A royal proclamation appeared commanding the clergy to read a form of prayer and thanksgiving which had been prepared for this joyful occasion by Crewe and Sprat.
The clergy obeyed: but it was observed that the congregations made no responses and showed no signs of reverence.

Soon in all the coffeehouses was handed about a brutal lampoon on the courtly prelates whose pens the King had employed.

Mother East had also her full share of abuse.

Into that homely monosyllable our ancestors had degraded the name of the great house of Este which reigned at Modena.

[305] The new hope which elated the King's spirits was mingled with many fears.