History of England, from the Accession of James II - (Volume 1, Chapter 04)

This chapter is a bit of a mixture. It begins with the death of Charles II and then goes on to James II. Judge Jeffries then makes an appearance in a riot of slapstick absurdity when viewed from so far away. Although, at the time of the `Bloody Assizes¿ he will have been much feared and hated by many.There are more to-and fro-ings in the Houses of Parliament. The Scots Covenanters make an appearance and dangerfield and Oates get their come-uppance. Macaulay paints the mid to late 17th century in a mad effervescence of colour.
Summary by Jim Mowatt