the humiliation or crippling of France, in such sort that she might no longer be able to interfere in the disputes of Britain with any of her dependencies or colonies. In such an event, she might with ease and safety obtain the great advantage. During the attempt it was thought hazardous; consequently, it was such a measure as might provoke national resistance, and therefore the union. Certainly, had not the fleets of France been greatly disabled, the experiment might have proved hazardous, even with the assistance of an Irish rebellion. END OF VOL. IV. |