Mr. SHERWOOD's FAST SERMON, WITH Mr. BALDWIN's APPENDIX.

TO THE Respectable FREEMEN, of the English Colony of Con|necticut.

THE ensuing discourse was delivered on a very solemn occasion, before an auditory apparently serious and de|vout in their attention; and is now made public at the desire of some of my public spirited friends. Such as it is, I cheerfully offer it as my poor mite, into the public trea|sury; while others are casting in of their abundance. And I hope and trust that your candor will be such, amidst all the inaccuracies and imperfections that attend such an hasty composition, as to accept it for a real token and proof of my undissembled love and heart-felt concern for my dear country, under the dark and threatning aspects of divine providence on our most invaluable liberties and privileges. While I observe with the most sensible grief, and anxious concern, some of my countrymen, sunk into a state of worse than brutal stupidity and insensibility, who secretly rejoice in the distressing miseries and calamities brought on our suf|fering brethren at Boston; and ardently wish and pray, in the most profane manner, if I may be allowed the ex|pression, that our charter and birth right privileges may be taken from us; that we may be ruled by the iron rod of op|pression, and chained down to eternal slavery and bondage. Page  vi Whose factious and rebellious leaders improve every oppor|tunity in their power, to impeach a loyal people; and to send misrepresentations of us to their correspondents that have ac|cess to the British court, to hasten our intended ruin and de|struction. I say, while these clandestine, mischievous opera|tions are carrying on against us, as black and •ark •s the powder-treason plot; it revives my soul, and rejoices my heart to find that the main body of the people, or at least, the most sensible and judicious part of them, are in some de|gree, awakened by the loud thunders in Providence, and have their eyes opened to the danger and ruin we are threatened with; that they are so far raised above that infam••s herd of vile miscreants, as to know that they are men, and have the spirits of men; and not an inferior species of animals, made to be beasts of burden to a lawless, corrupt administra|tion. This manly, this heroic, and truly patriotic spirit, which is gradually kindling up in every free-man's breast, through the continent, is undoubtedly a token for good; and will, if duly regulated by Christian principles and rules, en|sure success to American liberty and freedom. No free state was ever yet enslaved and brought into bondage, where the people were incessantly vigilant and watchful; and instantly took the alarm at the first addition made to the power ex|ercised over them.—They are those only of the tribes of Is|sachar, who keep in profound sleep; and like strong and stu|pid asses, couch down between heavy burdens; that insensi|bly sink into abject slavery and bondage. It is a duty in|cumbent upon us at all times, to keep a watchful attention to our interests; (especially in seasons of peril and danger,) to watch and pray that we fall not.

I do not mean to encourage evil jealousies and groundless suspicions of our civil rulers, the guardians of our liberties; nor to countenance seditious tumults in the state, so destruc|tive to our civil happiness and peace. I am a firm friend to good order and regularity; that all ranks of men move in strait lines, and within their own proper spheres: That au|thority and government be supported and maintained so as Page  vii to promote the good of society, the end for which it was in|stituted; perfectly consistent with which, a people may keep a watchful eye over their liberties, and cautiously guard against oppression and tyranny, which I detest and abhor, and so|lemnly abjure.

But you, Gentlemen Freemen, have been so well in|doctrinated in the principles of loyalty and good policy, have been so constantly taught from your infancy, to fear God, and honor the King, that 'tis needless to add any particular instructions on this head. However, as my heart, at this threatning period, is so full of apprehension of danger, you will not, I trust, take it as any reflection on your under|standing and integrity as a body, should I drop the hint, that there may possibly be some here and there in disguise, a|gainst whose plausible pretences, and artful insinuations, it might be well for you to guard. Men, (says the truly in|genious and patriotic Farmer, in Pennsylvania,) who either hold or expect to hold certain advantages by setting ex|amples of servility to their countrymen; men, who trained to the employment, or self-taught by a natu|ral versality of genius; serve as decoys, for drawing the innocent and unwary, into snares; it is not to be doubted but that such men will diligently bestir them|selves on this, and every like occasion, to spread the infection of their meanness as far as they can. On the plans they have adopted, this is their course; this is their method to recommend themselves to their patron: they act consistently in a bad cause.—From them we shall learn how pleasant and profitable a thing it is, to be, for our submissive behaviour, well-spoken of at St. James's, or St. Stephen's, at Guild-hall, or the Royal-exchange. Specious fallacies will then be drest up with all the arts of delusion, to persuade one co|lony to distinguish herself from another by unbecom|ing condescentions, which will serve the ambitious purposes of great men at home; the way to obtain considerable rewards.—It will be insinuated to us with Page  viii a plausible affectation of wisdom and concern, How prudent it is to please the powerful—How dange|rous to provoke them.—And then comes in the per|petual incantation that freezes up every generous pur|pose of the soul, in cold inactive expectation, that if there is any request to be made, compliance will obtain favourable attention.—Our vigilance, and our union are success and safety.—Our negligence and our division are distress and death; nay, worse, they are shame and slavery. The persons here meant, (says the abovesaid Gentleman) are those base spirited wretches, who may endeavour to distinguish themselves by their sordid zeal in defending and promoting measures which they know, beyond all question, to be destructive to the just rights and true interests of their country. It is scarcely possible to speak of them with any degree of propriety; for no words can truly describ• their guilt and meanness; but every honest bosom, on this being mentioned, will feel what cannot be exprest.

Some of a narrow contracted turn of mind may think that by this quotation, and some other expressions I have used, I aim to point out persons of a certain religious professi|on, as objects of public odium and contempt. To which I answer, no further than their temper and conduct render them worthy of it. I do not think that piety, public virtue, and a love to one's country, are entailed to, or inseperably connected with any one mode of professing christianity; how|ever some may have the advantage of others, in their tenden|cy to promote these christian and political virtues; yet I believe there may be mean, base and mercenary wretches in every profession, who for one sweet delicious morsel to them|selves, might be tempted to sell their country with all its liberties and privileges, as profane Esau sold his birth-right. On the other hand, I believe there are many good men, of sound integrity, of unblemished morals, and truly lovers of their country in every denomination of christians. On this subject, it matters not with me, whether a man be Page  ix a stated member of this or that church, whether he be in com|munion with that established in Old England, or in New; provided he be a good man, actuated by evangelical prin|ciples and motives, and will stand fast in the liberty where|with Christ has made him free. I disdain the l•w singula|rities of a party. I desire that every man may •••nk and judge for himself in religion, and enjoy all the sacred rights and liberties of conscience in full. There is but one gene|ral distinction that is of essential importance in the cause now depending, and that is to be made by drawing the dividing line between the true friends to the rights of hu|manity,—our dear country, and constitutional liberties and privileges, civil and r•ligious: And the base, traiterous and perfidious enemies thereto. Let the first sort of such an amiable character be honoured and beloved, and pro|moted to all public offices and employments in the state: let the latter sort have a public brand of infamy put upon them, to mark them out as the worst of villains, the open and avowed enemies of mankind, and traitors of their country, who are secretly hoping for ministerial favours. If any under pretence of great moderation, or a pacific disposition, stand as neuters in this important cause, skulking as behind the door, and undetermined on which side they can serve themselves to best advantage, some|times appearing friendly to this party, and sometimes to that; we can have no safe dependence on them in a day of extre|mity. He that will not stand forth firmly and boldly for his country, when exposed so as to need his help; is no true friend to it. And as there may possibly be some such se|cret dissembling enemies acting in disguise, among us; it might be well for you, Gentlemen Freemen, ta be cauti|ously on your guard against them: they cannot safely be trusted with the lowest office in the state.—As you have it in your power to choose your own rulers and officers, from a governor even down to a tythingman, the present state of th•• times makes it requisite and necessary that you be very vigilant and watchful, and get a thorough knowledge Page  x of men's political principles, before you advance them to any seat in government, or any office in the state. If the office caths had an additional clause to them, in this critical day, it might possibly be a stronger safeguard and security to us, viz. That every person who comes into office, solemnly swear, not only allegiance to the king, and faithfulness in general; but that he will maintain and defend the constitutional rights, and charter privileges of his country. I add but my best wishes and hearty prayers to God for the continu|ation of these rights and privileges to us, and our children after us, to the latest posterity. I remain your most cordial friend, and devoted humble servant,

GOD the sovereign Lord and supreme Ruler of all things, has made men in such a manner, and placed them in such circumstances, as plainly to discover his will, that they should unite and combine into societies for their mutual benefit and advantage. He has not, by the light of nature, nor by any positive declarations of his will, infallibly di|rected what form of society he would have to prevail, nor prescribed any one particular species of civil go|vernment, as more agreeable to him, than another. But has made mankind rational creatures; and left them to choose that which they apprehend to be most perfect in its nature and kind, and best suited to their state, situation and circumstances. The divine con|stitution, and government of God over his intelligent creatures, is fixed; and it does not become men to exercise their invention or wisdom in seeking any alte|ration or change in it: but to study the most ready and cheerful submission; as they may be assured, that whatever God requires, is fit and right for his subjects to comply with. His authority and power over us is unlimited and uncontrolable, and cannot be denied, or opposed without our being guilty of the highest crime of rebellion. But no created being is invested with such absolute, unlimited power, nor qualified for the exer|cise Page  12 of it. Error and imperfection belongs to every individual of the human race. The brightest charac|ter that was ever justly drawn among mortal men, has this dark shade in it: So that the will of none, is in|fallibly right in all things, and cannot therefore be com|plied with in all instances, consistent with a good conscience, and the superior obligations we are under to the sovereign Ruler of the world; who still main|tains his rightful authority over us, and has not given it by delegation, to any one among created beings: all of whom were originally made free-agents; and considered as in a state of nature, previous to their uniting as members of society, have their liberty and free choice to agree upon such a form of government, and mode of administration in their civil and tempo|ral affairs, as they judge most conducive to their hap|piness and good: any one of which has no more claim than another to be, jure divino, or of divine right, on any other principle, than its being more conformable to right reason and equity, by the eternal rules of which, God has manifested it to be his will, that his rational creatures be governed.

