The Virginia Gazette

LONDON, October 17.

The following is a copy of a letter from Mr. Burke to Mr. Hayes, the chairman of the meeting of merchants, &c. at Bristol.

SIR,

I DELAYED my acknowledgement of your commands until I should be able to inform you that I had obeyed them. I had this day the honour of presenting your petition to the king. It was graciously received. At the same time, Mr. Baker presented a petition from the merchants of London, which had the same reception. It gave as much pleasure, as in the present state of things I am capable of feeling, to be honoured with such commands from so numerous and respectable a body of my constituents. -I do not yet abandon all hopes that truth and reason, frequently and firmly urged, will have their effect: and that the healing endeavours of good and moderate men will prevail over the hasty violence of those deluded people, who, though unable to assist either with counsels or arms, are so forward to give their inconsiderate voices, for the continuance of a bloody and expensive civil war, which neither they, nor those whom they urge to such a desperate course, are able to foresee any end of. It is indeed a war against the interest of England, and in favour of her inveterate enemies.

I have no doubt but that you will persevere in sentiments so becoming all virtuous and sober citizens. By degrees, the example of your temper, forbearance, and moderation, operating with the unhappy effects of the present measures, which begin to be daily more and more conspicuous, will abate the irregular ardour of some fiery spirits, and render our city at least unanimous in its wishes for the tranquillity of the whole empire.

I beg my best compliments to the gentlemen of the committee; and do me the favour to believe me, with great esteem and regard, your most obedient and humble servant,

Edmund Burke.