character and fortune. He was in his
person rather lower than the middle size, well shaped, erect, with
eyes remarkably prominent, a high nose, and fair complexion. In his
disposition he is said to have been hasty, prone to anger, especially in
his youth, yet soon appeased; otherwise mild, moderate, and humane; in
his way of living temperate, regular, and so methodical in every branch
of private economy, that his attention descended to objects which a
great king, perhaps, had better overlook. He was fond of military pomp
and parade; and personally brave. He loved war as a soldier--he studied
it as a science; and corresponded on this subject with some of
the greatest officers whom Germany has produced. The extent of his
understanding, and the splendour of his virtue, we shall not presume to
ascertain, or attempt to display; we rather wish for opportunities to
expatiate on his munificence and liberality--his generous regard to
genius and learning--his royal encouragement and protection of those
arts by which a nation is at once benefited and adorned. With respect to
his government, it very seldom deviated from the institutions of law,
or encroached upon private property, or interfered with the common
administration of justice. The circumstances that chiefly marked his
public character, were a predilection for his native country, and a
close attention to the political interests of the Germanic body; points
and principles to which he adhered with the most invincible fortitude:
and if ever the blood and treasure of Great Britain were sacrificed
to these considerations, we ought not so much to blame the prince, who
acted from the dictates of natural affection, as we should detest a
succession of venal ministers, all of whom in their turns devoted
themselves, soul and body, to the gratification of his passion, or
partiality, so prejudicial to the true interest of their country.

{GEORGE II., 1727-1760}

RECAPITULATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS OF HIS REIGN.

The reign of George II. produced many revolutions, as well in the
internal schemes of economy and administration, as in the external
projects of political connexions; revolutions that exposed the frailties
of human nature, and demonstrated the instability of systems founded
upon convenience. In the course of this reign, a standing army was, by
dint of ministerial influence, engrafted on the constitution of Great
Britain. A fatal stroke was given to the liberty of t