Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 10.djvu/300

292 fitter to deal with others of their own denomination; while those who are honest and best intentioned may be the instruments of as much mischief to the publick, for want of cunning, as the greatest knaves; and more, because of the charitable opinion which they are apt to have of others. Therefore, how to join the prudence of the serpent, with the innocency of the dove, in this affair, is the most difficult point. It is not so hard to find an honest man, as to make this honest man active, and vigilant, and skilful; which, I doubt, will require a spur of profit greater than my scheme will afford him, unless he will be contented with the honour of serving his country, and the reward of a good conscience.

After reviewing what I had written, I see very well that I have not given any allowance for the first charge of preparing all things necessary for coining, which, I am told, will amount to about 200l., beside 20l. per annum for five years rent of a house to work in. I can only say, that, this making in all 300l., it will be an addition of no more than 3 per cent out of 10000l.

But the great advantages to the publick, by having the coinage placed in the hands of ten gentlemen such as I have already described (if such are to be found) are these:

First, They propose no other gain to themselves than 1 per cent above the legal interest for the money they advance; which will hardly afford them coffee when they meet at their minthouse.

Secondly, They bind themselves to make their coins of as good copper as the best English halfpence, and as well coined, and of equal weight: and do likewise bind themselves to charge the publick with not one