He might still, by a well timed and useful treason, earn his pardon from the foes of the government.

It was in his power to render to them at this conjuncture services beyond all price: for he had the royal ear; he had great influence over the Jesuitical cabal; and he was blindly trusted by the French Ambassador.

A channel of communication was not wanting, a channel worthy of the purpose which it was to serve.

The Countess of Sunderland was an artful woman, who, under a show of devotion which imposed on some grave men, carried on, with great activity, both amorous and political intrigues.

[462] The handsome and dissolute Henry Sidney had long been her favourite lover.