Page:A century of Birmingham life- or, A chronicle of local events, from 1741 to 1841 (IA centuryofbirming02lang).pdf/20

2 intolerance and bigotry. The triumph of party becomes of greater importance than the good of the nation. In its earliest stages of development, party is made to appear identical with the well-being of the people; but, as it gains in strength and influence, party success is the primary, and the greatness of the state the secondary, consideration. The history of the world shows how, in religion, Roman Catholic, Churchmen, and Dissenters have in turns become intolerant and persecuting; and Tory, Whig, and Liberal have each violated the first principles of Liberty. No true friend of his country will ever desire to see England in the undisputed possession of any sect in religion, or of any party in politics. A strong opposition is necessary for the good government, the welfare, and the liberty of the kingdom.

The doings of 1791 were for a time fatal to the public life of Birmingham. Almost all the great undertakings which distinguished the last ten years languished for want of support. The French war had destroyed commerce, and the terrible taxation caused by that war had produced such a depression in trade that bankruptcy and ruin stared thousands of honest and industrious citizens in the face. Birmingham did not suffer so severely as other towns. Then, as now, the infinite number of her industries saved her somewhat from the general depression with which the country was afflicted. But even here the sufferings were very great. Public building was stopped; the famous Crescent could not get completed. There was neither time nor inclination to attend to education or literature. Scarcely any books were produced here during the next ten years; and comparatively few changes were made in the appearance of the town. The only things which flourished with undiminished fervour, during this decade, were the spirit of war, and the spirit of charity; the latter, we rejoice to say, having never failed in the history of Birmingham. Thus there is little for us to record in the first section of the present chapter.

The first advertisement of the decade refers to a house and garden "near the High-street:"—

January 23, 1792.—To be Let and entered upon immediately, a large handsome Messuage, with convenient out-buildings and Garden, pleasantly situated, near the High-street, in Birmingham, and late in the occupation of Mr. Benjamin Mansell. For further particulars apply to Mr. Barker, in the Square, Birmingham.