His speech had been composed by himself.

He congratulated his loving subjects on the suppression of the rebellion in the West: but he added that the speed with which that rebellion had risen to a formidable height, and the length of time during which it had continued to rage, must convince all men how little dependence could be placed on the militia.

He had, therefore, made additions to the regular army.

The charge of that army would henceforth be more than double of what it had been; and he trusted that the Commons would grant him the means of defraying the increased expense.

He then informed his hearers that he had employed some officers who had not taken the test; but he knew them to be fit for public trust.
He feared that artful men might avail themselves of this irregularity to disturb the harmony which existed between himself and his Parliament.
But he would speak out.