He could not without reluctance dismiss those officers who had given so many proofs of their courage and fidelity.
He did not think himself safe upon the naked throne, in a kingdom that swarmed with malcontents who had so often conspired against his person and government.

He dreaded the ambition and known perfidy of the French king, who still retained a powerful army.

He foresaw that a reduction of the forces would lessen his importance both at home and abroad; diminish the dependence upon his government; and disperse those foreigners in whose attachment he chiefly confided.

He communicated his sentiments on this subject to his confidant, the earl of Sunderland, who knew by experience the aversion of the people to a standing army; nevertheless he encouraged him with hope of success, on the supposition that the commons would see the difference between an army raised by the king's private authority, and a body of veteran troops maintained by consent of parliament for the security of the kingdom.

This was a distinction to which the people paid no regard.