[204] The Duke of Richmond did not join the Cabinet until 13th January. See Lord Carmarthen’s Mem. (“Leeds Mem.,” 94).
[205] “Life and Letters of Sir G. Elliot,” i, 91.
[206] “Rutland P.,” iii, 73.
[207] Lord Carmarthen stated that in the Cabinet meeting of 13th January Pitt talked of giving up the struggle, but this is against all other contemporary evidence (“Leeds Mems.,” 94). These notes on the Cabinet meetings show how long were the discussions there respecting a dissolution, and Pitt’s anxiety to defer it to a favourable moment.
[208] Pitt MSS., 353. I cannot accept Mr. Sichel’s statement (“Sheridan,” ii, 45), that Dundas prescribed Pitt’s India Bill, and Burke helped in it. Dundas doubtless helped in its compilation, but Pitt must have conferred directly with the Company and found out how far it was inclined to meet his views.
[209] Wraxall, iii, 85.
[210] Stanhope, i, App., p. viii.
[211] “Ann. Reg.” (1784–5), 271; “Memorials of Fox,” ii, 238–41.
[212] Hearn, “The Government of England,” 140–4, 147.
[213] “Corresp. between Pitt and the Duke of Rutland,” 9. Cornwallis (“Corresp.,” i, 171) also prophesied after that vote that if Ministers acted wisely, they might hold office for many years.