He had, however, no part in that conspiracy which brought so much disgrace and calamity on the Whig party, and not only abhorred the murderous designs of Goodenough and Ferguson, but was of opinion that even his beloved and honoured friend Russell, had gone to unjustifiable lengths against the government.

A time at length arrived when innocence was not a sufficient protection.

Burnet, though not guilty of any legal offence, was pursued by the vengeance of the court.

He retired to the Continent, and, after passing about a year in those wanderings through Switzerland, Italy, and Germany, of which he has left us an agreeable narrative, reached the Hague in the summer of 1686, and was received there with kindness and respect.

He had many free conversations with the Princess on politics and religion, and soon became her spiritual director and confidential adviser.