Reflections on the Present State of Affairs in America

Page v2:37

Boston, March 6, 1775.

At this inauspicious day, when Tyranny lifts her shameless, front, and is followed by a train of unfeeling Apostates, I cannot let my pen sleep. The enemies to Freedom, convinced that the Americans are not to be cheated, now openly declare that the Colonies must and will be subjected by force. This brings up the last and great question, whether the United Colonies can defend their rights? If they cannot, of all men they will be the most miserable. But I believe they can, and will defend them; and if the sword should be drawn against them, they may strike such a blow as will shake Britain, to the centre. It is painful to the Americans to contemplate measures which maybe ruinous to their brethren in Britain, but a tyrannical Ministry; encouraged by the Tories in both Countries, are now pushing their destructive plans with such rapidity and violence, that we must look forward to the last grand step for defence; and if they will not hearken to the wise and just proposals of the American Congress, but still continue to go on from bad to worse, the Americans will be compelled, by the great Law of Nature, to strike a decisive blow, and follow the example of the once oppressed United Provinces — publish a manifesto to the world, showing the necessity of dissolving their connection with a Nation whose Ministers were aiming at their ruin; offer a Free Trade to all Nations, and an asylum in the free regions of America to all the oppressed through the world. THIS IS THE DERNIER RESORT; and this, O Americans! you can do; and this you must do, unless tyranny ceases to invade your liberties. This great subject I have viewed on all sides; and it might be demonstrated by a million of reasons, that the Americans may thus secure to themselves and, to posterity the blessings of Freedom.

TIME AND JUDGEMENT

Reflections on the Present State of Affairs in America. The Americans will be Compelled to Follow the Example of the United Provinces, and Publish a Manifesto to the World, Showing the Necessity of Dissolving Their Connection with Great Britain. [1775-03-06] Time and Judgment (pseudo.). [S4-V2-p0037] [Document Details][Complete Volume]