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Editorial
February 5, 1813
The Rhode Island American, And General Advertiser
Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island
What is this article about?
Editorial doubts the seriousness of Congress's navy increase bill, citing lack of procurement or funding actions, contrasts with prompt army recruitment, and calls for seacoast defense amid war.
Clipping
OCR Quality
95%
Excellent
Full Text
Is the bill lately passed by Congress for increasing the navy hoax or not? One would suppose if our warhawks were serious on this subject, we should hear of measures being taken for procuring materials for the purpose of building and appropriations made for carrying it into effect.
If we may judge of those who rule in our councils by their past conduct, the law for increasing the navy will turn out to be a mere dead letter; all it will ever amount to, will be to swell the statute book and add to the amount of the printer's bill.
When a law is passed for increasing the army, instantly herds of recruiting officers are sent into every section and corner of the country. No want of cash or promptness in business; 16 dollars bounty, an advance of 24 dollars to each recruit, and 4 dollars to the officer for enlisting, is given; to promote this work, officers are as thick in our streets as grasshoppers in a dry season. This may be all necessary, but at the same time, would it not be well to do something for the protection of the men and property on that seacoast where it is said their rights are violated, and for the security of which we are told the war is declared?
If we may judge of those who rule in our councils by their past conduct, the law for increasing the navy will turn out to be a mere dead letter; all it will ever amount to, will be to swell the statute book and add to the amount of the printer's bill.
When a law is passed for increasing the army, instantly herds of recruiting officers are sent into every section and corner of the country. No want of cash or promptness in business; 16 dollars bounty, an advance of 24 dollars to each recruit, and 4 dollars to the officer for enlisting, is given; to promote this work, officers are as thick in our streets as grasshoppers in a dry season. This may be all necessary, but at the same time, would it not be well to do something for the protection of the men and property on that seacoast where it is said their rights are violated, and for the security of which we are told the war is declared?
What sub-type of article is it?
Military Affairs
War Or Peace
What keywords are associated?
Navy Bill
Congress Hoax
Army Recruitment
Seacoast Protection
War Measures
What entities or persons were involved?
Congress
Warhawks
Recruiting Officers
Editorial Details
Primary Topic
Skepticism Toward Congressional Bill For Navy Increase
Stance / Tone
Critical And Skeptical Of Government's Seriousness
Key Figures
Congress
Warhawks
Recruiting Officers
Key Arguments
Bill For Increasing Navy May Be A Hoax Without Actions For Materials Or Appropriations
Past Conduct Suggests The Law Will Be A Dead Letter
Army Increase Leads To Immediate Recruitment With Bounties And Advances
Contrast Highlights Neglect Of Seacoast Protection Despite Declared War