Early in October it was known that he would no longer preside in the Upper House.

It was at the same time whispered as a great secret that he meant to retire altogether from business, and that he retained the Privy Seal only till a successor should be named.

Chief Baron Atkyns was appointed Speaker of the Lords, [518] On some important points there appeared to be no difference of opinion in the legislature.

The Commons unanimously resolved that they would stand by the King in the work of reconquering Ireland, and that they would enable him to prosecute with vigour the war against France, [519] With equal unanimity they voted an extraordinary supply of two millions, [520] It was determined that the greater part of this sum should be levied by an assessment on real property.

The rest was to be raised partly by a poll tax, and partly by new duties on tea, coffee and chocolate.