He was still entrusted with all the secrets of the opposition: but during some months his political friends thought it best for himself and for the cause that he should remain in the background.

[269] The Earl of Bedford had never recovered from the effects of the great calamity which, four years before, had almost broken his heart.

From private as well as from public feelings he was adverse to the court: but he was not active in concerting measures against it.

His place in the meetings of the malecontents was supplied by his nephew.

This was the celebrated Edward Russell, a man of undoubted courage and capacity, but of loose principles and turbulent temper.