There was no positive proof of guilt; and the energy and pathos with which Sunderland lied might have imposed on a keener understanding than that with which he had to deal.

At the French embassy his professions still found credit.

There he declared that he should remain a few days in London, and show himself at court.
He would then retire to his country seat at Althorpe, and try to repair his dilapidated fortunes by economy.

If a revolution should take place he must fly to France.

His ill requited loyalty had left him no other place of refuge.