5 Nov 1809

Parl y. Reform

'.2. Influence on understanding

Instruments of fascination

3

The wig[?] [...?] suffer[?] without their having votes in [...?] had in that assembly which is to pronounce on their pockets[?] and their talents[?]

Such in a word /at any rate/ is the power /influence/ with which independently of all reasoning those who have at command these instruments of fascination are able and wont through the medium of the imagination to exercise on the understanding of the bulk of men - to exercise without the aid of corruption that is to every purpose of government - and not of good government only /merely/ but in no inconsiderable degree of bad government the corrupt species of influence, the influence of will over will, might well /without much difficulty/ be spared.

The King makes Lord High Chancellor when he pleases: and whether he be capable or not capable of forming a decision, no sooner is he seen walking with a man before him, or sitting on a particular bench with a gown of a particular cut on his back that men in general are sufficiently /abundantly/ assured /satisfied/ of his fitness for that highest of all high offices. The advantage thus given to inaptitude might therefore one should think be sufficient without giving to this judge not only a vote but a lead in that assembly which is to sit in judgment over his acts.

The King makes Secretary for the Home Department Secretary for the Foreign Department Secretary for the conduct of the war; First Commissioner of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer when he pleases.