n respecting the conduct of his friends or his
own in the present crisis. With regard to the settlement of the
Roman Catholic grievances, my general opinions are unalterable; but
the course to be pursued by the Executive Government in Ireland in
the existing state of the law, and in the present condition of that
country, must be regulated by practical considerations, in which
persons may cordially concur whose sentiments may greatly differ on
the great and final question. My view of the present state of
affairs in Ireland would lead me to think that an impartial,
equitable, and mild administration of the law (of which the
alteration cannot be effected or attempted by a Lord Lieutenant),
is the only safe course which can now be pursued, and the only
channel through which we can ever reach a happy and permanent
settlement.

With this view I entertain no apprehension of interruption in my
government from the influence mentioned by your Lordship, as the
subject of alarm in some most respectable minds. I really do not
believe that any person now in high office, or likely to be in high
office in either country, would attempt to contravene the liberal
and benevolent spirit of the King's gracious and conciliatory
admonitions to Ireland; and I trust that, by general consent, the
system of government is abolished by which the laws respecting the
Catholics were administered in a spirit much more severe than their
letter. This is a step towards more substantial improvement, and
every step in this salutary career must advance us still more near
the complete attainment of general union and harmony. This is my
plan, from which I cannot deviate, and in the execution of which I
apprehend no interruption.

I understand from the Government here, and I most ardently hope,
that our highly respectable and admirable friend Mr. Plunket is
likely to hold a high official station in Ireland, where I shall
place the most firm confidence in him, and receive the constant
benefit of his council and assistance. This will be a great comfort
and strength to me in a situation of great and arduous exertion;
where, however, the course to be observed cannot be doubtful,
whatever doubt the uncertainty of all human affairs must cast over
the prospect of success.

If your Lordship had desired my opinion, I shoul