As societies and communities have their beginning and origin in voluntary compact and agreement; when persons have entered by consent and free choice, into society, they must acknowledge themselves under strict and sacred obligations to act toward one another a|greeable to the laws and constitution of that society whereof they are members. There are certain duties required of rulers, as well as of subjects; and their obligations faithfully and punctually to fulfil them, rise in proportion to the dignity and importance of their high and elevated stations; and the effect and in|fluence which their conduct has on the rest of the body. A man's being raised to honour and promo|tion above others, is so far from releasing him from, or lessening his duty, that every step he takes in ••s advancement, proportionably enlarges it, and adds a Page  13 new and powerful obligation to the performance of it. The most absolute of sovereign princes owe something to the meanest of their subjects; and may be very criminal in the neglect or refusal of it. Subjects have rights, privileges and properties; and are countenanc|ed and supported by the law of nature, the laws of society, and the law of God; in demanding full pro|tection in the enjoyment of these rights, and the im|partial distribution of justice, from their rulers. And when rulers refuse these, and will not comply with such a reasonable and equitable demand from the subject; the society is dissolved; and its fundamental laws violated and broken; and the relation between the ruler and the subject ceases, with all the duties and obligations that arose from it. For it must be suppos|ed, and every one of common sense will readily allow, that no man would ever have consented to place him|self in the state of a subject, on any other considerati|on or footing than that of his having protection and justice from those to whom he submitted. The good of society in all its individual members, is the end for which it is formed; and for which government is in|stituted and appointed. And this cannot be obtained, unless rulers exert their power, influence and authori|ty to protect their subjects in all their valuable rights and privileges; defend them against their enemies, both from without, and within; and administer im|partial justice among them. David, who had, for many years, exercised an absolute sovereignty and do|minion over the kingdom of Israel, had no notion of aggrandizing himself, and his nobility, by enslaving his subjects, and striping them of their property, at his own arbitrary will and pleasure, contrary to law and right: but considers himself as appointed to serve them, whose rights and privileges were esteemed by him, more sacred and inviolable than those of the roy|•l scepter and diadem. The best and most illustrious part of his character consisted in this, That he ap|proved Page  14 himself the faithful servant of God, and his generation. His ambition and desire was to serve his generation; not to be served by them in the character of abject vassals and slaves. A king or prince of his noble and heroic spirit could have no pleasure or sa|tisfaction in ruling over their fellow-mortals, degrad|ed to such a low, infamous state, so far beneath hu|manity. But to rule over men that have the spirit of men, the spirit of loyalty and liberty; and who pos|sess some property too; is an honour to the most dig|nified king or prince. And the more of this spirit of liberty, in conjunction with property among the sub|jects, the greater is the honour of him that sways the scepter in righteousness over them. This Jewish, or Israelitish prince was very sensible, that kings and rulers were liable to do wrong, unjust actions, as well as others; that the subjects had rights and properties that might be invaded or encroached upon by them. We therefore find among his last words, the excellent sen|tence now read, which he spake just as he was leaving his earthly throne and kingdom, and going to appear before a higher tribunal.—He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. David himself had been a ruler over men: he was the man who was rais|ed up on high; the anointed of the God of Jacob,— must therefore, from his own great experience and observation, be supposed to have a thorough know|ledge and understanding of the subject on which he here speaks with so much seriousness and solemnity, as in the near view of eternity, which consideration adds weight and importance to his expressions; and might be sufficient to engage the attention of the most dignified rulers, and sovereign princes, to them; who must be inexcusable if they refuse to receive instructi|on from them, since a greater than David is here: The God of Israel has said, the Rock of Israel has spoken. That glorious Being by whom kings reign, and prin|ces decree justice, is the author of this divine sentence Page  15 here given forth: to whom sovereign rulers are as strictly accountable for all their conduct, as the mean|est of their subjects—May therefore properly be cal|led upon, and that, by the authority of the great Lord and governor of the world, to attend to, and consci|entiously practice their duty in such plain, important instances of it. Be wise now therefore O ye kings, says God, be instructed ye judges of the earth; serve the Lord with fear, rejoice with trembling. Psal. ii.10, 11.

In further discoursing from these words, I shall,

I. Consider the necessity and importance of justice in civil rulers.

II. Shew that the fear of the Lord is the proper, effectual principle, to influence such to the observation and practice of justice.

I. 'Tis highly necessary and important, that civil rulers should be just. Such are concerned in the rules of justice and righteousness, as well as other men; and indeed, more so, in proportion as they are raised above others; and have it in their power to do greater good or evil, according as they are inclined. Was the doc|trine true, That all property is vested in the king, or chief rulers; and that they can do no wrong to their sub|jects: Such scripture precepts and directions from the sovereign Ruler of the world as that in my text, would be entirely needless and impertinent; and seem, on this supposition, to argue his want of wisdom and knowledge, on this important subject. But however bold some conceited, ambitious mortals may be, in censuring others, when advanced a little above them in wealth and power; yet, I would hope that few or none will dare openly to attack divine revelation, and censure the ruling wisdom of God. Let God be true, tho' every man be found a liar. Let God be wise, tho' every man be found a fool. If those that rule over men, must be just; there is certainly some rule of justice and righteousness for them to observe in this office and character: and it may be infered by just consequence, Page  16That they are capable of doing wrong; and as liable so to do as other men,—That those who stand related to them as subjects, have really something to call their own,—that they have rights and properties distinct from their sovereign,—are capable of suffering injustice, oppression and wrong, even from them; and that, in a greater degree than from any of their fellow-subjects, in proportion to the greater degree of their strength and power. The aforesaid doctrine therefore, advanc|ed by some, That kings and sovereign rulers with their ministry, can do no wrong, is so far from being true, that it is the most false, absurd doctrine that was ever preached in the world; and of most pernicious bad consequence both to ruler and ruled, directly tending not only to the temporal, but eternal destruction of both. As rulers are capable, when they rightly improve the superiour advantages of their high and elevated stati|ons, of doing more towards promoting justice and righteousness among their fellow-men: so, when of a contrary temper and disposition, that it to say, when they neglect, and refuse to attend to those good laws and rules of equity; and take it into their heads to act in an arbitrary, tyrannical manner, to oppress and en|slave their subjects; they do the highest injustice and wrong, and the greatest mischief and evil of any men in the world; and are the biggest plagues, and heaviest judgments upon a society that can be sent upon them.

None therefore that are promoted to the office and character of civil rulers, ought to think themselves above the observation of the eternal rules of justice and righteousness, by which they themselves, as well as their subjects, will be tried hereafter, and justified or condemned by the righteous judge of the world.

BUT that I may, to better advantage, illustrate the great necessity and importance of justice in civil rulers, I shall briefly consider them in their several capacities, and shew the necessity of their being just, while acting in them.

Page  17Now, under the name of rulers, are comprehended; both those who enact laws, and those who execute them; those who are cloathed with legislative autho|rity, and those who have that which is judicial and mi|nisterial.

WHEN men first joined in society, 'twas impossible for them to form at once, a complete, perfect system of laws, to suit all exigences, and particular cases that might happen: they could not foresee all future events, and make provision for them. The body politic, is like the natural body; subject to a variety of distem|pers and diseases,—'tis sometimes strong, healthy and vigorous, and every part performs its proper office and function, without impediment or obstruction:—At o|ther times, it declines, grows weak and relaxed in all its nervous parts; and to use the significant and beau|tiful language of inspiration, The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint; from the sole of the foot, even unto the head, there is no soundness in it. And as it is liable to be thus sickly and distempered; so 'tis liable to be dissolved and die.

NOW, as a man finds it necessary to regulate himself in regard to diet, exercise, physic, &c. and suit his way of living to the present condition of his body, as will best serve to promote the health and activity of all the members of it; so there is the necessity of the like wise, prudential methods of administration in government, suited to the different state and circumstances▪ of the body politic. And as circumstances vary, and new and different scenes open to view; new laws become necessary for the health and benefit of the community. All governments have therefore a legislative authority lodged in some hand or other; not to be exercised at the arbitrary will and pleasure of one or more indivi|duals; but in the exercise of it to be restrained and li|mited, at least by the eternal rules of justice and righ|••ousness, as it is designed, not for the destruction, but ••r the health and preservation of the body. And as Page  18 it is necessary for the well-being of society, that good laws be made; so 'tis likewise necessary that they be duly put in execution; and that, both in civil and criminal cases: this being the life of the law, without which it signifies nothing toward answering the end for which it was made. Now, in order to this, some per|sons must have authority to judge between a man and his neighbour, and to put their judgments in execution.

THUS rulers considered either in their legislative or executive capacity, are designed for the general and public good of the community they serve; they are the ministers of God, instituted and ordained to at|tend continually unto this very thing; and in both these capacities, they must be just. Particularly,

1. There is justice to be observed in making laws. The legislative authority is usually stiled supreme. The power of making laws is undoubtedly the highest in every society. The executive officers are obliged to observe the rule prescribed them by the legislators; and all the subjects of every order, to yield obedience to their laws; provided they are not prejudicial to, but salutary and for the good of society; and do not in|terfere with the duty they owe to the great Sovereign of all men; and do not contradict the end for which men unite, as members of society; nor run counter to the fundamental constitution on which they are settled. While a society subsists, no man, or number of men, have authority to call to account those who are vested with supreme authority: which makes it ex|tremely difficult to correct disorders in a state, when the foundations are out of course. But tho' sovereign rulers cannot, while they continue in their high office and character, be called to account, b• any under them; yet 'tis possible for them, by acting contrary to the design and intention of their office, to dissolve the society over which they rule; and so, at once lose all their sovereign power and authority: after which, they can have no more than other men, to screen them from Page  19 such punishment as their crimes deserve. And when such a melancholy event takes place, that a civil soci|ety is dissolved, and men return to a state of nature; They have the same liberty they at first had, to form themselves into society again, in what form, and on what terms they please.

BUT notwithstanding the sovereignty of legislators, they are under strict and sacred obligations to observe the rule of justice, in enacting laws. 'Tis a great and very dangerous mistake to suppose, that legislators have a power absolutely arbitrary; or that their authority is under no limitation or restraint at all. Right and wrong, are founded in the nature of things; and cannot be altered and changed, even by the voice of such kings and monarchs as are betrusted with the power of mak|ing laws. The Psalmist mentions, A throne of ini|quity which frameth mischief by a law. And if he had not mentioned such a thing, any person of common sense and understanding, who considered things with the least degree of attention, would soon be convinc|ed, that 'twas in the nature of things, possible to es|tablish iniquity by a law. And any one who is ac|quainted with the history of former ages; or even with the present state of the world, cannot but know, that this has in fact, been often done. No intelligent friends to the christian institution doubts, but the laws made by the heathen emperors for extirpating christianity, and destroying the professors of it, were unjust. All sound protestants, I suppose, will agree in passing the same sentence on the laws which esta|blish an inquisition in some popish countries. And it must be a pleasure to all lovers of liberty and virtue, to observe, that the number of those who wish that no penal laws might be enacted in matters merely religi|ous,—that no person might be liable to any penalty, or lie under any incapacity, on account of any opini|on or practice in religion, which does not at all •ffect the peace and happiness of human society, is daily in|creasing.

