Benjamin Franklin: “It is upon this fact I found the propriety of the measure of settling a barrier colony in those parts of our frontiers…”

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.

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

That compelling the colonies to pay money without their consent, would be rather like raising contributions in an enemy's country, than taxing of Englishmen for their own public benefit.

I apprehend, that excluding the people of the colonies from all share in the choice of the grand council will give extreme dissatisfaction; as well as the taxing them by act of parliament, where they have no representation.