Grenville Was Insulted As The “Gentle Shepherd”

One of the interesting facts about George Grenvile that many people might not know is that he was insulted as the “gentle shepherd”. George Grenville continually provoked the House's wrath during the discussion of the Cider Bill of 1763. Grenville was dubbed the "gentile shepherd" because he repeatedly demanded during the Cider Bill of 1763 discussion that someone explain to him "where" to lay the new tax if it wasn't to be placed on cider, boring the House in the process. Then Pitt whirled "Tell me whither," from the well-known song Gentle Shepherd, and the house chuckled. Few could match his proficiency with administrative details or understanding of House forms, yet he lacked tact when interacting with others and managing business. As a result, the house became bored and referred to him as "the gentle shepherd."

According to historians, Grenville was actually quite good in areas relating to the House and administration. It's noteworthy to note that George Grenville lacked the appropriate social skills necessary to win over many people.