A great military commander made such explanations at a private audience granted to him at his request, that it would be impossible to complain of his conduct. He is not very quick of comprehension, and probably was not apprised of the intention to insult. A great law officer was with me, and now declares that he never arraigned the legality of any of the late proceedings from October to the close of the trials, but did not approve the policy of those proceedings.
It is not just now the moment for investigating his conduct. The first objects are a full discussion and judgment on the conduct of my Government during the time which has elapsed from 1st January, 1822, to the present hour, and an extension of the 38th of the late King to Ireland.
I am most happy to hear that our dear and inestimable friend Lord Grenville recovers so rapidly.
Ever, my dear Duke,
Yours with true affection,
Wellesley.
CHAPTER XII.
[1823.]
NEW APPOINTMENTS. LORD WELLESLEY'S REPRESENTATIONS RESPECTING THE STATE OF IRELAND. THE GOVERNMENT SUPPORT THE LORD-LIEUTENANT. MR. PLUNKET'S EXPLANATIONS. ILLNESS OF THE KING. THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON'S SUGGESTION. AN IRISH QUESTION. TRIUMPH OF MR. PLUNKET. PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES. QUARREL BETWEEN MR. CHARLES W. WYNN AND MR. PEEL. THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON'S OPINION OF MR. CANNING. HIS GRACE A PEACE-MAKER. BOASTFUL SPEECH ATTRIBUTED TO MR. PITT.