I Was confident that the whole course of my life , and the warinesse I have learnt by long experience , would have prevented any necessity of making an Apologie , especially to the honourable House of Commons ( whereof I am an humble Member ) either of my intentions , or actions . But having understood , that I have beene accused by the French Embassadour , to have offered to the King of Hungary , in the name of his Majestie , my Master , a league offensive , and defensive against all men ; upon conditions of restitution , and reintegration of the second Elector Palatine to his Lands , and dignities : which being in contravention of the League betweene his Majesty , the French King , and the united States , was offensively taken , and therefore reparation required : I have thought it my duty both to his Majesty , and for the justification of my fidelity , and the tender care of my reputation , Wounded in the high Court of Parliament , to desire this Office of frie●dship from you , to represent my Answer .

First , That I never re●eived any such power , or instruction , from his Majestie my master , nor that any respect could so farre decline me from my duty , to undertake of my selfe to transgresse both my Orders , and against my owne judgment ▪ Therefore I must protest , with all reverence to the thrice Christian King , and due respect to his Emdassador , as his representant , and without relation to the command of the one , or obedience of the other : the whole accusation in form , and matter , in substance , and circumstances , is unjust , and in the first inventor false ; and against innocency , truth , and faithfull service scandalous .

Jt is very easie to Blot , and Staine the purest innocency : But I am confident in the equity , and wisdom of the House of Commons , that they will not only give credit to my assertion : but that they will so far regard the reputation of one of their Members , as to blot out , and expunge all record , or memory of this imputation , and that they will please to believe , that I both understand my duty , and the present state of the troubled world ; and that all my negotiations have principally respected the honour , and conveniency of my King , and Country , of which I shall render such account , as every accusation shall turne to my advantage .

I will not reflect upon the scope of this complaint against me , knowing well , their wisdome will easily penetrate , that there may lye hid other designes , then to disgrace a private man ; but humbly desiring , they will be pleased as far and wide to publish my integrity , as it hath beene defamed , I will no further trouble them , nor You , but rest ,