I even want necessary prejudices of party and of
nation. In popular assemblies it is often necessary to
inspire them, and never orator inspired well a passion which
he did not feel himself. Suppose me even mistaken in my own
character, to set out with the repugnance such an opinion
must produce offers but an indifferent prospect. But I hear
you say it is not necessary that every man should enter into
Parliament with such exalted hopes. It is to acquire a title
the most glorious of any in a free country, and to employ
the weight and consideration it gives in the service of
one's friends. Such motives, though not glorious, yet are
not dishonourable, and if we had a borough in our command,
if you could bring me in without any great expense, or if
our fortune enabled us to despise that expense, then indeed
I should think them of the greatest strength. But with our
private fortune, is it worthwhile to purchase at so high a
rate a title honourable in itself, but which I must share
with every fellow that can lay out 1500 pounds? Besides,
dear sir, a merchandise is of little value to the owner when
he is resolved not to sell it.
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