And whereas this Company is very Sensible, that the Prosperity of the Nation doth greatly depend upon the discharging the Publick Debts (a Motive which Induced them to make the first Propositions of this Publick and beneficial nature) They do Humbly submit these Explanations and Amendments to this Honourable House, flattering themselves that Readiness and Cheerfulness that Ingaged them so much earlier than any other Society, to endeavour to reduce that great Debt under which this Nation is Oppressed, will Intitle them to the favour and preference of this House, since they are willing and do hereby declare they are ready to undertake this great work upon whatever Terms may be offered by any other Company.
By Order of the General Court.
John Fellows, Sub-Governour.
Charles Joye, Dep. Governour.
Feb. 1, 1719
II.
The Bubble Burst.
Source.—The Case of the Borrowers on the South Sea Loans Stated. Pp. 1-7. London, 1721.
Since the Parliament has thought it of service to the Publick, that the unhappy sufferers by the South Sea should have Relief: and are at present considering how to give it them: I am persuaded, no one will think it either improper or unreasonable, that the case of the Borrowers on the Loans (who in my opinion are the most unhappy of them all) should be truly stated and made publick.
For my part, I will endeavour it, as far as I am able, with Justice to the Company who are their Creditors, and with no more Compassion to these unfortunate People, than their Circumstances honestly deserve: And I have this Satisfaction in what I undertake, that as I believe it is not the Intent of the Members of either of the Honourable Houses to administer Relief with Partiality, or to neglect any set of Men who really want it, should I so far succeed, as to show that these Borrowers do, I can't but hope that they will be esteemed at least worthy their Care and Protection.