Page  20NOW, if there be any such thing as acting unjustly in making a law, 'tis plain that rulers, considered in their legislative capacity, are obliged to observe some rule of justice. For where there is no duty or obligati|on of this sort, there can be no such thing as acting unjustly.

'TIS a part of justice in legislators to enact such laws as are suited to the circumstances of the society for the regulation of which they are intended: such as con|duce to the public good:—And such as, instead of destroying, will secure and protect the just rights and privileges of every individual member:—such as will, in an equitable manner, decide controversies between particular subjects; and defend the weak, and pre|vent their becoming an easy prey to the strong:—such finally, as may be a terror to evil doers, and an en|couragement to those that do well.

THERE is further, justice to be observed between the community and particular persons; under which head, are to be reckoned the granting proper rewards to those who faithfully serve the public in any capa|city: paying public debts: and sacredly observing the public faith. Here likewise may be mentioned the penalties annexed to laws. Penal laws are intended for the public good: The great intention of punish|ing the transgressors of them is, that others may be kept in awe. And legislators have a right to annex such penalties to their just and equitable laws, as are sufficient to maintain their authority, and secure the observation of them. But yet, there is justice to be observed in proportioning punishments to crimes: and no doubt, it would be unjust, cruel and barbarous, to affix the most severe punishments that could be in|vented, to small and trifling offences.

2. RULERS considered in their executive capacity, as putting laws in execution, must be just. Execu|tive officers are obliged to proceed according to the received and established laws of their country. By Page  21 these, they are to judge and determine all controver|sies, both of a civil and criminal natue, which come before them; doing strict, impartial justice to all men, without respect of persons. Their duty is not to op|press: but to deliver the poor that cry to them; the fatherless, and him that hath none to help. They ought to endeavour that the blessing, not the curse of him that is ready to perish, may come upon them: and to cause the widow's heart to sing for joy. It concerns them to put on righteousness, and to clothe themselves with judgment, as with a robe and diadem. They must be eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame, and fathers to the poor; and the cause which they know not, ought to be searched out. To them it be|longs to break the jaws of the wicked; and to pluck the spoil out of his teeth; to curb and restrain the violent; and let the oppressed go free. But it being so evident, and universally acknowledged, that those who put the laws in execution, ought to be just men, I shall not enlarge upon this head: but proceed briefly to show the necessity and importance of rulers being just; or to mention some of the obligations they are under to this great duty. And here,

1. THIS is necessary to their answering the design of their office, and promoting the welfare and good of human society. Public good is the end of government of every sort. 'Tis with a view of promoting and securing this, that men enter into society. 'Tis for obtaining this, that some are appointed to rule over others; and that those submit to, and obey them. Now, this important end cannot be obtained, unless rulers act uprightly and justly. When civil rulers, forgeting the end of their institution, and the proper duties of their station, neglect and trample upon the rules of justice; and consult only to gratify their own pride and ambitious humour and passion: when they consider their subjects as an inferior species of beings, made as beasts of burden, for their pleasure or profit; Page  22 when, instead of observing the reason and nature of things, they make their own mere will and pleasure, the rule of acting; and govern in an arbitrary, tyran|nical manner; 'tis impossible to describe the evils and mischiefs they bring on mankind. These have been so great and terrible, that some have been ready to question, Whether civil rulers have not done more hurt than good, in the world. When we see an haugh|ty and ambitious monarch, or corrupt Ministry spend|ing the blood and treasure of their subjects, in carrying on an unrighteous quarrel and contention with them, or against their neighbours; from a mistaken notion of glory; distressing their towns and cities with their troops and armaments, depopulating their country, and seeming to aim at the universal destruction of man|kind; we may well be shock'd at the sight, and look on such a lawless, arbitrary ruler, as the heaviest ca|lamity and judgment, that a righteous God can send upon a sinful people. But notwithstanding the dark and dismal prospect which a scene of tyranny and op|pression affords; 'tis undoubtedly true, that civil go|vernment is designed for the good of men; and when administered with justice and mercy, it does excellent|ly well answer this design. As tyrants are the greatest of temporal judgments, as being the cause of all the most distressing evils that can be imagined; so good rulers are the greatest blessings to the world, and the instruments in God's hand, of securing all our other good things. But then, to render them such, they must be just, considered both in a legislative and execu|tive capacity.

2. RULERS are obliged to be just, on account of the great trust reposed in them. Sovereign authority is the greatest trust that can be reposed in any man. The power of making laws is very great, and extensive in its nature, and of the utmost importance in the exercise of it. And next to this, is that of putting laws in execution. The man that is appointed to Page  23 judge another, with authority to decide all controver|sies among his fellow-subjects: to determine and pass sentence upon the lives and properties of such vast numbers of men; has a very great and important trust reposed in him. And the weight and importance of the trust reposed in any inferiour executive officer, is proportioned to the authority vested in him. Now, the receiving such a trust lays a man under very great obligations to faithfulness in the discharge of it. Men in such high places of trust and authority, instead of being released from the laws of God, and having their obligations to faithfulness in the discharge of duty, lessen|ed and diminished; have them increased, in proportion to their advancement; and it is not beneath the dignity of their stations, to attend very seriously to the advice and exhortation of the Psalmist, Be wise now therefore, O ye kings; be instructed ye judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear; kiss the son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. 'Tis of importance, if men have but one talent, that they improve it: but if they have ten, and neglect and refuse so to do; the punishment will be tenfold greater. If a private man neglects his duty, he, and others connected with him, may suffer. But if a chief ruler is unjust and unfaithful, the whole community or body politic suffers. As much therefore as the welfare and happiness of such a community, or body, is to be va|lued above, and preferred to the happiness of an in|dividual; so much higher and greater are his obliga|tions to faithfulness, than the obligations of a private member of society; and if he refuses to discharge them uprightly and conscientiously, as in the fear of God; a proportionably heavy and aggravated punish|ment must he expect to receive, when judged by him.

3. THE exercise of justice is necessary in civil rulers, to their own present comfort, and future happiness. 'Tis a common observation, that the greatest tyrants are the greatest and most miserable slaves. Those ru|lers Page  24 who invade the rights and liberties of their own subjects, in an arbitrary, tyrannical manner, and seek to oppress and enslave them; are always in fear of be|ing themselves destroyed by them. They are obliged, at vast expence, to keep up large armies to distress and enslave their peaceable subjects; who, under such a grievous yoke of bondage, cannot be easy and satisfi|ed; but will be naturally struggling after liberty; and be ready, when it galls their necks, to turn against and depose such oppressing tyrants; and sometimes, to imbrue their hands in their blood: of which, many instances are to be found in the histories of the Roman, and of the Turkish empire. Whereas, when princes rule in a just and constitutional way, with mildness and be|nignity; and seek the good and welfare of their sub|jects; they may always put full, unreserved confidence in them, and depend on being supported and defended by them, at the expence of all that is dear and valua|ble to them; yea, at the expence of their lives, which will not be thought too dear a sacrifice for the safety and honour of such a worthy prince.

AGAIN. This justice and faithfulness in rulers is ne|cessary to their having peace in their own minds and consciences. Such have consciences as well as other men, accusing or else excusing; who, upon the faithful discharge of the high trust reposed in them, will have in|ward peace, security and joy, and heart-felt satisfaction, such as the world can neither give, nor take away. But on the other hand; if the rules of justice and righte|ousness be neglected and trampled upon by them, and they practise high handed tyranny and oppression: and seek to enslave and destroy their subjects; what dread|ful horrors of conscience must they necessarily feel, when awakened to any serious reflections on their wick|ed, guilty conduct, which has been so distressing and ruinous to thousands more innocent and righteous than themselves.

LASTLY. This justice and faithfulness is necessary Page  25 to their future happiness. Tho' civil rulers are stiled gods, yet must they die like men; and at last, give an account of themselves to the judge of the quick, and the dead.

I NOW proceed to the next thing proposed, which was in the second place, to shew, That the fear of the Lord is the proper, effectual principle to influence ci|vil rulers to the exact observance of justice.

HE that ruleth over men, must be just: And that he may be so, he must rule in the fear of the Lord. If we consider human nature, as vitiated by the apostacy; we shall find, that hardly any thing but the fear of punishment, is able to keep men in awe, and due sub|jection. That it is thus with subjects, is evident from the many severe laws, and terrible executions of them, which the wisest and most merciful rulers in all nations, have found necessary to preserve the peace, and pro|mote the happiness of civil society. Now, 'tis certain that the essential principles of human nature are the same in all men, whatever external relations they sus|tain. There is therefore great danger, that rulers will degenerate into tyrants; and of blessings, become plagues and curses to mankind; unless there be some way to keep them in awe, some principle to excite their fears, and by that means, keep them within their proper sphere, and engage them to the observation of justice. Now, this is not always to be done by a fear of men. Sovereigns are exempted from the common power of human laws; there is no ordinary authority that may judge them; and this their security may prove a strong temptation to them, to neglect the proper duties of their exalted stations. They may trust in their forces and armies to defend them from the resentment of an injured and oppressed people; and so imagine them|selves perfectly secure from punishment at present. And the nearer any subordinate ruler approaches to sovereignty; the less has he to fear from men, and consequently, the greater prospect has he, of indemni|fication Page  26 in acting unjustly. There is therefore the utmost need and necessity, that those who rule over men, should rule in the fear of the Lord; that they should have a firm belief of the being, perfections and providence of God; that they should not only fear his vindictive punishing justice, but beyond this, as the text requires, maintain an holy awe and reverence of him upon their minds; and consider him as that righteous judge to whom they must at last, give an account of the discharge of the great trust reposed in them; and from whom they shall receive a righteous sentence of abso|lution or condemnation.

PREFACE.

THE substance of the following Appendix was com|posed, with a view to enlighten the people of a coun|try town, not under the best advantages for information from the news papers and other pieces wrote upon the con|troversy, into the true state of the present unhappy dis|putes between Great Britain and the colonies; for this rea|son it still appears in the form of an address to the people. It has been thought the publication of it might answer va|luable purposes, to rouse others in the western part of this colony, who are much in the same situation with the people for whose information it was first composed, to a sense of the danger in which their liberties are now involved. The Author is very willing to contribute his mite to the com|mon cause of liberty; and is very glad of an opportunity to subjoin the following Address as an appendix to a dis|course so well adapted (as he imagines the foregoing is) to lead people to a sense of the true nature of civil government, and of the absurdity of many ridiculous whims; which some among us have the impudence to attempt to maintain in di|rect opposition to those principles, which have seated the present Royal Family on the British throne.

