[348] Leadam, 445 note. Orford, ii. 259.
[349] Shelburne, i. 83 note.
[350] Add. MSS. 35870 'Powis Ho., October 24, 1756. Sunday night.'
[351] This poor Hanoverian victim, as completely as Andersen's Tin Soldier, has melted into nothingness. But he once caused a mighty stir. He bought four handkerchiefs, and by mistake, as was universally conceded, took the whole piece, which contained six. Yet he was put in prison on a charge of theft. His commanding officer demanded his enlargement. Failing in this attempt, he obtained a warrant from Holdernesse for his release. The whole country was aflame in an instant with the old hostility to German mercenaries, Holdernesse was severely threatened, and the innocent soldier cruelly flogged. See Orford, ii. 248-9.
[352] Strangely enough there is a different answer appended to this report.
'That H.M. had been desirous, in this time of difficulty, to have the assistance of Mr. Pitt in his service, and for that purpose to consider him and those connected with him in a proper manner. That H.M. continues in the same disposition, tho' what has been suggested by Mr. Pitt will not in the King's opinion form a system for carrying on H.M.'s service.'
This may have been the first draft, and it may have been found, as usual, that the less said the better.
[353] Partly given in Harris, iii. 80.
[354] Newcastle to Hardwicke, Oct. 13, 5 o'clock, 1756. Add. MSS. 32868, f. 251.
[355] Ib.