It was impossible that in such circumstances he should remain at the head of the Scottish administration.

He was, however, gently let down from his high position.
He continued during more than a year to be Secretary of State; but another Secretary was appointed, who was to reside near the King, and to have the chief direction of affairs.

The new Prime Minister for Scotland was the able, eloquent and accomplished Sir John Dalrymple.

His father, the Lord President of the Court of Session, had lately been raised to the peerage by the title of Viscount Stair; and Sir John Dalrymple was consequently, according to the ancient usage of Scotland, designated as the Master of Stair.

In a few months Melville resigned his secretaryship, and accepted an office of some dignity and emolument, but of no political importance.