Following the death of King George III in January 1820, Caroline was queen of Britain. She returned to Britain on 5 June 1820, having lived abroad for several years. The next day, this message from George IV was delivered to the House of Lords with sealed green bags of evidence, accusing Caroline of adultery: ‘The King thinks it necessary, in consequence of the arrival of the Queen, to communicate to the House of Lords, certain papers respecting the Conduct of her majesty since her departure from this kingdom, which he recommends to the immediate and serious attention of this house.'