[The Prose Works of William Wordsworth by William Wordsworth]@TWC D-Link book
The Prose Works of William Wordsworth

PREFACE
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In Madrid, in Ferrol, in Corunna, in every considerable place, and in every part of the country over which the French have re-extended their dominion,--we learn, from their own reports, that the body of the People have shewed against them, to the last, the most determined hostility.

Hence it is clear that the lure, which the invading Usurper found himself constrained lately to hold out to the inferior orders of society in the shape of various immunities, has totally failed: and therefore he turns for support to another quarter, and now attempts to cajole the wealthy and the privileged.

But this class has been taught, by late Decrees, what it has to expect from him; and how far he is to be confided-in for its especial interests.

Many individuals, no doubt, he will seduce; but the bulk of the class, even if they could be insensible to more liberal feelings, cannot but be his enemies.

This change, therefore, is not merely shifting ground; but retiring to a position which he himself has previously undermined.


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