The only exact scale of value is that which can measure the — metals like every other commodity, Explanation of this proposition, by an example, — And by an application, to the bank of Amsterdam, 56 How the locking up the coin in that bank renders the value — of it more stable, QUEST. 5. Will not the imposition of coinage in England 57 frequently stop the mint? ANSW. Certainly: when the balance of trade is unfavourable, — But this is an advantage to England which France now 58 enjoys, The coin of France passes in other nations above its value — as a metal, and returns to France unmelted, QUEST. 6. Is not this return a loss to France? — Intricacy of this question, 59 Resolution of it, — It is no loss to France, 60 Another view of this question, — QUEST. 7. If by overrating gold the English lose their 61 silver, why should not France by overrating silver lose her gold? ANSW. Because the English rate their gold above the value — of it in their own market. The French do not so with their silver, How the proportion of the metals is kept nearly the same in 62 all European markets? Because when home demand disturbs the proportion, foreign — trade brings it even again, Coins of gold and silver should be proportioned at the rate 63 of the market at home, And nations cannot fix that proportion by any convention — among themselves, Why is the proportion of the metals so different in Europe — and in Asia? Answer to this, — QUEST. 8. Is it the interest of Princes to debase the 64 standard of their coin? ANSW. It is their immediate interest when they are debtors, — and it is their interest to raise it when creditors; but always unjust, Who are debtors and who creditors; and how Princes who 65 incline to rob their subjects may avoid robbing themselves at the same time, Example of a Prince who is now employing this engine — against his enemies, not his subjects, Writers against this practice have used wrong arguments to 66 dissuade Princes from it, The proper arguments against it are three, 67 1. It disturbs the ideas of people with regard to value, — 2. It either robs the class of debtors, or creditors, — 3. It ruins credit, — This last circumstance will probably put an end to the — practice,