IT is extremely difficult to obtain accurate information respecting the character and conduct of those who occupy thrones. The views of writers are so in?uenced by political predilections, that the same character is represented by one as an angel, and by another as a demon. The author of the following sketches has spared no pains to obtain as correct knowledge as possible of the distinguished individuals of whom he has written, and he has introduced no illustrative actions which have not appeared to him to be well authen ticated. He has not been careful to inquire whether the opinions he has expressed are generally entertained or. Not. He has only endeavored to give utterance to his honest con victions in reference to events and actions which have agi.