Such knowledge was then to be obtained only by actual parliamentary service.

The difference between an old and a new member was as great as the difference between a veteran soldier and a recruit just taken from the plough; and James's Parliament contained a most unusual proportion of new members, who had brought from their country seats to Westminster no political knowledge and many violent prejudices.

These gentlemen hated the Papists, but hated the Whigs not less intensely, and regarded the King with superstitious veneration.

To form an opposition out of such materials was a feat which required the most skilful and delicate management.

Some men of great weight, however, undertook the work, and performed it with success.