The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11.: Parlimentary Debates II.Johnson, Samuel
History
The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Volume 11.: Parlimentary Debates II.
Johnson, Samuel
Great Britain. Parliament. House of Commons -- History -- 18th century
I doubt not but I shall hear many objections against the use of these
troops, and that upon this question, virulence and ridicule will be
equally employed. But for my part, I shall be little affected either
with the laughter that may be raised by some, or the indignation that
may be expressed by others, but shall vote for the continuance of
these measures till better shall be proposed; and shall think, that
these troops ought to be retained, unless it can be shown, that any
others may be had, who may be less dangerous, or of greater use.
Mr. PITT then rose up, and spoke, in substance as follows:--Sir, if
the honourable gentleman determines to abandon his present sentiments
as soon as any better measures are proposed, I cannot but believe,
that the ministry will very quickly be deprived of one of their ablest
defenders; for I think the measures which have hitherto been pursued
so weak and pernicious, that scarcely any alteration can be proposed
that will not be for the advantage of the nation.
He has already been informed, that there was no necessity of hiring
auxiliary troops, since it does not yet appear, that either justice or
policy required us to engage in the quarrels of the continent, that
there was any need of forming an army in the Low Countries, or that,
in order to form an army, auxiliaries were necessary.
But not to dwell upon disputable questions, I think it may be justly
concluded, that the measures of our ministry have been ill concerted,
because it is undoubtedly wrong to squander the publick money without
effect, and to pay armies only to be a show to our friends, and a jest
to our enemies.
The troops of Hanover, whom we are now expected to pay, marched into
the Low Countries, indeed, and still remain in the same place; they
marched to the place most distant from enemies, least in danger of an
attack, and most strongly fortified, if any attack had been designed;
nor have any claim to be paid, but that they left their own country
for a place of greater security.
It is always reasonable to judge of the future by the past; and,
therefore, it is reasonable to conclude, that the services of these
troops will not, next year, be of equal importance with that for which
they are now to be paid; and I shall not be surprised, though the
opponents of the ministry should be challenged, after such another
glorious campaign, to propose better men, and should be told, that the
money of this nation cannot be more properly employed than in hiring
Hanoverians to eat and sleep.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account