John Scott, Lord Eldon, 1751–1838: The Duty of Loyalty (Cambridge Studies in English Legal History)

John Scott, Lord Eldon (1751-1838) was an important English lawyer and a dominant figure in Georgian public life, and ranks among the most important Lord Chancellors in the long history of that office. This biography, the first in approximately 150 years, traces Eldon's public career, from MP to Lord Chancellor. That career was significant for its duration and complexity. Eldon held public office for almost 49 years, and his 25 year tenure as Lord Chancellor is unique. This enabled him to exercise influence in almost every government between 1788-1827. John Scott, Lord Eldon (1751--1838) was a dominant figure in Georgian public life, and ranks among the most important Lord Chancellors in the long history of that office. This biography - the first for one hundred and fifty years - also surveys Eldon's earlier career as an MP and Law Officer. As a lawyer entering Parliament, he encountered both prejudices against 'learned gentlemen' and opportunities for advancement. Once in office he swiftly made his presence felt, drafting the Regency bill of 1788, and conducting the government's legal campaign against Republicanism. Retiring at last in 1827, Eldon spent his final years opposing political reform. Labelled by many as a relic of 'Old Toryism', Eldon's views of government, politics, and the constitution represent an important strand in Georgian political thinking, and his career illuminates the work of the major legal offices of British government. Cambridge Studies in English Legal History 3 Contents 9 Illustrations 10 Tables 11 Preface 13 Abbreviations 17 1 A Man of laws 18 2 An independent learned gentleman 37 3 A government retainer 55 4 Formal politics 78 5 Engagement 99 6 Setbacks 116 7 Resolution 136 8 Pater familias 156 9 Upright intentions 169 10 The King's man 184 11 The practice of patronage 212 12 Cut and thrust 234 13 A servant may serve two masters 252 14 Reform and revolution 272 15 The speaker speaks 293 16 Lord Endless 317 17 Faithful defender 348 18 Twilight of the State 370 Bibliography 379 Index 388