Earls of Middleton, Lords of Clermont and of Fettercairn

1 60 The Earls of Middleton.
rude manner. The noise awoke Middleton ; but
the king, exhausted with all he had gone through,
slept on. Going to the door, Middleton told them
that the king was asleep, and begged them to
wait until morning ; but they answered that they
brought a letter from the Prince of Orange, which
must be delivered immediately. Having no alter-
native, he went up to the king's bed and drew
back the curtain; but James still slept on. Kneel-
ing down by his bedside, he was obliged to speak
loudly in his ear. James started, but on seeing
Middleton seemed more assured, and when brought
to understand what had happened, desired him to
admit the messengers. 1
The letter informed James that William would
be in Westminster in a few hours, and that he would
do well to leave for Ham House before ten o'clock
the next morning.
James said, on hearing this, that he did not like
Ham. In the summer it was very well, but it was an
ill winter house ; and, besides, it was unfurnished. To
this objection Halifax answered that furniture should
be sent in immediately.
The messengers then returned ; but Middleton
soon followed them, to say that the king would rather
go to Rochester. They said they had no authority
1 James's Life ; Clarendon's Diary ; Dalrymple.