I dare not do it; and I implore your Majesty to consider whether such an attack upon the rights of the Church be in accordance with your late gracious promises." [85] Sawyer would have been instantly dismissed as Finch had been, if the government could have found a successor: but this was no easy matter.

It was necessary for the protection of the rights of the crown that one at least of the crown lawyers should be a man of learning, ability, and experience; and no such man was willing to defend the dispensing power.
The Attorney General was therefore permitted to retain his place during some months.

Thomas Powis, an insignificant man, who had no qualification for high employment except servility, was appointed Solicitor.
The preliminary arrangements were now complete.

There was a Solicitor General to argue for the dispensing power, and twelve Judges to decide in favour of it.

The question was therefore speedily brought to a hearing.