This was considered as a severe blow upon it.

But as those things which appear most to our disadvantage, turn out often the most to our benefit, so the war, by giving birth to the independence of America, was ultimately favourable to its progress.

For as this contrast had produced during its continuance, so it left, when it was over, a general enthusiasm for liberty.

Many talked of little else but of the freedom they had gained.

These were naturally led to the consideration of those among them who were groaning in bondage.