The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 13/From Jonathan Swift to George Faulkner - 3
TO MR. FAULKNER.
THE short treatise[1] that I here send you enclosed was put into my hands by a very worthy person[2], of much ancient learning, as well as knowledge in the laws of both kingdoms. He is likewise a most loyal subject to king George, and wholly attached to the Hanover family, and is a gentleman of as many virtues as I have any where met. However, it seems, he cannot be blind or unconcerned at the mistaken conduct of his country in a point of the highest importance to its welfare. He has learnedly shown, from the practice of all wise nations in past and late ages, that tillage was the great principle and foundation of their wealth; and recommends the practice of it to this kingdom with the most weighty reasons. He mentions the prodigious sums sent out yearly for importing all sorts of corn, in the miserable moneyless condition we now are in. To which I cannot but add, that, in reading the resolutions of the last sessions, I have observed in several papers that the honourable house of commons seem to be of the same sentiment, although the increase of tillage may be of advantage to the clergy, whom I conceive to be as loyal a body of men to the present king and family as any in the nation: and, by the great providence of God, it is so ordered, that if the clergy be fairly dealt with, whatever increases their maintenance will more largely increase the estates of the landed men, and the profits of their farmers.
I desire you, Mr. Faulkner, to print the treatise in a fair letter and a good paper. I am
Your faithful friend and servant,
- ↑ Published by Mr. Faulkner, under the title of a "Treatise on Tillage."
- ↑ Alexander MacAulay, esq.