in 1783 at the age of 24 (although the term Prime Minister was not then used). He left office in 1801, but was Prime Minister again from 1804 until his death in 1806. He was also the Chancellor of the Exchequer
throughout his premiership. He is known as "the Younger" to distinguish him from his father, William Pitt the Elder
, who previously served as Prime Minister of Great Britain
.
Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants; it is the creed of slaves.
We must not count with certainty on a continuance of our present prosperity during such an interval [15 years]; but unquestionably there never was a time in the history of this country when, from the situation of Europe, we might more reasonably expect fifteen years of peace, than we may at the present moment.
We owe our present happiness and prosperity, which has never been equalled in the annals of mankind, to a mixture of monarchical government.
The amount of our danger, therefore, it would be impolitic to conceal from the people. It was the first duty of ministers to make it known, and after doing so, it should have been their study to provide against it, and to point out the means to the country by which it might be averted.
I return you many thanks for the honour you have done me; but Europe is not to be saved by any single man. England has saved herself by her exertions, and will, as I trust, save Europe by her example.
Prostrate the beauteous ruin lies; and allThat shared its shelter perish in its fall.