WEST INDIES. 
349 
CHAP. V.] 
to repair the disasters of adverse fortune, to which 
they are peculiarly subjected by theif position. 
“ If the minister means the ruin of the West In¬ 
dian colonies, he may effect it by promoting the 
extensive cultivation of the sugar-cane in the East 
Indies, with a view to the supply of any part of the 
European market; and we have only equity to op¬ 
pose to power, for we cannot repel injury. Mur¬ 
murs would be unavailing, and our resentments 
impotent; but it would be a base desertion of in¬ 
terest, to suffer ourselves to be intimidated into a 
voluntary surrender of right. We protest therefore 
against any innovation, and adhere to the system of 
double monopoly: There we are at anchor; and if 
there is no security any where against the storms 
and afflictions of Providence, so neither is there 
against the injustice of men ; but we shall at least 
have the consolation of not suffering the reproaches 
of our own bosoms, or of leaving accusers in our 
posterity !” 
To such a remonstrance as the foregoing, res¬ 
pectfully but firmly delivered, it is difficult to say, 
what reply could be given. If, however, it is not 
the wish or intention of government to violate the 
national faith with the colonies, by depriving them 
of their monopoly, their apprehensions on that 
head may be easily removed. In this important 
business satisfaction being given, to the rest, if can¬ 
dour were to dictate an answer, although much 
must be admitted, much too might be said, and ho- 
