He had been introduced to Charles and James when they were exiles in Flanders, as a man fit and ready for the infamous service of assassinating the Protector.

Soon after the Restoration, Talbot attempted to obtain the favour of the royal family by a service more infamous still.

A plea was wanted which might justify the Duke of York in breaking that promise of marriage by which he had obtained from Anne Hyde the last proof of female affection.

Such a plea Talbot, in concert with some of his dissolute companions, undertook to furnish.

They agreed to describe the poor young lady as a creature without virtue, shame, or delicacy, and made up long romances about tender interviews and stolen favours.