I am rather of opinion they would not have refused submission to the stamp act, or disputed the power of the legislature at home, had not their minds been first embittered by what touched their interests so nearly, the restraints laid on their trade with the French and Spanish settlements, a trade by which England was an immense gainer; and by which only a few enormously rich West India planters were hurt.
Every advantage you give the North Americans in trade centers at last in the mother country; they are the bees, who roam abroad for that honey which enriches the paternal hive.
Taxing them immediately after their trade is restrained, seems like drying up the source, and expecting the stream to flow.
Yet too much care cannot be taken to support the majesty of government, and assert the dominion of the parent country.
A good mother will consult the interest and happiness of her children, but will never suffer her authority to be disputed.
An equal mixture of mildness and spirit cannot fail of bringing these mistaken people, misled by a few of violent temper and ambitious views, into a just sense of their duty.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord, &c.
William Fermor.
LETTER CXXXII.134.
To Mrs. Temple, Pall Mall.
May 5.