™ La 
4 
On Party-Prejudice. 9 
will arise among the members of free states ; and those 
too of such a nature, as may involve questions of the 
highest importance to the welfare of the community. 
But amidst this clashing of opinions and principles, 
we should never lose sight of the just prerogatives, 
privileges, and rights of the different branches of 
the government. To preserve and defend these 
with zeal and firmness, ought to be our sole aim and 
endeavour. To maintain an equilibrium between 
the power and interests of the distinct orders of a 
mixed government, has been the ostensible motive 
for the formation of all parties; and, when founded 
upon this pure and rational principle, they deserve 
our zeal and affection. For, if we consult the in- 
structive pages of Grecian and Roman history, we 
shall find, that the preservation of the liberties, and 
even the existence of the state, frequently depend- 
ed on the exertion of parties, composed of virtuous 
and brave citizens. But on this, as well as on most 
other occasions of human life, we must beware of 
deviating from the path of moderation. For this 
spirit of party admits of certain definite limita- 
tions. — quos ultra citraque nequit consistere 
rectum, 
A want of attention to the boundaries of attach- 
ment, has not only led to the destruction of many 
parties, founded on just grounds, but also proved 
fatal to the liberties and happiness of the state. 
Men of the most splendid talents in the ancient re- 
VOL. Vv. B 
