Finch, HENEAGE

Finch, HENEAGE, first Earl of Nottingham and Lord Chancellor of England, was born in Kent, probably at Eastwell, on 23d December 1621. He was the nephew of Finch, the lord-keeper of Charles I. Educated at Westminster and Christ Church, Oxford, he was called to the bar in 1645. At the Restoration Charles II. made Finch solicitor-general; in this capacity he took an active part in the trial of the regicides, publishing an account of the trial in 1660. In 1670 he became attorney-general, and five years later lord chancellor. As high steward he presided at the impeachment trial of Stafford in 1680. He died in London, 18th December 1682, having gained a high reputation as a graceful orator, and as a lawyer of great integrity, wisdom, and skill. Several of his speeches were published during his lifetime.