Should this appendix fall into the hands of any, that have been more awake to a sense of our danger; than what hath been the case in the western parts of this colony; the au|thor hopes they will readily overlook the mention of many things, which must be trite and common to them; as the particular mention of them was necessary to the design in view.

The silence of others on a subject of so much importance, and (as many think) so necessary to be wrote upon at the Page  xlvi present time, must plead in excuse of the Clergy, if they write upon a subject by some deemed too political for their province: But let it be remembered that clergymen are free|men as well as others; have civil rights and privileges in common with their fellow subjects; are capable of feeling oppression as well as others: why then is there not an equal obligation on them, as on others, to stand forth in defence of their country, and endeavour to sound the alarm▪ when they see every thing that is dear and valuable in the utmost danger? Were a house on fire and the family securely s•eep|ing while the flames were surrounding them; would it not be the height of folly, for those that were by, to stand dis|puting who was the properest person to give the alarm, and awake them from their dangerous repose? Much like this is it, to dispute who are the properest persons, the clergy or others, to point out to their fellow subjects the dan|ger their country is in. The present crisis calls for the vigorous exertions of every rank and order of men.

The Author is not insensible that it is more fashionable to write anonimously upon such subjects as these, and would it equally answer the end proposed, he would very gladly lie concealed: But he thinks the public are liable to be greatly imposed upon on the one side and the other by anonymous publications; as in that case no-body is respon|sible for what is assert•d. And as there are no sentiments in the following composition, which he is ashamed to own; or unwilling the world should believe are his—no facts as|serted but what he verily believes to be true. He can't but think it may better subserve the purpose for which it is published, to have his name prefix'd; than to be publish|ed without a name.

APPENDIX.

NEVER was there a period so alarming to the English American colonies as the present is; ne|ver one that called for the careful attention, the pru|dent, yet vigorous exertion of every freeman in the colonies as the present doth! For when our lives, and our property are subject to the arbitrary disposal of others; what have we valuable we can call our own? The disposal of our property is now openly claimed by others; by a body, in which we have no representati|on; and upon which we have not the least check or controul: and charters, heretofore deemed sa|cred and inviolable; by which, we have been wont to suppose, was secured to us the quiet possession of our lives and properties, are now wantonly violated with|out even the form of a trial; and such modes of ju|dicial proceedings introduced into a neighbouring province, as very much subject the lives of the people to the arbitrary disposal of their governor. And doubtless this is but a specimen of the plan adopted with regard to all the provinces; which will soon be introduced, if this first attempt succeed. We have to expect, if the measures adopted are carried in|to execution, we shall hold both our lives and our pro|perty in coming time upon the most precarious tenure. These measures you see are carrying into execution by the terror of military force both by sea and by land. And if our lives and our property are to be held by such a precarious tenure as the arbitrary will of those, who may be set over us, what is there in life or pro|perty worth the possessing? Will not the being in constant and perpetual fear of the deprivation of both, imbitter all the comforts of life? Could you take a view of the nations which are groaning under arbitra|ry and despotic government; you would never ima|gine Page  48 what I say to be chimerical. We have not (bles|sed be God) as yet experienced the galling chains of slavery; tho' they have been shook over our heads. For this reason few perhaps among us, realize the hor|rors of that slavery, which arbitrary and despotic go|vernment lays men under.

Some possibly may think me extravagant in assert|ing there never was so alarming a period to the Eng|lish American colonies, as the present is: But I can|not think any one needs any more, than to be thorough|ly acquainted with the present state of public affairs, to be wholly of my opinion. We have, it is true, in times past, been alarmed with the horrors of war: the savages have committed shocking murders and made terrible devastations upon our exposed frontiers; but these were but temporary evils: while the present (if God prevent not) will extend their influence to all suc|ceeding generations. And is the death of a number of individuals in war so great a calamity to the public, as a whole country's being enslaved, and the lives and the properties not only of the present, but of succeding generations subjected to the caprice of arbitrary rulers?

Under the administration 〈◊〉Sir Edmund Andross, near ninety years ago, very gloomy indeed was the pros|pect to our fathers: yet in many respects not so gloo|my as at the present day. Charters, 'tis true, were then taken away; but they were taken away under colour of law; upon trial in courts of justice: But now they are taken away, without so much as a pretence of law; without so much as a trial, or hearing of the party concerned, by the almost omnipotent power claimed by the British parliament: And when only the courts of justice are corrupted, there is more hopes things may revert to a right channel; than when the corruption lies in the supreme legislative body. At that time the arbitrary measures pursued proceeded only from an ar|bitrary prince; now, from an arbitrary parliament. Page  49Then the nation was awake to the arbitrary measures pursuing: now they supinely slumber. Then Britain felt the weight of the iron hand of tyranny; while now they imagine their burdens relieved by the op|pression of America. Which circumstances rendered the continuance of arbitrary government vastly less likely at that time, than at the present day. It is not therefore, without a cause, that the whole continent seems as it were struck with horror and amazement; that the attention of almost every American is roused to the present state of our public affairs. And tho' some may be transported with a wild and enthusiastic rage in the cause of liberty, and some others may be stupid and insensible of real danger; yet all the more sober thinking part feel impressed with a deep and so|licitous concern for the event of these things. But in a place remote from public intelligence as this is, few comparatively can have opportunity to peruse the public papers, and otner writings, which may open to us the present alarming situation of our country. Many, therefore, are perhaps little acquainted with what our danger is. They do not themselves as yet feel the weight of oppression. They hear the noise of dan|ger echoed round the country, but know very little of what gives the alarm. For the information of such as have not been under advantages for proper intelli|gence, I will briefly as I can relate to you what hath been done by the British parliament with regard to A|merica, which gives the present alarm.—What the grievances are we labour under from these acts of the British parliament—what we have just reason to fear the consequences of these measures will be—then just hint at a few things proper for us to do in the present alarming crisis.

Here I may premise, that the English American co|lonies, at least I may say the New-England colonies were settled without any cost to the crown. Private adventurers that they might enjoy the sweets of both Page  50 civil and religious liberty, in a great measure denied them in their native land, ventured into this, then a howling wilderness; and a• their own expence laid the foundation of these flourishing colonies. All they re|ceived from the king was charters securing to them the rights and privileges of Englishmen in this new-found world: here amid numerous wars with the barbarous savages in their infant state, they defended them|selves without any expence to the crown. Afterwards when the nation was engaged in war, they complied with every requisition from th••king. They exerted themselves beyond their abilities in two expensive ex|peditions against Canada, in the reigns of William & Anne, which proved unsuccessful. In the war before the last, at their own motion, and almost wholly at their own expence, they took the important fortress of Louisbourg, which gave peace to Europe. In the last war 'tis fresh in every one's memory how chearful|ly they complied with every requisition of men or mo|ney from the Crown: for several years near a quarter of the militia of New-England were in actual service. Yet, with what alacrity performed? Who ever heard a murmur or complaint of our expence of blood and treasure, tho' Britain reaped the profit of our conquest, as all the conquered lands were theirs? Britain was so sensible of the spirited exertions of the Colonies at that time;—sensible they had contributed more than their proportion, that they refunded to them a con|siderable part of their expence. Hitherto they had neither claimed, nor exerted any right to tax the Colo|nies: and every one, who remembers that time, knows how ardent our affections were to the mother country, we gloried in our relation to Britain—were ready to fight and bleed for her glory and honour.

