The see of Derry was (until the disestablishment of the church) one of the richest in Ireland, and the success of King William's forces in the north not unnaturally aroused some speculation about the next occupant. It is true that when the siege of Derry was raised Bishop Hopkins was still alive, but his unpopular action in opposing resistance to James's army no doubt helped to persuade the king's ecclesiastical advisers that his health was unequal to the continued discharge of his duties. At any rate, by September 1689, at least nine months before Hopkins died, it was generally known that George Walker was to have the appointment.