The Diplomatic Correspondence of the American Revolution, Vol. 12
History
The Diplomatic Correspondence of the American Revolution, Vol. 12
United States -- Foreign relations -- 1775-1783; United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Sources
The instance, therefore, taken from that which is the most numerous
class of citizens, will form no improper standard for the whole. Let
it then be farther supposed in the case already stated, that the party
should annually borrow the sum of ten pounds at six per cent, to pay
part of the tax of fifteen pounds. On this sum then he would make a
profit of twentyfour shillings, and have to pay an interest of twelve
shillings. The enclosed calculation will show, that in ten years he
would be indebted one hundred pounds, but his additional improvements
would be worth near one hundred and fifty, and his net revenue be
increased near twelve, after deducting the interest of his debt.
Whereas if he had not borrowed, his revenue, as has been already
observed, would have continued the same. This mode of reasoning might
be pursued farther, but what has been said is sufficient to show, that
he would have made a considerable advantage from the yearly loan. If
it be supposed, that every person in the community made such a loan, a
similar advantage would arise to the community. And lastly, if it be
supposed, that the government were to make a loan and ask so much less
in taxes, the same advantage would be derived. Hence, also, may be
deduced this position, that in a society where the average profits of
stock are double the interest at which money can be obtained, every
public loan for necessary expenditures, provides a fund in the
aggregate of national wealth equal to the discharge of its own
interest.
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