“My polite critics were never more mistaken than when they assert that I have a rage for writing pamphlets, whilst the fact is, that the hesitation and reluctance I feel on such occasions are inexpressible. Who can have any pleasure in putting his head into such a hornet’s nest? or in being held up to the public as a scarecrow? or what, but an idea (right or wrong) that what I have to say is of some importance, could induce me to undergo such an ordeal?
“I think with you that the last pamphlet was too late,
and what interest it had has been wholly taken away by new circumstances and
events, in which some persons foresee the liberation of Europe. The liberation
of Europe! alas! what can liberate countries sunk in the darkest
superstition—the devoted slaves of despotic authority—who dispute only for the
right of bringing back their former tyrants, adoring the Virgin
Mary,
| LIFE OF WILLIAM ROSCOE. | 441 |
