THE subject of our narrative rises amid the history of
England as a rock, mighty and strong, not however
opposing the course of development, or directing the stream
of progress into new channels, a type of character often
to be found in English history, but rather as a dominat-
ing landmark, weatherworn on either side by the nature of
preceding and subsequent periods, and yet forming a self-
contained and uniform whole. Such was the character of
William Pitt the elder, as will be shown in detail in the
course of the biography which I propose to write. This
biography will further demonstrate the fact, that although
no actual change of natural development was due to him, he
yet contributed largely to the advance of the nation, and
materially accelerated its progress. This constructive energy
is not, however, apparent in this first period of his life,
the period of his rise; what we shall observe here is the
peculiar nature of his position midway between two epochs,
and the special influence exerted thereby upon his character.
For a correct understanding and appreciation of these facts a
general view of the stage of development attained by the
English state at that period is indispensable. We require an
account of the region in which our landmark is situated.

The opinion is widely and generally entertained, that the
English state is the purest form of constitutional government,
and that it was impressed with this form at a very early date.
While other states were labouring under great uncertainty
or entire confusion of constitutional form, or were burdened
by the weight of despotism, England is supposed to have
secured a careful delimitation of spheres of influence and

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