The audit sometimes did not take place for years after the accounts were virtually closed.

Meanwhile the money accumulated in his hands, and its profits were his legitimate perquisite.

Lord Holland, or his representatives, held the balances of his office from 1765, when he retired, until 1778, when they were audited.

During this time he realised, as the interest on the use of these balances, nearly two hundred and fifty thousand pounds.

Burke diverted these enormous gains into the coffers of the State.