| Citation |
NHG-E.777.017
15 Apr 1777:11,12,13 (1/48)
London, November 5. The speech of Mr. Wilkes, in the House
of Commons, . . . [2 columns]
An honourable gentleman near me attacks the American
declaration of independency, in a very peculiar manner, as a
wretched composition, very ill written, drawn up with the
view to captivate the people. That, Sir, is the very reason
why I approved it most as a composition, as well as a wise,
political measure, for the people are to decide this great
controversy. If they are captivated by it, the end is
attained. . . [6 lines] Whatever composition produces the
effect you intend in the most forcible manner, is, in my
opinion, the best, and that mode should always be pursued.
It has the most merit, as well as success, on the great
threate [sic] of the world, no less than on the state [=
stage], whether you mean to inspire pity, terror, or any
other passion. . .
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