Note 206 — BOOK THE FOURTH 1815-1821
Reading edition
How shortsighted are predictions! In three months or less after writing this, I was invited by Lord Grey to a seat in the Cabinet, and though, from considerations of health, I declined any more active employment, I accepted the seals of the Duchy of Lancaster, an office which brings me in constant and private intercourse with the King, and which, under so direct and honourable a Prince as William IV., is a pleasant and easy, as well as an honourable, occupation.—V.H.