When the direct and immediate rays of majesty benignly and mildly shine on all around us, but are transmitted and thrown upon us through the burning-glass of proprietary government, can your sensibilities feel no difference?
Franklin uses a metaphor to illustrate the difference between benevolent governance and oppressive proprietary rule.
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I wish old England were as happy in its government, but I do not see it.
As it is in my power, as far as my testimony will be regarded, to refute this charge, I think it due to our friendship to do it.
It is comfortable to have a good opinion of one's self, and of every thing that belongs to us, to think one's own religion, king, and wife, the best of all possible wives, kings, and religions.
It is with a melancholy regret I think of his death; but to death we are all bound by the irreversible order of nature, and in looking forward to it, there is comfort in being able to reflect--that we have not lived in vain, and that all…
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