 The Duke, a leading politician in George II's England, proved a most successful business man, and enlarged the Ducal properties considerably, buying Houghton House near Ampthill, as well as Oakley Manor House.In 1735 an elderly Oakley woman was accused of being a witch, and was subjected to an ordeal by swimming.After the purchase of Oakley House by the 4th Duke, the old house was demolished and a new (present) one was built on its site.