Norfolk Gazette And Publick Ledger

For the Ledger.

Mr. Editor,

There is nothing which has a larger influence over human nature than Prejudice. It is a kind of instinctive propensity in us, which always anticipates the operations of the understanding, and by a secret subtile process, pre-disposes us (according to circumstances) to different ways of thinking or of acting; this propensity, gradually enlarging its power, by a sort of hypocrisy, induces the mind to adopt its effects, as the effects of its own reflection. It is this bad and deceitful disposition, which has brought among us most of those dangerous evils to which the human constitution is prone; it is this which has nursed up to the fullest maturity, those germs of vice which may have been planted in our hearts; it is this which has depressed and hindered the growth of virtue, and virtuous inclinations. All that can deform the heart or degrade the mind, may be found in Prejudice. It is the parent of political dissention: Approach and encourage it ye factious demagogues, and you will find a zealous votary! It is the source of licentious immorality :--Come and promote it ye demoralizing innovators, and you will meet with substantial aid!--Its effects in America are evident and notorious--Yes, Mr. Editor, this foul spirit of Prejudice has poured a cankerous venom into the hearts of Federalists and Republicans; it has split our unanimity into the artificial distinction of party; our political concord has, through it, been relaxed and totally annihilated. The progress to its present acme has been rapid and sudden. At first we differed more about the means of accomplishing certain ends than the ends themselves; more about the motives of action than the effects of acting; more about persons than characters; but now the very name of Federalist is repulsive to that of Republican. Their minds, their hearts, their manners, their principles, are mutually opposite and contrary. 'Tis Prejudice and that alone which has produced this virulent opposition of interests.

What is it which has produced and confirmed the existing practice of duelling, but Prejudice? The human heart worked up to the highest degree of unnatural passion, and blinding the clear vision of the understanding, executes the most diabolical suggestions, offends against the conscience, but satisfies "offended honour." Satisfaction poor and pitiful! What is offended honour, but offended Prejudice?-- And what is Prejudice, but the worst of errour:--

Honour dishonourable!
Bred from Prejudice! How have troubled all mankind
With shews, indeed mere shews of seeming virtue;
And banished from man's life, his happiest life,
Simplicity, and spotless innocence!!--
MILTON.

In fact, Mr. Editor, it appears to me that had not this Prejudice a being in us, there would be practicability in the sublime and fine-spun speculations of platonic politicks; and truth and reality in the stoical scheme of morals.

Your's,
JULIUS.