the inhabitants of the _Massachusetts Bay_, for the vigilance with which they have watched over, and the magnanimity with which they have maintained the liberties of the _British colonies_ on this continent.” It was probably owing to Mr. _Dickinson’s_ publications, that the _Pennsylvania_ assembly, early in February, before they knew what measure the _Massachusetts Bay_, or any other colony, would pursue, took into consideration the act imposing duties on paper, glass, &c. and gave positive instructions to their agents, to unite with other agents, in applying to parliament and praying relief. It may be justly concluded, from governor _Bernard’s_ letters to lord Shelburne, that the Massachusetts assembly were inclined to bury in oblivion the discords occasioned by the stamp act, and to escape other subjects of future controversy, had not the late chancellor unhappily revived the animosities. “The house, (says the governor) from the time of opening the session to this day, has shown a disposition to avoid all dispute with me; every thing having passed with as much good humor as I could desire, except only their continuing to act in addressing the king, remonstrating to the secretary of state, and employing a separate agent. It is the importance of this innovation which induces me to make this remonstrance, at a time when I have a fair prospect of having in all other business, nothing but good to say of the proceedings of the house.”[95] “They have acted in all thing, even in their remonstrance, with temper and moderation: they have avoided some subjects of dispute, and have laid a foundation for removing some causes of former altercation.”[96] “I will make such a prudent and proper use of the letter, as, I hope, will perfectly restore the peace and tranquility of this province, for which purpose considerable steps have been made by the house of representatives.”[97]