Page:The Life of George Washington, Volume 1.djvu/74

 44 INTRODUCTION. cHAP.ir. present colony; but he came without provi- sos, sions. The disinterested, judicious, and vigorous administration of the president, however, sup- plied the wants of the colony, and restrained the turbulent. Encouraged by his example and coerced by his authority, a spirit of indus- try and subordination appeared to be created among the colonists, which was the parent of plenty and of peace. 1 In the mean-time, the company in England became dissatisfied with their property in America. They had calculated on discovering a passage to the South sea, and on finding mines of the precious metals, which might afford to individuals the same sudden accumu- lation of wealth, that had been acquired by the Spaniards in the south. In all these hopes they had been grievously disappointed, and had, as yet, received scarcely any retribution for the heavy expenses they had incurred. Yet hope did not altogether forsake them, and they still indulged in golden dreams of future wealth. To increase their funds, as well as the influ- ence and reputation of the company, by the acquisition of additional numbers, to explain and enlarge their powers and privileges; and ensure, more certainly, a colonial government, 1 Robertson...,Chalmer.