In all America there was not even a
bishop. In spite of these contrasts the English Whigs insisted
upon the political equality with themselves of the American
colonists. The Tory squire, however, shared Samuel Johnson's view
that colonists were either traders or farmers and that colonial
shopkeeping society was vulgar and contemptible.
George III was ill-fitted by nature to deal with the crisis. The
King was not wholly without natural parts, for his own firm will
had achieved what earlier kings had tried and failed to do; he
had mastered Parliament, made it his obedient tool and himself
for a time a despot. He had some admirable virtues. He was a
family man, the father of fifteen children. He liked quiet
amusements and had wholesome tastes. If industry and belief in
his own aims could of themselves make a man great we might
reverence George. He wrote once to Lord North: "I have no object
but to be of use: if that is ensured I am completely happy." The
King was always busy. Ceaseless industry does not, however,
include every virtue, or the author of all evil would rank high
in goodness. Wisdom must be the pilot of good intentions. George
was not wise. He was ill-educated. He had never traveled. He had
no power to see the point of view of others.
Pages:
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77