Later in life his political position resolved itself into a strong dislike of Roman Catholic Relief.

William IV.

had begun his reign favourably inclined to Parliamentary Reform; but though gratified by the personal popularity which his attitude brought him in the country, he became alarmed at the national temper displayed.

It illustrates the tension of the King's mind on the subject that, when he was told that if the Reform Bill did not pass it would bring about a rebellion, he replied that if it did bring about a rebellion he did not care: he should defend London and raise the Royal Standard at Weedon (where there was a military depot); and that the Duchess of Kent and the Princess Victoria might come in if they could.
[Pageheading: CHARACTER AND TEMPERAMENT] [Pageheading: SYMPATHY WITH MIDDLE CLASSES] The reign of William IV.

had witnessed the zenith of Whig efficiency.
It had seen the establishment of Parliamentary and Municipal Reform, the Abolition of Slavery, the new Poor Law, and other important measures.