DEDICATION * TO THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH. • MY LORD, As it is natural to have a fondness for what has cost us much time and attention to produce, I hope your grace will forgive my endeavour to preserve this work from oblivion by affixing to it your memorable name. * This dedication includes Nos. 252-321. • John Churchill, eldest son of sir Winstan Churchill, of Wooton-Bas set, in the county of Wilts, was born June 24, 1650. The duke of York ob tained for him an ensigncy in the guards so early as 1666; and a company of grenadiers, under the duke of Monmouth, in 1672, at the siege of Maestricht. On his return, he was appointed a lieutenant-colonel, a gentleman of the bed-chamber, and master of the robes to the duke of York. Attending the duke into Scotland, he had a regiment of dragoons; and was created baron of Aymouth in that kingdom Dec. 1, 1682. King James, on his accession, appointed him gentleman of the bed-chamber, captain of a troop of his life-guard; and created him baron Churchill of Sandridge May 14, 1685. At the revolution, he was continued gentleman of the bed-chamber; sworn of the privy-council Feb. 6, 1688–9; created earl of Marlborough April 9, 1689; the same year was commander of the English forces in Flan. ders, and in 1690 had the same employment in Ireland. He was, notwithstanding, dismissed from the king's service, and even committed to the tower on suspicion of a plot. On the death of queen Mary, he was re |
