22 Text as printed by Mr. Reed. — you would be convinced that these expressions are not too strong, and that we have almost ceased to hope. — in such a state of insensibility to its interest, that I dare not flatter myself — — from every account I have been able to collect will be very inconsiderable — The abilities of her present financier has done wonders. Commerce and industry are the best means of a nation. If we do our duty, we may even hope to make the campaign decisive on this continent. When any great object is in view, the popular mind is roused into expectation and prepared to make sacrifices both of ease and property ; if those to whom they confide the management of their affairs do Text of the Letter-Books. — you would be convinced that these expressions are not too strong, and that we have every thing to dread. Indeed, I have almost ceased to hope. — in such a state of insensibility to its interests, that I dare not flatter myself — — from every account I have been able to collect will be inconsiderable — The abilities of her present financier have done wonders. Commerce and industry are the best mines of a nation. If we do our duty, we may even hope to make the campaign decisive of this continent * * Printed, “ decisive of this contest,” possibly by an error of the transcriber, but probably by design, as the phrase “decisive of” does not here suit the word “continent.” Mr. Reed’s text is apparently more correct. t It is obvious that some word is here omitted in the Letter-Book. The vacancy was filled by “ people,” which the sense clearly requires. “ They,” in the other text, has no appropriate antecedent. July 4th, 1780. When any great object is in view, the popular mind is roused into expectation and prepared to make sacrifices both of ease and property ; if those to whom the f confide the management of their affairs do
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