As America was much the seat of the last war, the 〈◊〉 sent here from the mother country, opened a much fro• communication between Great Britain and the Colonies, the state of the colonies was much more Page  51 attended to in England, than it had been in times past. And as in a country like this, where property is so equally divided, every one will be disposed to rival his neighbour in go•dness of dress, sumptuousness of fur|niture, &c. All our little earnings therefore went to Britain to purchase mainly the superfluities of life. Hence the common people here make a show, much above what they do in England. The luxury and su|perfluities in which even the lower ranks of people here indulge themselves, being reported in England by the officers and soldiers upon their return, excited in the people there a very exalted idea of the riches of this country, and the abilities of the inhabitants to bear taxes. The ministry soon conceived hopes that a large revenue might be raised from America.—A revenue that would be solely at their own disposal, whereby they might provide for great numbers of their depend|ants, and mightily enlarge their influence over the par|liament, to secure a majority in their measures. Ac|cordingly in a few years after the conclusion of the late war; the British parliament, for the first time, laid a tax upon America, by what was called the stamp-act: by which almost every written instrument of a public nature was subject to a high duty. Re|quisitions of men or money were no longer made as usual from the king to the colonies: but their money is now to be extorted from them by an act of the British parliament. 'Tis doubtless fresh in your memories, what an alarm this new claim of parliament gave to the colonies; what unanimous and vigorous opposition was made to the execution of the act: the stampt pa|pers were either destroyed, or kept from being distr••buted throughout America: Trade with Great Britain was in a good degree suspended:—In short, a glorious struggle was made against this first exertion of a parlia|mentary claim of taxation over America. The issue of the struggle was happy. The parliament the next sessi|on, repealed the act, tho' not upon the principles it Page  52 could have been wished for, i. e. of its being unconstituti|onal; but upon the footing of its being inexpedient and ill-suited to the state of the colonies. The parliament still claimed a right of making statutes to bind the co|lonies in all cases whatsoever. They still claimed the right of taxing them at pleasure. Duties were accord|ingly laid upon sundry articles of merchandize payable upon their landing in America, as on tea, glass, paint|ers colours, &c. part of which were afterwards taken off by parliament. There are also duties that have here|tofore been laid on other articles of trade; but as they were supposed to be laid only to defray the expences of regulating trade; the colonies acquiesced in them with|out any complaint: but the duties on tea, &c. being for the express purpose of raising a revenue to his ma|jesty, and being in consequence of the parliament's claim to make statutes to bind the colonies in all cases whatsoever, excited continual murmurs and com|plaints in the colonies: however as the tax was incon|siderable, it raised no considerable tumults. Soon after this new admiralty courts were erected throughout Ame|rica. The powers of which courts were extended much beyond what they are in England, or what they had been in America. But as I have not by me, the act of par|liament constituting those courts, I can only observe upon them in general as what Americans complain of. An expensive Board of Commissioners for managing the revenue were constituted with the most extravagant powers.—They have power to constitute as many un|der officers as they please; they are impowered to de|mand general warrants from the judges of courts in America: i. e. warrants to search any body, and any where for contraband goods; under pretence of which, they may search any man's most private apartments; not even his desk or drawers, or any thing would be secure. But as I am not possessed of the act constitut|ing this board, I cannot be further particular upon it. The judges of the admiralty and the commissioners have Page  53 both the most extravagant salaries; the former each six hundred, the latter five hundred pounds sterling per annum, paid out of the American revenue, besides the perquisites of their offices. And yet it has been report|ed of one at least of these judges of admiralty, that for two years or more he has had but one case to try. These, with a swarm of petty custom-house officers ap|pointed by the commissioners, exhaust almost the whole of the revenue. It is said, there was but 86l. the last year paid into the king's exchequer. So that all the money raised is spent to maintain a set of idle drones in ease and luxury, without doing any service to their king or country. The colonies from a reluctance to pay these, as they deemed them, unconstitutional duties, have, it is probable, purchased a considerable part of their teas from the Dutch; by which means the quan|tity imported from Great Britain hath been much less since the duty was laid than before; which caused an immense quantity of tea to lie upon the hands of the East-India company. With the approbation, if not by the proposal of the ministry, they resolve to send a large quantity of it to America upon their own risk. Several ships loaded with tea were accordingly sent to several different ports in America. This gave a gene|ral alarm thro' the Colonies. They tho't the mother country was now resolved to fa•••• the chains of slave|ry upon them; as they would not leave us at our own option whether we would import the Tea or not; but were resolved to force it upon us. A general resoluti|on seems therefore to have been come into throughout the colonies, not to suffer the tea to be landed. Accor|dingly at Philadelphia, New-York and Portsmouth, and I am apt to think from some other parts of Ame|rica; also, they persuaded the masters of the ships to return to England, without unlading. At Boston, the governor would not suffer the tea ship to pass the cas|tle without a clearance. A clearance could not be ob|tained without she entered and unladed. So that there Page  54 was no other alternative, the people must either suffer the tea to be landed or destroy it; accordingly a num|ber of persons went in disguise and emptied it all into the sea. At New-York also a quantity of the same tea was destroyed in like manner. When news was re|ceived in England, of the destroying of the tea in Boston; the ministry thinking that a proper opportunity now presented, for carrying the designs they had long since formed into execution, immediately hurried thro' the parliament, the act for blocking up the harbour of the town of Boston. This act forbids the shipping or landing any kind of merchandize whatsoever, (except fuel and victuals for the necessary sustenance of the inhabitants of the town) any where within Boston bay. Vessels, bound for Boston with provisions, must first be searched at Marblehead, must take an officer on board, and enter at Salem, before they may proceed to the town. By this act all the trade of the town of Boston is stopped, which was the whole support of the town; and 'tis calculated to dist•••• them much in procuring provisions. Any attempt to lade or unlade merchan|dize is punished with a fine of treble their value; with a forfeiture of the vessels or car••ages used in lading or unlading. The officers on the station are to be fined 500l. if they so much as connive at any breach of this act: and all forfeitures or penalties are to be recovered in the courts of admiral•y, where the king is both party and judge. The repealing this act the parliament have put out of their own power, by lodging it with the king; who when he shall judge that peace is restored in the town of Boston, may appoint so many wharve• or landing places as he pleases; and if any goods or merchandize be afterwards landed upon any wharves or landing places not appointed or licensed by him, the penalties of the act will notwithstanding take place; and even this, i. e. the licensing any wharves the king is restricted from doing, not only 'till it shall appear to his majesty that satisfaction is made to the East In|dia Page  55 company for the tea destroyed; but till the gover|nor has certified that reasonable satisfaction hath been made for all the injuries done to the custom house officers in times past. This bill, so pregnant with mischief, was hurried with the greatest precipitancy thro' both hous|es of parliament; the design was for a while kept en|tirely secret, lest there should be petitions against the bill. They never proposed to the inhabitants of Bos|ton whether they would make satisfaction for the inju|ries done or not. They never gave them any oppor|tunity to speak a word in their own defence;— a pri|vilege allowed to the meanest criminal in every court of justice. Altho' solicited in both houses, they would not so much as suffer their agent to speak in their be|half.

This Act hath been followed by two others respect|ing that province equally alarming, hurried thro' the parliament with the same precipitant haste as the other; without notifying the province to appear in their own defence, or allowing their agent to speak in their be|half. The one is intituled An 〈◊〉 for the better regu|lating the government of the province of Massachusetts-Bay. Whereby in direct violation of the privileges granted by charter, the appointment of the council is taken out of the hands of the general assembly and vested with the king; the governor's power is greatly en|larged, so that he may appoint all the judges, justices, sheriffs and other inferior officers, and remove them at pleasure without any concurrence of council. The inhabitants are forbid to assemble in town meeting ex|cept by special license obtained from the governor; only in their annual meeting, and then to transact no other business than just the appointment of town-officers. Jurors, that were before returned by the im|partial method of drawing them out of a box, are now to be summoned at the pleasure of the sheriff. And left all this should not be sufficient to screen the sol|diers or the officers either of the governor or of the Page  56 custom-house, who should happen to commit murder upon the inhabitants, from deserved punishment: There is another act passed, intituled An act for the impartial administration of justice, &c. which impowers the governor upon the indictment of any of the sol|diers, officers, &c. for any capital offence, when acting in execution of any of these laws, or under the directi|on of any magistrate, to remove the trial into any other province, or if he sees fit, into Great-Britain: oblig|ing the prosecutor and witnesses to appear there or to drop the prosecution. This is the substance of the late acts respecting the Massachusetts; which are now rigorously carrying into execution: A large fleet blocking up their harbour, and six or seven regiments of soldiers quartered in the town of Boston, beside some others in the neighbourhood.

There is another act lately parted in the British par|liament, for regulating the government of the province of Quebec, which greatly alarms the nation in gene|ral as well as America in particular. Thousands of English people have settled in that province under the faith of a royal proclamation, that the English laws should take place there, and a government like that of the other colonies as soon as the circumstances of the province would permit. But by this act all the French laws in being before the conquest are restored—Popery is established and provision is made for the legal sup|port of the popish clergy by the collection of tythes.— Trials by jury are taken away, and the whole legisla|tive power lodged in a council appointed by the king; what aspect this may have upon us shall be considered hereafter.

Thus I have related the principal facts with respect to America on which the present grievances and dan|gerous prospects of the Americans are founded. I proceed now to consider what those grievances are, which we have cause to complain of, from these acts of the British parliament.

Page  57The first thing we complain of as a grievance is, that by taxing the colonies for the purpose of raising a re|venue, and claiming a right to make laws or statutes in all cases binding on the Colonies, the parliament claim what they have no right to, by the British con|stitution, and thereby deny us our natural rights as men, and our constitutional rights as Englishmen. This I will consider somewhat particularly, as 'tis at the foundation of our complaints: for if the parliament have rightfully such a power as this, the Americans only are to blame in the present disputes, that subsist between Great-Britain and the Colonies: In order to which we may with propriety advert a little to the foundation of civil government in general, and the principles of the British government in particular.

That, which induces any number of individuals to enter into compact for civil government, is the greater security of their lives and properties; which in a state of nature are exposed to every invader, and liable to be taken away with impunity by any one that is strong|er than we. In a society formed for the purposes of government, there is the united power of the whole to suppress such injurious invaders. It is the duty of those who thus combine together for government to give up so much of their property into the hands of those who are intrusted with authority, as is necessary to carry on government: But then it would be very preposterous, when they entered into society to secure their property, to give it up to be wholly at the dis|posal of any one man or body of men: this would be to put their property in a worse state than the state of nature. 'Tis therefore to be presumed that every body of people entering into compact for civil government will keep the disposal of their property▪ in their own hands, and make grants of it to their rulers as the exi|gencies of government shall require: otherwise they put it into the power of their rulers to exercise every kind of tyranny over them. And thus it is said with Page  58 the greatest propriety, that every man hath a natural right to dispose of his own property. And every man hath a natural right to life, unless he hath been guilty of such conduct, that by the laws of nature he forfeits it; i. e. hath so conducted that it is evident others can|not be secure in the possession of their lives and proper|ties without life is taken from him: Another benefit of society therefore is to have persons appointed, who can be trusted, to judge when this is the case; that we may not be liable to have our lives taken away at the capricious pleasure of every one, that may judge we have forfeited them; as is the case in a state of na|ture: But then as life is our most darling possession, no body of men acting rationally will intrust this power with any man or number of men, without using every precaution for the right exercise of it.

The English constitution most admirably provides for the security both of our lives and our properties. In that great charter of liberties, commonly called Magna Charta, which our ancestors obtained by the most painful struggles; 'tis a fundamental article▪ that no man shall be taxed •t by his own consent: But as every individual of the nation cannot meet to grant taxes; there becomes a necessity of their meeting by representation; and accordingly the British parliament represent all the people of Great-Britain; are chosen by them, and the sole right of granting money is vested in them: Neither the king nor house of lords have power to raise one penny of money upon the subject: And as the parliament when they grant money to the king, tax themselves in common with others, and as they are exposed to lose their places the next election, if they do not conduct according to the mind of their constituents; the people have the greatest security that can be, that they will grant no more money than what the purposes of government, the good of the communi|ty, and the honour of the nation require. So likewise are our lives most admirably guarded in that charter Page  59 of privileges which our forefathers obtained: In which 'tis provided that no man shall be imprisoned but by the laws of the land—No man's life shall be taken away, (either by the king or judges appointed by him,) but by the voice of his country represented by twelve honest men of the neighbourhood where the crime is committed, called together in some impartial manner; who, 'tis to be presumed, can have no interest in acting otherwise than justly. These two. viz. the right of taxing themselves, and trials by jury, especially in capi|tal cases, have ever been deemed by the people of England their fundamental privileges; the violation of which was the principal cause of that dreadful civil war in England about a century ago, which at last brought an arbitrary king to the block. A violation of these, with other attempts to subvert the constituti|on, dethroned king JAMES the second, and advanced WILLIAM and MARY to the throne. So jealous have Englishmen ever been of these important rights and privileges. Now the first of these the parliament go di|rectly in the face of▪ when they lay taxes on the Ame|ricans; as we are not represented in the British parlia|ment, and by reason of our distance can never have an equal representation there. When they lay taxes on us, they feel none of the burdens they impose; and we have no influence over them, as the people of Eng|land have, by dropping the members of parliament, if they conduct wrong▪ at the next election. They do in reallity take away our money from us by force, and make a present of it to the king. 'Tis not that we are against contributing to defray the expences of go|vernment, that causes us to complain of these taxes: But because our money is forced from us in an illegal manner, in direct violation of that fundamental privilege of Englishmen, a right to tax themselves▪ The colonies are represented in their respective general assemblies, and no where else; and whenever the •ing hath made requisitions to them of men and money, they have ever Page  60 readily granted them: And would his majesty ask his good subjects in America, as he doth the people of Britain assembled in parliament, for money to defray the charges of government, I am bold to say they would readily grant it.

