England was every day under the apprehension of a French invasion, which, of course, she dreaded; something must be done to satisfy the French Court.

Perhaps, had it not been for this, the general outrages committed upon the unfortunate Catholics of Ireland would never have become the subject of a detailed investigation.

An investigation, however, took place, by which a system of the most incredible persecution was discovered, and a milder administration of the laws was found judicious, in order to conciliate the Catholic party, and prevent them from embracing the cause of the Pretender.

At all events, what between the necessity of satisfying the claims of the French Government, and in apprehension of a Catholic defection, the great and principal criminal was selected for punishment.

The Irish Government, however, who were already prepared with their charges, found themselves already anticipated by Mr.Hastings, a fact which enabled them to lie on their oars and await the result.
Such was the state and condition of affairs as the assizes were within ten days of opening.
One evening about this time the old squire, who never remained long in the same mode of feeling, sent for his daughter to the dining-room, where he was engaged at his Burgundy.