Earls of Middleton, Lords of Clermont and of Fettercairn

Charles, Second Earl of Middleton. 167
The calumnies to which Lord Middleton refers
were doubtless circulated by his enemies,- the non-
compounders. By this time the courtiers at St.
Germains had become divided into two factions,
called compounders and non-compounders. The
former, headed by Middleton himself, insisted upon
receiving security from King James, before furthering
his restoration, that the religion and liberties of
England should be preserved ; while the non-com-
pounders were for restoring him unconditionally,
casting themselves entirely upon his honour and
generosity. The Earl of Melfort 1 (the Prime
Minister), who supported this party, was a man
of violent temper, deficient judgment, and head-
long zeal for the Church of Rome. His conduct
proved indeed so hurtful to the royal cause that it
was found necessary to dismiss him from his office.
Middleton succeeded him, and took up his residence
henceforth entirely at St. Germains. He was not
styled Prime Minister, however, but remained as
before, Secretary of State. 2
1 John Drummond, second son of James, third Earl of Perth,
created Viscount Melfort, 1685, and earl of the same, 1686.
2 Oldmixon ; Hume.