Altho' the privilege of trial by juries is not as yet ta|ken away from the colonies in general; yet the advan|tage of it is much lessened in the province of the Mas|sachusetts-Bay; as it is in the power of the sheriff to pack such a jury as he pleases; who being appointed solely by the governor, it may be presumed will ever be a creature of his; and also by the governor's having power to remove capital trials out of the province, or even to Britain, where a jury cannot be supposed so a|dequate judges, as one collected from the neighbour|hood where the crime was committed. The admiral|ty courts, 'tis complained of, are in many cases an in|fringment upon this important privilege. In Canada trial by juries is wholly taken away; and who but just|ly fears that this is a sample by which the other colo|nies may e're long be modelled.

The late acts respecting the province of the Massa|chusetts-Bay are looked upon by Americans to be grie|•ous in many respects; to that province immediately; to the other colonies as they afford a precedent of the treatment they may expect to receive, whenever they shall happen to fall under the resentment of the British court, and as it opens to view the adopted plan for the government of the colonies. To begin with that called the port act, or the act for blocking up the harbour of the town of Boston.

And first, if we look into the preamble of this act, we shall find the reasons assigned are, that divers ill affected persons have fomented and raised dangerous com|motions, &c. in which certain valuable cargoes of tea were destroyed." h••e you see 'tis supposed that the whole people are not guilty, but only divers ill affected persons, yet the whole town is punished, men, women, and chil|dren. Page  61 Why did not the parliament enable his majesty to punish those ill affected persons, and not bring ruin on a whole country for the crime of a few individuals? 'Tis not probable that more than a hundredth part of the inhabitants of Boston were concerned in this af|fair, yet this is the only reason assigned for punishing the whole. Is it not the part of justice to sever between the guilty and the innocent and not to punish all in the lump? And have not other colonies been guilty of the like conduct? New-York destroyed a• conside|rable quantity of the same tea. Philadelphia forci|bly sent back a large cargo to the great detriment of the East-India company; yet Boston only is singled out to be the object of ministerial vengeance. It plain|ly appears they mean to take but one at a time, and thus by dividing the colonies to bring them one after another to submit to the yoke.

Again, if you look further into this monstrous pro|duction, you will find that all the immense estates lying in wharves, water lots, &c. clear round Boston bay are really confiscated to the king: for if ever satisfaction is made according to the requirements of the act, 'tis ex|pressly left with the king, to license only such wharves and landing places as he pleases. Now wharves are worth nothing, if there may be no landing upon them: their water lots are worth very little, if they may not build wharves upon them; or may not use them when built. So that the property of these estates, all in a manner that is va|luable in them, is wrested from the original owners and vested with the king: With equal right might the parliament to vote the king the landed estate of any per|son in this or any other province: And if because there hath been a riot or mischief done by some individuals, the parliament may vote to the king the estate of any person that happens to lie in the town or country where committed: In what a dreadful situation are we? Here is not only claimed, but actually exercised; not mere|ly Page  62 a right of taxation, but of granting our estates, just as the British parliament pleases. A precedent justly alarming to all the colonies!

If you look still further into this oppressive act, you will find it inforced by such penalties as never act was. If any goods are landed or shipped from any wharf or landing-place within Boston bay; not only the vessel and cargoes, with all the horses, carriages, cattle and and every utensil concerned in carrying them are for|feit; but a fine treble the value of the goods at the highest price is laid upon any person that shall be so much as aiding or abetting. What shocking severity! And where are these fines to be recovered? Not in the common courts of justice where there might be a fair trial by jury: but in the courts of admiralty; where the king, who is to receive the fine, is both judge and jury, as well as party concerned. And the difficulties every vessel is laid under that goes in with provisions, seem as if designed, if not to starve them, at least to raise the price of provisions so high, as to force them to yield. And lest the officers on the coast should have some humane and compassionate feelings towards their distressed fellow subjects in Boston; a fine of 500l. ster|ling is laid on any one that shall so much as connive at the least breach of the act.

Again 'tis put out of the power of parliament to grant redress to Boston: 'tis lodged with the king when to remove the rigours of the act: yet he is restricted ••ll full satisfaction is made for the tea destroyed by, or in behalf of the town of Boston; but who can it be •pected will do it in their behalf? and the town can do it in no other way than by a tax upon the inhabi|tants, thus involving the innocent with the guilty. †Page  63 And not only so, but till the governor certifies satis|faction hath been made to the custom-house officers Page  64 and others for all the abuses they have received for several months before. Now how is it possible to know when they have complied with the requirements of the act? Let them be ever so much disposed to make sa|tisfaction, no mortal can tell when it is done. They are left wholly at the mercy of their governor; who by office, if not by inclination (as one expresses it) is sup|posed to be a mere tool of arbitrary power. Never was there a completer instrument of tyranny, (if any are wicked enough to make such an use of it) than the Boston port act.

And over and above all this, this act which brings such an heavy calamity upon the town of Boston and the whole province, and establishes such a fatal pre|cedent with respect to the parliament's power over the colonies, was passed without ever allowing the party therein concerned, an opportunity to make their defence, or even so much as their agents to speak in their behalf; and when (as has been often reported) full satisfaction was offered by the merchants in London for all damage the East-India company had suffered from the destroying of their tea.

"Here the sons of tyranny in America; the base advocates for parliamentary power; may see the bles|sed fruit of their doctrine: may see a specimen of what the other Colonies may expect from that exorbitant power they are at such pains to justify." Strange that any should dare to hold up their heads among a free people in defence of such oppressive claims, as are here exerted.

But let us attend to the other late acts respecting the province of the Massachusetts-Bay; both of which were hurried thro' the parliament with the utmost pre|cipitancy, without ever allowing the province con|demned an opportunity to speak in their own behalf. One of these in open defiance of the royal charter, in which the word of the king most solemnly given had guaranteed to them that form of government, they had Page  65 enjoyed for near a century past, essentially changes their form of government,—vests the king with a power of appointing another branch of their legislature beside the governor.—Extends the power of the governor to the most exorbitant lengths, and almost nullifies that birth right of Englishmen, trials by jury, If charters, if the solemn promises of kings are to be thus trifled with, what security can we have in any thing? Under the faith of charters solemnly given, our fathers plant|ed this wilderness; built towns and cities—extended the commerce, the power, the glory of Britain. But now these sacred privileges thus solemnly confirmed are to be subject to the caprice of an insolent minister. And then the principle upon which the parliament avowedly proceeded, that whenever they judged it expedient & advantageous to the public, they had a right to set chart|ers aside, greatly aggravates the evil. For upon this principle, if they judge it expedient, they may set aside all grants of land, all patents from the king (for none of these are more solemn 〈◊〉 sacred than charters) and thus might cause all our lands to revert into the hands of the king. This principle nullifies all security of our property. In short, upon this principle the parliament may in the plenitude of their power, de|prive us of every valuable enjoyment we possess.

The other act, which allows the governor to remove capital trials out of the province even to England, seems calculated with a most barefaced design to screen the soldiers and custom-house officers from punishment, when they should be guilty of any excesses. As tho' a merciless soldiery and those harpies and blood-suckers the officers of the customs would not be rigorous enough in executing these arbitrary laws, without a promise of impunity. For who would run the risk to cross the atlantic, more than 3000 miles to carry on a prosecuti|on against them? Or if adventrous end, how would it be possible to procure evidence? The language of it therefore is nearly this, let the soldiers commit what murders they please, they shall be liable to no punish|ment therefor.

Page  66Think now what dreadful situation a people must be in, with an army of soldiers quartered among them; with another army of tax-gatherers encamped in all their trading places: both of which know they are sent for the express purpose of bearing down and humbling the people; and that to encourage them in their inso|lence, they have the greatest prospect of impunity, let them commit what crimes they please. These natural|ly insolent when under every restraint the civil autho|rity can put them, what may it be expected they will be, when these restraints are taken away, and they as it were invited to be insolent and overbearing to the people? What hopes of redress can a people entertain, let them be injured ever so much? Let individuals in Boston be allowed as wicked as any are disposed to make them; yet surely the people have reason to com|plain of these acts, which inflict a punishment so far exceeding the crime; involve the innocent with the guilty, and are such complete engines of tyranny in the hands of any that shall be wicked enough to improve them as such.

Again the Quebec government act the colonies have just reason to complain of. First as it establishes the popish religion: by the articles of capitulation the in|habitants of Canada were indeed to have a toleration, but not an establishment. But popery is now establish|ed, tythes are collected by law for it's support; which shews such a disregard for the protestant religion as we never should expect in the reign of one of the house of Hanover, who were called to the British throne to be guardians of the protestant religion. And tho' there are thousands of English settled in that province, yet no provision is made for the support of a protestant clergy; there is only a reserve, that the king may make such provision, if he sees fit. Now when such favour is shewn to the bloody religion of Rome, it argues ei|ther a favourable disposition in the parliament towards that religion; or that it is done, in order to carry on some other favorite scheme. Again trials by juries are Page  67 abolished by this act: which is injurious, at least to the English inhabitants, who under the faith of a royal proclamation, promising English privileges have settled there. As the government of Canada is now entirely after the model of the arbitrary government of France, 'tis to be feared this is designed as a precedent for what is to be done in the other colonies; or at least we may suppose, without much conjecture, that the French in|habitants of Canada are gratified with an establishment of popery and a restoration of their former laws; to en|gage them to be true to the ministry in any future struggles with the colonies: A military government is continued there; that they may always have a good body of troops at hand, to join the Canadians and In|dians to pour down upon the back of us, if the mini|stry should find occasion to use them. And that this French arbitrary government may take in as much of America as possible, it's limits are extended southward to the O|hio, and westward to the Missisippi: so that it com|prehends an extent of teritory almost as large as all the other provinces. When this vast extent of territory comes to be filled up with inhabitants, near half Ame|rica will be under this arbitrary French government. So that upon the whole the Quebec act doubtless wears as threatning an aspect upon Americans as any act that hath been passed by the British parliament. Thus I have hinted to you some of the principal grievances which the Americans judge they labour under from the late acts of the British parliament.

