Folios 144-156. Letter dated [March 13 new style] at Paris from Lord Portland to...

Folios 144-156. Letter dated [March 13 new style] at Paris from Lord Portland to the King. Talks further of the difficulties and obstacles put in his way at the French Court and Ceremonial. Remarks that at his entry he was astonished to see such an extraordinary concourse, not only of the lower orders of Paris, whose curiosity is a matter of course, but all the people of quality in the city, of all ages and both sexes, were on the balconies and at the windows. When crossing the Pont Neuf some people exclaimed: 'Good Heavens, what a sight! something worth seeing! the solemn entry of the ambassador of a king whom we have been burning on this very bridge eight years past.' He recounts the public audience and the speeches made by himself and the French King. With respect to all that has happened regarding Monsieur and Madame he has made sure to always keep on good terms with them, and they appear pleased with his conduct. Refers to the King's letter of 26 February and is pleased to hear that rumours of the refusal come from the Jacobites, and have no appearance of being a pretence as coming from the King's people, though in neither case would Parliament be much affected, it being insensible to anything but party interests. That is the result of the Triennial Bill. Portland hopes that the return of Lord Shrewsbury will help to reunite the Whigs, and change their views about Lord Sunderland. Expresses his displeasure at staying in France so long given the cost and the tricks they play about everything. He is afraid they will do the same thing about Orange and Burgundy, particularly in favour of Madame d'Isenguien, but he will not fail to do all he can for the Prince de Vaudemont. Discusses arrangements for his successor in France. Various of those with Portland are short of money and reduced to borrowing. The Comte de Tallard is leaving for England to-morrow - he thinks himself clever and a good talker, and might be both if he were not so conceited; perhaps things may be granted by him, which have been refused when requested by Portland, as he has seen that happen with France in the past. He has written the annexed letter, that the King might show his ministers to show them things as they are, but the King may consider his interests at Parliament better served if it is less clear how little Portland believes is to be expected from France. Monsieur Steyn seeks recommendation for the post of Rhineland inspector (Heemraet de Rijnland). Mr. Ham is afraid he will be recalled, which Portland does not recommend until things are more settled there. Madame was much affected by the death of the Elector of Hanover; discusses the merits of Mademoiselle and relations with Monsieur and Madame.