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THE REIGN

his enemies in possession of his dominions, shut himself up in his capital; which Peter, with one hundred and fifty thousand men, immediately invested.

The King of England, who panted for glory, when honour pointed out the path, was now moved by humanity: he pitied the condition of the unhappy Emperor, and determined to assist him. He laid before the parliament, ever ready to concur with their Monarch in prosecuting the interest and honour of their country, the state of Europe; displayed the sad situation of the house of Brandenburgh, and asked their concurrence in supporting it. The wishes of the whole kingdom attended the King in this demand; and the commons having granted the necessary supplies, George increased his forces to eighty thousand men, and his fleet was manned and ready for service in case of necessity,and