We are getting on, though very slowly. It is thought the session will close in three weeks, which I think most probable, as everybody is going out of town, and they will not be able to make houses. Ireland still hangs upon us, and every day makes it more and more alarming. They can get no communication whatever from Lord Wellesley. He will not write, and this adds to the perplexity of the Government. I have not the least doubt whatever but that in a very short time you will see a decided rebellion. It can hardly be called less than a general insurrection now. Plunket is gone back very sore and very desponding.
The King is quite re-established, and I hear in very cheerful spirits. He has put off the match between Lady Elizabeth Conyngham and Lord Aboyne. He does not go to the sea, as I understand, till the end of July, and has not yet decided what day he comes to town.
Canning does nothing in the House, and I think suffers Peel to take completely the lead. The Spaniards must ultimately give way, and the greatest ridicule is thrown on this subscription and ball now going forward. It is exclusively with the Opposition, and will fail. It is curious now to observe how those who had not courage at the time to support your opinions against the revolutionary Government of Spain, are now coming forward and applauding your language and opinions. What Canning is doing about it I know not, but he is very busy with the diplomacy there. He is disposed to appoint Hervey to some other station, in order to get rid of the anomaly of a Secretary of Embassy to a Minister (not with the rank of Ambassador), but he has great difficulty, having neither pension fund nor vacancy at an ambassador's court; therefore, what he will do remains to be seen. He cannot remove him without provision, and Hervey is ready to return, if required. Lord Salisbury is succeeded by Lord Verulam in the Lieutenancy of Hertford. I don't know who comes in for Hertford. I cannot tell you how things are going on with Wynn, &c., not having had the opportunity lately of observing—but I should hope better. I think Canning loses ground greatly. He is anything but a leader of the House of Commons.
The Lords have decided on appointing a Chairman to hear Scotch appeals only, with a salary—this Chairman to be some eminent Scotch judge. The question for the Commons to decide will be the salary, which the Lord Chancellor will not pay, but which I think the Commons will be disposed to fasten upon him.
I have not heard from Freeling.[115] ] I take it for granted he will not stir a step with regard to the mail coach, without first apprizing me, or making some communication to the country.
Ever, my dear Duke,
Most faithfully yours,
W. H. F.
The Lords' Report on this Appeal Committee has been called for by Kennedy. I believe Canning, when he heard of it, called a Cabinet to remonstrate, and whether he was outvoted, remains to be seen. I think they will not venture to move upon it this session.
I hear Lord Bath gets the blue riband. This will be a severe blow to Lord Harrowby.