Benjamin Franklin: “I wish as ardently as you can do for peace, and should rejoice exceedingly in co-operating with you to that end.”

We are obliged to carry a great part of our produce directly to Britain; and where the duties laid upon it lessen its price to the planter, or it sells for less than it would in foreign markets, the difference is a tax paid to Britain.

But above all this, the state and circumstances of our settlements render such a measure not only proper and eligible, but absolutely necessary.

You are a member of that parliament, and have formed part of that majority, which has condemned my native country to destruction.

We are restrained in our trade with foreign nations; and where we could be supplied with any manufacture cheaper from them, but must buy the same dearer from Britain, the difference of price is a clear tax to Britain.