‘His Majesty has learned with satisfaction that they have determined not to press forward any further the discussion of the Bill depending in Parlt., and he is sensible of the deference shown to his sentiments and feelings, but he regrets that while they have felt bound as his Ministers to adopt this line of conduct, they should as individuals consider it necessary to submit to Parlt. opinions which are known to be so decidedly contrary to his principles, at a moment too when it is the declared object of his Governt. not to encourage any disposition on the part of the R. Catholics of Ireland to prefer a Petition to Parliament. [Sidenote: THE CATHOLIC QUESTION] ‘From the latter part of the Minute the K. must conclude, that altho’ the Bill which was depending is dropped, they have been unable to make up their minds not to press upon him in future measures connected with a question which has already proved so distressing to him, nor can H.M. conceal from them that this intimation on their part, unless withdrawn, will leave the matter in a state most embarrassing and unsatisfactory to him, and in his opinion not less to them. The K. therefore considers it due to himself and consistent with fair and upright conduct, which it has and ever will be his object to observe towards everyone, to declare at once most unequivocally that upon this subject his sentiments never can change, that he cannot ever agree to any concession which his confidential servants may in future propose to him; and that under these circumstances and after what has passed, his mind cannot be at ease unless he shall receive a positive assurance from them which shall effectually relieve him from all future apprehension. ‘(Signed) GEORGE R.’ The preceding note was enclosed in the following:-- March 17th, 1807. ‘The King has lost no time in dictating the answer to the Minute of Cabinet. Ld. Grenville will receive it enclosed, and H.M. desires he will communicate it to his colleagues, trusting at the same time that Ld. Grenville will see the propriety, with a view to the prevention of all future mistakes, that when they shall have duly considered the latter part of His Majesty’s answer, their determination should be stated on paper. ‘(Signed) GEORGE R.’