History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution (in English)
Synopsis "History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution (in English)"
Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1805. Excerpt: ... 1778. CHAFsER XII. Observations on the Conduct of the British Parliament, previous to the Capture of Burgoyne.--The ineffectual Efforts of the Commissioners sent to America, in consequence of Lord. North's Conciliatory Bill--Their Attempts to corrupt Individuals and Public Bodies.--Negociation broken off.--Manifesto published by the Commissioners--Counter Declaration by Congress.--Sir William Howe repairs to England. While America gloried in her recent successes against the northern army, and was making all possible preparations for vigorous action at the southward, the coercive system in Britain was so far from being relaxed, that the most severe measures were urged with bitterness and acrimony. The speeches of the king were in the same tone of despotism as formerly: the addresses of parliament were in the usual style of compliment and applause; as if they had little else to do, but to keep each other in good humor, until alienation was complete, and the colonies so far connected with other powers, that there could be no hope of reconciliation. But though a unison of sentiment, and a perfect conformity to the royal will, previous to CHAP. XII. the news of Burgoyne's defeat, appeared in the majority of both houses of parliament, yet the measures of the ministry were, as usual, warmly opposed by some gentlemen of the first abilities in the nation. Several of the principal nobility were in the minority, and urged an' accommodation before America should be irretrievably lost. It was recommended to the minister, "rather to forge bands of amity for the minds, "than chains for the bodies of Americans." The present moment of uncertainty with regard to success, was urged as the proper season for giving the most unequivocal proofs of cordiality, by requesting his majesty to order a cessation...
