Routledge Revival: Castlereagh (1936): The Political Life of Robert, Second Marquess of Londonderry (Routledge Revivals)

Product Description This book represents, on the one hand , the fulfilment of a long-cherished hope; on the other, an act of tardy expiation. The crime for which expiation is offered is partly collective. The reproach which lies on historians at large is considered in the Prologue. The personal crime can be confessed only through the more intimate medium of a Preface. More than thirty years ago I published a little book on George Canning (John Murray, 1903) in which I did less than justice to Castlereagh. The error was not peculier to me, and might perhaps be regarded as venial in a budding politician and inexperienced historian, who had spent some of the happiest evenings of his Oxford life in the famous club dedicated to Mr. Canning's memory. Yet all these years it has lain heavy on a conscience too tender perhaps for an active participant in politics. That participation combined with other circumstances to delay the expiation even now inadequately made. But, however inadequate, it cannot safely be deferred much longer. About the Author Sir John Arthur Ransome Marriott taught modern history at Oxford University from 1884 to 1920. He was an Honorary fellow, formerly fellow, lecturer and tutor in modern History, of Worcester College, Oxford. He was Conservative member of Parliament for Oxford from 1917 to 1922, and for York from 1923 to 1929. After defeat in 1929 he retired from active politics.