Page:Journal of the First Congress of the American Colonies (1765).djvu/55

 liament, and must think the impolicy and inexpediency of the late measures may reasonably be imputed to the difficulty and embarrassments

Of the occasion, and the unsettled and undefined nature of the dependence of the Colonies on the mother country. But, on the other hand, candor must admit the same apology for any violence or mistakes of the Amari. cans.

But, sir, since/ these measures have been found, by sad experience, to be totally inexpedient; since they have served only to widen the breach instead of closing it-have diminished the obedience of the Colonies instead of confirming, it-have increased their turbulence and opposition in tend of allaying them-it may well be hoped that a different course of conduct and of treatment may be pursued; and some firm, enlightened and liberal constitution be adopted by the wisdom of this House, which may secure the Colonists in the enjoyment of their liberties, while it maintains t.he just supremacy of parliament.”

This, I think, my dear sir, will be sufficient for the present article; as I do not wish to engross too much space in your valuable journal, even for these most interesting records of the eloquent and patriotic eil forts of an American orator, who was the /int, and until very recently, the only American ever elected to the British Parliament. It is my intention to send you, occasionally, further extracts from the speeches of Mr. Henry Cruger, while Mayor of Bristol, both on the hustings and in parliament, advocating, with ardent zeal and lofty patriotism, even in the land of the oppressor, the rights and liberties of his country.

Mn. Brenna: The honorable gentleman who opened this debate, has spoken so fully and eloquently to every part of the question, that anything further in support of this motion may appear unnecessary. But, sir, when a subject of so much importance is before the House, it behooves every -man to lay aside all reserve and dillidenoe, and to express his sentiments with freedom and mndor. If there 'is any point in which the different interests of this House should unite, it must be in A conviction of the