C o n t e m p o r a r i e s were well aware that the entire political scene could be changed by the accession of a new King. To suppose otherwise would render nonsensical the pattern of the last two reigns, in which the opposition to the ministers of the day had clustered round the heir to the throne. The question which men were asking in October 1760 was-how great would that difference be? What were the intentions of the new King ? On the answer to this question historians have failed to agree, though at one time one answer, at another a different one has held the field. All, however, would agree that the question is an important one which affects the whole framework of eighteenth-century history and must influence the interpretation of the events of the next few decades. It is im­ possible to provide a narrative of the early years of George I l l ’s reign and ignore the personality, intentions and background of the King.