Many persons, however, supposing that the price of gold would be raised the next session, hoarded up their guineas; and upon the same supposition, encouraged by the malcontents, the new coined silver money was reserved, to the great detriment of commerce.

The king ordered mints to be erected in York, Bristol, Exeter, and Chester, for the purpose of the re-coinage, which was executed with unexpected success, so that in less than a year the currency of England, which had been the worst, became the best coin in Europe.
At this period the attention of the commons was diverted to an object of a more private nature.

The earl of Portland, who enjoyed the greatest share of the king's favour, had obtained a grant of some lordships in Derbyshire.

While the warrant was depending, the gentlemen of that county resolved to oppose it with all their power.

In consequence of a petition, they were indulged with a hearing by the lords of the treasury.