Indulge me a little longer while I endeavour to point out what we have just reason to fear the consequences of these measures will be. If we view the whole of the conduct of the ministry and parliament, I do not see how any one can doubt but that there is a settled fix'd plan for inslaving the colonies, or bringing them under arbitra|ry government, and indeed the nation too. The pre|sent parliament have ever been (by all accounts) more devoted to the interest of the ministry, than perhaps e|ver a parliament were. Now notwithstanding the ex|cellency Page  68 of the British constitution, if the ministry can secure a majority in parliament, who will come into all their measures, will vote as they bid them; they may rule as absolutely as they do in France or Spain, yea as in Turkey or India: And this seems to be the present plan to secure a majority of parliament, and thus enslave the nation with their own consent. The more places or pensions the ministry have in their gift; the more easily can they bribe a majority of parliament, by bestowing those places on them or their friends. This makes them erect so many new and unnecessary offices in A|merica, even so as to swallow up the whole of the re|venue. The king is not at all the richer for these du|ties. But then by bestowing these places—places of considerable profit and no labour, upon the children or friends, or dependants of the members of parliament, the ministry can secure them in their interest. This doubtless i• the great thing the ministry are driving at, to establish arbitrary government with the consent of parliament: And to keep the people of England still, the first exertions of this power are upon the colonies. If the parliament insist upon the right of taxing the co|lonies at pleasure, the least we can expect is, to be tax'd as heavily as we can possibly bear, and yet support our lives; for as the members of parliament feel no burdens themselves by what they lay upon us, and are under no danger of losing their places by tax|ing us, so long as they can persuade the people of Eng|land they are lightening their burdens thereby; they are under no motives at interest to abstain from loading us with taxes as heavy as we can possibly groan under. Doubtless they will be cautious enough, to introduce these heavy taxes gradually, lest they excite too great commotions in this country: But let the right be once fix'd and established; it will be very easy to keep ad|ding tax to tax; till the loads grow so heavy and are so fast bound, that we can never shake them off. No|thing most certainly but a principle of justice will keep them from it; and what can we expect from this quar|ter, Page  69 when in open defiance of the English constitution, they claim a right to tax us, and thus deprive us of our dearest privileges?

In the mean time we must expect our charters will fall a sacrifice to these arbitrary claims. Charter governments have long been disagreable to the powers in Britain. The free constitution of these colonies makes them such nurseries of freemen as cannot fail to alarm an arbitrary ministry. They only wait a favourable opportunity to abolish their charters, as they have done that of the Massachusetts-Bay. We know the principle the parliament have adopted and openly profess to act upon, that they have a right to alter or annihilate charters when they judge it conve|nient: And we may depend upon it, whenever they shall think it can be done without raising too great commotions in the colonies, they will judge it conve|nient. Some may imagine it was the destroying the tea induced the parliament to change the government of the Massachusetts-Bay. If it was, surely 'tis very extraordinary to punish a whole province and their pos|terity thro' all ages, for the conduct of a few indivi|duals. How soon will a roit or some disorder of a few individuals, afford them a pretext for the like treatment of all the other charter governments. I be|lieve, however, it may be made very evident, that the destroying the tea was not the reason for altering the goverment of the Massachusetts-Bay; but that it was a fix'd plan long before, and they only waited a co|lourable pretext for carrying it into execution. It has been reported by gentlemen of unquestionable veraci|ty, that they had incontestible evidence that the two bills for altering the government of the Massachusetts-Bay were ordered by the council to be drawn up by the crown lawyers more than two years ago. Now if this be true (as it undoubtedly is) 'tis quite certain the mi|nistry were only waiting for some colourable pretext for carrying their design into execution. The char|ter governments are by this precedent reduced not Page  70 merely to the greatest uncertainty of the continuance of their charters; but may be quite certain, it the pre|sent plan is prosecuted, they will be taken away, and these colonies reduced, (if nothing worse) to the state of the royal governments; their governors, councils, judges, &c. will be appointed from England, with high and extravagant salaries.

There is great reason to fear the next step will be the vacating all grants and patents of land from the king; that all our landed property may revert to his majesty; to be regranted under such quit rents and services as those in power shall see fit to impose: Nor will this fear appear chimerical to any one that duly considers what hath been already done, and what the plan is, which the ministry are doubtless pursuing. 'Twould be weak policy indeed for an arbitrary mi|nistry to push with all their horns at first. But cer|tainly it doth not require very great sagacity to see that their measures are tending to this. When it was resolved to introduce arbitrary and despotic govern|ment into the colonies in the reign of king JAMES 2d. when Sir Edmond Andross was governor of New-Eng|land; the first step was to vacate the charters; the very next to revoke the grants of land that had been made:‖ which was done, in his short administration in a great number of instances; and people were obliged to take out new patents at a most exorbitant price. We see our charters are already struck at; a claim is advanc|ed by the parliament to dissolve them at pleasure: And what is there more sacred in grants of land, than in charters; that the former may not be annulled with as Page  71 much right as the latter. Our fathers when they planted this wilderness, placed equal confidence in the royal word pledged in their charters; as in the patents by which they held their land: and deemed the privi|leges granted in the former of as much worth; as the property granted by the latter. The principle upon which the parliament proceeded in vacating the Mas|sachusetts charter; will equally warrant them, when|ever they shall see fit, to vacate all our grants of lands, i. e. when they shall judge it expedient, or for the good of the nation. If the parliament should once take it into their wise heads, that it is expedient, or for the general good, that all lands in America should re|vert to the crown, that they may be regranted all upon the same tenure,—upon large quit-rents to defray the charges of government; what will hinder their car|rying it into execution? And indeed the Boston port act doth actually afford us a precedent of the exercise of this power: all their wharves and water-lots round the whole of Boston bay, are really confiscated to the king (as we have already shewn.) Now what is this but a vote of parliament to take away our landed pro|perty. And that power which hath been once exer|cised have we not all reason to fear will be exercised again.

And have we not just grounds to fear that all this will not be the completion of their oppressive plan, if the ministry find themselves successful in their first at|tempts? By the Quebec-Act we find the parliament claim a power to establish in America, the same arbitra|ry government that takes place in France.—To take away trials by juries:—to set aside general assemblies: —to vest the king with a power to appoint legislative councils &c. Now this act not only respects the French inhabitants (who having been long used to slavish sub|jection, and not knowing the benefit of any other form of government, are possibly well eno' pleased with it, especially as the pill is gilded over with a full establish|ment of that religion, of which they are such bigotted Page  72 professors;) but it respects thousands of English, who have settled there since the conquest, and all such as may settle any where within that vast extended pro|vince in future time. By the same right they could establish this form of government over the English in Canada; they may do it in the other provinces. In the province of the Massachusetts-Bay, the important privilege of being tried by a jury, is greatly lessened by setting aside the equitable and impartial method by which juries were wont to be panel'd. Viewing the things that have taken place, is it without foundation that I express my fears, that the British ministry will e'er long find our general assemblies troublesome things?—a hindrance to government and the like, and so set them aside, under a notion of their being inexpe|dient, and lodge the whole legislative power in a coun|cil appointed by the king. This is the very thing that took place in Sir Edmond's time. The whole legislative power was lodged in him and his council. And since the previous steps are so like what took place then, why may we not expect the consequent ones will be so too? And very likely the ministry may find juries e|qually a bar to the government they mean to establish: and so may persuade the parliament, on the footing of expediency to abolish them likewise.

And when our civil rights and privileges shall have thus fallen a sacrifice to tyranny and oppression, our religious liberties cannot long survive: for where hath it ever been known that civil and ecclesiastical tyran|ny and despotism have not yet gone hand in hand to|gether. The latter is so necessary to uphold and sup|port the former, that arbitrary princes or ministers of state have ever found their interest in the encourage|ment of it. And should America be forced to yield in the present struggle for civil liberty, we have no reason to expect but ecclesiastical tyranny, in some shape or other, will like a mighty torrent overspread our land. Those princes on the British throne since the reformation, who have been most disposed to trample Page  73 upon the rights of the people, and to rule in an arbitra|ry and despotic manner; have ever caressed the papists and shewn a favourable disposition towards the bloody religion of Rome, as that religion is the surest prop to tyranny and despotism. This is evident during the reigns of all the several kings of the house of Stewart. Papists shared in the royal favour and were sheltered under royal protection. Continual attempts were made to bring the church of England to a greater conformi|ty to the despotic church of Rome; 'till James 2d. more adventrous than his predecessors boldly attempts to subvert the constitution both in state and in church; —to introduce both tyranny and popery: which so alarmed the nation that they dethroned the tyrant; and placed a confirmed protestant on the British throne. Some late transactions shew a very favourable disposi|tion in the present ministry and parliament towards the religion of Rome; how far they may attempt to in|troduce into the English nation both in Britain and the colonies, God only knows. But thus much we may safely guess, without much danger of erring, that to in|troduce episcopacy with all those formidable powers with which it was clothed (which indeed were no obscure resemblance of the church of Rome) before the acts of parliament restraining and regulating prelative power and ecclesiastical courts, passed in consequence of the revolution, will be a darling object with the present ministry, if they see a prospect of being able to carry their designs into execution. For ecclesiastical go|vernment must be conformed to the civil, and nothing short of this would be in any measure suited to the ge|nius of that civil policy they are evidently aiming to establish in the colonies. And tho' such an establish|ment might not introduce fire and faggots; yet depo|sitions of the clergy, fines, imprisonment, disfranchise|ments, confiscations, &c. with various corporal penal|ties, you may depend upon it, will be its dire attendants.

All these things, I make no doubt, will take place one after another, as fast as the ministry can bring their Page  74 measures to bear; unless something occur in God's pro|vidence to hinder them.

View now the situation of America: loaded with taxes from the British parliament, as heavy as she can possibly support under,—our lands charged with the most exorbitant quit rents,—these taxes collected by foreigners, steeled against any impressions from our groans or complaints, with all the rapaciousness of Ro|man publicans—our charters taken away—our assem|blies annihilated,—governors and councils, appointed by royal authority without any concurrence of the peo|ple, enacting such laws as their sovereign pleasure shall dictate—judges appointed from the same source, without any check from juries carrying their arbitrary laws into execution.—the lives and property of Americans en|tirely at the disposal of officers more than three thousand miles removed from any power to controul them—ar|mies of soldiers quartered among the inhabitants, who know the horrid purpose for which they are stationed, in the colonies,—to subjugate and bear down the inha|bitants—who know what a chance they stand for im|punity, tho' they commit the greatest excesses. These will be ready, not only to execute every arbitrary man|date of their despotic masters; but self-moved (if like others of their profession) to commit every outrage upon the defenceless inhabitants.—Robber•ies, rapes, murders, &c. will be but the wanton sport of such wretches with|out restraint let loose upon us.—These will be at hand by force and arms to quell every rising murmur, to crush every rising groan or complainte'er it be uttered. And whene|ver the iron hand of oppression shall excite opposition or raise insurrections among the people: (which will ever be the case under arbitrary and despotic government, till long use has rendered their necks callous and insensible to the galling yoke) Blood-thirsty soldiers will be let loose upon them. Those who survive their murder|ing hands and have the misfortune to be taken captive by them, will soon be dragged, by the sentence of more merciless judges, to the place of execution.—Nothing Page  75 shall then be heard of but executions, forfeitures of estates, families reduced to beggery, orphans crying for bread, and such like scenes of distress. The spirits of the people soon grow depress'd—Industry and public spirit die away—Learning, Virtue and Religion are soon extinguished.—No comfort or happiness to be enjoy|ed in social life, every one will be jealous and distrust|ful 〈◊〉 his nearest friends and neighbours. To such a dreadful state as this, my countrymen, the present mea|sures seem to be swiftly advancing. What free-born Englishman can view such a state of abject slavery as this, tho' at the greatest distance, without having his blood boil with indignation?

