The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

Notwithstanding our late important successes, it is very far from being certain that our enemies will seriously think of peace this winter. There are some strong appearances to the contrary.--Lord G. Germaine, towards the close of the last session of parliament, declared in the House of Commons, that he would never give his voice for a peace with America upon the ground of Independence; and whenever that was likely to become the basis of a pacification, he would withdraw himself from administration, being determined never to have any hand in so great a dishonor & injury to his country. It is not likely his Lordship would have said this so publicly, had he not been sure of the disposition of his brethren in the ministry. Bitter as the pill of Independence is, Britain, however, must swallow it at last: but vain hopes may probably induce her to continue the struggle.

At the same time it is very far from being certain that an immediate peace would be for the advantage of America: Many are clearly of opinion that it would not; & that another campaign, if well prepared for, and vigorously prosecuted, would give us advantages in a final settlement, infinitely more than sufficient to compensate the continuance of the war, so that, in every view of the matter, whether we consider the haughty and relentless disposition of our enemies, or our own interest, the affairs of this country ought certainly to go upon the expectation of another campaign, for which every exertion should be seasonably and vigorously made.

Our prospect is animating. Our Allies set us the example: The moment they were expecting good news from Chesapeake, they have sent out a fresh & large armament from Brest. Britain must be distracted with the extent and variety of the operations of her enemies. Acting on the defensive, and apprehending blow after blow she knows not where, her expences must be every where augmented, and the spirit of the nation sunk.

Our own on the contrary is raised by success. The greatest part of our glorious work is already done: What remains, after the advantages Heaven has granted us, is comparatively easy. The citizens of these States, with such a prospect as we now have, will cheerfully support the expence of the war. Soldiers will readily engage in a service that is like to be short and triumphant. Every thing around us conspires to confirm our virtuous resolutions, to inflame our hopes and reinforce our efforts. We have now a precious opportunity of placing our country in a situation of security and honour, to be envied by all the world: Heaven grant that it may be seized and improved by the government and by the people with an eagerness and ardour proportioned to its worth!