But when we consider that the main drift of that defensive alliance must be to prevent the operation of intrigue, mischievous doctrine, and evil example, in the success of unprovoked rebellion, regicide, and systematic assassination and massacre, the absurdity of such a scheme becomes quite lamentable.
Burke laments the absurdity of a defensive alliance that fails to address the root causes of rebellion and violence.
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They have little regard to the obvious consequences of their doctrine, though they may see that it leaves positive authority in very few of the positive institutions of this country.
If kings who did not owe their crown to the choice of their people had no title to make laws, what will become of the statute De tallagio non concedendo? of the Petition of Right? of the act of Habeas Corpus?
The people of England will not ape the fashions they have never tried, nor go back to those which they have found mischievous on trial.
Those who are servants in name, as well as in effect, do not like to be told of their situation, their duty, and their obligations.
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