William Sherlock, a divine of distinguished abilities, who had written with sharpness against Whigs and Dissenters, and had been rewarded by the government with the Mastership of the Temple and with a pension, was one of the first who incurred the royal displeasure.

His pension was stopped, and he was severely reprimanded.

[95] John Sharp, Dean of Norwich and Rector of St.Giles's in the Fields, soon gave still greater offence.

He was a man of learning and fervent piety, a preacher of great fame, and an exemplary parish priest.

In politics he was, like most of his brethren, a Tory, and had just been appointed one of the royal chaplains.