AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 25 off the immense revenue derived from its consumption in Great Britain, and the vast benefits gained by its re-exportation to other parts of . The Americans, in fact, could not possibly have persevered in measures to render the ruling powers of England more obnoxious to the people of Great Britain, or to attract the attention of all more effectually, than those they adopted. The remonstrances made by the colonies against taxation, were listened to by the ruling powers only with anger and indignation ; and ministers were equally chagrined and astonished to find that a great portion of the nation espoused the cause of . But the ministry were proof against all opposition in Parliament, the remonstrances of the colonists, and the numerous petitions from the principal towns in Britain, and madly proceeded in the prosecution of their schemes, as if regardless of consequences. The fame and grandeur of Great Britain were, indeed, such at this period, that it was never imagined the colonies would presume to dispute any measure dic¬ tated by ministers. The splendid triumphs of the British nation in all parts of the world, had extended her power to such greatness as excited the jealousy of all ; and the idea of the colonies risking a trial of prowess with those armies and fleets which had defeated the combined strength of France and Spain, was considered presumptuous and visionary. It was, therefore, matter of astonishment to learn the extra¬ ordinary and resolute conduct of the Americans, in opposing the restrictions on their commerce, and the