of Orange.
His great military achievements, under king William and queen Anne,
were rewarded by munificent public grants, and a public funeral in
Westminster-abbey.
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