prosecution of business. Adversity, perhaps happily for himself, made him
callous rather than despondent.

The business of the treaty between France and Spain meanwhile advanced
more quickly than any one had ventured to hope. The difficulties as to
France's pledges to Portugal, and those of Spain to the Prince of Condé,
were somehow settled--or, at least, ignored. If France had to yield to
some pressure on the part of Don Lewis de Haro, she avenged herself by
retaining her hold on those former Spanish possessions in Flanders which
the fortune of war had placed in her hands. Sir Henry Bennet represented
Charles in Spain, and was sorely perplexed when the final ratification
approached, and the King made no appearance. Ormonde had been sent to
Fontarabia, but Charles lingered at Toulouse, before proceeding from there
towards Madrid. His presence there was not desired, and he found himself
compelled, after roundabout journeys, to put in an appearance at the scene
of the treaty. Both France and Spain held out delusive hopes of aid. Don
Lewis presented him with a dole of seven thousand pistoles, and promised a
good reception on his return to Flanders. There was nothing for it but to
make his way back to Brussels, and join once more in the plans of Hyde and
his council there. He found the prospect no more cheerful than before.

During the autumn matters had moved forward in England. Lambert had
strengthened his hold upon the army, and now pressed its authority more
urgently upon the discredited Parliament. He demanded that Fleetwood
(whose weakness made him an easy tool) should be General, and that he
himself should be Major-General. The Parliament, under the leading of
Hazlerigg and Vane, still resisted his claims, and attempted to defy him.
Their resistance was easily overcome. Lambert met Lenthall, the Speaker,
on his way to the House, compelled him to return home, and by main force
closed the Parliament. In its place was established a Committee of Safety