The most upright Intentions cannot command Success. The Shallow Ken of Man cannot penetrate into futurity; and cannot therefore ascertain what is, or is not most beneficial to Societies. What we have here to do, is to act the most consistently with our Judgment of Circumstances. I know you have done this.

Britain is most certainly hurting herself by an enormous Increase of her Debt; and is perhaps a just Scourge in your Country, for the excessive Luxury and Dissipation you were running into. This Scourge will restore you to your Senses; and will Send every Man to live Soberly and dilligently under his Vine. Had not this scourge been inflicted, your growing Luxury and Effeminacy would have rendered you an easy Prey to some future enterprising Genius. Your Children will not soon forget what has now happened, which may the longer preserve a Love of Liberty among them. On the whole I do not know whether I should condole with you, or congratulate. Friendship, at any rate demands my trying whether this can come to your hands. I have delayed writing for some time, in hopes I might have your Direction. As this has not happened, I have directed my Letter so as to carry it among your Philosophical friends. I dare say the Ami des Hommes, and his friends live in friendship with you. An Account of your and Family’s Health, will give great pleasure to Dear Sir Your Affectionate and faithful friend