DIGITISED MANUSCRIPTS

( 31 ) mentary session had commenced with the discussion on the monopolies. These had increased to such an oppressive degree, that the exclusive right of issuing licenses for the sale of wine, vinegar, oil, salt, starch, coals, and almost every necessary of life, was vested in single individuals, who had purchased the privilege from a minister, or through the influence of the ladies of the Court. The Queen sent a message to the House of Commons signifying her intention of redressing all grievances by the exercise of her regal authority. The Commons hereupon sent a deputation to the Queen, headed by the Speaker, to return thanks, and to express their loyalty to her person. To this deputation she addressed a speech which began with the following words :—‘I had rather that my heart and hand should perish than that either heart or hand should enjoy such privi- leges through monopolists as may be prejudicial to my people.’ On a previous occasion Elizabeth had already said to the assembled Peers and Commons, ‘I have not called you together to make new laws, or lose good hours in empty speeches, but to vote a supply to defend the realm against the hostile attempts of the enemy.’ The Queen acted up to her words, and it must be recorded to her glory that, as her faults may have been numerous and reprehensible, she always