COLONIES WAR TO END SOON: APPEAL FOR MORE MEN: BURKE’S WARNING

Korero (AEWS), Volume 2, Issue 14, 17 July 1944, Page 17

COLONIES WAR TO END SOON: APPEAL FOR MORE MEN: BURKE’S WARNING

The civil war in the American colonies continues, but foreign correspondents report there has been no major engagement since the attack in April on British troops at Lexington, where our casualties were more than two hundred men. It is reported that the United Colonies at a congress meeting at Philadelphia have appointed as their commander George Washington, not a brilliant soldier, but known for his sound judgment, indomitable perseverance, enthusiasm, and the power of inspiring others. He reiterates the claim “No Taxation without Representation.” General Gage has made another appeal for more troops and equipment. Canada Colony— the right of Roman Catholics guaranteed and French civil law retained—remains loyal and has repelled American. attacks. There is also a large body of loyalists, more particularly in the south.

Foreign office officials agree that the trouble will soon be quelled and the colonies made to accept their responsibilities and their share of taxation. Such measures as Finance Minister Granville’s Stamp Act will be enforced. ... , i;.:„..i ,1. However, brilliant political on server Edmund Burke sounds a warning that, because of setbacks to our forces, might well be noted. He

predicts that unless strong measures are taken it is possible the colonists’ claims will be supported by Spain, France, Holland, Russia, and the Baltic States, both with armed force and tradc blockade. The loss to Britain for all time of the American V?'« nie . s would be disastrous; and colonies would be disastrous; and if Burke s predictions were fulfilled that loss would not be inconceivable.