To pack a jury was now the great object of the King.

The crown lawyers were ordered to make strict inquiry as to the sentiments of the persons who were registered in the freeholders' book.

Sir Samuel Astry, Clerk of the Crown, whose duty it was, in cases of this description, to select the names, was summoned to the palace, and had an interview with James in the presence of the Chancellor.

[392] Sir Samuel seems to have done his best.

For, among the forty-eight persons whom he nominated, were said to be several servants of the King, and several Roman Catholics.