[508] The Commons then proceeded to consider the Ways and Means.

The land tax was renewed at four shillings in the pound; and by this simple but powerful machinery about two millions were raised with certainty and despatch.

[509] A poll tax was imposed.

[510] Stamp duties had long been among the fiscal resources of Holland and France, and had existed here during part of the reign of Charles the Second, but had been suffered to expire.

They were now revived; and they have ever since formed an important part of the revenue of the State.