Tangier was a bad school, and Kirke showed during the Monmouth insurrection that he had learned its lessons only too well. Very little credit was due to him personally, but he treated Londonderry like a conquered city. The late garrison was made into regiments, and the claims of some who had done much were ignored. But Michelburn, who had served under him in Africa, was continued as Governor, and Walker, who hastened to get rid of his military character, was sent to London with the news and an address from the defenders to King William. While he was on his way, William's letter of thanks and congratulation arrived addressed to the Governors, for only the bare facts of the relief had then reached London. Kirke filled up the blanks with the names of 'George Walker and John Michelburn, Esquires.' Walker travelled by way of Scotland, receiving the freedom of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Sir Robert Cotton, the great antiquary's son, drove out as far as Barnet to meet him, and crowds followed him in the streets. He was presented to the King, who gave him 5000_l._, which was paid next day, adding that that was only a small part of what he owed him. On receiving the thanks of the House of Commons he made little of his own services. At William's request Cambridge agreed to make him a Doctor of Divinity, but he did not go there to receive the degree. At Oxford, which he visited on his return journey in company with Archbishop Vesey, the same distinction was conferred on him in convocation as the defender of Londonderry, 'and by that fact, as we hope, the preserver and avenger of all Ireland.' In London, says Luttrell, he was caressed by all sorts of people, and entertained at dinner, and has the character of a very modest person.' Tillotson said his modesty was equal to his merit, and that everyone was pleased at hearing that he was to be made a bishop. He spent about six months in England, exerting himself to obtain rewards and recognition for those who had suffered by the siege, not forgetting the services of the seven dissenting ministers.[237] [Sidenote: Burnet on the siege.] [Sidenote: Walker's True Account.] [Sidenote: Mackenzie's _Narrative_.]