The Search for an Heir

#1

Lord Richard Talbot, 1st Earl of Tyrconnell overlooked the Irish House of Lords. Over the many years presiding over this body as Lord Chancellor, Lord Talbot had felt just about every emotion capable of a man to feel. He has now overseen this body for 13 years in the service of King James II of Ireland, and longer in the King's service as his general. Now though, he was an old and visibly aged man. Being of 70 years, Lord Talbot had been feeling the call of retirement of late. However, he could not in good conscience leave Dublin to his estate permanently before securing the royal family for whom he had dedicated his life.

Lord Talbot had pushed for the common system of Primogeniture for the heir of King James, but both Scotland and Ireland's Parliaments refused on account of King James' heir being then an infant and even in 1700 only aged 12. Instead they insisted on the Gaelic tradition of Tanistry, modified with Parliament approval of course. With permission from high ranking members of House Stuart, members of the House fulfilling the age, functionality, and lineage requirements may present themselves to be elected King of Ireland & Scotland. This is exactly what the Lord prepared to say to the Irish House of Lords. Upon election of a Tanist, or heir to the King upon his death, Lord Talbot would announce his retirement and work with King James II to appoint a successor.

Lords and Peers of the Irish Realm, in the stead of King James II of Ireland as his most loyal Lord Chancellor I demand your attention for a most important announcement.
Lord Talbot enjoyed his ability to command the lords, many of whom were wealthier or holding higher titles than he. Yet, here he was, demanding their attention. He never grew tired of it, and it would be the thing he would miss most in his retirement.
In accordance with the laws of both this realm as well as the laws of our brothers in Scotland, King James II & VII has declared his support, with assent of both his Parliaments, to begin the procedure of the election of his Tanist.
He had more to say, but Lord Talbot had been momentarily cut off by a standing applause from the House of Lords. Many of these lords had long awaited such a statement and were eager to prove their celtic custom had truly been accepted as law, not just to be paid as lip service to buy obeisance.
My Lords, my lords. His Majesty has declared to me his desire. Both the Irish and Scottish Parliaments will convene in Douglas, on the Isle of Mann. Outside the town, a grand court of tents and woodworks will be built to house the Parliament members, claimants, members of the House of Stuart, esteemed guests, and servants. Word shall be sent far and wide for all members of House Stuart who wish to attend may have time to convene, as well as for you esteemed Lords of the Realm to set affairs in order before making leave to Douglas.
Another wave of applause, with many lords leaning and whispering to each other, no doubt already conspiring over their preferred Tanist to succeed. He suppressed a smile; one last political marsh for him to navigate before his retirement. He wished he could live forever, and do this for eternity.
Now, shall we move on to regular business?

#2

As the word has been spread across Europe, various members of House Stuart have made it known of their intent to present themselves for Tanist, including:

James FitzJames, 1st Duke of Berwick: Formally legitimized bastard son of King James VII and II
James Waldegrave, 1st Earl Waldegrave: Son of illegitimate daughter of King James VII and II
Alexander Stuart, 1st Viscount Shannon: Son of Henry Stuart, Duke of Gloucester, the younger brother of King James VII and II
Charles Lennox, 1st Baron of Swords: Illegitimate son of Charles II
Charles FitzRoy, 2nd Duke of Cleveland: Illegitimate son of Charles II
Charles Beauclerk, 1st Duke of St Albans: Illegitimate son of Charles II
George FitzRoy, Duke of Northumberland: Illegitimate son of Charles II

Infinitos Mundos