A
deist in belief, he abhorred catholicism; a worshipper of self,
he longed for power. He had boasted Cromwell had wanted to crown
him king, and he narrated to Burnet that a Dutch astrologer had
predicted he would yet fill a lofty position. He had long
schemed and dreamed, and now it seemed the result of the one and
fulfilment of the other were at hand. The pretended discovery of
this plot threatened to upheave the established form of
government, for the king was one at heart with those about to be
brought to trial and death. A quarter of a century had not
passed since a bold and determined man had risen up and governed
Great Britain. Why should not history repeat itself in this
respect? the prospect was alluring. Possessing strong
influence, great vanity, and an unscrupulous character,
Shaftesbury resolved to stir the nation to its centre, at the
expense of peace, honour, and bloodshed.
On the 21st of October, Parliament assembled, when Lord Danby,
much against his majesty's inclination, brought the subject of
the plot before the Commons. This was a movement much
appreciated by the House, which, fired by the general
indignation, resolved to deal out vengeance with a strong hand.
As befitted such intention, they began by requesting his majesty
would order a day of general fasting and prayer, to implore the
mercy of Almighty God. The king complying with this desire, they
next, "in consideration of the bloody and traitorous designs,"
besought him to issue a proclamation "commanding all persons
being popish recusants, or so reputed," to depart ten miles from
the city.
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