"It is said that the development of the strength of the colonies may render them more dangerous and bring them to declare their independence," wrote Franklin in 1760; "such fears are chimerical.

So many causes are against their union, that I do not hesitate to declare it not only improbable but impossible; I say impossible--without the most provoking tyranny and oppression.

As long as the government is mild and just, as long as there is security for civil and religious interests, the Americans will be respectful and submissive subjects.

The waves only rise when the wind blows." In England, many distinguished minds doubted whether the government of the mother-country would manage to preserve the discretion and moderation claimed by Franklin.

"Notwithstanding all you say of your loyalty, you Americans," observed Lord Camden to Franklin himself, "I know that some day you will shake off the ties which unite you to us, and you will raise the standard of independence." "No such idea exists or will enter into the heads of the Americans," answered Franklin, "unless you maltreat them quite scandalously." "That is true," rejoined the other, "and it is exactly one of the causes which I foresee, and which will bring on the event." The Seven Years' War was ended, shamefully and sadly for France; M.de Choiseul, who had concluded peace with regret and a bitter pang, was ardently pursuing every means of taking his revenge.