He was staunch to whig principles, and for many years had been considered as one of their best speakers in the house of commons.
The new parliament meeting on the twenty-fifth day of October, a violent contest arose about the choice of a speaker.

Mr.Bromley was supported by the tories, and the whigs proposed Mr.John Smith, who was elected by a majority of forty-three voices.

The queen in her speech represented the necessity of acting vigorously against France, as a common enemy to the liberties of Europe; she commended the fortitude of the duke of Savoy, which she said was without example; she told them her intention was to expedite commissions for treating of an union with Scotland; she earnestly recommended an union of minds and affections among her people; she observed, that some persons had endeavoured to foment animosities, and even suggested in print that the established church was in danger; she affirmed that such people were enemies to her and the kingdom, and meant only to cover designs which they durst not publicly own, by endeavouring to distract the nation with unreasonable and groundless distrusts and jealousies; she declared she would always affectionately support and countenance the church of England, as by law established; that she would inviolably maintain the toleration; that she would promote religion and virtue, encourage trade, and every thing else that might make them a happy and flourishing people.
BILL FOR A REGENCY.
The majority in both houses now professed the same principles, and were well disposed to support the queen in all her designs.

They first presented the usual addresses in the warmest terms of duty and affection.

Then the commons drew up a second, assuring her they would, to the utmost of their power, assist her in bringing the treaty of union to a happy conclusion.