LXX. Marlborough à Heinsius

Helchin , Augt. 21, 1706.

Sir , I have had the favour of yours of the 18‘ and shal

obaye your commands as far as Î dare, for as a sood Englishman I must be of the opinion of my country, that both by treaty and intirest, we are oblig’ d to preserve the Monarque of Spain intier (*). At the same time as a friend [ must own, that I beleive France can hardly be braught to a peace, unless something be given to the Duke of Anjoue, so that he may preserve the Tytle of King. L think that of Millan is unreasonable, since it wou’d make France master of the Duke of Savoye and all Italie. As to what thay pretend on the Rhine, I cant think thay wou’d insist on that. — The explication of the Queens tytle ïis certainly very impertinent, for the last peace in which thay take no notice of the successor, was contrary to custome, and the laws of the Land. You see that in few words I let you know my thoughts; but I darst not advise what answere you shou’d give; but I shou’d think, it were very natural for Mons. Buys, to give an account of this proposale to Mr. Secretary Harley and Lord Treasurer (+), who will acquaint Her Majesty ; by which means you will have the opinion of Her Majesty.

(*) V. cette lettre dans Coxe, III. 59.

(+) Sidney Godolphin. V. le caractère de cet homme d’État peint par Macaulay, Hist. of England from the accession of James II, Vol. I. p. 101, 290. .,He was laborious, clear-headed, and profoundly versed in the details of finance.” — V. plus de détails concernant la vie & la carrière politique de Lord Godolphin dans Coxe, Memoirs of John Duke of Marlborough, I. 90 suiv.

The reason of our siege going on so slowly proceeds from all our [nginiers being on a leavel, so that no one has the directions, which occasions many unreasonable disputes. — I am with truth,

Sir,

Your most obedient humble servant,

Marlborough.