He has often been mentioned as a blasphemer and selfmurderer.

But the important service which, by means doubtless most immoral and dishonourable, he rendered to his country, has passed almost unnoticed.

[400] Late in this busy and eventful session the attention of the Houses was called to the state of Ireland.

The government of that kingdom had, during the six months which followed the surrender of Limerick, been in an unsettled state.

It was not till the Irish troops who adhered to Sarsfield had sailed for France, and till the Irish troops who had made their election to remain at home had been disbanded, that William at length put forth a proclamation solemnly announcing the termination of the civil war.