vote for the mitigation
of excise laws; for the repeal of septennial parliaments; and for the
limitation of placemen in the house of commons. They likewise insisted
upon their examining into the particulars of the public expense,
and endeavouring to redress the grievances of the nation. Obstinate
struggles were maintained in all parts of the united kingdoms with
uncommon ardour and perseverance; and such a national spirit of
opposition prevailed, that, notwithstanding the whole weight of
ministerial influence, the contrary interest seemed to preponderate in
the new parliament.

REMARKABLE MOTION IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS BY LORD SOMERSET.

The king returned to England in the month of October; and on the first
day of December the session was opened. Mr. Onslow being re-chosen
speaker, was approved of by his majesty, who spoke in the usual style
to both houses. He observed, that the former parliament had formed
the strongest resolutions in favour of the queen of Hungary, for the
maintenance of the pragmatic sanction; for the preservation of the
balance of power, and the peace and liberties of Europe; and that if the
other powers which were under the like engagements with him had answered
the just expectations so solemnly given, the support of the common
cause would have been attended with less difficulty. He said, he had
endeavoured, by the most proper and early applications, to induce other
powers that were united with him by the ties of common interest,
to concert such measures as so important and critical a conjuncture
required; that where an accommodation seemed necessary, he had laboured
to reconcile princes whose union would have been the most effectual
means to prevent the mischiefs which had happened, and the best security
for the in terest and safety of the whole. He owned his endeavours had
not hitherto produced the desired effect; though he was not without hope
that a just sense of approaching danger would give a more favourable
turn to the councils of other nations. He represented the necessity of
putting the kingdom in such a posture of defence as would enable him to
improve all opportunities of maintaining the liberties of Europe, and
defeat any attempts that should be made against him and his dominions;
and he recommended unanimity, vigour, and despatch. The house of commons
having appointed their several committees, the speaker reported the
king's speech; and Mr. Herbert moved for an address of thank