L30/14/308a/1

A Minute of 2nd Baron Grantham's [copy/draft]:

12 Dec 1783

From: 1783 To: 1783

Met with Pitt at his brother's house in Berkeley Square. Pitt thought that East India Bill nearly sure in House of Lords; now important to collect as many votes against its passing. Also wanted to know if Bishop of Chester [Dr. Beilby Porteus] in Town. Grantham told Pitt he would inform Bishop of the state of the business "adding there to nothing but his own private opinion upon the Bill". Lord Temple has been with the King and the latter expressed his dislike of the Bill. Grantham thought it necessary to acquaint Pitt with his personal opinion i.e. "exceedingly lamented" existence of Bill, against it's passing as evident from his Brother's opposition to it in House of Commons. Grantham sorry to leave Government in bad hands; wished it was in Pitt's "with Colleagues in any degree like himself". Thought Mr Fox "much more of a danger to the Peace of the Country out of Place, than in Office...", considered a change of Ministers as a great calamity. Confided to Pitt that "no circumstance whatever would ever draw me to a responsible situation again" felt it more respectful to state his position now. Pitt very disappointed; fervent discussion ensued...Grantham ultimately not to be persuaded. Following Monday and Wednesday after Discussion in House of Lords, Principal Ministers dismissed. On Fryday few arrangements: Lord Temple received from the King the Seals of both Offices of Secretary of State, "with our intention of keeping" those of Home Department. Temple took Grantham aside at House of Lords and pressed him to take seals of Foreign Office, aware of discussion with Pitt, Lord Sydney tried also to persuade him, Grantham persisted with refusal. Wanted to commit the many reasons for his determination to Paper.

item

Pitt, William Morton,
Grantham, Thomas Robinson, 2nd Baron,
Porteus, Beilby,
Fox,
Temple,
Sydney

CENTRAL GOVERNMENT, Government, Foreign Secretary