He was accordingly rebuked, for having presumed to reflect on his majesty's proclamation, and having made an unwarrantable use of the freedom of speech granted by his majesty.

Sir William said he was not conscious of having offered any indignity to his majesty, or of having been guilty of a breach of privilege; that he acquiesced in the determination of the house; but had no thanks to give to those gentlemen who, under pretence of lenity, had subjected him to this censure.
COMMITTEE OF SECRECY.
On the ninth day of April, general Stanhope delivered to the house of commons fourteen volumes, consisting of all the papers relating to the late negotiations of peace and commerce, as well as to the cessation of arms; and moved that they might be referred to a select committee of twenty persons, who should digest the substance of them under proper heads, and report them, with their observations, to the house.

One more was added to the number of this secret committee, which was chosen by ballot, and met that same evening.

Mr.Eobert Wal-pole, original chairman, being taken ill, was succeeded in that place by Mr.Stanhope.
The whole number was subdivided into three committees.

To each a certain number of books was allotted; and they carried on the inquiry with great eagerness and expedition.