James, however, partly from dulness and partly from selfishness, could never see any immorality in any action by which he was benefited.

To conspire against him, to betray him, to break an oath of allegiance sworn to him, were crimes for which no punishment here or hereafter could be too severe.

But to murder his enemies, to break faith with his enemies was not only innocent but laudable.

The desertion at Salisbury had been the worst of crimes; for it had ruined him.

A similar desertion in Flanders would be an honourable exploit; for it might restore him.
The penitent was informed by his Jacobite friends that he was forgiven.
The news was most welcome; but something more was necessary to restore his lost peace of mind.