Under the systematic attacks of these people, I see some of the props of good government already begin to fail; I see propagated principles which will not leave to religion even a toleration.

I see myself sinking every day under the attacks of these wretched people."[1] To this pitch he had been excited by the vehement band of men, who had inscribed on their standard, _Ecraser l'Infame_.
[Footnote 1: "Speech on Relief of Protestant Dissenters, 1773."] * * * * * The second Parliament in which Burke had a seat was dissolved suddenly and without warning (October 1774).

The attitude of America was threatening, and it was believed the Ministers were anxious to have the elections over before the state of things became worse.

The whole kingdom was instantly in a ferment.

Couriers, chaises, post-horses, hurried in every direction over the island, and it was noted, as a measure of the agitation, that no fewer than sixty messengers passed through a single turnpike on one day.