CHAPTER XVII.

The threatened storm bursts.--History of Titus Oates and Dr. Tonge.--A dark scheme concocted.--The king is warned of danger.--The narrative of a horrid plot laid before the treasurer.--Forged letters.--Titus Oates before the council.--His blunders.--A mysterious murder.--Terror of the citizens.--Lord Shaftesbury's schemes.--Papists are banished from the capital.--Catholic peers committed to the Tower.--Oates is encouraged.