He had, in the first year of his reign, expressed his desire to see an union accomplished between England and Scotland.

He was convinced that nothing could more conduce to the safety and happiness of both.

He should think it his peculiar felicity if, before the close of his reign, some happy expedient could be devised for making the two kingdoms one; and he, in the most earnest manner, recommended the question to the consideration of the Houses.

It was resolved that the message should betaken into consideration on Saturday, the seventh of March.
But on the first of March humours of menacing appearance showed themselves in the King's knee.

On the fourth of March he was attacked by fever; on the fifth his strength failed greatly; and on the sixth he was scarcely kept alive by cordials.