Page:Armatafragment00ersk.djvu/431

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¬Though I have never been a courtier, I have not suppressed the poetical flight of Morven respecting the Genius of Armata, because it is not useless in a monarchy like our own to sepa- rate a kind-hearted interest in our native princes from the indiscriminate support of any ministers they may employ ; — the first, when honestly kept within the limits of duty to the people, gives dignity and security to the state; — the second, (too often a blind, unprincipled follow- ing,) is a pernicious homage, degrading to the individuals, and destructive to the constitution of our country. — A firm adherence to political principles, and to the friendships they create among public men, is a great antidote to cor- ruption in parliament. — I honour those who support ministers from such considerations, as much as those who may oppose them, but the ranks are always swelled by those who range themselves under no standard but that which is planted by the Minister of the Day. ¬

My ¬