LETTERCXXXVIII.TO J—— S——, ESQ.
June 16, 1780.
DEAR SIR,
AS a supplement to my last—this is to tell you a piece of private news—which gives ministry high hopes in the future.General Washington, who was anxiously watching Sir H. Clinton, no sooner saw with certainty his intention, but he struck his camp, and made the most rapid march to New York—they expected it;—but, as he was in superior force, they felt their danger.—Sir H. Clinton, as soon as he could possibly settle the garrison of Charles Town, embarked with seven thousand men, and got to New York in time to save it;—and if he can possibly bring Washington to a battle, it is thought the fate of America will be soon decided.—Thank God! the sky clears in that quarter—but we look rather louring at home.—Ministry wish now too plainly to disarm the subjects. Last year, under dread of French invasion, the good people were thanked for their military favour.—Master tradesmen armed their journeymen and apprentices—and the serjeants of the guards absolutely made little fortunes in teaching grown gentlemen of all descriptions their exercise—in fancied uniforms, and shining arms, they marched to the right, wheeled to the left, and looked battle-proof;—but now, it seems, they arenot only useless, but offensive. How the affair will end, God only knows!—I do not like its complexion.—Government has ordered them to give up their arms. If they do, where is British liberty? If they refuse, what is Administration? Many are gentlemen of large property—Inns of Court Members, Lawyers, &c. dangerous people.—Time will unveil the whole—May its lenient powers pour the balm of healing councils on this once glorious spot!—and make it as heretofore the nurse of freedom—Europe’s fairest example—the land of truth, bravery, loyalty, and of every heart-gladdening virtue! That you and Mrs. S—— may, surrounded with friends, and in the enjoyment of every good, live to see the completion of my wishes—is the concluding prayer of,
Dear Sir,
Yours ever, &c.
I. SANCHO.