Some perhaps may be ready to think the issue of these measures cannot be so bad as has been described. No wonder men used to freedom cannot at once realize all the horrors of slavery. But this is no worse a state, than what now actually takes place in a great part of the world: and why will not the same government pro|duce the same effects in America?

Others may think the British ministry cannot have so bad a scheme as this in view, that officers appointed by the crown cannot be so cruel and barbarous as hath been represented. Probably the ministry mayn't have it all in view at present• probably these officers would not at first be so cruel and barbarous, but there is no telling what men will soon become when entrusted with arbi|trary power: such power will more surely intoxicate men than the strongest spirits: the best of men cannot be safely trusted with it. Many men amiable in private life have become monsters of cruelty when entrusted with arbitrary power: such were many of the Roman emperors. Should governors and councils appointed by the crown be entrusted with legislative power over the colonies, and be supported by armies of soldiers quartered among the people, I see not what (according to the ordinary course of things) would keep them from even greater excesses than I have mentioned.

Or should the colonies refuse to receive the chains Page  76 prepared for them, and the present measures issue in a hostile rupture between Great Britain and the colonies, which God forbid, and which I wish the ministry may not have in view to promote, see what precautions they have early taken either to ruin us, or force us to subjec|tion. To the Canadians who have been long inured to arbitrary government, and so are become fit tools for inslaving others, they have granted an establishment of their religion, the restoration of their former laws, &c. to attach them to their interest:—have continued Canada a military government that they may have store of forces at hand; that they may let loose these with all the force of Canada and all the northern tribes of In|dians upon our exposed and helpless frontiers. What else can they have in view in trying so much to gratify the French inhabitants of that province?

Now if the British parliament and ministry continue resolved to prosecute the measures they have entered upon, it seems we must either submit to such a dread|ful state of slavery as hath been shewn will be the pro|bable issue of their measures, or must by force and arms stand up in defence of our liberties. The thoughts of either of which is enough to make our blood recoil with horror. Can any person survey the events that have taken place, and yet remain so stupid as not to be shock|ed at the dreadful prospect before us? Is there a wretch so unfeeling, as not to feel grieved and affected at the injured and violated liberties of America? Is there that tool of arbitrary power among the free-born sons of America, that will dare hold up his head in de|fence of such measures as these? If there be any such, I am sure I cannot find it in my heart to wish them worse, than •o feel the iron rod of slavery, that is now shook over America, till they are brought to a sounder mind. †

Page  77Having thus given a brief account of the late acts of the British parliament respecting the colonies;—of the grievances the colonies labour under therefrom, and of what the probable consequences of these measures will be. I will very briefly touch upon the last thing pro|posed viz. what can be done by us in such an alarming crisis.—Some perhaps may think me already too bold in speaking thus freely of the acts of the most respecta|ble legislature in the British empire. But the more I consider the shocking tendency of them, the more diffi|cult I find it to restrain myself within the bounds of de|cency. —I am sure however there is nothing treasonable in feeling oppession when oppressed—nor in groaning under the anguish of it—as yet I have done little more than express this.—Surely it cannot be treason to feel our burdens and weep and mourn and pray on account of them. To pray to God for redress is certainly inno|cent, and happy it is we have heaven to go to, tho' our prayers should be denied oh earth. God hath once and again in answer to prayer wrought eminent deliverance for the oppressed. Remember how he delivered the Jews from Haman's cursed devices. Oft hath he de|livered his people of old;—oft the people of New-Eng|land;—this affords great encouragement to be fervent in our supplications to the throne of grace. The king's Page  78 heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will. But little will prayer avail us without unfeigned repentance and humiliation before God under the heavy frowns of his righteous providence. We have more reason to be afraid of the vice and wickedness that abounds among us, than of all the arms of Britain. These give us reason to fear lest we have not virtue enough to make use of the properest means of redress, and lest heaven should fight against us. Were a general reformation to take place I make no doubt▪ heaven would find a way for our relief. The present alarming situation of things therefore loudly calls upon us to examine what sins in particular have provoked heaven thus to come out in judgment against us; and perhaps there cannot be a better rule of deter|mining than to enquire what sins these calamities are properly retributive of, and by this rule will not the en|slaving the poor Africans in the colonies stand forth in the front of the dreadful catalogue? Are not the co|lonies guilty of forcibly depriving them of their natu|ral rights? Will n•• the arguments we use in defence of our own liberties against the claims of the British parliament, ••ually conclude in their favour▪ And 〈◊〉 i• not easy 〈◊〉 see there is something retributive in the present judgments of heaven? We keep our fellow men in slavery—heaven is suffering others to enslave us. Again I must mention worldliness, covetousness, selfishness, dishonesty, disobedience to constitutional authority, and many other vices as contained in the dis|mal train, and for which we need to repent and humble. ourselves before God; but as this is a topic handled in the preceeding sermon 'tis altogether needless for me to en• upon it.

But 〈◊〉 ever we would hope for ••dress from the griev|ances we labour under; 'tis not only necessary that we repent, reform and pray; but that we unitedly prosecute the most firm and prudent measures for the attainment of it. A very little attention must convince every one of the necessity of our being united. If the colonies Page  79 are divided o• the people in the several colonies are very considerably divided, we are undone. Nothing but the united efforts of America can save us: and if united, they must have that weight, which gives me the most sanguine hopes of success. It should then be the con|cern of every one to labour as far as his influence ex|tends, to promote this necessary union. The determinati|ons of the congress of delegates from the several colonies may be deemed the general voice of America. A concur|rence with these we should every one labour to promote. If in every particular we should not be entirely suited; yet the dreadful consequences of disunion should make us cautious how we let it be known. The Congress we hear have come into a conclusion that we import no British goods. This is a measure for redress, of which we may very safely and easily make trial. We can with a little self-denial do without the superfluities we receive from Britain. This will doubtless be distress|ing to the Mother Country and may convince them of the necessity of continuing to us our dear bought rights and privileges. No friend of his country can hesitate a moment in such a cause to deny himself the super|fluities of Britain. And should the Congress agree also upon non-exportation; and extend both this and the other, not only to Great-Britain but to Ireland and the West-Indies; a general compliance with which, will most certainly, according to the ordinary course of things, ensure us redress, and of which necessity most certainly will be a sufficient justification: Should this I say be agreed upon by the Congress; none I hope will be so inimical to his country, as to attempt to break the general union by refusing to comply there|with. But should there be any such; it becomes eve|ry one, that hath any regard to the liberties of his country, to treat with deserved neglect and abhorrence the wretch, that thus meanly seeks his own e••lument upon the ruins of his country's liberties:—To break off all trade and dealings with such selfish miscreants; and make them sensible, that without injuring their Page  80 lives or property, their injured country can make them feel the weight of her vengeance, and rue the day they ever suffered a selfish spirit to banish all love to their country from their breasts. Here is a sphere in which every one can contribute something to save his sinking country from ruin. Suffer me then to intreat you (of the western parts of the colony of Connecticut) in some proper way to shew your hearty concurrence with other parts of the continent in the cause of American liberty; and your resolution to concur with, and endeavour to carry into execution the conclusions of the American Congress; and to open your hearts to commiserate, and contribute to the relief of the suffering poor of the town of Boston. What hath been said I trust makes it suf|ficiently appear, that they are suffering in the common cause of American liberty. Allowing the conduct of those individuals who destroyed the tea as criminal as any are disposed to make it, yet the punishment is be|yond all bounds disproportionate to the crime:—the innocent are involved with the guilty:—the require|ments of the act are such, that it can never be known whether complied with or not:—The act is as com|pleat an instrument of tyranny as ever was formed.—If the requirements of the act should be complied with; yet all their estates lying in wharves, water-lots, &c. will still lie at the king's mercy. So that the act can|not be complied with without giving up the struggle for liberty. The design in bearing thus hard upon one colo•• is evidently to divide the colonies; and thus to bring them one after another to submit to the arbitrary claims of parliament. All their means of subsistence depended on their trade, which by this act is wholly taken away. So that without assistance from the other colonies, they must inevitably yield, unless▪ so very pa|triotic, as 〈◊〉 be willing to starve to death. Our turn may soon come when we may want the like kind assis|tance from our brethren. Only apply the golden rule of "doing to others as we would that they should do unto us," and surely we cannot hesitate to contribute to Page  81 their relief. We in this colony are situated nearer to them and on various accounts are more nearly connected with them than most of the other colonies. Our trade hath been principally with them;—our religion and manners are very similar to theirs:—We originated mainly from the same ancestors; most of our towns derived their first inhabitants from that province; the rest are descended from ancestors that left their native land for the same cause with the Massachusetts planters: So that it will be to our lasting shame, if more back|ward to contribute to their relief, than other colonies much more remote, and under no such special connec|tions as we are. Many towns in the eastern and north|ern parts of this colony have sent very generously to their relief, others are now making collections for this purpose. But I hear nothing of any collections for Boston either in Fairfield or New-Haven counties.* I should be very sorry if we in the western parts of the colony should prove the most backward. Providence hath bless'd us with plentiful crops, and thereby hath amply furnished us with the means of contributing to their relief, if we have hearts to use them I wish the importance of contributing to the relief of •oston might •e duly attended to, and that some mea•s might be come into in all our towns for trying the generosity of people for this purpose. I am sure they that have a sense of the worth of liberty and the importance of making a firm yet decent and harmless opposition to these oppressive measures, which are calculated to rivit the chains of slavery both upon us and our posterity, cannot hesitate a moment to contribute something gene|rous for the relief of that suffering people. May Ame|ricans be united in a just sense of the worth of their civil rights and privileges, and in every laudable and righteous method for obtaining redress; and God grant their struggles in so glorious a cause may be crowned with happy success.