The invention of commerce has arisen since those governments began, and is the greatest approach towards universal civilisation that has yet been made by any means not immediately flowing from moral principles.
Paine asserts that commerce, a relatively recent invention, represents the most significant step towards universal civilization, even surpassing purely moral means.
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Many of the facts were in themselves principles; such as the declaration of American Independence, and the treaty of alliance between France and America, which recognised the natural rights of man, and justified resistance to oppression.
When it becomes necessary to do anything, the whole heart and soul should go into the measure, or not attempt it.
It has nothing to dread from attacks; truth has given it an establishment, and time will record it with a name as lasting as his own.
The Parliaments on their part insisted that they had not only a right to remonstrate, but to reject; and on this ground they were always supported by the nation.