In short, had you studied only the domestic
politics of a family, you would have learned how to govern the
state; but, instead of this easy and natural line, you flew out into
every thing which was wild and outrageous, till, by following the
passion and stupidity of the pilot, you wrecked the vessel within
sight of the shore.
Having shown what you ought to have done, I now proceed to show
why it was not done. The caterpillar circle of the court had an
interest to pursue, distinct from, and opposed to yours; for though by
the independence of America and an alliance therewith, the trade would
have continued, if not increased, as in many articles neither
country can go to a better market, and though by defending and
protecting herself, she would have been no expense to you, and
consequently your national charges would have decreased, and your
taxes might have been proportionably lessened thereby; yet the
striking off so many places from the court calendar was put in
opposition to the interest of the nation. The loss of thirteen
government ships, with their appendages, here and in England, is a
shocking sound in the ear of a hungry courtier. Your present king
and ministry will be the ruin of you; and you had better risk a
revolution and call a Congress, than be thus led on from madness to
despair, and from despair to ruin. America has set you the example,
and you may follow it and be free.
I now come to the last part, a war with France. This is what no
man in his senses will advise you to, and all good men would wish to
prevent.
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